bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE CAR PREFERENCE IN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS: THE CASE OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Authors: ŠEFARA Denis , FRANĚK Marek , ZUBR Václav
Published: July 2015

The present study examined the socio-psychological factors (personality dimensions, motives for car use, and materialistic values) that influence car preference in undergraduate students (N = 383). Preferences for particular car types, properties, and brands were studied. The data indicated only a slight correspondence between the personality dimensions of the Big-Five model and car preference. However, individual motives for car use and materialistic values predict preferences for certain car types and even more for car brands. The results demonstrated a clearly defined group of individuals who prefer cars with high performance. These individuals prefer German cars of “prestigious” brands, such as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. For these individuals, affective motives, as well as materialistic values are important cues for car use and preference. These findings are discussed in terms of more sustainable modes of travel and campaigns to promote sustainable travel modes. The potential value shift from cars as objects that represent personal freedom and identity to more recent mobile technologies, which might play the same role in the younger generation, is discussed.
Using layers
Authors: Mägi Rein , Möldre Heino
Published: July 2015

Computer Aided Design (CAD) has some specific features compared with hand-drawing. Quite beneficial opportunities arise using Layers. Object’s properties (color, linetype, lineweight) may be assigned individually to each object or grouped by belonging to a particular Layer (ByLayer). Layers are like transparent overlays on which we organize and group objects in a drawing. We can use Layers to control the visibility of objects and to assign properties to objects. Layers can be locked to prevent objects from being modified. Layer Properties Manager informs us about layers’ parameters and allows to change these values. We can change the name of a layer and any of its properties, including color and linetype and you can reassign objects from one layer to another. We can control which layer names are listed in the Layer Properties Manager and sort them by name or by property, such as color or visibility. We can save Layer settings as named layer states. We can then restore, edit, import them from other drawings and files, and export them for use in other drawings. Which number of Layers is optimal? The answer depends on several considerations – using every Layer should be adequately argumented. The skilled use of Layers can turn the construction process into a more flexible and rational one. But adding any new Layer must be justified. Otherwise, some uncomfortable problems could arise.
Academic exchange between Baltic Universities and Kobe University
Authors: Suzuki Hirotaka , Makutėnienė Daiva , Dobelis Modris , Odaka Naoki , Veide Zoja , Vitola Liena
Published: July 2015

For long years, Baltic cities and Kobe city had strong relationship at administrative aspect and academic aspect. Recent several years, the relationship has been recognized again and started cooperative activities again. And there are some cooperative plans in future. In this paper, authors would like to explain history and starting/restarting chance of relationship between Baltic university and Kobe University, cooperative activities in recent years, and cooperative activities at now and in future.
Single-joint Assessment for the Evaluation of Intraarticular Treatment: Responsiveness and Discrimination of the Composite Change Index
Authors: Aalbers Caroline J. , Gerlag Danielle M. , Vervoordeldonk Margriet J. , Tak Paul P. , Landewé Robert B.
Published: July 2015

Objective.

To investigate responsiveness, discrimination, and construct validity of a composite change index (CCI) for the assessment of single-joint involvement in inflammatory arthritis.

Methods.

Evaluation of standardized response means (SRM), Guyatt effect size, and Spearman rank correlation coefficient in a randomized controlled trial investigating the effect of an intraarticular etanercept injection.

Results.

The CCI showed a high SRM (1.68) and high Guyatt effect size (2.72). Both visual analog scale of pain and functionality had a moderate Guyatt effect size (2.06, 2.44) and high SRM (0.81, 0.97).

Conclusion.

This study supports the use of the CCI as a single-joint assessment after single-joint intervention. Clinical trial registration: NTR-1210.
Breastfeeding and Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Metaanalysis
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Wang Jing , Zhou Wang , Yin Huabin , Wang Meimei
Published: July 2015

Objective.

Previous studies have examined the association between breastfeeding and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but their results were inconsistent. The aim of this study was to perform a metaanalysis to clarify the effect of breastfeeding on RA risk.

Methods.

The PubMed, EMBASE, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases were searched for relevant studies published up to September 10, 2014. Data were extracted, and multivariable-adjusted OR with 95% CI were pooled in the random-effects model.

Results.

A total of 6 studies were included in the metaanalysis (RA cases: 1672, sample size: 143,670). Overall, an inverse association between breastfeeding and RA was observed (OR 0.675, 95% CI 0.493–0.924, p = 0.014). In the subgroup analysis, decreased RA risk was also found in both breastfeeding 1–12 months (OR 0.783, 95% CI 0.641–0.957, p = 0.015) and breastfeeding > 12 months (OR 0.579, 95% CI 0.462–0.726, p < 0.0005). Sensitivity analysis and cumulative analysis further strengthened the validity of the results. No publication bias was found in this metaanalysis.

Conclusion.

This metaanalysis suggests that breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of RA, no matter if breastfeeding time is longer or shorter than 12 months.
Evaluation of Capture Techniques on Lesser Prairie-Chicken Trap Injury and Survival
Authors: Grisham Blake A. , Boal Clint W. , Mitchell Natasia R. , Gicklhorn Trevor S. , Borsdorf Philip K. , Haukos David A. , Dixon Charles E.
Published: July 2015

Ethical treatment of research animals is required under the Animal Welfare Act. This includes trapping methodologies that reduce unnecessary pain and duress. Traps used in research should optimize animal welfare conditions within the context of the proposed research study. Several trapping techniques are used in the study of lesser prairie-chickens, despite lack of knowledge of trap injury caused by the various methods. From 2006 to 2012, we captured 217, 40, and 144 lesser prairie-chickens Tympanuchus pallidicinctus using walk-in funnel traps, rocket nets, and drop nets, respectively, in New Mexico and Texas, to assess the effects of capture technique on injury and survival of the species. We monitored radiotagged, injured lesser prairie-chickens 7–65 d postcapture to assess survival rates of injured individuals. Injuries occurred disproportionately among trap type, injury type, and sex. The predominant injuries were superficial cuts to the extremities of males captured in walk-in funnel traps. However, we observed no mortalities due to trapping, postcapture survival rates of injured birds did not vary across trap types, and the daily survival probability of an injured and uninjured bird was ≥99%. Frequency and intensity of injuries in walk-in funnel traps are due to the passive nature of these traps (researcher cannot select specific individuals for capture) and incidental capture of individuals not needed for research. Comparatively, rocket nets and drop nets allow observers to target birds for capture and require immediate removal of captured individuals from the trap. Based on our results, trap injuries would be reduced if researchers monitor and immediately remove birds from walk-in funnels before they injure themselves; move traps to target specific birds and reduce recaptures; limit the number of consecutive trapping days on a lek; and use proper netting techniques that incorporate quick, efficient, trained handling procedures.
Quantification and Mapping of Construction Waste Generation in Parit Raja
Authors: Zainun Noor Yasmin , Othman Wrohayu
Published: July 2015

Construction waste is a material of waste or excess building materials that are not used either in the original or debris from construction, structural repair, and improvement work, house demolishing, buildings and other structures. Wastes are from excess building materials from dredged material and stumps of structural repairs, improvements and work to destroy sidewalks, homes, commercial buildings and other structures. Construction waste also refers to soil, rock and vegetation removed during land levelling works or civil engineering works and works related to road maintenance. Illegal dumping site is places other than permitted facilities to dump waste such as transfer stations and landfills. The objectives of this study are; (1) identify illegal dumping of construction waste distribution in Parit Raja; (2) quantifying the illegal dumping of construction waste generated in Parit Raja and; (3) develop Geographic Information System (GIS) map for illegal dumping construction waste distribution in Parit Raja. In this study the location of the construction waste identified using Global Positioning System (GPS) in smartphone. Then the picture and material of construction waste was taken and identified. After that the volume of construction waste were determined using the pyramidal or rectangular shape measure. For the scattered waste, the weight were taken and converted to volume. Lastly the data was plotted and mapped in the GIS system. This study successfully create a database of construction waste generation in Parit Raja. The benefit of this study is it will help the management of waste in Parit Raja.Keywords:constructionwasteillegaldumping,database,GISsystem
Bolts Gauge Effect on the Face Bending Behaviour of Concrete-Filled Hollow Section for Hollo-Bolted Connections
Authors: Elamin Ahmed , Tizani Walid , Mahmood Mohammed
Published: July 2015

This paper investigates the effect of bolt gauge on the face bending behaviour of concrete-filled Square Hollow Sections (SHS) in Hollo-Bolted connections. A set of full-scale experiments were undertaken to examine the effects of varying the bolt gauge on the SHS face bending behaviour while controlling all other parameters. Typical experiment involved one row of two bolts pulled out of concrete-filled SHS. A special dummy bolts were manufactured to the exact size and geometry of open Hollo-Bolts, and were used in the experiments to remove the influence of any deformation associated with the real Hollo-Bolts, and isolate the face bending behaviour. Non-contact video-based equipment was used to record the SHS face deformation. This deformation is recorded as force-displacement relationship which is commonly used to represent the structural behaviour of similar components, and typically defined by initial stiffness, yield force and post yield stiffness. Across the range considered in this investigation, it was found that varying the bolt gauge to SHS width ratio have a significant effect on the concrete-filled SHS face in bending component. Both the initial stiffness and the yield force of the component were found to increase with the increase of the bolt gauge. The Post-Yield stiffness was not affected by the change in bolt gauge.
The Evaluation of Indoor Microbial Air Quality in Two New Commissioning Higher Educational Buildings in Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Er Chin Ming , Sunar N.M. , Leman Abdul Mutalib , Othman Norzila , Emparan Q. , Parjo U.K. , Gani Paran , Jamal N.A. , Ideris Nur Athirah
Published: July 2015

The proliferation of indoor airborne microorganism in public institutional buildings such as schools and universities is often regarded as a potential health hazards to the buildings’ users. This issue is not new in Malaysia, a country with humid climate which favours the growth of microorganism. However, there is lack of research’s data, especially in higher institutional buildings in this country. The assessment of the indoor air quality is conducted in a university’s two new commissioning buildings located at Southern Peninsular of Malaysia. Both buildings utilized centralized air conditioning system. Concentrations of airborne microorganism were determined using a single-stage impacter (biosampler) as per requirement of National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Manual Analytical Method 0800. The acquired readings were compared to the standard level determined in Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality (ICOP IAQ) 2010. Other parameters such as relative humidity, temperature, and air velocity were recorded along the assessment. The mean concentrations of the total bacteria at the affected area of the two buildings are 1102.5 CFU/m3 and 813 CFU/m3 respectively and it is significantly higher compared to the maximum exposure limit of 500 CFU/m3. While, the mean concentration of total fungi at the affected area for two buildings are 805.7 CFU/m3 and 509 CFU/m3 respectively which are both higher than the reading of outdoors and unaffected indoor area although slightly lower than the maximum exposure limit of 1000 CFU/m3. This study provides a glance of the poor indoor microbiological air quality in new higher institutional buildings in this humid region.
Potential of Utilizing Solid Waste Generated in UNIMAS West Campus
Authors: Zawawi Mohd Hafiz , Rosli Nor Azalina , Bustami Rosmina A. , Mispan Noor Hayati , Ramli Mohd Zakwan
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study is to identify the solid waste generation and compositions that are generated from UNIMAS West Campus area and also to calculate potential energy and profit that can be harvested from the solid waste. This study was conducted at UNIMAS west campus where the samples of solid waste were collected from different types of source of generation namely residential colleges, faculties, Centre Teaching Facilities (CTF) and cafeteria. The solid wastes collected are weighed, mixed, quartered and the compositions of the samples are determined. From the analysis, the solid waste generation rate is 499 kg per day and the major composition of solid waste produced from this study area is food waste with the value of 54% followed by plastic bottle with 9%, mixed plastic with 8%, mixed paper with 7%, box and polystyrene are with 5% and the less percentage of solid waste composition is aluminium with 4%. For the total estimation potential energy that generated by UNIMAS West Campus is about 12819.9 kJ/kg per day and the profit can be achieved when the solid wastes are recycles is about RM 126.43 per day. The analysis shows that solid waste generated in UNIMAS West Campus has a good potential in recycling and give more benefit to UNIMAS. With the data of the solid waste generated in this study area, proper management strategies can be planned by top management of UNIMAS and put it into action in the future. In long term, it will make UNIMAS a green campus which eventually reduces the amount of solid waste generation.
Adsorption of Lead Using Jackfruit Peel Activated Carbon
Authors: Rosli Nor Azalina , Zawawi Mohd Hafiz , Bustami Rosmina A. , Hipni Fadzren , Kamruddin Mohamad Anuar
Published: July 2015

Adsorption using activated carbon that decomposed from agricultural waste has been proven to be effective in removing heavy metals in wastewater. This study was carried out to investigate the adsorption of heavy metals wastewater (Lead) using activated carbon that synthesized from the fruit waste which is jackfruit peel. The efficiency of jackfruit peel activated carbon in removing lead from wastewater has been compared to the commercial activated carbon. Result shows that the commercial activated carbon gave better result as compared to jackfruit peel activated carbon (98% of lead removal for commercial activated carbon and 80% of lead removal for jackfruit peel activated carbon). This can be explained from the characteristics of the activated carbon where the commercial activated carbon has a very well develop pores structures in contrast to jackfruit peel activated carbon. In term of isotherm and kinetic study, the Freundlich isotherm model is better fitted in equilibrium adsorption isotherm for jackfruit peel activated carbon and it is favorable adsorption condition. For commercial activated carbon, the Langmuir isotherm is better fitted to the adsorption of lead and monolayer adsorption capacity was found. The experimental data fitted very well the pseudo second order in kinetic model for both activated carbon where the adsorption controlled by chemisorptions.
Membranes for Gas Separation Current Development and Challenges
Authors: Jusoh Norwahyu , Yeong Yin 	Fong , Lau Kok Keong , Azmi Mohd Shariff
Published: July 2015

—A new bang of natural gas demand has opened up the opportunities towards the utilization of membrane technology for the purification process.The advantages in terms of smaller footprint, lower weight, minimum utility requirement and low labor intensity make them appropriate for wide scale applications. Polymeric membrane is one of the greatest emerging fields in membrane material development. Nevertheless, the separation performance of the existing polymeric materials were reached a limit in the trade-off between permeability and selectivity. The development of inorganic material gives a significance improvement in membrane performance but it outrageously expensive for many applications and having complicated procedure during fabrication process have limit the application of inorganic membrane in gas separation. Thus, a rapid demand in membrane technology for gas separation and the effort toward seeking the membranes with higher permeability and selectivity has motivated the development of mixed matrix membrane. Mixed matrix membrane (MMM) which incorporating inorganic fillers in a polymer matrix is expected to overcome the limitations of the polymeric and inorganic membranes. Apart from an overview of the different membrane materials for gas separation, this paper also highlights the development of mixed matrix membrane and challenges in fabrication of mixed matrix membranes.
Crashworthiness Behavior of Hollow Al-Based Functionally Graded Material (FGM) Box under Quasi-Static Loading
Authors: Jamian Saifulnizan , Zainal Abidin Mohamad Rusydi , Muda Azli Mahfuz
Published: July 2015

This study aims to investigate the crashworthiness behavior of hollow Al-based functionally graded material (FGM) box. In order to introduce the concept of FGM, several holes are known as trigger points were drilled on a thin-walled Al column. The column was divided into four segments and each segment has a different number of trigger points. The difference number of trigger points on each segment produces the different structural strength. Quasi-static loading test was conducted in order to observe the deformation pattern occurred. The corresponding graph of force versus distance then was analyzed to obtain the value of energy absorption for each sample. Five samples of different segment arrangement were tested, namely, S1a, S1b, S2, S3 and S4. From the results obtained, the sample S1b give the best results with the highest value of energy absorption. This sample is designed with a large number of trigger points in the first segment, followed by a reduced number of trigger points until the end of the segment. The quality of crash box can be improved by introducing FGM concept. This type of crash box is able to produce a grade of absorption crushing energy. Thus it can reduce severity of injury during an accident.
Preliminary Test of Mining Wastewater Containing Iron (III) and Aluminium (III) on Scirpus grossus in Phytoremediation Process
Authors: Ismail Nur Izzati , Sheikh Abdullah Siti Rozaimah , Idris Mushrifah , Abu Hasan Hassimi , Al Sbani Nadya Hussin , Jehawi Omar Hamed
Published: July 2015

Preliminary test was conducted to physically observe and determine the range of Fe and Al concentrations that Scirpus grossus can grow and survive. Pails of 3 L containing 3 kg of sand and 42 days old S. grossus were exposed to different concentrations of Fe and Al solution mixture for 21 days. The mass ratio between Fe and Al in the solution mixture was 3:1. After 21 days of exposure, the plants had shown that they could grow and survive in concentrations up to 300 mg/L Fe + 100 mg/L Al. Effect concentration (EC50)value for single Fe and Al toxicity to S. grossus was predicted between 300 mg/L Fe + 100 mg/L Al and 450 mg/L Fe + 150 mg/L Al. Therefore, it is suggested for the next study of phytotoxicity the Fe and Al concentrations range may start as low as 30 mg/L Fe + 10 mg/L Al up to 450 mg/L Fe + 150 mg/L Al.
Indoor Fungal Treatment by Using Potassium Sorbate as Bio-Resistance Coating for Different Plasterboard Wall Finishings
Authors: Parjo U.K. , Sunar Norshuhaila Mohamed , Leman Abdul Mutalib , Ideris N.I.A. , Gani Paran , Emparan Q. , Er Chin Ming
Published: July 2015

Good indoor environmental quality (IEQ) is desired for a healthy indoor environment. The microbial growth in indoor environments contribute into poor indoor environmental quality can cause various of health problems. Antimicrobial coatings are designed to generate a surface that is easy to clean and can also incorporate active agents, commonly called biocides, which prevent microbial colonization, the subsequent growth and bio-deterioration of the substrate. The aim for this study is to treat indoor environmental quality in buildings by reviewing the possible application of potassium sorbate used in food industry preservatives to be use as indoor antimicrobial. Plasterboard wall was used as a substrate to see the influence of different common wall finishing used such as paints and wallpapers on fungal growth. Potassium sorbate was tested against fungal isolated from affected room M146, FKAAS building. The total fungal counts in affected room was 806 cfu/m3. The ASTM D5590-00 standard was used to evalute fungal growth and potassium sorbate was effective to inhibit the amount of fungal growth on four common types of wall finishing used on plasterboard wall. As a result, the percentage reduction in growth between control and treatment sample were 10% on thin wallpaper, 15% on acrylic paint, 25% on glycerol-based paint and 60% on thick wallpaper.
Pozzolanic Reaction Mechanism of Rice Husk Ash in Concrete – A Review
Authors: Saad Siti Asmahani , Nuruddin Mohd Fadhil , Shafiq Nasir , Ali Maisarah
Published: July 2015

Recently, incorporation of cement replacement material (CRM) in concrete has gained considerable attention throughout the world. It is known that the commonly used CRM in current concrete industry is silica fume (SF), pulverized fuel ash (PFA) and rice husk ash (RHA). RHA is an agricultural waste from rice milling process. Rice farming activities is one of the main crops planted in Malaysia and therefore, the rice husk abundantly generated every year. RHA exhibits positive pozzolanic reaction during concrete strength development. The material contains amorphous silica and hence it contributed towards enhancement of various concrete properties. This paper presents a short review of RHA properties as CRM and pozzolanic reaction determination.
Overview of Leachability of Heavy Metals Using Solidification/Stabilization Method Incorporated with Agricultural Wastes
Authors: Benlamoudi Ali , Abdul Kadir Aeslina , Ahmad Tajudin S.
Published: July 2015

The solidification/stabilization (S/S) is one of the effective methods that are used for the heavy metals treatment. It was known that one of the main issues of this method is that the heavy metal is stayed inside the matrices, not destroyed nor adsorbed, which may cause serious problems for the environment once the matrices would be crashed. Agricultural wastes have shown a great capacity to the heavy metal adsorption from solid and liquid wastes. This paper reviews the incorporation of the agricultural wastes as heavy metals’ adsorbents inside the matrices of the S/S method. In addition, changes in particle sizes, pre-treatment, temperature and other factors have also been discussed towards the heavy metal adsorption. Nevertheless, research regarding the incorporation of the agricultural wastes into the S/S method is very minimal, and almost all the previous researches were only focusing comprehensively on the leaching characteristics of the method.
Removal of Important Parameter from Car Wash Wastewater - A Review
Authors: Nadzirah Z. , Nor Haslina H. , Rafidah H.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Huge quantity of water consumed per car and the various chemical agents used in car wash activities discharged the untreated effluents into stormwater system and eventually ending up in our lakes, rivers and oceans [1]. The accumulated sediments from vehicle wash contain contaminants that reach concentrations where the sludge is considered as a controlled or hazardous waste including of metals, elevated levels of oil and grease, and the unacceptable levels of acidity or alkalinity [2]. This paper provides a comprehensive review of car wash wastewater data analyzes regarding the wastewater discharges, as well as contaminant levels of car wash activities. Besides, the further extensive research on treatments used for the car wash industry for pollutant removal routes including the removal effeciency of pollutants has also been highlighted. The expansion of the review on the influence of the treatment indicates that, the effeciency on removal pollutants depends on the treatment used. Overall, the review illustrates the necessity of a profound knowledge on the car wash wastewater with an extensive lists of common treatment of car wash wastewater in providing the alternative way for on-site treatment for car wash outlet in treating the effluent before discharging into water bodies. Hence, decreases the pollution governing environmental, operational parameters, and the treatment performances of low cost system in treating the car wash wastewater.
Effect of Particle Size Distribution to Remove Contaminants in Groundwater at Dengkil, Selangor
Authors: Abd Rashid Nur Aziemah , Abustan Ismail , Adlan Mohd Nordin
Published: July 2015

Particle size distribution (PSD) below ground may influence the groundwater flow rate. Due to that, this study focuses on laboratory scale using local alluvial soil to remove contaminants from river water using different of soil PSD samples. In horizontal permeability modelling shows permeability was influenced by the coefficient of uniformity (Cu) of sand. However, the permeability changes was differ between well and poorly graded sand. Well graded sands Cu between 4 to 5 the permeability changes are only between 7.8 – 7.9 x10-4 m/s. Whereas poorly graded sands Cu are between 2.5 to 4 the permeability change between 6.9 – 9.0 x 10-4 m/s. Whereas poorly graded sand was shows as consistent media than well graded to remove contaminants and the permeability rate is higher than well graded sand. Poorly graded (Sand B and C) removes turbidity and iron up to 50%. Because of that poorly graded soil is preferable for RBF application.
Use of Ferric Chloride and Chitosan as Coagulant to Remove Turbidity and Color from Landfill Leachate
Authors: Ramli Siti Fatihah , Abdul Aziz Hamidi
Published: July 2015

Coagulation and flocculation are two of the most common chemical treatment methods used in leachate treatment. Existing coagulants are mainly based on Al and Fe salts. The use of non-chemical based coagulants, especially natural polymers, in leachate treatment has not been thoroughly investigated. Natural coagulants have less harmful effects to human health compared with metal salts. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of ferric chloride (FeCl3) and chitosan as coagulant in removing the turbidity and color from landfill leachate. Leachate was collected from the Matang Landfill site located at Taiping, Perak, Malaysia. When used as the main coagulant in this study, FeCl3was able to remove 97.78% of the turbidity and 95.54% of the color of the leachate at an optimum dosage of 3600 mg/L. At a dosage of 60 mg/L, chitosan only removed 23.52% of the turbidity and 14.67% of the color at pH levels of 9 and 4, respectively. The optimum pH value for FeCl3was 6. Therefore, FeCl3 is an effective coagulant that can help to remove the colour and turbidity compared to chitosan.
Comparison of Zinc Roofed House Temperature Distribution between Open Water Exhausted with Radiator Cooling System
Authors: Ab Rahman Rosdi , Kaamin Masiri , Mohamad Mahmod Abd Hakim , Abd Aziz Azizul Rahman , Mohamed Nor Mohd Hadri
Published: July 2015

Thermal condition of a house is one of the comfort factors. Traditionally, village houses in Malaysia uses corrugated zinc roofing due to economic reason. Considering the thermal conductivities of the material, space under the roof coverage will intent to occur thermal discomfort due to Malaysian ambient temperature. The roof plays an important role to ensure the house is in a state insulated from the hot sun and rain where the zinc roofing will radiated by the sun in noon and yet become the heat source for in-house area. Thermal discomfort will result due to zinc highly heat absorbing material property. The space under the covering will experience significant temperature increase proportional to the amount of supplied heat from sunlight radiated to the zinc roof, and will further be aggravated if ventilation is poor. The purpose of this study is to compare the temperature distribution by two alternatives methods to reduce the temperature inside a zinc-covered house. The main concept of this cooling system is by splashing water throughout the area of the zinc roofing, where heat exchange process will occur upon contact. The process will dissipate heat from the zinc and will increase the water temperature. This research is focusing on the medium (water) re-cooling process by either open water exhausted or radiator system to state that which one will give better heat exchange. Open water exhausted system heated water will then free fall by gravity into a tank through perforated tube as water droplets. To facilitate higher rate of water-cooling, fan will be provided. Another re-cooling system is the radiator system, which use radiator device to cool down the heated water. Radiator use coolant as the medium to exchange the heat from the roof heated water. By the same heat transfer process, the circulated water temperature will be lower where, which will be recirculation back to the roof. Both systems had been compared about the differences of temperature drop distribution which result the better water re-cooling system.
Heavy Metal Concentration in Ambient Air University Campus Located near the Industrial Area
Authors: bte Radin Mohamed Radin Maya Saphira , bte Jais Noor Maisara , bt. Che Aziz Farah Hanim , bin Mohd. Kassim Amir Hashim , Othman Norzila
Published: July 2015

This study aims to measure the concentration of heavy metals of concern Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), Cadmium (Cd) and Nickel (Ni) at three university campus buildings which was situated adjacent to an industrial district. Heavy metals particulates were sampled from the PM10 sampling device (Met One Instrument) in 24 hours sampling between lecture and holiday periods. Determination of heavy metals concentrations were conducted using Inductively Coupled Plasma – Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) after the filter papers were digested with mixture of nitric acid (HNO3) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4). These heavy metal concentrations were compared to the Standard Concentration on Air such as World Health Organization Health (WHO), Ambient Air Quality Criteria Act 1994 (AAQC), National Environment Protection Council (NEPS) and also Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The comparison with Standard Concentration of Air shows that Cd and Cu have low concentrations 0.0033±0.0018 μg/m3 and 0.0894±0.0614 μg/m3 while Cr and Ni have high concentrations of 0.1882±0.0535 μg/m3 and 0.1278±0.0323 μg/m3 respectively. The Pb gives irregular result and high standard deviation of 2.0410±3.4999 μg/m3. This finding produces significant contribution to some knowledge of the level of heavy metals in the study area. It identifies research needs and suggests potential approaches to addressing outstanding problems.
Removal of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) from Domestic Wastewater Using Hybrid Reed Bed System
Authors: Jehawi Omar Hamed , Sheikh Abdullah Siti Rozaimah , Idris Mushrifah , Abu Hasan Hassimi , Sbania Nadya Hussin A.L. , Ismail Nur Izzati
Published: July 2015

Hybrid reed bed systems (HRBs) have a good potential for wastewater treatment in developing countries due to its simple operation and low implementation costs. HRBs units were constructed at Bukit Putri, in UKM university campus, Malaysia, of which were planted with Scirpus grossus plants, commonly known as club-rush or bulrush (water loving plants). Generally, HRBs are classified into two categories: surface-flow and subsurface-flow. Both systems are capable of removing Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) from different types of wastewaters. The aim of this study was to determine the percentage removal of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) at different concentration of domestic wastewater by using a HRB systems. This hybrid system was arranged in a serial stages consisting of a surface-flow (SF) bed, followed by a vertical-flow (VF) bed and finally by a horizontal-flow (HF) bed. In the present study, the performance of the HRB on domestic wastewater, particularly on COD, with and without plants was investigated. It is observed that the planted system with Scirpus grossus had performed better than the unplanted system. The result shows that the COD removal varied between 60 and 92%, depending on the loading rates (53-86 mg/L/day). The treatment system was operated for three months in the continuous flow process. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the HRB system ensures a more stable removal of organic pollutants (COD) from domestic wastewaters.
Cogon Grass as an Alternative Fibre for Pulp and Paper-Based Industry: On Chemical and Surface Morphological Properties
Authors: Mohd Kassim Angzzas Sari , Mohd Aripin Ashuvila , Ishak Nadiah , Zainulabidin Muhd Hafeez
Published: July 2015

The increasing demand in wood fibre consumptions especially in pulp and paper making has pushed forward the search for alternative fibre resources. Non-wood derived fibre could be good candidates due to its abundance availability. Agriculture residues or non-wood annual plants are good potential fibre resource for pulp and paper making. The objective of this study is to determine the suitability of cogon grass as an alternative fibre for pulp and paper making by analysing its chemical and surface morphological properties. The holocellulose, cellulose, lignin, 1% NaOH solubility, hot water solubility and ash contents were quantified to analyse its chemical characteristics. Quantification of chemical compositions was conducted in accordance with relevant Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) Tests, Kurscher-Hoffner and Chlorite methods. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to visualize the surface morphology of the cogon grass fibre. Results obtained indicate that the holocellulose (64.93%) content is comparable with other published non-woods and the lignin (5.67%) content is favourably the lowest. In addition, the hot water and 1% NaOH solubilities are (3.83%) and (19.64%) respectively. SEM images show that cogon grass fibres contained abundance and long fibres which provide good strength of the produced handsheet. Based on the chemical and surface morphological properties analyses, cogon grass is a good alternative fibre resource especially for pulp and paper making industries.
The Study on Effectiveness and Flow Characteristic of Grassed Swale Drainage System in UTHM
Authors: Ahmad Noor Aliza , Mustaffa Nurhazirah , Mohammad Razi Mohd Adib , Mat Daud Azra Munirah , Musa Sabariah , Zamanhuri Nurfarehan
Published: July 2015

The drainage system is an infrastructure that requires systematic planning of construction which can function properly to reduce the risk of flooding. Flooding occurs due to the rapid development resulting in lack of permeable surfaces. This will lead to increase the surface runoff, where the flow velocity and flow discharge also will be increased. Therefore, grassed swale is one of the sustainable drainage systems that can be applied to solve this problem. This study aims to identify the effectiveness of the grassed swale drainage system at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), to determine the hydraulic characteristics and the effectiveness of vegetation used in the swale drainage system. Through this approach, the solution of past studies, related journals, and Manual Saliran Mesra Alam (MSMA) [1] are used as a reference for this study. Data collection was conducted on grassed swale with total length 60 meters. To obtain an accurate data, measurements of flow velocity have been taken three times, and for three days after raining. Data was observed by 81 times and analyzed using the Manning’s equation. Manning’s equation was adopted to determine the value of hydraulic coefficients for the grass swale channel. The results obtained, demonstrates that the value of Manning’s n for all sections is stated in a range of 0.015 to 0.030. The results also showed a difference in the size of the design, the flow velocity, the water depth, and the flow discharge of the grassed swale drainage system.
Leachability of Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) Incorporated With Fly Ash and Bottom Ash by Using Static Leaching Procedure (SLT)
Authors: Abdul Kadir Aeslina , Hassan Mohd Ikhmal Haqeem , bin Syed Mohamad Syed Khairul Hafizi
Published: July 2015

The growing demand for electricity resulted in the construction of many coal fired power plants. The increment of the consumption of coal by power plants lead up to production of coal ash. Coal ash contains a range of toxic elements that may have negative effects to human and environmental health. Fly ash (FA) and bottom ash (BA) are the solid residues and mostly arise from coal combustion that being disposed in large quantities every year. The focus of the study is to determine the leachability of Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) incorporated with FA and BA by using Static Leachate Test (SLT) method. In this study, FA and BA were collected from Kapar Energy Ventures Coal Power Plant in Selangor. The characteristics of Ordinary Portland cement (OPC), FA and BA were determined by using X-Ray Fluorescent (XRF) technique. The different percentages of FA (replace cement) and BA (replace sand) which is 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% were incorporated respectively into SCC. Ten reactors were set up for the leachability test for each solid specimen by using SLT method. The concentrations of leachate samples were analyzed for selected heavy metals content by using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) method. After 40 days conducting the test, the concentrations of selected heavy metals (As, Mn, Cu, Cr, Zn, Ni, Fe and Pb) in the synthetic acid rain leachates from the SCC specimens were significantly lower than the limit specified by the USEPA and EPAV. Therefore, incorporating of FA and BA up to 30% into SCC is potentially feasible.
The Effect of Precipitation on Sediment Transport at Batang Padang River, Perak
Authors: Amat Nurul Farehah , Adnan Mohd Shalahuddin , Zahudi Zawani Mohd , Erfen Yuliarahmadila , Ali Noorfathiah Che
Published: July 2015

Study of sediment management is important to ensure the sedimentation process that occurred can be properly managed. Sediment have a positive correlation with the precipitation where, if the amount of precipitation is high then the sediment transport rate also will be increase. The additional of sediment into the river will shallow the river and lead to flooding. Thus, this analysis is carried out on the Batang Padang River to prove that there is a positive reaction by the precipitation and the amount of sediment, and will affect river management. The precipitation and sediment data from 1982 to 1996 were retrieved from Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) data base. Statistical analysis using the methods of correlation was used to determine the relationship between two variable has been prescribed. Based on the analyzed data, the highest value of rainfall was 3832.5 mm in 1988, and the highest value of sediment is 15331.9 tonnes/year was accured in 1985. Grade correlation is between 0:51 to 0.94 for observations fifteen years. Where the average grade of correlation that has been analyzed is 0.7. The results of the data analysis clearly shows that precipitation has a significant relationship with sediment.
Investigation of DLP Projector as an Energy Light Source to Cure Silver Conductive Ink
Authors: Khirotdin Radin Khairilhijra , Mohamad Nasir Adham , Kamarudin Khairu , Ibrahim Mustaffa
Published: July 2015

Conductive ink has been widely used in many application of electronic parts. It normally comes in liquid form and will need to be cured usually by conventional oven or laser irradiation after it is drawn to expose its metallic contents. But, these curing processes suffer from numerous problems consist of laser is a costly process and a warping defect when cured using conventional oven. Thus, alternative process is prominent and DLP projector has been seen capable of polymerised photopolymer materials. By making use of its potential associated with a proper control of the light intensity, exposure time and distance, it could provides sufficent heat to cure conductive ink. This study investigates the curing process of silver conductive ink on polymer substrate using DLP projector light with a variation of curing time and distance. Electrical resistance, hardness and adhesion level of cured sample were measured to determine its functionality. The conductive ink is deposited on the substrate using a doctor blade method and Microsoft Powerpoint slide is used to shape the light image produced by the projector. It was found that the conductivity and curing level of the sample cured were higher at the distance which getting the sharpest light image. The performances of the samples were also greater as the curing time increased. DLP projector is able to cure the conductive track efficiently with shorter curing time apart from the cheap preparation and setup cost.
Survival of Pseudomonas putida for Biodiesel Blend (B20) in Soil Bioremediation
Authors: Emparan Q. , Sunar Norshuhaila Mohamed , Gani Paran , Ming E.C. , Parjo Umi K.
Published: July 2015

The commercialization of biodiesel and their diesel blends in many countries can cause environmental pollution due to their spillage. This study aims to investigate the survival of Pseudomonas putida in soil contaminated with biodiesel/diesel blends (B20). The spillage simulation of B20 was conducted at laboratory scale for 24 days of incubation time. The experimental results show that contamination of biodiesel/diesel blends into the soil induced a reduction in growth of Pseudomonas putida. The growth of Pseudomonas putida was measured high in control compared to B20 sample. Soil microorganisms as well as Pseudomonas putida are very sensitive to any ecosystem perturbation therefore this study could notably serves as necessary information in soil bioremediation.
A Review on Effect of Orientation Fabric on Mechanical Energy Absorption Natural Fibres Reinforced Composites
Authors: Khalid S.N.A. , Ismail Al Emran , Zainulabidin Muhd Hafeez
Published: July 2015

This paper presents the combination technique in developing the woven kenaf fiber that is used as a new method to improve energy absorption performance. This method focuses on the effect energy absorption of angle orientation. Due to the low density, natural fiber such as kenaf fiber provides comparatively good mechanical properties. Thus, natural fibers have high potential for better reinforcement in light weight structures on automotive applications. Total force, total energy, and energy absorption of natural fibre reinforced composite for different type’s natural fibre and angle orientation are discussed and reviewed.
Model Development for Single Substrate Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Biodegradation
Authors: Othman Norzila , Abdul-Talib S. , Yassin A.
Published: July 2015

The kinetic of microbial growth and substrate utilization can be used to predict the fate and behavior of contaminants like PAHs in the environment through appropriate models. Further kinetic study results are useful in evaluating and weighing suitable treatment option for remediation and clean up of contaminated sites.. In this research a mathematical model for biodegradation of PAHs using isolated bacteria from municipal sludge was studied.. The model was developed using the Monod equation.. Results showed that the remaining PAHs in all samples decreased within time.
Evaluation of Different Biomedia Performance for River Purification: Preliminary Stage
Authors: Hayder Gasim , Mohd Sidek Lariyah , Aishah Mohiyaden Hairun , Basri Hidayah , Fauzan Mohd Sabri Ahmad , Md. Noh Md. Nasir
Published: July 2015

There is national concern about rivers pollution degree. The Malaysian Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) is running a project for river biological purification using biomedia to reduce the river pollution degree. This study aims to use different types of biomedia carrier for effective management of the river purification plant project. Water samples were collected and tested for various essential parameters. A biomedia laboratory setup was fabricated for the research with seven different types of biomedia, and water sampling was collected daily and weekly for analysis purposes. The experimental results show that the best removal efficiency was achieved by biomedia Type 1 and was 88% and 65.5% for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD), respectively. Followed by biomedia Type 3 achieved an average of 58 percentage for ammonia (NH3-N) removal. Overall, the best removal efficiency performance of biomedia Type 1 achieved the calculated rate of 68 %. The cleanest effluent was biomedia Type 4. For accumulated biofilm formation, the highest total volatile solid (TVS) was the biomedia Type 4. Finally, the best inclusive performance is biomedia Type 1. Future studies are recommended to conduct a pilot scale study with a longer time frame and to study these selective types of biomedia in anaerobic and anoxic condition.