bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid Fuzzy MCDM Approach for Sustainable Third-Party Reverse Logistics Provider Selection
Authors: Tajik Ghazaleh , Azadnia Amir Hossein , Ma'aram Azanizawati Bt , Hassan Syed Ahmad H.S.
Published: December 2013

Third-party reverse logistics providers (3PRLPs) selection has become an important logistics function which can help companies to maintain their competitive edge. Traditionally, companies solely considered economic aspects for selecting their 3PRLPs. However, due to increased pressure from different types of stakeholders regarding environmental and social issues in recent years, companies have been obliged to incorporate these issues in their logistics and supply chains functions. Although many studies have been conducted in the field of 3PRLPs selection, much less attention has been devoted to incorporating all three aspects of sustainability (social, environmental, and economic) in this field. In this research, a hybrid fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (FMCDM) approach is proposed for selecting 3PRLPs while all three dimensions of sustainability were taken into account. Fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) was used in order to weight the selected sustainability criteria and subcriteria. Then, fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (FTOPSIS) was applied for determining the ranking of suppliers. The applicability of the proposed approach was tested in an electronic manufacturing company.
Technology Management: Developing an Innovation Model for Research Universities in Malaysia
Authors: Kowang Tan Owee , Yee Tan Mei , Long Choi Sang , Rasli Amran Bin Mohd , Bakar Fairul Anwar Abu
Published: December 2013

Institutions of Higher Learning in Malaysia had been viewed as the source for new innovation. Hence, few universities in Malaysia had been upgraded to the status of Research University to reinforce the nations New Economic Model via research, development and commercialization of new innovation. As such, Technology Driven innovation model that traditionally used by academic in Institutions of Higher Learning is now insufficient to support the innovation work within the scope and definition of Research University, this is due to it is lack of focus on commercialization element. Therefore, this paper aims to propose an innovation model devotes to Research Universities in Malaysia. In line with this, the paper reviews the important elements of innovation, followed by comparison of elements in corporate and academic innovation models. Finding from this paper suggested that building-up innovation competency in Research University requires an innovation model that integrates all innovation elements from holistic business points of view. The paper proposed an integrated innovation model based on Total Innovation Management paradigm. The proposed model has descriptive value in terms of studying, classifying and defining the important elements and relationships that govern innovation process and management aspects in Research universities within Malaysia.
Solving an Industrial Shop Scheduling Problem Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Moghadam Ali Mokhtari , Wong Kuan Yew , Piroozfard Hamed , Derakhshan Asl Ali , Shanty Hutajulu Tiurmai
Published: December 2013

Spool fabrication shop is an intermediate phase in the piping process for construction projects. The delivery of pipe spools at the right time in order to be installed in the site is very important. Therefore, effective scheduling and controlling of the fabrication shop has a direct effect on the productivity and successfulness of the whole construction projects. In this paper, a genetic algorithm (GA) is developed to create an active schedule for the operational level of pipe spool fabrication. In the proposed algorithm, an enhanced solution coding is used to suitably represent a schedule for the fabrication shop. The initial population is generated randomly in the initialization stage and precedence preserving order-based crossover (POX) and uniform crossover are used appropriately. In addition, different mutation operators are used. The proposed algorithm is applied with the collected data that consist of operations processing time from an industrial fabrication shop. The results showed that by using GA for scheduling the fabrication processes, the productivity of the spool fabrication shop has increased by 88 percent.
Fuzzy Logic Approach for Assessing Sustainability: Methodology Development for Hollow Fiber Membrane Module
Authors: Mahmood Salwa , Hemdi Abdul Rahman , Saman Muhamad Zameri Mat , Noordin Mohd Yusof
Published: December 2013

Sustainability has become new evolution of quality and efficiency indicator for product life cycle. It is generally acknowledge that sustainability is a result from balancing the environmental, economical and social aspect. However, each aspects may expand to different type of parameters involved that cross the system boundary; qualitative and quantitative parameters. Fuzzy logic approach will be applied to deal with the data uncertainty for obtaining the sustainability assessment of hollow fiber membrane module. Fuzzy logic operation will formulate the mapping from inputs to an output. Thus, it will able for intermediate assessment between sustainable and non-sustainable hollow fiber membrane module. Hence, this paper introduces the comprehensive method for assessing sustainability as guide for hollow fiber membrane designer and manufacturer for future sustainability improvement.
Pattern Recognition Using Mahalanobis-Taguchi System on Connecting Rod through Remanufacturing Process: A Case Study
Authors: Abu Mohd Yazid , Jamaludin Khairur Rijal , Ramlie Faizir
Published: December 2013

To categorize the different patterns of connecting rod based on the extent to which the product is remanufacturable is very challenging because of the existence of various models and wide tolerances. Sometimes it cannot be done due to the improper pattern recognition system. Mahalanobis-Taguchi System (MTS) is a diagnostic method employing Mahalanobis Distance (MD) for recognizing different patterns in multivariate data. The aim of this work is to apply T method-3, a sub-method of MTS, to the big-end diameter of connecting rod to distinguish between two distinct ranges within the remanufacturability process spectrum. Furthermore, the method also categorizes various patterns of connecting rod based on their MD from unit space with graphical illustration. The case study is performed in an automotive industry as well as in a contract remanufacturing environment in Malaysia. The outcome of this work is expected to be the enhancement of robustness in the remanufacturing system on pattern recognition applicable to the company under study. It is expected that the company will experience time and energy savings and improved work quality. The resulting systematic analysis is expected to enable fast decision-making. Finally, this study is expected to invoke among researchers a sense of seriousness in their approach towards various case studies involving the upgrading of the remanufacturing process that will bring Malaysias remanufacturing capability on par with that of other developed countries.
Performance and Emission of a Diesel Engine Fuelled with Preheated Palm Oil Biodiesel under High Load Conditions
Authors: Khalid Amir , Mustaffa Norrizal , Alimin Ahmad Jais , Manshoor Bukhari , Basharie Siti Mariam , Sadikin Azmahani
Published: December 2013

Crude palm oil (CPO) is one of the vegetable oil that has potential for use as a fuel in diesel engine. Despite years of improvement attempts, the high viscosity and the major chemically bound oxygen component in the biodiesel fuel play as a key element during combustion process. Purpose of this study is to explore how significant the effect of preheated biodiesel blends on the engine performance and emission. The blending of biodiesel was varied from 5vol%(B5)~ 45vol%(B45) and preheated fuel temperature from 40°C~60°C. The engine speed was varied from 1500 rpm~3000 rpm and the load test conditions of 100% are considered. The performances parameter study of diesel engine in brake power, torque and flywheel torque are described together with the emissions parameter such as opacity, hydrocarbon (HC), nitrogen oxide (NOx), carbon oxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2). Under high load condition, preheated biodiesel blends were found enhancing the combustion process, resulting in better performances. Increased preheated fuel temperature, higher in torque value and brake power increases significantly as the engine speed increases.
Competencies of Work in Agricultural Research Units
Authors: Luz Maria de Lourdes Santiago , Camarotto Joao Alberto
Published: December 2013

This paper aims to investigate and discuss the concepts comprised of the competencies deriving from tacit and explicit knowledge of operational work, a critical factor in the transfer and retention of knowledge in an organization of agricultural activities, as well as their relationships. Thus, this article contains a review of the literature to understand the relationship between worker competencies and the work done in agricultural units linked to teaching and research institutes in Brazil. The term agricultural unitsrefers to experimental farms belonging to higher education institutions, intended to serve as a workplace for teaching, research and extension activities. This research is also based on the specific characteristics of work in an organization that fit in situations of high variability. The final product of an experimental farm includes not only research results and generated knowledge, but also the development of operational activities. Finally, this paper discusses the relationship of competencies necessary for the development of this kind of agricultural unit of teaching and research.
Low-Cost Strategy Factors in Airline Industry: The AirAsia Case
Authors: Jeddi Alireza Rangraz , Renani Nafiseh Ghorbani , Khademi Alireza , Shokri Vahid , Noordin Mohd Yusof
Published: December 2013

Demand for air transportation has boomed extensively in Southeast (SE) Asia during the past decade as a result of economic development and the lack of land routes between destinations. The purpose of this study is to focus on the cost-leadership competitive strategy applied by low-cost carriers (LCCs) in SE Asia airlines and explore the elements that affect the competing capability of these airlines in the region. Furthermore, the study attempts to illustrate the key success factors that have resulted in the superiority of AirAsia (AA) airline among other LCCs airlines in the competitive market of SE Asia. The research shows that the regulatory environment in the regions air transportation business is an important barrier for the development of local LCCs airlines. Hence, AA attempts to cope with these barriers have been illustrated in this research.
Review on Methodology for Life Cycle Costing of Membrane System for Wastewater Filtration
Authors: Jiran Nur Syamimi , Mahmood Salwa , Saman Muhamad Zameri Mat , Noordin Mohd Yusof
Published: December 2013

In competitive environment, manufacturers have to come out with innovative solution to market their product including by implementing life cycle engineering concept. Life cycle costing (LCC) is one of the aspects that need to be considered when adapting this concept. In addition, costing is one of the important aspects that need to consider carefully. In order to perform LCC analysis, one of the important steps is estimating costs. Cost estimation model should not only consider pre production and production cost design, manufacturing, assembly but also post production customer use and end of life. Development of cost estimation model or methodology is needed to simplify the LCC analysis so that it able to produce result in short time and more accurate. This paper has review on LCC, cost estimation techniques and several developed cost estimation model in order to determine research gap and research direction on developing a methodology to assessing LCC of membrane system for wastewater filtration.
Effect of Buffer Size Variation on Remanufacturing Environment
Authors: Pourghadim Vahid Abbasgholi , Noordin M.Y. , Wong Kuan Yew
Published: December 2013

A remanufacturing is an independent institution in which a variety of activities such as disassembly, inspection, disposing, refurbishing, repairing, remanufacturing, transportation and reassembly are performed. We propose an approach that uses an open queuing network, decomposition principle and expansion methodology to analyze the remanufacturing system and use Taguchi method to find out how much the buffer sizes affect on performance. The objective function values, throughput and total cost, are calculated for each experiment. Main effects plots show how each factor affects the response characteristic.
Effect of Butt Joint on Mechanical Properties of Welded Low Carbon Steel
Authors: Wardoyo Toto Triantoro Budi , Izman S. , Kurniawan Denni
Published: December 2013

Effect of variation of the connection (butt joint) in low carbon steel resistance welding (shielded metal arc welding, SMAW) performance is investigated in this paper. Three types of butt joint was varied: square, single V, and double V. The results from tensile test showed that welded specimens are of similar tensile properties with base metal and one another. When hardness test was performed on weld metal, HAZ, and base metal of each specimen,.it was found that weld metal and HAZ were of higher hardness than the base metal. Specimen with square joint exhibits the highest hardness while specimens with single V and double V joints show similar hardness. Microstructure analysis revealed that weld metal of specimen with square joint is of bainite-martensite phases while weld metal of specimens with single V and double V joints are of ferrite-pearlite phases. This difference in microstructure, and hence in hardness, is related to the corresponding heat input during welding.
A Review on Intelligence STEP-NC Data Model and Function Blocks CNC Machining Protocol
Authors: Mohamed Saiful Bahri , Jameel Adnan , Minhat Mohammad
Published: December 2013

This review paper describes the implementation process for STEPNCFBUoA. Its software environment is first explained. ST-Developer is the central software tool that is responsible for converting EXPRESS schema to Java classes. FBDK is the tool used for developing the function blocks editor, raw material user interface, machining set-up data interface, and machine tool database. The two examples in the ISO 14649-11 standard are used as the main test parts. The paper provides a detailed account of STEP-NC data processing, Graphic user interface (GUI) and local manufacturing databases, for example, raw material, set-up, machine tool, and cutting tool databases. Machining simulation is validated through physical machining. This is done through machining a number of parts with varying data. The simulation graphic user interface is simple and wire-frame based, but sufficiently illustrates the tool-path information as well as showing the machine tools limits, and set-up orientations.
Power Demand Calculations in Turning of Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Nur Rusdi , Noordin M.Y. , Izman S. , Kurniawan Denni
Published: December 2013

Minimizing the power demand through machining of aluminum alloy can significantly develop the environmental performance of manufacturing systems. To accomplish this, calculation of power demand in turning processes is necessary. This paper presents the calculation of power demand based on cutting force and material removal rate, taking case study on machining of Al-11%Si alloy at various cutting speeds and feeds. The results showed that both approaches can calculate power demand with similar results. The power demand for the particular turning process was found to be proportional to feed and cutting speed.
Parametric Control of Oxyacetylene Flame Profile
Authors: Alkali Adam Umar , Ginta Turnad Lenggo , Abdul-Rani Ahmad Majdi
Published: December 2013

Oxyacetylene flame heights which were obtained through representation from a number of camera shots were compared from those estimated from empirical correlations for determining the flame height based on the heat release rate (Q) and flame base diameter (D). Pressure of gas mixtures are purposely changed to obtained a varying flow rate with the flame set to neutral during each routine. It is found that operating conditions like Reynolds number and flow rate influences the profile of the combustion flame.
Synthesis and Characterization of Polyaniline-Polypyrrole Composite
Authors: Abdolahi Ahmad , Hamzah Esah , Hashim Shahrir , Ibrahim Zaharah
Published: December 2013

The current paper aims to study on synthesis of polyaniline (PANI)-polypyrrole (PPY) composite through simple interfacial polymerization method using chloroform as organic solvent, ammonium persulphate as an oxidant agent and sulphuric acid as a dopant. The composite was characterized by using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and four pint probe methods. FESEM results showed the formation of fibrous PANI-PPY composite. FTIR and XRD results confirmed the successful formation of PANI-PPY composite. Four-point probe results showed the low electrical conductivity of the product. This study gives the better understanding on synthesis and characterization of the PANI-PPY through simple interfacial polymerization method.
Glycerol as Plasticizer for Waste Polystyrene Based Metal Injection Molding (MIM) Binder
Authors: Ismail Nurul Nadzirah , Jamaludin Khairur Rijal , Ahmad Norhayati
Published: December 2013

Except for the binder characteristics and molding conditions, the powder loading has a very important effect on the compact distortion. Three types of feedstocks consist of water atomised SS316L powder with 55% waste polystyrene, 35% palm stearin and 10% glycerol were prepared. The powder loading of each feedstocks are 63%, 64% and 65% respectively. Effect of glycerol at different powder loading on rheological properties in term of flowability (n), activation energy (E) and moldability (α) were investigated. It has been observed that all feedstocks possess pseudoplastic flow behavior which is one of the most crucial requirements in MIM process. The addition of glycerol decreases the flowability index while increased the activation energy.
Sol-Gel Synthesis of Novel Silica Hybrid Xerogels: Porous Studies
Authors: Fadzli S.A. Syed Nuzul , Roslinda S. , Shahidan Radiman , Firuz Z.
Published: December 2013

Hybrid silica xerogel mesoporous composite was synthesized by a low temperature acid catalysed sol-gel route where a natural copolymer; sodium alginate (Na-COOH) together with calcium oxide (CaO) powder were incorporated into silica sol precursor prior to gel formation. For this study, bulk xerogels samples were prepared with the amount of silica precursor and the natural copolymer was fixed meanwhile the loading of calcium oxide was varied at 10 and 20 wt%. The porous properties were studied and the comparison between the hybrid silica and monolith was made. The calcium oxide powder used in this study was prepared from calcium hydroxide, CaOH compound, which been calcined at 1000°C for 3 hours in normal air. Mesoporous structure with small particle size and glassy phase of matrixes are the main features of the prepared xerogels. The presence of sodium alginate and calcium oxide in silica matrixes produces a significant decrease especially in total surface area and porosity volume of the xerogel samples. Monolith silica xerogels exhibits a very large surface area approximately at 600 m2/g compared to the hybrid xerogels which showed 120m2/g and 25m2/g for the respective 10 and 20 wt.% of calcium oxide loading. Nevertheless, only a slight increased in pore size has been observed due to the increased amount of calcium oxide loading.
Comparison of Single Mode Fiber and Multimode Fiber in Deployment of SCM-OCDMA in Local Area Network
Authors: Mamoun Kabbour Aliaa , Fadhil Hilal A. , Amphawan Angela , Aljunid Syed A. , Al Mustafa Mohammad K.H.
Published: December 2013

The integration of heterogeneous technologies promotes ubiquity and mobility. Optical code division multiple access (OCDMA) may be deployed in conjunction to SCM to improve the spectral efficiency and enhance the data rate of subscribers in a Local Area Network (LAN). This paper compares the performance of multimode fiber to single mode fiber in the deployment of a SCM-OCDMA system with multi-diagonal (MD) codes in a LAN.
Effective Design for Fiber-to-the-Home Access Network Using Flexible Cross Correlation (FCC) Code
Authors: Mohd Rashidi Che Beson , Aljunid S.A. , Ghani F. , Fadhil Hilal A. , Anuar M.S.
Published: December 2013

This paper presented a new class of codes for Fiber-To-The-Home (FTTH) network design based on Spectral Amplitude Coding (SAC) - Optical Code Division Multiple Access (OCDMA) coding approaches. The FTTH SAC-OCDMA network is demonstrated by utilizing the Flexible Cross Correlation (FCC) code. The FCC code has an ability to suppress and cancels the effect of Multi Access Interference (MAI). The results indicated good performance whereas the FCC code offers 100%, 287% and 331% percentage larger cardinality compared to MDW W=4, MFH W=8 and Hadamard codes respectively. Finally, the FCC code accommodates low effective receive power Psr = -23dBm which is expected to be more significant for future FTTH network development for future usages.
Drop Weight Impact Analysis of Laminated Polyurethane Foam/Cloisite 30B Clay
Authors: Firuz Z. , Akil Hazizan Md , Sahrim Ahmad , Rasid Rozaidi , Fadzli S.A. Syed Nuzul
Published: December 2013

Laminated polyurethane foam composite was produced by incorporating Cloisite 30B clay as filler and aluminium sheet as the skin. Initially, PU foams were synthesized with reaction of natural oil polyol and isocyanate with ratio of 1:1.1 by weight. Water was used as the blowing agent and appropriate surfactant and catalyst were added to ensure better performance of end product. Cloisite 30B was added as filler and the percentages were varied from 1 to 5 wt%. Al skin was attached at the top and bottom of the foam to increase the stiffness of the composite and improve its mechanical properties. In order to evaluate its impact characteristic, drop weight impact test was done and the drop height was varied from 5 cm to 20 cm. The results showed that there was no pattern that exists in the impact force, but found the results for the control PU foam (PU foam without filler) has a high impact force values at 5cm, 10 cm and 15 cm drop heights. The incorporation of clay particles were found to give lower impact force to the sample, especially at low filler percentage of 1%. It was found that the addition of clay particles has decrease the impact force of PU foam due to brittleness. Besides, the impact force of the laminated composite is higher than PU foam at the same drop height. For laminated composite at 10 cm, the impact force is higher with an average value of 817% as compared to PU foam. This shows that the addition of Al sheets have improved mechanical characteristics of foam and its ability to withstand higher impact force.
Physicochemical Properties of Pyrolitic Carbon Black from Waste Tyres
Authors: Umi Fazara M. Ali , Jainoo Ishak , Ismail Khairul Nizar , Hussin Kamaruddin , Fahmi Muhammad Ridwan
Published: December 2013

Waste tyres which are mainly generated from automotive industries have become a major environmental problem to the local authorities, the tyre industries and tyre dealer. When tyres are no longer usable due to worn-out, defect or service failure they are usually dumped in the landfill sites. Pyrolysis is a process of the thermal decomposition of waste tyres in the absence of air and the oxygen. Pyrolysis may be an environmentally friendly process to transforms used tyres into gas, oil, steel and carbon black waste. The rate of recovery is 45 wt % for fuel, 30 wt % for carbon black and 10 wt % for steel wires for each end-of-life tyres. In this paper, the potential use of pyrolised carbon black generated from pyrolysis process of waste tyres is investigated. From the physical analysis of this carbon black waste, it was observed that there is various refraction particles sizes from the sieve test and different morphologies gathered from SEM analysis. Moreover, X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) and TGA/DTG analysis on the carbon black waste showed high content of inorganic additives such as Silica (Si), Calcium (Ca) and Iron (Fe) which contaminate the sample. The carbon black waste started to decompose at a lower temperature of 480°C to 680°C compared to standard black at 500°C to 740°C. The test results gathered in this paper will act as a base-line towards alternative material or to replace the commercial carbon black available in the market.
Sintering Effects on Mechanical Properties of Co-Ha Composite Prepared by Modified Electroless Deposition
Authors: Zaheruddin Kasmuin Mohd , Amin Sri Asliza Md , Rahmat Azmi B. , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Khairel R.A.
Published: December 2013

Co-HA composite produced using electroless deposition without conventional sensitization and activation treatment was studied with varying sintering temperature (1100°C, 1200°C and 1250°C). The particles size, bulk density, porosity, hardness measurements and the flexural strength are performed in order to find the optimum sintering temperature. After the electroless process for 1 H, the particle size of HA increase to 3.9% and finally the value bulk density percentage of 93.08%, percentage porosity of 6.89%, hardness value of 291.8HV and flexural strength value of 42.4MPa have been achieved after pressing and sintering Co-HA composite at 1250°C. Observations were supporting the idea that Co-HA produced by modified electroless method was improving the mechanical properties with increasing the sintering temperature.
Ultrafiltration Formulation of Cellulose Acetate / Polysulfone Blended Membrane
Authors: Abdullah Nor Munirah , Mazira A. Mimi , Ramlah M.T. , Sharifah A.
Published: December 2013

Membrane has been used widely in developed countries and most of researchers focus on the development of membrane formulation. However, different materials with different portion give a various effects on the membrane morphology and performances. Hence, blend polymer is one of the method that can be explored to produce the best membrane performance. This present study aims to identify an ideal formulation of blend polymers in membrane fabrication process. Dope solution was prepared using these materials; cellulose acetate (CA) and polysulfone (PSf) are blended together as polymer, N,N-Dimethylacetamide (DMAc) as solvent and Polyvinylpyrrolidone as an additive in membrane fabrication. Best formula for blended polymer was tested on the performance test; salt rejection, flux of salt and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopic (FESEM).
Characterization of Different Additives of Sintered Cobalt F-75 Alloy in Biomaterial Applications
Authors: Abdul Malek Rohaya , Hang Yeoh Chieh
Published: December 2013

A Co-Cr-Mo (ASTM CoF-75) alloy is normally used because of their good in physical, mechanical, wear and as well as biocompatibility. In order to obtain similarity chemical structure of bone, addition of HAP or TCP into CoF-75 alloy is required. The samples were fabricated using powder metallurgy (P/M) technique under pressure of 350 MPa and sintered at 1200 °C under argon atmosphere. The results on the effect of different additives were studied in terms of shrinkage, bulk density, apparent porosity and microstructural analysis.
Feasibility Study on Composition and Mechanical Properties of Marine Clay Based Geopolymer Brick
Authors: Tamizi S.M. , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Kamarudin Hussin , Ruzaidi C.M. , Liyana J. , Aeslina A.K.
Published: December 2013

Geopolymer is an inorganic polymer performed in synthesis process of an aluminosilicate material which activated by alkaline activator solution. Marine clay, considered to be a waste substance which have an important aluminosilicate sources in developing geopolymer synthesis since it contains sufficient amounts of alumina and silica. In this experimental study, local marine clay composition was been identified to determine the amount of alumina and silica. The raw sample compositions were identified by using X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Incorporated with it composition, compressive strength of brick were been tested in aged of 1, 2 and 3 day and compared with local production of cement brick (CB). This research is aimed at determining the properties of Kuala Perlis marine clay in order to verify its suitability as a pozzolana materials as well as the sufficient amount of Al and Si to enhance the properties of geopolymer brick.
New Processing Method of Kaolin-Based Geopolymer Brick by Using Geopolymer Brick Machine
Authors: Muhammad Faheem Md Tahir , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Ghazali Che Mohd Ruzaidi , Kamarudin Hussin , Izzat Ahmad Mohd , Abdullah Alida
Published: December 2013

With increased activity in construction, deficiency of building materials and construction waste improvements have encouraged the development of new building materials. Conventional construction bricks are usually made from clay and sand, which are mixed and molded in various method and need to be dried and burned. Geopolymer bricks making process consume less energy and low cost in term of production compared to conventional bricks. The development of geopolymer brick is an important step towards produce bricks with better performance and environmental friendly material This research focusing on the processing process of the clay-based geopolymer brick from the mixing until the curing by using a geopolymer brick making machine.
Effect of Parawood Ash on Drying Shrinkage, Compressive Strength and Microstructural Characterization of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Tonnayopas Danupon , Hawa Abideng , Prachasaree Woraphot , Taneerananon Pichai
Published: December 2013

Drying shrinkage, compressive strength and microstructural analysis of metakaolin based geopolymers partial replacement with Parawood ash was investigated. It was involved different SiO2/Al2O3 and CaO/SiO2 ratios. Characterization of geopolymer mortar was determined on drying shrinkage, compressive strength, mineral phases and microstructure was analysed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. Test result of highest compressive strength was about 71 MPa at 6-h (4-h in oven at 80oC and 2-h ambient temperature). Voids-cement ratio is the most effect on the unconfined compressive strength of this metakaolin geopolymer mortar.
Performance of Simplified Damage Assessment Tools for Reinforced Concrete Panels under Blast Loading
Authors: Syed Zubair Imam , Liew Mohd Shahir , Mendis Priyan
Published: December 2013

Pressure-impulse (P-I) and charge weight-distance (CW-D) diagrams are widely used as quick damage assessment tools for reinforced concrete (RC) elements exposed to blast loading. Depending on the loading and element properties, the blast loading can induce different patterns of response and damage. Appropriate application of different simplified damage assessment tools for both far-field and near-field blast effects can be significantly challenging. This paper presents the comparison of the performances of two commonly used simplified damage assessment methods for RC elements exposed to explosive loading. Different aspects of the simplified damage assessment methods related to their construction and application for damage assessment are investigated. Some specific limitations of construction and use of P-I and CW-D diagrams are explored. Suitability of P-I diagrams for far-field and near-field blast effects is also explored. P-I diagrams are found to provide misleading damage assessment when applied for near-field blast effects.
Strength - Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Relationship of Thermally Activated Alum Sludge Multiple Blended High Performance Concretes
Authors: Owaid Haider Mohammed , Hamid Roszilah , Taha Mohd Raihan
Published: December 2013

In this research the performance of ultrasonic pulse velocity in concrete is examined as a nondestructive experiment, in order to estimate compressive strength of thermally activated alum sludge multiple blended high performance concretes (HPC) that contain AAS, silica fume (SF), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and palm oil fuel ash (POFA) are determined in both binary and ternary blends of cement. The water/binder ratio and total binder content are fixed at 0.30 and 493 kg/m3 for all types of mixes. The ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) of each concrete mix was measured using 100mm cubes after a curing period of ages of 3, 7, 28, 56 and 90 days. The results indicate a very positive exponential relationship between compressive strength and UPV for both binary and ternary blends of HPC mixtures, with coefficient correlation (R2) of 0.889.
Effect of Filler Size on Flexural Properties of Calcium Carbonate Derived from Clam Shell Filled with Unsaturated Polyester Composites
Authors: Yusof Mahsyuri , Amalina Muhammad Afifi
Published: December 2013

The effect of filler size to the flexural properties of the calcium carbonate (CaCO3) filled with unsaturated polyester (UP) composites have been experimentally investigated. The filler was derived from the shell of local clam known asPolymesoda bengalensis. The ground shells were graded into eight different sizes according to the sieve aperture size of which they could pass through. The sample with 4 wt% CaCO3reinforced with UP was fabricated. Then, the flexural test was done according to the ASTM D790. The result shows that for micron size filler, the flexural modulus was improved as the powder was filled into the UP matrix composite and the maximum value achieved at 574.81 μm mean diameter filler size. However, the infusion of the micron size CaCO3filler into the UP matrix decreases the flexural strength of the composites.
Properties of Fresh and Hardened Glass Fiber Reinforced Fly Ash Based Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Nematollahi Behzad , Sanjayan Jay , Chai Jessie Xia Hui , Lu Tsui Ming
Published: December 2013

This paper evaluates the effects of glass fiber addition on the properties of fresh and hardened fly ash based geopolymer concrete (GPC) activated by 8 M NaOH solution (28.6%) + Na2SiO3 (71.4%) with a SiO2/Na2O ratio of 2.0. Glass fibers at the dosages of 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00% and 1.25% by volume of concrete were added to the GPC mix. The properties of fresh and hardened glass fiber reinforced fly ash based GPC in terms of workability, density, compressive and flexural strengths were compared with those of the fly ash based GPC without using glass fiber. The experimental results indicated that inclusion of the glass fibers resulted in decrease of the workability but increase of the density, compressive and flexural strengths of the fly ash based GPC with increased fiber content.
Kenaf Bast-Unsaturated Polyester Composite: The Effect of Different Alkaline Treatment Condition on Tensile Properties
Authors: Rozyanty Abdul Rahman , Nur Firdaus M.Y. , Musa Luqman
Published: December 2013

The biocomposites were prepared by using kenaf bast fiber mat as reinforcing materials at different percentage. The kenaf bast fiber was treated with alkaline at different sodium hydroxide (NaOH) percentage. Composites which were made from treated alkaline kenaf treated bast fiber showed better mechanical properties (tensile) than those of the unmodified. Scanning electron microscope analysis showed the evidence of the enhancement of the compatibility between kenaf bast fiber and the matrix. The percentage of kenaf fiber in composites also plays a crucial role in determining the composite properties.
The Outcome of Sintering Parameters Study toward the Thermal Properties of CuSiC Composite
Authors: Bukhari Mohabbatul Zaman , Hashmi M.S.J. , Brabazon Dermot
Published: December 2013

Miniaturisation of electronic chips which have increasing functionality within the same package size has induced significant increases in requirements for extraction of heat from the integrated circuit (IC). Packaging materials therefore have to be capable to conduct heat efficiently and at the same time have low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) to minimize the thermal stress and warping. In the present study, copper silicon carbide was selected with an aim to solve thermal management problem presented by current IC systems. Powder metallurgy routes were chosen to fabricate the MMC based on this materials system. Copper and silicon carbide powders were mixed together in a planetary ball mill, and the green articles were then compacted and sintered to produce the final product of CuSiC. The sintering parameters were investigated for their effects towards the thermal conductivity of the composite. Sintering parameters investigated included temperature, heating duration and the gaseous environment. Upon sintering, the CuSiC particle bond to one another giving a higher strength and a possibility in attaining desirable density. Thus to achieve good thermal conductivity, the recommended sintering parameter suggests that the CuSiC composite should be sintered at 950°C for 7 hours in nitrogen gas.
Synthesis and Characterization of Hematite Nanoparticles as Active Photocatalyst for Water Splitting Application
Authors: Chin Sze Mei , Sufian Suriati , Abd Razak Jeefferie
Published: December 2013

This paper highlights on the hydrogen production through photocatalytic activity by using hematite nanoparticles synthesized from self-combustion method based on different stirring period. The morphologies and microstructures of the nanostructures were determined using Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD) and Particle Size Analyser (PSA). Besides that, surface area analyser was used to determine the BET surface area of the hematite samples. The hematite nanocatalyst as-synthesized are proven to be rhombohedral crystalline hematite (α-Fe2O3) with particle diameters ranging from 60-140 nm. The BET specific surface area of hematite samples increased from 5.437 to 7.6425 m2/g with increasing stirring period from 1 to 4 weeks. This caused the amount of hydrogen gas produced from photocatalytic water splitting to increase as well.
Structure and Properties of SiC Coated R6M5 High-Speed Steel
Authors: Skakov Мazhyn , Rakhadilov Bauyrzhan , Karipbayeva Gaukhar
Published: December 2013

A Possibility of R6M5 High-Speed Steel Strengthening by Finishing Plasma Strengthening(FPS) Method to Application of Sic Thin Film Coatings were under Research. by Scanning Electronmicroscopy and X-Ray Analysis Conducted a Comparative Study of the Structure, Phase and Chemicalcomposition before and after Application of Sic Thin Film Coating of R6M5 High-Speed Steel Surfacelayer. it is Experimentally Stated, that the Coverage of Sic Applied Method FPS Consists of Fineglobular Shape at the Size of 100-300 Nm. Determined that the Microhardness of R6M5 Steel Surfaceafter Application Sic Coating Increased Almost to 2.5 Times Comparing to Original. it is Shown Thatthe Application of Sic Thin Film Coating by FPS Method is a Promising Highly Effective Method Ofcutting Tools Surface Strengthening Made from High Speed Steels.
The XperCount, a fast and cost-effective method for the enumeration of organisms in environmental media
Authors: Masson S. , Lavigne S. , Robitaille V. , Andrews C.
Published: December 2013

Not available
Decrease in phagocytosis capacity of hemocyte during spawning in Mytilus edulis: a pilot study
Authors: Fraser M. , Rault P. , Roumier P-H. , Fortier M. , André C. , Brousseau P. , Gagné F. , Fournier M. , Surette C. , Vaillancourt C.
Published: December 2013

Not available
Influence of tidal stress on the immunocompetence of hemocytes in soft-shell clam (Mya arenaria)
Authors: Beaudry A. , Brousseau-Fournier C. , Alix G. , Fortier M. , Auffret M. , Brousseau P. , Fournier M.
Published: December 2013

Not available
Relationships between genotypes and phenotypes in natural populations of the European flounder (Platichthys flesus) under different types of contamination in estuaries
Authors: Marchand J. , Quiniou L. , Laroche J.
Published: December 2013

Not available
Comparison of commonly used space radiation environment models (highly elliptical high inclination orbit application)
Authors: Nikitina L , Trichtchenko L
Published: December 2013

This research was undertaken to provide the radiation hazard assessment for satellites in highly elliptical orbits (HEO) based on available models of the radiation environment. This research gives qualitative and quantitative descriptions of the radiation
environment on three HEO orbits. These orbits were selected as candidates for the Polar Communications and Weather mission (PCW) proposal to provide continuous communication and meteorological observations in northern areas of Canada. These orbits are 12-hr Molniya orbit, 16-hr TAP orbit, and 24-hr
Tundra orbit. The analyses of the trapped radiation are made by simulations using two basic models for the radiation environment, AE8/AP8 and AE9/AP9. The model AE8/AP8 was implemented in Spenvis and is has been used during the last decades, while the AE9/AP9 model has just been released. The
comparison of different models for solar proton fluences and galactic cosmic rays have also been done with use of different models available in SPENVIS tools. Comparison of these different models for the trapped radiation, solar proton fluences, and galactic cosmic rays provides the better
understanding for the radiation environment on HEO orbits.
Hypercalcaemic multicentric lymphoma in a dog presenting as clitoromegaly
Authors: Zambelli Anthony B. , Clift Sarah J. , Gerber David , Schoeman Johan P.
Published: December 2013

Clitoromegaly is a clinical manifestation of various local and systemic conditions in all species. The external genitalia are a very rare site of primary or metastatic lymphoma in canines, with only one previously-reported case in a dog and only sparse reports in the medical literature. Lymphoma is also very rare in dogs less than four years of age. This account reports on a T-cell multicentric lymphoma in a 16-month-old Basset hound presented primarily for clitoromegaly. The patient survived for 68 days with cyclophosphamide-vincristine-prednisolone therapy. The causes of clitoromegaly in all species, including humans, are tabulated with references.
A Skolem–Mahler–Lech Theorem for Iterated Automorphisms ofK–algebras
Authors: Bell Jason P. , Lagarias Jeffrey C.
Published: December 2013

In this paper we prove a commutative algebraic extension of a generalized Skolem–Mahler– Lech theorem. LetAbe a finitely generated commutativeK–algebra over a field of characteristic 0, and letσbe aK–algebra automorphism ofA. Given idealsIandJofA, we show that the setSof integersmsuch thatJis a finite union of complete doubly infinite arithmetic progressions inm, up to the addition of a finite set. Alternatively, this result states that for an affine schemeXof finite type overK, an automorphismσ∊ 2 AutK(X), andYandZany two closed subschemes ofX, the set of integersmwithYis as above. We present examples showing that this result may fail to hold if the affine schemeXis not of finite type, or ifXis of finite type but the fieldKhas positive characteristic.
Hodge Theory of the Middle Convolution
Authors: Dettweiler Michael , Sabbah Claude
Published: December 2013

We compute the behaviour of Hodge data under tensor product with a unitary rank-one local system and middle convolution with a Kummer unitary rank-one local system for an irreducible variation of polarized complex Hodge structure on a punctured complex affine line.
Spectral Analysis of a Quantum System with a Double Line Singular Interaction
Authors: Kondej Sylwia , Krejčiřík David
Published: December 2013

We consider a non-relativistic quantum particle interacting with a singular potential supported by two parallel straight lines in the plane. We locate the essential spectrum under the hypothesis that the interaction asymptotically approaches a constant value, and find conditions which guarantee either the existence of discrete eigenvalues or Hardy-type inequalities. For a class of our models admitting mirror symmetry, we also establish the existence of embedded eigenvalues and show that they turn into resonances after introducing a small perturbation.
Spectral Aspects of the Skew-Shift Operator: A Numerical Perspective
Authors: Bourgain-Chang Eric
Published: December 2013

In this paper we perform a numerical study of the spectra, eigenstates, and Lyapunov exponents of the skew-shift counterpart to Harper’s equation. This study is motivated by various conjectures on the spectral theory of these ‘pseudo-random’ models, which are reviewed in detail in the initial sections of the paper. The numerics carried out at different scales are within agreement with the conjectures and show a striking difference compared with the spectral features of the Almost Mathieu model. In particular our numerics establish a small upper bound on the gaps in the spectrum (conjectured to be absent).
In vitro Screening of Compounds against Laboratory and Field Isolates of Human Hookworm Reveals Quantitative Differences in Anthelmintic Susceptibility
Authors: Treger Rebecca S. , Otchere Joseph , Keil Martin F. , Quagraine Josephine E. , Rai Ganesha , Mott Bryan T. , Humphries Debbie L. , Wilson Michael , Cappello Michael , Vermeire Jon J.
Published: December 2013

A panel of 80 compounds was screened for anthelmintic activity against a laboratory strain of Ancylostoma ceylanicum and field isolates of hookworm obtained from school children in the Kintampo North District of the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana. Although the laboratory strain of A. ceylanicum was more susceptible to the compounds tested than the field isolates of hookworm, a twofold increase in compound concentration resulted in comparable egg hatch percent inhibition for select compounds. These data provide evidence that the efficacy of anthelmintic compounds may be species-dependent and that field and laboratory strains of hookworm differ in their sensitivities to the anthelmintics tested. These data also suggest that both compound concentration and hookworm species must be considered when screening to identify novel anthelmintic compounds.
Changes in Knowledge of Bat Rabies and Human Exposure among United States Cavers
Authors: Mehal Jason M. , Holman Robert C. , Brass Danny A. , Blanton Jesse D. , Petersen Brett W.
Published: December 2013

The purpose of the study was to evaluate changes in the knowledge of bat rabies and human exposure among United States cavers during the last decade. A survey was distributed among cavers who attended the National Speleological Society convention in 2000 and those who attended in 2010. In 2000 and 2010, 392 and 108 cavers, respectively, responded to the questionnaire. Eighty-five per cent of respondents in 2000 indicated a bat bite as a risk for rabies compared with all respondents in 2010 (P < 0.0001 controlling for age). The proportion of respondents indicating that they were advised to receive rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis (PreEP) because of caving increased (17% and 29%; P = 0.03 controlling for age). Among these, PreEP was received by 56% and 45%. Although recognition of the risk of rabies exposure from bats is important, the proportion of cavers acting on current recommendations regarding PreEP does not appear to have improved in the past decade.