bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between caregiver‐adolescent emodiversity and internalizing symptoms
Authors: Lougheed Jessica P. , Loveridge Colin F. , Keskin Gizem , Sin Nancy L.
Published: December 2024

Relationships between adolescents and primary caregivers play an important role in the development of internalizing (depressive and anxious) symptoms. We examined associations among caregiver‐adolescent emotions and their emodiversity (their breadth and frequency) with adolescents' and caregivers' internalizing symptoms. A total of 181 adolescents (aged 13–17 years old) and their primary caregivers participated in a 14‐day daily diary study between 2022 and 2023 where they reported their emotions at the end of each day. We used actor‐partner interdependence models to examine whether positive and negative emotions and their emodiversity predicted each individual's and their family member's internalizing symptoms. Primary results concentrated on the actor effects of adolescents' and caregivers' mean levels of positive and negative emotions and their own internalizing symptoms. Greater negative emotion and lower positive emotion were associated with greater internalizing symptoms, for both caregivers and adolescents. Caregivers who showed greater positive emodiversity also showed greater internalizing symptoms. In contrast, relatively few partner effects were observed. Our findings point to the need for more research on the role of interpersonal emotions in daily life as they relate to internalizing symptoms. Although our sample captured diversity in ethnicity, results may not generalize across levels of socioeconomic status, gender identity, and caregiver education.
Emotional reactivity mediates and moderates the longitudinal associations between mothers' depressive symptoms and behavioral problems in youth
Authors: Ji Huayu , Wang Yiji
Published: December 2024

Despite the well‐established link between mothers' depressive symptoms and youth behavioral problems, it remains unclear whether the mechanism by which mothers' depressive symptoms promote behavioral problems may also be related to individual differences in this relation. Following the three‐variable system integrating mediation and moderation, this study used an integrative model to simultaneously examine the mediating and moderating role of emotional reactivity in the longitudinal associations between maternal depressive symptoms and internalizing and externalizing problems in youth. Participants were 1060 youth and their mothers from the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (49.7% boys, 81.6% white). Mothers reported their own depressive symptoms at nine waves from infancy through the fifth grade. They also rated adolescents' emotional reactivity in the fifth grade and behavioral problems in the fifth and sixth grades. The results showed that emotional reactivity mediated the longitudinal relations between maternal depressive symptoms and internalizing and externalizing problems in youth. The results also supported the moderation of emotional reactivity. That is, mothers' depressive symptoms were associated with high levels of internalizing and externalizing problems, particularly among youth who were high in emotional reactivity. The findings highlight the dual role of emotional reactivity to better understand the associations between mothers' depressive symptoms and offspring behavioral problems, and emphasize the need to target emotional reactivity to alleviate the adverse impacts of maternal depressive symptoms on behavioral adjustment in early adolescence.
Identification and Phylogenetic Analysis of Two Alternaria Species From Nelumbo nucifera in China
Authors: Guo Zhuan‐Jun , Liu Feng‐Yin , Aung Sein Lai Lai , Yin Jun‐Liang , Deng Jian‐Xin , Rashad Younes M.
Published: December 2024

Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is one of China's 10 most renowned commercially grown ornamental flowers. However, lotus is susceptible to various fungal infections, which can affect its rich nutritional composition and ornamental value. In 2023, 12 fungal cultures were isolated from lotus leaves in Liuzhou City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Based on the phylogenetic analyses using seven gene primers (ITS, GAPDH, TEF1, Alt a 1, RPB2, EndoPG and OPA10‐2) and the phenotypic data, two species (five strains) in the section Alternaria were identified as A. melongenicola L. Zhao & J.X. Deng and A. nelumbiicola T.Y. Zhang. To the data, most of the Alternaria species found, including A. nelumbiicola, have been identified on the basis of host and morphological characteristics and no molecular data were available so far that support these earlier identifications. This study is the first worldwide report of A. melongenicola from lotus. It also provides the gene sequence information of A. nelumbiicola in GenBank, clarifies its phylogenetic position and distinguishes it from the previous classified morphospecies A. caudata which is phylogenetically considered as a synonym of A. alternata. In addition, pathogenicity test confirmed that these two Alternaria species are the causative agents of leaf spot of lotus.
TRPV1 Promotes Periodontitis Tissue Inflammation and Oxidative Damage by Regulating STAT3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yu Mingzhu , Tian Huan , Lu Ruqing , Quan Ni , Qian Ling
Published: December 2024

Aims

Periodontitis is a chronic disease affecting adult oral health. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) expression is shown to upregulate in many inflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, its biological potential along with the molecular mechanism in periodontitis is unclear. Our study aimed to explore the biological role and underlying signaling pathway of TRPV1 in periodontitis.

Methods

In the current research, human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammatory conditions in vitro. In vivo, the periodontitis mouse model was built by ligating the gingival sulcus of male C57BL/6J mice. Thereafter, the proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress‐related processes were assessed.

Results

We found that LPS induced apoptosis and inflammation in hPDLCs, along with oxidative stress, while simultaneously inhibiting hPDLC proliferation (p < 0.05). Notably, TRPV1 expression was elevated in LPS‐treated hPDLSCs and gingival samples from patients with periodontitis. Interestingly, the increase in TRPV1 expression induced by Capsaicin, a TRPV1 agonist, inhibited cell proliferation while promoting LPS‐stimulated apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in hPDLSCs (p < 0.01). In contrast, inhibition of TRPV1 expression using Capsazepine, a TRPV1 inhibitor, produced opposite effects (p < 0.01). In vivo experiments revealed that inhibition of TRPV1 attenuated ligation‐induced periodontitis in mice, as evidenced by enhanced oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and elevated apoptosis (p < 0.01). Additionally, rescue assays indicated that TRPV1 promoted periodontitis‐associated tissue inflammation and oxidative damage via activating the STAT3 signaling pathway (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that TRPV1 expression is high in periodontitis and facilitates periodontitis‐associated tissue inflammation and oxidative damage by regulating STAT3 signaling pathway, which implies that TRPV1 may represent a new therapeutic target for periodontitis.
Extreme altitude‐induced central sleep apneas lasting more than 100 seconds in a healthy 23‐year‐old man
Authors: Heiniger Grégory , Peci Arton , Marchi Nicola Andrea , Solelhac Geoffroy , Imler Théo , Waeber Adrien , Bradley Brian , Lecciso Gianpaolo , Wellman Andrew , Lovis Alban , Monney Pierre , Auberson Denise , Heinzer Raphael
Published: December 2024

Central sleep apneas (CSA) can occur de novo at high‐altitude in individuals without sleep‐disordered breathing at low altitude. These apneas are usually brief, lasting only 5–15 s. This report presents the first documented case of a man experiencing extreme altitude‐induced CSA lasting more than 100 s in the absence of any sleep breathing disorder in normoxia. A 23‐year‐old male with no pre‐existing health conditions was recruited for a study examining the work of breathing during sleep at a simulated altitude of 3500 m (FiO2:13%). A lowland polysomnography was first conducted to exclude moderate to severe sleep‐disordered breathing and showed an apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) of 7.6/h, an oxygen desaturation index (ODI) of 4.8/h, and a mean pulse oximetry‐based oxygen saturation (SpO2) of 93.9%. During the recording in the hypoxic chamber, the participant experienced prolonged CSA lasting up to 1 min and 49 s. These apneas were associated with significant oxygen desaturations (nadir: 44%). To investigate the origin of these atypical CSA, the participant underwent a new low‐altitude polysomnography with transcutaneous CO2 measurement (mean PaCO2:46 mmHg) and diurnal arterial blood gas analysis (pH: 7.42, pCO2: 35.1 mmHg, pO2: 79.9 mmHg, HCO3−: 22.4 mmol/L). These results indicated no signs of chronic hypercapnia or hypocapnia. A hypoxia tolerance test (FiO2: 11.5%) demonstrated a good ventilatory response to hypoxia during exercise (1.004 L/min/kg). A rebreathing test according to the Read protocol in hyperoxia demonstrated an impaired ventilatory response to CO2 (<0.6 L/min/mmHg). This report documents a rare form of extreme hypoxia‐induced CSA, potentially caused by impaired CO2 chemoreceptor sensitivity and an increased arousal threshold.
SCAR markers linked to Phytophthora capsici and Meloidogyne incognita resistance in Piper sp.
Authors: Truong Hai Thi Hong , Ho Nhi Thi Hoang , Rasphone Sonexay , Ho Han Ngoc
Published: December 2024

Black pepper (Piper nigrum) cultivation suffers from pathogenic Phytophthora capsici and Meloidogyne incognita, causing tremendous yield loss. To solve this problem, genetically sustainable disease‐resistant accessions need to be selected and bred. However, the lack of genomic DNA data for Piper sp. could be a major obstacle. In this study, we created R‐pools and S‐pools from resistant and susceptible accessions in bulked segregant analysis (BSA), respectively, selected DNA fragments associated with resistance or susceptibility to P. capsici and M. incognita from RAPD markers and then converted them into SCAR markers. This is the first publication showing the potential of molecular markers, specifically the SCAR marker, to select Piper sp. accessions resistant to both P. capsici and M. incognita. Based on BSA, four RAPD primers were selected: UBC#377, UBC#359, UBC#360 and UBC#408. Five resistance and susceptibility‐specific fragments were isolated, cloned and sequenced to synthesize 16 SCAR primers. We converted the UBC#377 marker into a 46‐377F2R1 marker and the UBC#360 marker into a 30‐360F1R2 marker. While the 46‐377F2R1 marker has the potential to identify P. capsici‐resistant accessions with a 350 bp resistance‐associated band, the 30‐360F1R2 marker showed the potential to find M. incognita‐resistant accessions with a 230 bp resistance‐linked band.
Characterisation of the Novel HLA‐C*07:971 Allele by Next‐Generation Sequencing
Authors: Gatouillat Grégory , Tabary Thierry , Tonye Libyh Marcelle , Pham Bach Nga , Giusti Delphine
Published: December 2024

HLA‐C*07:971 differs from HLA‐C*07:02:01:03 by a single nucleotide substitution in codon −4 in exon 1.
The Full‐Length Genomic Sequence of the HLA‐B*40:186:02 Allele
Authors: Tian Wei , Li LiXin
Published: December 2024

Full genomic sequence shows HLA‐B*40:186:02 differs from HLA‐B*40:186:01 by a cytosine substitution in exon 2.
A Novel HLA‐C Allele, HLA‐C*12:419, Was Identified by Next‐Generation Sequencing in a Chinese Individual
Authors: Huang Ti‐Long , Zhang Tian‐Yao , Xiang Lin , Jiang Hong‐Chao , Zhang Xian‐Wen
Published: December 2024

HLA‐C*12:419 has a single nucleotide substitution at position 445 G>T when compared to the C*12:02:02:25 allele.
Characterisation of Novel HLA‐DQA1 and ‐DQB1 Alleles in a Spanish Bone Marrow Donor: DQA1*05:05:23 and DQB1*03:562
Authors: Ocejo‐Vinyals J. Gonzalo , Toriello María , Mota‐Pérez Nerea , García Mónica Renuncio , Balas Antonio
Published: December 2024

Description of the novel HLA‐DQA1*05:05:23 and ‐DQB1*03:562 alleles.
Serological investigations on penicillin‐induced antibodies in the Thai population
Authors: Khumsuk Piyathida , Nathalang Oytip , Choychimplee Tanaporn , Sasikarn Wiradee , Intharanut Kamphon
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to assess the conditions for coating RBCs with penicillin and examine the anti‐penicillin reactions of random Thai patients' sera against penicillin‐coated RBCs and normal sera from Thai donors testing in the presence of the drug.

Background

Penicillin‐induced immunologic haemolytic anaemia (IHA) is reportedly related to possessing antipenicillin antibodies, immunoglobulin G (IgG), which has been identified in testing penicillin‐coated red blood cells (RBCs). In addition, low titre penicillin antibodies, often IgM, are detected in donors by testing in the presence of a solution of the penicillin.

Materials and Methods

Penicillin‐coated RBCs were produced, and antipenicillin was tested against those penicillin‐coated RBCs amongst random Thai patients who had strongly positive direct antiglobulin (≥3+). Additionally, sera from Thai blood donors were tested in the presence of the penicillin. These relationships were determined by comparing the numbers of penicillin‐antibody positive patients with their diagnosis, sex, age and blood type.

Results

Penicillin requires a high pH to optimally adhere to RBCs that showed validated reactions with controls. Enrolment of 304 random patients, of whom 17 (5.59%) had positive antipenicillin tests using penicillin‐coated RBCs. Of the 246 donor samples, 3 (1.22%) displayed positive reactivities in the presence of soluble penicillin. Furthermore, no association was discovered between the patient's characteristics and antipenicillin positivity.

Conclusions

This is the first study to develop and report on the low percentage of patients' and donors' sera without IHA. Investigating suspected cases of penicillin‐induced IHA requires following our suggested method to identify clinically significant antipenicillin.
Cognitive Models for Machine Theory of Mind
Authors: Lebiere Christian , Pirolli Peter , Johnson Matthew , Martin Michael , Morrison Donald
Published: December 2024

Some of the required characteristics for a true machine theory of mind (MToM) include the ability to (1) reproduce the full diversity of human thought and behavior, (2) develop a personalized model of an individual with very limited data, and (3) provide an explanation for behavioral predictions grounded in the cognitive processes of the individual. We propose that a certain class of cognitive models provide an approach that is well suited to meeting those requirements. Being grounded in a mechanistic framework like a cognitive architecture such as ACT‐R naturally fulfills the third requirement by mapping behavior to cognitive mechanisms. Exploiting a modeling paradigm such as instance‐based learning accounts for the first requirement by reflecting variations in individual experience into a diversity of behavior. Mechanisms such as knowledge tracing and model tracing allow a specific run of the cognitive model to be aligned with a given individual behavior trace, fulfilling the second requirement. We illustrate these principles with a cognitive model of decision‐making in a search and rescue task in the Minecraft simulation environment. We demonstrate that cognitive models personalized to individual human players can provide the MToM capability to optimize artificial intelligence agents by diagnosing the underlying causes of observed human behavior, projecting the future effects of potential interventions, and managing the adaptive process of shaping human behavior. Examples of the inputs provided by such analytic cognitive agents include predictions of cognitive load, probability of error, estimates of player self‐efficacy, and trust calibration. Finally, we discuss implications for future research and applications to collective human–machine intelligence.
Characterization of radiations‐induced genomic structural variations in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Sall Salimata Ousmane , Alioua Abdelmalek , Staerck Sébastien , Graindorge Stéfanie , Pellicioli Michel , Schuler Jacky , Galindo Catherine , Raffy Quentin , Rousseau Marc , Molinier Jean
Published: December 2024

DNA, is assaulted by endogenous and exogenous agents that lead to the formation of damage. In order to maintain genome integrity DNA repair pathways must be efficiently activated to prevent mutations and deleterious chromosomal rearrangements. Conversely, genome rearrangement is also necessary to allow genetic diversity and evolution. The antagonist interaction between maintenance of genome integrity and rearrangements determines genome shape and organization. Therefore, it is of great interest to understand how the whole linear genome structure behaves upon formation and repair of DNA damage. For this, we used long reads sequencing technology to identify and to characterize genomic structural variations (SV) of wild‐type Arabidopsis thaliana somatic cells exposed either to UV‐B, to UV‐C or to protons irradiations. We found that genomic regions located in heterochromatin are more prone to form SVs than those located in euchromatin, highlighting that genome stability differs along the chromosome. This holds true in Arabidopsis plants deficient for the expression of master regulators of the DNA damage response (DDR), ATM (Ataxia‐telangiectasia‐mutated) and ATR (Ataxia‐telangiectasia‐mutated and Rad3‐related), suggesting that independent and alternative surveillance processes exist to maintain integrity in genic regions. Finally, the analysis of the radiations‐induced deleted regions allowed determining that exposure to UV‐B, UV‐C and protons induced the microhomology‐mediated end joining mechanism (MMEJ) and that both ATM and ATR repress this repair pathway.
Direct Design to Horizontal Sway, Limitation for Unbraced Steel Frames
Authors: Saim A. Aziz , Anderson D.
Published: December 2024

A method applicable to the design of unbraced multi-storey steel frames tospecified limits on horizontal sway deflection is presented. This method ofdesign is the extension and combination of the work by Wood and Roberts [1]and Anderson and Islam [2]. Only simple calculations are required by themethod and its application is illustrated by worked examples. Regular and nonregularsteel frames are considered . The method proposed is suitable for thedesign of unbraced multi-storey frames if the choice of sections is controlled bysway deflection.
Predicting Elevations.of Water Surface in A Tidal Water System
Authors: Hashim Noor Baharim , Shindala Adnan , L. Zitta Victor
Published: December 2024

In predicting the tidal elevations in the Back Bay of Biloxi in Mississippi, the WaterQuality Analysis Simulation-S (WASP5) hydrodynamics model DYNHYD5 wasutilized. Model calibration of the tidal elevations was initially accomplishedutilizing historical data collected by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) during theperiod June 14-16, 1977 along with a second set of data collected by the U. S.Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) during the period July 28-August 2,1972. Final model calibration was performed utilizing a set of field data acquiredon the Back Bay of Biloxi, during September 12-21, 1994 and during April 25 May2, 1995. Comparisons of the predicted and observed tidal data are madequalitatively by using temporal comparisons. The respon se of model predictioncalculations is consistent with trends of the observed data ranges, but not withabsolute values in all cases. The results indicate that the model can accuratelypredict the tidal elevations in the Bay under varying conditions of estuarine flow .
The Influence of Environmental Conditions on Creep Behaviour of Polymer Mortars
Authors: Makhtar Ahmad Mahir
Published: December 2024

The.re sults of a study on the influence of environmental conditions on the creepbehaviour of polymer mortars are pre sented. The compression creep behaviouris examined on six types of filled epoxy resins systems commonly used in thecon struction industry, using a simple spring-loaded system. The creepbehaviours are examined at WOC and 30Â°C with 45% and 60% RH. The creepbehaviour at laboratory ambient condition is also included. Compressivestrength re sults are also determined.The results indicate that 'the composition of polymer influences the creepbehaviour of polymer mortars. The influence of temperature is more significantthan the humidity on the creep behaviour
The Technology ofGIS For Civil Engineering Profession
Authors: Mohd Yunus Mohd Zulkifli
Published: December 2024

The work describes a case study in which Geographi c Information System(GIS) techn ology was used as a tool in developing an existing derelict site intoone with new con struction purp ose s and infrastructure. The case studyidentifies all the necessary ava ilable resources and types of spatial informationrequi red including topograp hic mapping, geotec hnical data and survey of pastland uses . In order to Â· fac ilitate investigation of modelling and handlingproblems, data of different resolutions,' formats ..and ... .sources are broughttogether in a GIS application package. Integration of dat a in such a manner hasbeen found useful and advantages as proven by the resul ts of proceduralmeas ures adopted in the studies . The two procedural measures were namely,(i) to check the appropri ateness of some generic GIS functions customised forci vil enginee ring appl ications and (ii) to chec k if GIS-technology is capable ofhandling data managementfor civil engineeri ng purposes.
Estimating The Pass-By and Diverted Trips for "Shopping Typed Land Use
Authors: Chik Abdul Aziz , Shankar Ravi
Published: December 2024

Trip generation represents a key input in traffic impact" assessment. "Theaccuracy and equitability of the traffic study hinge on the trip generation ratesthat are applied. Until recently, local engineers have utilized trip generationrates which have been produced abroad, especially the trip rates published bythe Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). This study "attempts toinvestigate and produce weekday trip rates and equations for shoppingcomplexes in the Klang Valley. The focus of this study is on large shoppingcomplexes, especially those with gross built up area of above 600,000 ft2. Inaddition to establishing trip rates, this study also focuses on the rates for pass-byand diverted trips. Pass-by and diverted trips are traffic that already using theroad network adjacent to the shopping complex and "may attracted to theshopping complex. Extensive traffic surveys were carried out to determine thepass-by and diverted trips. Following which a correlation analysis "wasconducted to test the suitability of the various independent variables in "estimating the observed traffic generation. The results showed that, the grossbuilt up area and gross "leasable area provide a good fit with the observed trafficvolume. For the pass-by and diverted trips, traffic volumes on the adjacentstreets yield the best estimates. Based on these analyses, trip generation rates forthe pass-by and diverted trips during the generator peaks were established.
Embankment Stabilisation Using Lime and Ash:. An Option for Safer Slopes
Authors: Kassim Khairul Anuar
Published: December 2024

One of the low-cost techniques of preventing the slope failure is to stabilise thefreshly built slope using lime piles or lime columns. This may involve some extracosts . on the. project but in the-Iong run maintenance cost may be reducedsignificantly. A new technique of constructing a stable embankment is introducedusing .strips of stabilised layers. A combination of laboratory tests on controlspecimens and suitable design procedures allow the effectiveness of the stabilisedembankment to be assessed.
A Compressible Turbulent Flow Solver For Complex 3D Configurations
Authors: Manzari M.T. , Morgan K.
Published: December 2024

A numerical procedure is presented for simulating three dimensional turbulentflow problems. The mass-averaged Navier-Stokes equations are solved togetherwith the low-Reynolds k - co two-equation turbulence model. The standardGalerkin approach is used for spatial discretisation. Stabilisation anddiscontinuity capturing is achieved by the addition of an appropriate diffusion.An explicit multistage time stepping scheme is used to advance the solution intime to steady state. The study of realistic problems involving complexgeometries can be achieved by using parallel computers. The results of asimulation involving ' transonic turbulent flow about a complete aircraft arepresented.
A Non-Instrumental Method to Determine Hydraulic Heads on Low-Lying Coastal Aquifer
Authors: Kassim Mohd Azraai , Hanapi Muhammad Nassir , Abdullah Mohd Haron
Published: December 2024

The technique introduced in this paper is to provide an alternative method todetermine hydraulic heads in an unconfined coastal aquifer. The heads could beestablished within a study area without the needs to use any instrument, such as atheodolite. Instead, a less costly small-diameter transparent tube is used toproduce a horizontal plane, formed by a balanced water level in it. Such planesare used as reference levels between two wells on an area, which is relatively flat.Current tidal heights are required in order to calibrate the measurements obtainedfrom the reference levels to the mean sea level. The application of this method atfield as a.case study has revealed the reduction and critical condition of h in thephreatic aquifer of a small island, due to the frequent pumping of the wells.
THE EFFECT OF THE LATEST SUMATRA EARTHQUAKE TO MALAYSIAN PENINSULAR
Authors: Adnan Azlan , Hendriyawan Hendriyawan , Irsyam Masyhur
Published: December 2024

Although the Malaysian Peninsular is located relatively faraway from the seismicsource zone of Sumatra but the nearest distance of earthquake epicenter fromMalaysia is approximately 350 km. -Tremors due to Sumatran earthquakes havebeen reported several times. The newest data from the Malaysian MeteorologicalService informed that the newest earthquake near Sumatra on 2 November 2002had caused tremor in several cities in the Malaysian Peninsular such as Penang,Port Klang, Selangor and Old Klang, Selangor. The tremor had caused panicamong residents of the high-rise buildings in Penang and thousands were runningout oftheir buildings.The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of the Sumatran Earthquake-tothe Malaysian Peninsular. This report includes the following items: 1) tectonicsetting of Sumatra, 2) location, mechanism, and size of recent earthquake, and 3)analysis of ground acceleration at bedrock for Penang and Kuala Lumpur _usingseveral appropriate attenuation relationships.Seismic analysis is performed in order to obtain Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA)at bedrock of Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Analysis is carried out usingdeterministic method and using attenuation relationships proposed by Youngs(1997) Atkinson and Boore (1997) and Petersen (2002). Comparison study usingthose three attenuation functions is also conducted in order to evaluate the effect ofselection attenuation function at site location.
FLOOD POTENTIAL ESTIMATION OF TWO SMALL VEGETATED WATERSHEDS
Authors: Katimon Ayob , Mohd Yunos Mohd Zulkifli
Published: December 2024

Real-time (observed) rainfall-runoff data from two small watersheds was use to estimate the flood potential of the area. The first watershed (W-1) is located in a hilly area near Serdang, Selangor. The second watershed (W-2) is a flat land of peat soil located in Pontian, Johor. A SCS (Soil Conservation Service) curve number (CN) technique, which is, considered as one of the GIS-based empirical approach was used in the study to predict daily-event storm runoff. The predicted runoff obtained from SCS-CN technique was compared with those of the observed values and from conventional Rational method. The results show that the SCS-CN technique was over-predicted for cases in W-1 watershed. Conversely, the SCS-CN was under-predicted for W-2 watershed.
NUMERICAL MODEL OF THE MIGRATION OF TOLUENE IN POROUS MEDIA
Authors: Mohamed Yusof Zainab , Abd. Rahman Norhan
Published: December 2024

A Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) model describing migration of toluene concentration in subsurface system of porous media was developed. To investigate pollutant transport of nonaqueous phase liquids (NAPL) for VOC, requires a solution of multiphase fluid flow, heat flow and pollutant transport in a deforming porous media. The nonlinear saturation and relative permeability functions were incorporated into Galerkin finite element model, which was subsequently used to simulate multiphase immiscible fluid flow under unsaturated conditions. The governing partial differential equations, in terms of soil displacements, fluid pressures, concentrations and temperature, which are coupled and non-linear, are solved by the finite element method. The weighted residual finite element approach was employed to achieve spatial discretization of the problem while temporal discretization was achieved by a fully implicit scheme. The potential use of the numerical model is discussed and applied to toluene migration in one-dimensional analysis to demonstrate the model capabilities
REINFORCEMENT MECHANISMS OF ROCK BOLT: A LABORATORY INVESTIGATION
Authors: Mohd Amin Mohd For , Siang Khoo Kai , Chon Chai Hui
Published: December 2024

The use of rock bolts as rock reinforcement is becoming more popular in Malaysia.However, its effectiveness depends on a number of factors particularly with regards to thetechnique of installing the bolt. Its reinforcement mechanism also restricts its application forcertain modes of instability and types of rock. This paper highlights a laboratory investigation onthe reinforcement mechanisms of rock bolts, specifically on bolt inclination, anchorage type andlevel of pre-tension. The investigation was conducted using a physical model of a rock boltintersecting a joint plane. Results obtained show that a better reinforcement can be obtained if boltis inclined at an angle to the joint plane so that it elongates upon joint displacement. Full-bondedbolt is more superior in terms of mobilising the anchorage capacity and consequently, this allowsfor immediate utilisation of the reinforcing element. Pre-tensioning of bolt induces clamping effecton joint surface consequently, helps to reduce joint dilatation and increases the inherent shearstrength of the joint.
FACTORS AFFECTING ULTIMATE STRENGTH OF SOLID AND GLULAM TIMBER BEAMS
Authors: Abu Bakar Suhaimi , Saleh Abd Latif , Mohamed Zainai B
Published: December 2024

Phenol Resorcinol Formaldehyde is an adhesive commonly used in the fabrication ofglued laminated (glulam) timber beams. Although, it has been widely accepted for softwoodspecies, the verification of this type of adhesive for local timbers is not fully established. Fourglulam beams and four solid beams were tested in bending in the laboratory. Phenol ResorcinolFormaldehyde was used as an adhesive for glulam beams. The strength of the glulam beamstructure was equivalent to solid beam structure. Phenol Resorcinol Formaldehyde was able toprovide sufficient bonding and strength for local timbers. The results indicated that the mostsignificant factor influencing the strength of solid beam and glulam beam structure was the densityof timber.
ENTRY AND CIRCULATING FLOW RELATIONSHIP AT A ROUNDABOUT
Authors: Chik Abdul Aziz , Che Puan Othman , Jing Chai Ming
Published: December 2024

This study examined the two formulas stated in the Arahan Teknik (J) 11/87 of theMalaysian Public Work Department to estimate the capacity of small and conventionalroundabouts. Field survey, which cover the roundabout inventories, and vehicle classification werecarried out. Vehicle classification survey indicates lower entry flows at the single lane entriescompared to the multilane entries for both morning and evening peak hours. Statistical analysiswas used to identify the correlation between the circulating flows, entry flows and the entry width.Results showed that the capacity obtained from the weaving concept was generally higher than theregression equations for the single and multi entries. The difference between these results may bedue to the regression equations that consider the interaction between the entry and circulating flowand the geometric parameters, while the Arahan Teknik (J) 11/87 only address the geometricparameter. The entry flows for both single and multilane entries were highly dependent on thecirculating flows.
MOISTURE RETENTION CURVE OF TROPICAL SAPRIC AND HEMIC PEAT
Authors: Katimon Ayob , Melling Lulie
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the preliminary result from a laboratory study to establish the moisture retention curve of undisturbed tropical peat samples classified as Sapric and Hemic. The results obtained were compared with those of the temperate peat. Under the same suction head, tropical peat seems to hold more water. The soil moisture at permanent wilting point (- 15000 cm or -150 kPa) was still relatively high at 50-60 % volumetric indicating that the soil was still visually wet, but may not be available for plant use. The possible implication could be, water table in the field should be maintained optimally high to facilitate irrigation water supply from capillary rise.
QUASI-STATIC ANALYSIS OF COMPOSITE SLAB
Authors: Abdullah Redzuan , Paton-Cole Vidal P. , Easterling W. Samuel
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a method for modeling and analyzing steel deck-concrete composite slabs to obtain quasi-static response using non-linear dynamic finite element analysis. A three-dimensional finite element model of steel-concrete composite slab was developed and analyzed using ABAQUS/Explicit module software. The main considerations included in the model were tensile brittle cracking of concrete, horizontal shear bond behaviour between the concrete and the steel deck and the analysis control. The horizontal shear bond characteristic of the slab model was deduced from bending test data. The finite element modelling and analysis method presented here for composite slabs which failed by a combination of concrete tensile brittle cracking and horizontal shear slip described here was found to be accurate compared to bending test data.
SUSPENDED SEDIMENT CONCENTRATION AND TURBIDITY RELATIONSHIP IN TWO SMALL CATCHMENTS IN PERLIS, MALAYSIA
Authors: Bakar Salleh , Ismail Wan Ruslan , A. Rahaman Zullyadini
Published: December 2024

The estimation of suspended sediment transport in river is generally based on relationships between suspended sediment and discharge, but these correlations are often poor and are frequently difficult to measure especially during storm events. Extrapolation using discharge in regular sampling involved large errors. An alternative approach is event sampling using automatics sampler but it is expensive and large numbers of samples needed for analysis. In response to this problem, the relationship between suspended sediment and turbidity approach offers a relatively rapid and inexpensive method. A study were conducted from October 2001 to October 2002 involving a fortnightly water sampling and discharge measurement, and two intensive sampling programs (1-4 October 2001 and 11-12 October 2001) at two small catchments areas in northern Perlis. Results from this study show that strong relationships existed between suspended sediment concentrations and turbidity, and vise versa. A good positive relationship suggests that turbidity is possibly the best surrogate for suspended sediment concentrations in estimating the river suspended sediment transport.
A PROBABILISTIC APPROACH FOR MODELLING OF NOISE FROM CONSTRUCTION SITE FOR SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Haron Zaiton , Oldham David , Yahya Khairulzan , Zakaria Rozana
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a new technique for predicting noise from construction site using probabilistic approach. The advantage of the method is its ability to predict a set of noise levels during a working day period weighted by their probabilities of cumulative distribution or temporal distribution. This method has introduced different degree of noises according to different indices such as L10, L50 and L90. The indices could be used to avoid the annoyance due to construction activities and the complaints from nearby residents during construction activities. The temporal distribution of the model could be applied to predict the equivalent continuous sound level (LAeq) experienced over a short period as commonly practiced by the local authority staff when checking for conformance with a specified level during the construction process. The method could be used as the basis of an operational management tool for noise abatement scheme towards maintaining a more sustainable environment.
KNOWLEDGE TRANSFERRING PROCESS IN EARTHWORK CONTRACTING FIRMS
Authors: Mansur Shaiful Amri , Mohamad Mohamad Ibrahim , Mohamad Zin Rosli , Chee Kong Chooi
Published: December 2024

Firms with the best information management is more likely to be successful in todayâ€™s highly competitive business environment. It is a challenge for earthwork contracting firms to capture information and transform it into knowledge that is available for sharing. This study involves a survey on determining the level of implementation of knowledge transferring (KT) process by earthwork contracting firms. Questionnaire forms were distributed to 120 relevant contracting firms in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. The results reveal that all earthwork contracting firms being studied have implemented KT, even though the level of implementation is different. It is found that contractors of higher class are more willing to implement KT than the lower ones. In so far, the benefits of KT are only moderately agreeable in terms of problem solving and customer relationship.
PERFORMANCE OF CS-SLEEVE UNDER DIRECT TENSILE LOAD: PART I: FAILURE MODES
Authors: Jen Hua Ling , Abd. Rahman Ahmad Baharuddin , Mirasa Abdul Karim , Abd. Hamid Zuhairi
Published: December 2024

Tensile resistance of a sleeve connector used to connect between two structural components by confining grouted reinforcement bars relies on the bond interaction among reinforcement bars, sleeve and grout. Slippage of the reinforcement bars is customary cause of damage in end-to-end grout-filled reinforcement connector under direct tensile force. In this study, a total of nine specimens with different configuration, in terms of sleeve lengths, sizes, configurations, rebar surface conditions and grouting material, were subjected to tensile test. This paper presents the result obtained from tests conducted on the proposed CS-Series specimens and discusses the failure mode as well as the mechanisms that governed the tensile resistance of the specimens. The test data indicates that threads on reinforcement bar had significantly deteriorated the bonding mechanism between reinforcement bars and grout. None of the specimens could achieve the required strength. However, the understandings of the causes of failures obtained from the study provided essential basis for future research.
PERFORMANCE OF CS-SLEEVE UNDER DIRECT TENSILE LOAD, PART II: STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE
Authors: Jen Hua Ling , Abd. Rahman Ahmad Baharuddin , Mirasa Abdul Karim , Abd. Hamid Zuhairi
Published: December 2024

Tensile resistance of a sleeve connector used to connect between two structural components by confining grouted reinforcement bars relies on interaction among reinforcement bars, sleeve and grout. In this study, a total of nine specimens with different configurations, sizes of sleeves, reinforcement barsâ€™ surface conditions and also grouting materials were tested under direct tensile tests. This paper presents further discussion on the study of performance of CSSleeves, particularly on the load-displacement graphs and load-strain graphs of the specimens in order to acquire the structural performance of the specimens. The test data indicates that threads on reinforcement bar had significantly deteriorated the bonding mechanism between reinforcement bars and grout. None of the specimens achieved the required strength. However, the findings obtained from the study provide essential basis for future research in developing an adequate sleeve connector.
ESTIMATION OF EVAPOTRANSPIRATION IN OIL PALM CATCHMENTS BY SHORT-TIME PERIOD WATER-BUDGET METHOD
Authors: Yusop Zulkifli , Meng Hui Chong , James Garusu Geoffery , Katimon Ayob
Published: December 2024

Short Time Period Water Budget (SPWB) and Catchment Water Balance (CWB) methods were used for estimating evapotranspiration (ET) rates in oil palm catchments in Johor, Malaysia. Three catchments of different oil palm ages were established, namely C1 (2 years), C2 (5 years) and C3 (9 years). Eight months data of rainfall and runoff were used in the analysis. By adopting no rainfall conditions (Pse=0) at the start and end days of analysis, we obtained water budget periods of 209 days for C1, 111 days for C2, and 158 days for C3. A higher Pse of 2 mm, has prolonged the water budget periods to 218, 206 and 195 days for C1, C2 and C3, respectively. The larger Pse (2mm) also increased the number of samples for analysis. The SPWB method showed more consistent monthly ET compared to the WBC method. The projected rates of annual ET show remarkable variations between catchments, from 927 to 1405 mm/yr for the SPWB method and 1098 to 1365 mm/yr for the CWB method. Although the annual ET rates from C1 (1405 mm/yr for SPWB and 1365 mm/yr for CWB) are reasonable, the ET values in C2 and C3 seemed to be grossly underestimated. Both methods have weaknesses in dealing with distinct dry and wet conditions, most likely due to rapid fluctuation in the soil moisture. This problem is more obvious in the smallest catchment, C2.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES ON MIXING IN A SALT WEDGE ESTUARY
Authors: Ibrahim Zulkiflee , Abdul Latif Ab Aziz , Ab Halim Azrul Hanif , Abu Bakar Norlela , Subramaniam Sivadas
Published: December 2024

Estuaries, which are rich in nutrient, act as a habitat to some aquatic lives, including mangroves. Human-induced activities such as dredging and shoreline development influence estuarine dynamics which includes mixing process. This will further affect estuarine salinity and adversely affect the aquatic life. A laboratory investigation was conducted in a flume to observe the mixing in a salt-wedge estuary. Three conditions were studied, i.e. mixing in ordinary estuary, mixing in an estuary with a presence of smaller deep channel and mixing in an estuary with a presence of resisting structures along the channel banks. Freshwater was run from one end of the channel, overflowing a weir at the other end, while salt water was introduced at the base of the weir and intruded upstream as gravity current. Mixing in open channel occurs in longitudinal, vertical and transverse directions. The spatial and temporal salt-water intrusions were studied where the mixing patterns were visualized using red dye tracer. To have better understanding on the mixing process, salinity patterns are studied through the plotted isohalines. The spatial and temporal salinity profiles in the flume are also studied through plotted graphs. The results show that salinity differences occurred due to the interfacial mixing between saline and freshwater.
THE OPTIMUM LOCATION OF OUTRIGGER IN REDUCING THE ALONG-WIND AND ACROSS-WIND RESPONSES OF TALL BUILDINGS
Authors: Abd. Samat Roslida , Mohd. Ali Nasly , Marsono Abdul Kadir
Published: December 2024

Outrigger is one of the many tall building structural systems that are used to reduce the building responses to wind. However, it is not known where the outrigger should be placed so that the responses of the tall building due to wind can be minimized. Thus, 64-story reinforced concrete buildings with the ratio of height to the breadth of 6:1 are studied in order to determine the optimum location to construct the outriggers to minimize the along-wind and across-wind responses. Buildings with different location of outriggers are analysed by a structural analysis software in order to determine the natural frequencies and eigenvectors in the along-wind and across-wind direction. The along-wind responses are determined by employing the procedures from the ASCE 7-02 while the across-wind responses of the buildings are calculated based on the procedures and wind tunnel data available in a data base of aerodynamic load. The database is comprised of high-frequency base balance measurements on a host of isolated tall buildings models. Results from the analysis shows that the optimum location to construct the outriggers is between one third to two third of the height of the building.
CAUSES OF ACCIDENTS AT CONSTRUCTION SITES
Authors: Abdul Hamid Abdul Rahim , Abd Majid Muhd Zaimi , Singh Bachan
Published: December 2024

The statistic of accidents at construction sites give us a picture that Malaysian construction industry is one of the critical sectors that need a huge and fast overhaul from the current site safety practices. Accident donâ€™t just happen, they are caused by unsafe acts, unsafe conditions or both. Most accidents result from a combination of contributing causes and one or more unsafe acts and unsafe condition. In order to improve the overall safety performance we need to investigate the root causes of construction accidents. That knowledge could be utilised in formulating more conducive working conditions and environments at construction sites. Therefore, a study has been conducted to identify the causes of accident at construction sites. This study was started out by reviewing literature from journals, books and web pages. Then reported accidents cases kept by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia (DOSH) were examined to investigate causes of accidents. Surveys using questionnaire forms were carried out to obtain data from respondents who are mainly contractors and the rest are developers and consultants firms all around countries that are well versed with the construction safety. The finding of this study reveals that accidents are the result of many contributing factors, causes, and sub causes. Some of the critical factors are unsafe method, human element, unsafe equipment, job site conditions, management, and unique nature of the industry. The causes of accidents in Malaysia were found to be similar to that mentioned in literature review. However, some of the causes are low in frequency of occurrence. The main cause of construction accidents found are the workersâ€™ negligence, failure of workers to obey work procedures, work at high elevation, operating equipment without safety devices, poor site management, harsh work operation, low knowledge and skill level of workers, failure to use personal protective equipments and poor workers attitude about safety.
BEHAVIOUR AND LOAD BEARING CAPACITY OF COMPOSITE SLAB ENHANCED WITH SHEAR SCREWS
Authors: Liew Yu Chuan Daniel , Abdullah Redzuan , Bakar Khairul Bariyah
Published: December 2024

Horizontal shear interaction between profiled steel sheeting and concrete in compositeslab is obtained through various means, such as frictional resistance due to indentation orembossment in the sheeting, interlocking at the steel and concrete interface resulting fromcurvature and shape of the sheeting profile under bending, and anchorage devices such as welded shear studs and crippled sheeting at the end of the span. Permanent end pour stops may provide some restraining effect to the slipping of the concrete, and hence may enhance the composite action. Despite the use of many types of devices, most reported test results of typical length composite slabs still exhibit partial shear interaction. This paper reports the enhancement of the horizontal shear interaction at the concrete-profiled steel sheeting interface of composite slab by using shear screws. Six full scale bending tests were conducted of which three specimens with different slenderness were enhanced with self drilling screws while another three were without screws. The test results show that the failure mode of composite slab can be improved to ductile type and the load carrying capacity can be increased by the presence of the shear screws. The load performance of the slab is also affected by the slenderness, which is the ratio of shear span to effective depth.