bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective evaluation of chronic Babesia microti infection in seroreactive blood donors
Authors: Bloch Evan M. , Levin Andrew E. , Williamson Phillip C. , Cyrus Sherri , Shaz Beth H. , Kessler Debra , Gorlin Jed , Bruhn Roberta , Lee Tzong‐Hae , Montalvo Leilani , Kamel Hany , Busch Michael P.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Babesia microti is the foremost infectious risk to the US blood supply for which a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐licensed test is unavailable for donation screening. Characterization of the antibody response to B. microti and correlation with parasitemia is necessary to guide screening and donor management policies.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

During an FDA licensure trial, blood donors were prospectively screened (July‐November 2013) using a B. microti‐specific antibody enzyme immunoassay (EIA, Immunetics) in highly endemic (New York [NY]; n = 13,688), moderately endemic (Minnesota [MN]; n = 4583), and nonendemic (New Mexico [NM]; n = 8451) regions. Blood donors with repeat‐reactive (RR) results participated in a 12‐month prospective cohort study using B. microti EIA, immunofluorescent assay, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), blood smear, and clinical questionnaire.

RESULTS

Thirty‐seven (61.67%; 24 NY, seven MN, six NM) of 60 eligible RR donors enrolled in the study; 20 of 37 (54%) completed the 12‐month follow‐up visit of which 15 (75%) were still seroreactive. Nine PCR‐positive donors were identified during index screening; five participated in the follow‐up study, three were PCR positive at 6 months, and two remained positive at final follow‐up (378 and 404 days). Most RR donors displayed low‐level seroreactivity that was either stable or waning during follow‐up. The level and pattern of reactivity correlated poorly with PCR positivity.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate prolonged seropositivity in blood donors. Although rare, asymptomatic, persistent PCR positivity supports the current policy of indefinite deferral for donors with a history of babesiosis or positive test results. Repeat testing by PCR and serology will be necessary if reinstatement is to be considered.
Antioxidant power as a quality control marker for completeness of amotosalen and ultraviolet A photochemical treatments in platelet concentrates and plasma units
Authors: Abonnenc Mélanie , Crettaz David , Tacchini Philippe , Di Vincenzo Luciana , Sonego Giona , Prudent Michel , Tissot Jean‐Daniel , Lion Niels
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Pathogen inactivation treatments such as INTERCEPT aim to make sure blood and blood‐derived products are free of pathogens before using them for transfusion purposes. At present, there is no established quality control assay that assesses the completeness of the treatment. As INTERCEPT is a photochemical treatment known to generate reactive oxygen species we sought to use the antioxidant power (AOP) of the blood product as a marker of treatment execution. In this perspective, we evaluated an electrochemically based miniaturized system, the EDEL technology, for measuring the AOP in both platelet concentrates (PCs) and plasma.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Aliquots were withdrawn from PCs or plasma units before and after INTERCEPT treatment and a few microliters were directly deposited into the EDEL sensor for the AOP measurement. The result is expressed in EDEL, an arbitrary unit (micromolar equivalent of ascorbic acid).

RESULTS

The INTERCEPT treatment resulted in a significant decrease of the AOP. An AOP threshold of 66.5, 89.0, 59.8, and 131.5 EDEL was determined for apheresis PCs collected from female and male donors, buffy coat PCs, and plasma units, respectively. Below the threshold value, INTERCEPT treatment is considered to be executed. Additionally, we showed that the presence of the photosensitizer in combination with the ultraviolet A illumination is required to observe the AOP decrease.

CONCLUSION

The measurement of the AOP of PCs and plasma units can be used to document the completeness of the INTERCEPT treatment.
Inventory management strategies that reduce the age of red blood cell components at the time of transfusion
Authors: Poisson Jessica L. , Tuma Christopher W. , Shulman Ira A.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

There has been interest concerning patient outcomes when older red blood cell (RBC) components are utilized. Inventory management is key to maintaining a stock of fresher RBCs for general transfusion needs. We have altered our practice for RBC management to reduce RBC age at the time of transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Retrospective review of RBC age at time of transfusion at a tertiary care hospital with active trauma service was performed. The baseline nonirradiated RBC inventory was decreased from 12 to 15 days of stock to 7 to 10 days of stock, with request made to the blood supplier for fresher RBCs, specified at 75% of RBCs less than 14 days old. The age of RBCs at time of receipt and at time of transfusion was tracked on a monthly basis for the next 12 months.

RESULTS

The mean age of RBCs at transfusion was decreased by 9 days on average for the year. Significant decreases in the mean age of RBCs at transfusion were seen in the second half of the year, with 4 of 6 months seeing a mean age of less than 20 days. There were no documented incidences of hospital blood shortages after the reduction in inventory; no surgery was canceled or delayed because of inventory.

CONCLUSION

Inventory age depends on active management, combined with vendor cooperation to receive fresher components. Reducing the age of RBC components transfused is possible without experiencing blood component shortages. Longer periods of observation may allow for further adjustment of stocking levels on a seasonal basis.
Clinical and laboratory correlates of platelet alloimmunization and refractoriness in the PLADO trial
Authors: Hess J. R. , Trachtenberg F. L. , Assmann S. F. , Triulzi D. J. , Kaufman R. M. , Strauss R. G. , Granger S. , Slichter S. J.
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

Platelet alloimmunization and refractoriness to platelet transfusion are complications of platelet transfusion therapy. The platelet dose (PLADO) trial, as the largest prospective randomized trial of prophylactic platelet therapy to date, afforded an opportunity to analyse these two issues.

Materials and Methods

PLADO patient records were examined for evidence of platelet alloimmunization, defined as an increase in HLA Class I panel‐reactive antibodies (PRA) to ≥20%, and clinical refractoriness, defined as two consecutive ≤4 h posttransfusion corrected platelet count increments (CCI) of <5000. Multivariate logistic regression, restricted to platelet‐transfused subjects who received exclusively either in‐process leucoreduction apheresis or whole blood‐derived (WBD) leucocyte‐reduced platelets, compared the frequency of these outcomes by platelet unit and patient characteristics.

Results

Forty of 816 evaluable platelet‐transfused patients (5%) became alloimmunized during the trial. Prior pregnancy, chemotherapy only compared to progenitor cell transplant, and low platelet dose – all were associated with significantly higher rates of alloimmunization. Among 35 alloimmunized patients evaluated for refractoriness, 8 (23%) had two consecutive CCI < 5000/μl. Regardless of alloimmunization status, CCIs < 5000/μl were observed following 17% of platelet transfusions. Among 734 patients receiving at least two platelet transfusions, two consecutive CCIs of ≤5000 occurred in 102 (14%).

Conclusions

The incidence of new platelet alloimmunization was low in the PLADO study, but follow‐up was at most 30 days. Alloimmunization was present in only 8 of 102 (8%) of observed cases of refractoriness, suggesting that other causes of poor posttransfusion increments are frequent.
ORGANISATIONAL READINESS OF BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING IMPLEMENTATION: ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICES
Authors: Hanafi Mohd Hanizun , Gek Sing Gan , Abdullah Shardy , Ismail Radzi
Published: May 2016

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been emerged to streamline the construction process by addressing interdisciplinary inefficiencies that have been rooted in the industry over the decades. However,Malaysiaconstruction industry is having barriers and difficulties in BIM adoption as there is no clear guidance and best practices in BIM implementation that can be learnt by them. The purpose of this research is to increase the awareness of BIM implementation towards enhancing the efficiency and productivity of architecture firms. BIM implementation requirements which cover management, process, people and technology were investigated through a total of 285 structured questionnaire surveys that distributed to professional or/and graduate architects at management and operational level. The overall severity of BIM implementation requirements were then established and ranked in conjunction with their perceived levels of importance and frequency of occurrence. Results indicate that the current low BIM status denominated among architectural practices in Malaysian construction industry. Predominantly attributed to the interoperability of BIM, selection of BIM tools, employment of pilot project, risks management and development of guidelines and standards that categorised under the management and process.
FOCUS ON GLASS AS THE MAIN BUILDING MATERIAL IN DESIGNING ARCHITECTURE CASE STUDY: MALANG ABROAD EDUCATION CENTER DESIGN
Authors: Aziiz A. D. , Setiyowati E.
Published: May 2016

Knowledge are meant to be ruled by many activities, human action, and nature. General value in this case are brightly try to give understanding how much precious this aspect for humanity. As we know, that knowledge and education are completely unbreakable, it is give a wise act, a high quality of human action which is related by the human sources in every societies and mostly impact for environment. Indonesia according to national member of profession certifications shows a very low of human resources quality (WASPADA, 2012). The exposing of education information for oriented in this issue could be said as a danger situation. This project is design expose using material dominant glasses to create educational facilities to support government strategy increasing the quality of human resource. Glass Architecture itself as a modern-high technology processing material is the approach to give a contemporary solution for facilitating the educational planning on building style inIndonesiatropical condition. The using of dominant material is also the symbol of strategy for exposing the existence of these facilities in society. Thus, the people could be more aware. The glass material is contemporary give a very modern situational, and comfort in educational activity.Malangas the location for planning project are suit for this type of building because of humidity and low sunlight intensity and climate condition. The approaches in this processing planning architectural paper project are design by many filter in many analysis, comparison, and deduction. Therefore, this project paper could be a useful planning for supporting the government strategy as increasing the quality of human resource by education sector in architecture solution.
COMPARISON ON ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE BETWEEN DUST AND COIR FORM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCHES (EFB) AS SOUND ABSORPTION MATERIAL
Authors: Samsudin Emedya Murniwaty , Ismail Lokman Hakim , Abdul Kadir Aeslina , Sayed Mokdar Sharifah Salwa
Published: May 2016

Positive growth in palm oil Industry resulting in large quantities of solid waste generation and created a major disposal problem to the country. Among the major solid wastes generated from oil palm manufacturing processed are empty fruit bunches (EFB), mesocarp fruit fibres (MF) and palm kernel shells (PKS). This study investigated the utilization of EFB as sound absorption material for noise control in building. The effect of different form of EFB (coir and dust) was investigated in three different thicknesses (6mm, 12mm and 18mm) to determine the maximum sound absorption coefficient (SAC) and optimum frequencies. All samples were tested using impedance tube at low and high frequencies guided by BS EN ISO 10534. Results shows that dust EFB samples absorbed more sound energy compared to coir EFB samples at both low and high frequency region. Maximum SAC obtained by 18mm thick dust EFB samples at low frequency is 0.6 at 1500Hz while at high frequency; the maximum absorption was also obtained by 18mm thick dust EFB samples with SAC value of 0.990 at 3750Hz.Â  This result indicated that thicker samples absorbed more sound energy compared to thinner samples. Moreover, small particles fibers consequently create less pores to the samples with higher density and higher sound absorption. In conclusion, palm oil fibre is highly potential to be used as raw material for sound absorption material replacing synthetic materials since these fiber are renewable, cheaper, nonabrasive, abundance and give less negative effect to human health.
THE COMPARISON OF SLAB DEFLECTION BASED ON FIELD MEASUREMENT, MANUAL CALCULATION (LEVY METHOD) AND FINITE ELEMENT METHOD (PROGRAM SAP 2000)
Authors: Hidayat Irpan , Suangga Made , Leonardo Fransiscus , Juliastuti Godeliva
Published: May 2016

Concrete slab is a structural system that uses beams as a support element slab. The placement of beams at the whole edges of slab, so that the load received by the slab can be transfer into beams. The slab will be deformed/deflection when the loads are given. The value of slab deflection is dependent on the placement of beam support at the edges. This research was conducted on the two boundary condition that is simple support at the two edges and rigid support at whole edges. Calculating the value of deflection based on the results of field measurements and then compared with Marcus Levy method and Finite element method (FEM). Based on the study, the numbers of mesh affected to the value of deflection. The results of deflection with Program SAP 2000 will be approached deflection by Method M. Levy for the mesh division with large numbers. The deflection of slab on the field measurement approached manual calculations and Program SAP2000 with a simple support at the surrounding the edges.Â  The comparison of deflection was obtained for the simple support based on manual calculations and field measurement has a difference of 0.3% - 1%. Where the value of deflection on the field measurement is smaller than the manual calculation.
THE EFFICIENCY OF PRODUCTION FUNCTION ALLOCATION TURMERIC FARM ACEH BESAR DISTRICT
Authors: Ismayani Ismayani
Published: May 2016

The objectives of this research is to find the factors impacted of turmeric farm and the efficiency of production factor allocation was efficient or not.Â  TheÂ  research location in Aceh Besar district. This research used survey method. The research was tested by Cobb Douglass production function analysis. Â The result of research shows that area factor allocation 0,30 hectare not efficient. Â Showing that area factor necessary to increased anyway the income of the farmer increasing.And the allocation of labor factor 17,43 man days per season be decreased cause not efficient and can be high the labor, over production and marginal production value lower.
THE CONTENT OF VARIOUS DOMESTIC MICROBES AND THEIR CORRELATION TO INHALANT ALLERGEN IN HOUSE DUST BETWEEN URBAN AND RURAL RESIDENTS IN MALANG RAYA INDONESIA
Authors: Rofieq Ainur , Latifa Roimil , Fatmawati Diani
Published: May 2016

This research aimed at: describing the content of various domestic microbes in house dust of urban and rural residents, covering the amount of fungi, E.coli, Salmonella, and Shigella; and analyzing the correlation between the content of domestic microbes and inhalant allergen level in house dust of urban and rural residents. The results concluded these followings: First, house dust in rural and urban areas was identified to contain domestic microbes. Second, house dust in both urban and rural areas was identified to contain inhalant allergen. Third, there was a correlation between the content of domestic microbes and the level of inhalant allergen in house dust of urban and rural residents. However, not all types of domestic microbes had predictive correlation to the level of inhalant allergen. In the urban areas, the one with predictive correlation was Salmonella; while in the rural areas, it was E.coli.
ANALYSIS OF TORQUE VERTICAL ON STRING MODEL
Authors: Kusumastuti Ari , Yuni Nurhayati Sri Sasi
Published: May 2016

Different to other motion of torque, motion the torque modeled by McKenna (1999) is the motion of torque into a vertical direction, a consequence of the imposition of downward. Mckenna lowering the model of two pieces of rope in fastening on a beam then in hanging, then McKenna replaces the parameters with forensic data from Tacoma bridge, to analyze a wave of what happened at the bridge collapse that resulted in the bridge. In this research will be shown that the solution of the equation of vertical torque from the results of having a conspicuous disparity linearization with a numerical solution
STEEPING OF GINGER (ZINGIBEROFFICINLAE ROSCOE) POTENTIALLY DECREASE THE RISK OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS BY ATTENUATE OF TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR (TNF)-α EXPRESSION
Authors: Mahmudati Nurul , Wahyono Poncojari , Lisan Nashukha Hikmanita
Published: May 2016

Cardiovascular disease still one of the highest death factor in Indonesia. Ginger as an anti-atherosclerosis could be one of the alternatives that is being developed to decrease the cardiovascular disease. The general aims of this research were determining the mechanism of ginger as anti-atherosclerosis to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. Research design used was “The Randomized Posttest only Control Group Design”. In this research, the experimental unit was Rattus norvegicus, male; in the age of 3 months and total number were thirty. Independent variable of this research was  steeping of ginger, the dose various of steeping ginger (control, 1g, 3g, 3g + bay leaf, and 5g), and dependent variable was Tumor Necrotic Factor (TNF)α of tissue lipid. TNF α expression was measured by using ELISA method. The data was analyzed by using ANOVA. Based on the analysis, it showed that steeping of ginger was decreased the expression of TNF-α in fat tissue (1g = 551 pg/mL, 3g = 511 pg/mL, 3g + bay leaf = 493 pg /mL) compare to control (986.8 pg/mL) but on the 5 g dose there is contradictory effect that is there is increasing TNF α (1103.5 pg/mL). Conclusion, steeping of ginger potentially decrease the risk of atherosclerosis by attenuate of TNF α expression.
SPATIAL ANALYSIS 3D GEOLOGY NICKEL USING ORDINARY KRIGING METHOD
Authors: P. Sri Suryani , Sibaroni Yuliant , Nur Heriawan M.
Published: May 2016

Utilization of minerals to supply raw materials in various fields, causing diminishing reserves of the mine. Nickel is one of mine production are widely used today are in various applications and industries, such as coating steel, coating copper, industrial batteries, electronics, aerospace applications, the textile industry, and a variety of other functions. The activities to obtain continuous nickel had to be done by the mining industry. Therefore, it need to conduct nickel resources exploration to obtain optimum results. To obtain complete and accurate information accosiated with mineral resource and geological conditions of nickel mine in exploration activities, 3D spatial analysis is needed. This paper discusses the general process of 3D nickel geological modeling and also discuse spatial analysis results have been obtained on each layer.  Analysis of the ferro (Fe) content is also considering because Fe is a material that greatly affects nickel content in a layer of soil. The analysis result shown, that show each layer has different characteristics. Layer 1 has a nearly 60% saprolite layer characteristics, while at layer 2, has nearly 70% saprolite.
TOWARDS DESIGNING MODULAR OF INDUSTRIALIZED BUILDING SYSTEMS
Authors: Delfani Mohsen , Ibrahim Rahinah , Mat Raschid Mohammad Yazah , Hejazi Farzad , Haron Nuzul Azam
Published: May 2016

Although applying industrialization methods on the construction industry is well-documented as one of the best solutions of high housing demands, implementation progress of industrialized building system (IBS) rather slow is picking up due to barriers associated with complexity of its design stage. The paper presents an extant literature survey focusing on application of modular design process on IBS projects to benefit from abstraction of design process of these projects in order to facilitate the industrialization process of the construction industry. Results indicate that designing based on modularization could assist design process of IBS projects so that it prevents emerging conflicts in IBS life span that is rooted in IBS design stage. The study is presently expecting to improve awareness in various phases of IBS projects regarding the significance contributions of Modular Design Method as a respond to the complexity of IBS design method.
SOIL ARTHROPOD DIVERSITY ON THE FOREST FLOOR AND EX-ROAD IN MANGGIS GADUNGAN NATURAL RESERVE KEDIRI REGENCY, INDONESIA
Authors: Suheriyanto D. , Soemarno Soemarno , Yanuwiadi B. , Leksono A. S.
Published: May 2016

Manggis Gadungan Natural Reserve is a biggest protected forest area in Kediri regency. There are many plants and animals conserved in the Natural Reserve. The main road crosses in the area was used as destination place. Since January 30, 2015 the road was unloaded. Soil arthropods have the ability to return to disturbed habitat. Soil arthropod diversity can illustrate the linkage of soil arthropod and ecosystem service. The research aims to compare abundance, composition and diversity of soil arthropod on the forest floor and ex-road in Manggis Gadungan Natural Reserve. The soil arthropods were collected by pitfall traps. The results show that there are 5 classes of soil arthropod i.e. Arachnida, Chilopoda, Collembola, Diplopoda and Insecta. The insect class has the highest taxa number of soil arthropods. The forest floor is characterized by the presence of Paronellidae 1, Entomobryidae 1 and Formicidae 5 while the ex-road is characterized by Paronellidae 2, Formicidae 1, Formicidae 7 and Gryllidae 1. The forest floor is dominated by decomposer while the ex-road is dominated by predator. Diversity of soil arthropod on the forest floor is higher than on the ex-road.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A-TOOLIPS, A LEARNING MOBILE APPLICATION FOR DEAF CHILDREN TO PRODUCE WORDS
Authors: Novi Dayawati Retno , Dwi Sulistiyo Mahmud , Mustika Rani Meiditia , Maulidina Nistia Rahmi , Noor Linda Desi , Widyastuti Suwarsono Litasari
Published: May 2016

The deaf have a very fundamental problem, which is the ability to communicate and interact, so that it makes their very complicated. In the process of learning in basic education, the problem root faced by children with hearing impairment is the limitation in identifying and producing words. The learning process is limited to only rely on time at the school was an obstacle for them. Therefore, A-TooLips built as learning applications on mobile devices for the deaf children focusing on the ability to produce words. A-TooLips gives more time and places for hearing impaired children to learn, so that it helps their problem in communicating and interacting with others. It is explained in this paper that the A-TooLips has been successfully implemented and tested by some children with hearing impairment, and reached positive results.
EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF AXIAL COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF LIGHTWEIGHT FOAMED CONCRETE WITH DIFFERENT ADDITIVES
Authors: Mydin M. A. Othuman
Published: May 2016

This paper focuses on experimental study to investigate the effects of different additives on axial compressive strength of lightweight foamed concrete (LFC). The additives used are pulverized fuel ash, wood ash, silica fume, palm oil fuel ash, polypropylene fibre, coconut fibre and steel fibre. These additives have different abilities that contribute positive outcomes to the properties of LFC. Pozzolanic materials and fibres were used as additives to be associated with plain LFC mixtures to improve its mechanical properties. Coir fibre recorded the highest compressive strength in 7 days compared to other additives and the control sample. Coir fibre of 0.4% (CF 0.4) reached highest strength in 180 days without allowing other additives to overcome its strength. The more the inclusion of fibres, the higher the strength obtained due to its low cellulose content, and high percentage and large diameter of lignin. The short length fibres hold the particles stronger.
BEHAVIORAL OBSERVATIONS OF CROSSING PEDESTRIANS AT URBAN SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS
Authors: Hamidun Rizati , Kordi Nurul Elma , Endut Intan Rohani , Ishak Siti Zaharah
Published: May 2016

Analyses of pedestrian accident indicate that crossing behavior is one of the factors contributing to the high risk of accident. Understanding the pedestrian crossing behavior have been widely studied around the world, as the behavior of this vulnerable group are random and inconsistent. Thus, this study observed the crossing behavior of pedestrians at urban signalized intersections in Malaysia. The crossing behavior of 239 pedestrians was observed and videotaped at two signalized intersections in Kuala Lumpur. Data on crossing behaviors were extracted and coded for 10 behavioral categories of relevant behavior. The behavioral differences among gender were also examined. The results show that most of the pedestrian observed neglect to press the call button before crossing, which consequence of many illegal crossing. Different crossing paths were also observed for the three crossing styles at signalized intersections.
A PROPOSED INITIAL FRAMEWORK OF ASRC SYSTEM FOR BIM-BASED PROJECTS IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Zulkifli Muhammad Hanafi , Takim Roshana , Nawawi Abdul Hadi
Published: May 2016

Of late, Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been well established in the construction industry across the globe. Nevertheless, safety aspect is less contemplated when it comes to construction phase. Despite safety is one of the most decisive aspects in BIM development process, the model of Automated Safety Rule Checking (ASRC) system should be deployed at the early project stage to reduce the construction’s hazard. Thus, the aim of this research are two folds; (1) to distinguish the models of ASRC system implemented in Finland, United States (US), Thailand and China and; (2) to propose an amalgamated initial framework of ASRC system for BIM-based projects in Malaysia. A descriptive survey was employed to large public and private construction organisations that involved in BIM-based projects. The data were analysed by using document analysis and content analysis techniques. Five significant fundamental components from the models were revealed in developing the initial framework of ASRC system. With the establishment of the framework, safety is going to be prime concern in near future, particularly in Malaysia BIM-based construction projects.
PREDICTION OF PEDESTRIAN RISK AT SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS
Authors: Hamidun Rizati , Ishak Siti Zaharah , Kordi Nurul Elma , Endut Intan Rohani
Published: May 2016

Signalized intersections in an urban area are expecting the high volume of mixed traffic with various conflicting movements. This situation would greatly risk the safety of pedestrian as vulnerable road users, especially in a busy capital city like Kuala Lumpur. However, predicting risk based on accident data would neglect many risk factors associated. Thus, this paper presented an application of the pedestrian crossing risk assessment (PedCRA) model using Petri Nets approach to be compared with the risk calculated using accident data for thirty signalized intersections in Kuala Lumpur. The prediction of risk using this model is able to consider various risk factors, including illegal behavior, signal setting, traffic volume, road geometric layout and environment. Prediction of risk for selected sites were compared with the pedestrian accident data for 5 year period as the actual risk value. The Chi-Square goodness of fit was performed and the result showed that the predicted risk value and actual risk values follow the same distribution pattern.
MINIMIZING DEFECTS IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
Authors: Meor Hasan Meor Ibrahim , Abd Razak Nur Nabihah , Endut Intan Rohani , Abu Samah Siti Akmar , Mohd Ridzuan Ahmad Ruslan , Saaidin Sabihah
Published: May 2016

Construction defects are always the key concern of the construction industry. Different constructed facilities generate different types of defects and demand different levels and types of quality, depending on the functions, system types, and materials used. Therefore, this study has been carried out to study the defect that happens in construction project and identify the strategies in minimizing the defect in building construction project. The studies were carried out using the questionnaires which were distributed to the contractors. Finally the recommendation was made based on the findings. This study helps to increase the awareness of Malaysian contractor towards managing and minimizing the defect works. By doing this, Malaysian contractor will bring up Malaysian construction industry into the next level of managing construction project.
IMPACT OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE MINIMIZATION AT CONSTRUCTION SITE: CASE STUDY
Authors: Aminu Umar Usman , Shafiq Nasir , Malakahmad Amirhossein , Nuruddin Muhd Fadhil , Khamidi Mohd Faris , Umar Salihi Ibrahim
Published: May 2016

Waste reduction in the construction sector is essential not just from the position of overall performance, but also interests escalated recently about the detrimental impact of the waste of construction materials on the natural surroundings. The reuse and recycling of construction elements used to be substantial due to material scarcity during the war and post-war era, specifically when the price of virgin materials keep inflating. Nevertheless, the motivation to reuse and recycle construction materials has fallen ever since the flow of raw materials has grown more consistent and satisfactorily. This paper involves an ongoing sequence of waste audits at Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) R&D construction sites. The methodology consists of discussion, observation and quantitative evaluations of the kinds and distribution of wastes. The finding of this study demonstrates that the project aimed at both minimizing the volume of waste generated and diverting as much waste as possible from landfill that contribute to the recycle with over 1200 tonnes of material which constitute about 73% of recycle and reused rate mainly from timber and metal.
DIFFERENTIAL EXPRESSION OF NEUROTROPHINS IN (DSS)-INDUCED COLITIS IN SMOOTH MUSCLE OF RAT COLON
Authors: Al-Qudah Mohammad , Abu Shammala Doaa , Al-Dwairi Ahmed , Al-Shboul Othman
Published: May 2016

There is an increasing recognition of the role of neurotrophins in the mature gastrointestinal tract both at the physiological and pathological levels. However, their expression and role in smooth muscle in the GIT system is under investigated. The aim of this study is to elucidate the expression of the four neurotrophins in smooth muscle tissue of the rat colon and to test the effect of dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) - induced colitis on the expression pattern of these factors. Using specific ELISA kits for each neurotrophin revealed that the four neurotrophins are differentially expressed in the longitudinal and circular muscle layers of the rat colon and that DSS-induced colitis alters this expression pattern. These results indicate that smooth muscle tissue contributes to the pool of neurotrophins in the GIT and might play a role in the pathogenesis of colitis. Understanding the interactions of neurotrophins produced from smooth muscle and colitis could provide new avenues to tackle the dysfunction associated with inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis.
ASSESSMENT OF IMAZAPIC PRESENCE IN SURFACE WATER AND GROUNDWATER IN PADDY FIELD AREA
Authors: Mazlan Anis Zakiah , Hussain Hazilia , Mohamed Zawawi Mohamed Azwan
Published: May 2016

Herbicide is a well-known artificially synthesized substance used in paddy fields as an effective way to increase the quantity and quality of rice production by controlling the weedy rice in the field. In Tanjung Karang area, a new paddy strain was introduced to avoid weedy rice problem which requires farmers to apply herbicide containing imazapic and imazapyr which kills the weedy rice only but does not affect the new paddy strain. However, imazapic has the possibility to cause several health problems and also disrupting aquatic ecosystem. Hence, this research aims to carry out an extraction procedure and detection for imazapic residues in surface water and groundwater to assess its distribution in the study area. In this study, samples were collected from the surface water and groundwater for two consecutive seasons of paddy cultivation. After several clean-up and extraction procedure using solid-phase extraction (SPE) method, the water samples were analyzed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography-UV (HPLC-UV) for the presence of Imazapic residue. In 52.6% of the surface water samples and 51.8% of the groundwater samples, presence of imazapic residues was detected. This is a concern as it may possibly cause harm to the farmers. Results showed significant difference for the level of imazapic concentration detected in surface water during main season and off season (p-value=0.005, CI = - 0.39, 0.11). Thus, it can be concluded that the concentration of imazapic residue detected during main season (o.71 ug/ml) was higher compared to the samples collected during off season (0.57 ug/ml).
EFFECT OF APC ON KILLING OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS BY OXIDATIVE STRESS AGENTS
Authors: Abdullah Noor Faradilla , Mohamad Hussain Roslinah , Amom Zulkhairi
Published: May 2016

Allylpyrocatechol (APC) which consists of benzene ring with hydroxyl groups, is a major phenolic constituent in Piper betle L. leaves extract.  Antimicrobial activity of APC against S. aureus (ATCC 25923) was tested by determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) using the broth microdilution method. In addition, oxidative stress resistance assay was performed to determine the antioxidant activity of APC against hydrogen peroxide (10 mM), diamide(10 mM) and methyl viologen (10 mM) in relation to its toxicity against S. aureus. MIC and MBC values of APC against S. aureus were both 2000 µg/ml. Exposure of S. aureus cells to hydrogen peroxide, diamide and methyl viologen for 1 hour caused reduction of cells with percentage of survival of 87%, 15% and 10% respectively. Treatment of S. aureus cells with APC was found to increase killing compared to treatment with oxidative stress agent alone. Further research is recommended to investigate the effect of oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide, diamide and methyl viologen on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant enzyme activities in S. aureus to elucidate the mechanism involved. This study potentially leads to discover and develop new antibiotic agents against all types of MRSA and in particular, novel phytochemicals of antimicrobial potential from natural products.
ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF STREPTOMYCES SP. PJ90 ISOLATED FROM SOIL IN NORTHEAST THAILAND
Authors: Chanthasena Panjamaphon , Nantapong Nawarat
Published: May 2016

In this study, an antimicrobial-producing Actinomycetes PJ90 was isolated from forest soil in Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The morphological characteristics and 16S rRNA gene analysis revealed that isolate PJ90 could be classified as Streptomyces triostinicus. The isolate PJ90 exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus TISTR1466, Staphylococcus epidermidis TISTR518, Bacillus subtilis TISTR008, Candida albicans TISTR5779, Candida tropicalis TISTR5174 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae TISTR5049. To our best knowledge, this study constitutes the first anti-bacterial and anti-yeast activities of Streptomyces triostinicus isolated from soil in Thailand.
THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT AMBIENT TEMPERATURE TO SOLAR COOLING PERFORMANCE
Authors: Harjunowibowo Dewanto , Adilah Dina Nur , Rahardjo Dwi Teguh , S. Wijayanto Danar , Surahmanto Fredy , P. Adinugroho Teguh
Published: May 2016

The density of adsorbent bed significantly contributed to solar cooling performance (COP). The density determines how well the heat and mass transfer are. Besides that, the COP is also determined by ambient temperature. This research aims to investigate the affect of temperature of a connecting pipe, as a representative of different ambient temperature against a solar cooling machine performance. The experiment will show in what condition a solar cooling is going to have a better cooling result. The data used in this case was taken experimentally and conducted using a solar cooling machine equipped with temperature measurement units such as thermocouple logger. For cold ambient temperature, in adsorption process, refrigerant vapour flows to the generator through the connecting pipe cooled by water and kept steady. The results show that the COP, heat and mass transfer of adsorbent bed of the system in the adsorption process on a warm condition are better than in a cold environment. In the warm condition the COP system is 0.24, the heat transfer rate is 0.06 °C/minute, and the mass transfer rate is 1.09 ml/minute. Whereas, in the cold condition the COP system is 0.23, the heat transfer rate is 0.05 °C/minute, and the mass transfer rate is 1.04 ml/minute.
LABORATORY FOOTING TEST ON PARTIALLY SATURATED SANDY SOIL
Authors: Nyuin J. D. , Md Noor M. J. , Ashaari Y. , Petrus C. , Albar A.
Published: May 2016

Conventional analysis and design of shallow foundation are based on the assumption that the soil is under fully saturated condition. However, shallow foundations are typically constructed near the ground surface where the soil is under partially saturated condition. Therefore, more research to investigate the behaviour of shallow foundation in unsaturated soil is very essential in order to aid engineers in making good analysis and design. This paper presents a series of laboratory footing tests conducted on unsaturated sandy soil. A specially designed test tank was fabricated for the test. Square footings of two different sizes (100 mm x 100 mm and 150 mm x150 mm) were used and loaded on Rawang sand which has residual suction value of 10 kPa. The measured values of matric suction of the soil in the test tank were in the range of 0 to 30 kPa. Based on the results, it was observed that bearing capacities of shallow foundation under fully saturated condition were the lowest compared to soil under unsaturated conditions. The highest values were measured at matric suction equals to residual suction (i.e 10 kPa). Furthermore, the relationship between the bearing capacities of shallow foundation with the matric suction was observed to be non-linear.
EXPERIMENTAL LOAD TESTS OF REINFORCED CONCRETE SLAB
Authors: Buchta Vojtech , Fojtik Roman , Hurta Jan
Published: May 2016

Foundation structures, their testing and modelling their behavior is a wide area to research. Analysis of interaction between the subsoil and the foundation structures has been developed for many years. For the determination of stress in foundation structure is needed to determine the influence of the stiffness respectively pliability of subsoil to structural internal forces, and vice versa, how the stiffness of the foundation structure affects the resulting subsidence. A lot of different elements are tested or modeled in the world. Previous researches on loading of reinforced slabs have shown a number of phenomena significantly influencing their strength and behaviour. However, no general agreement is yet found on a physical theory (either in codes of practice or in design models) suitably describing the interaction between the subsoil and the foundation structures.
ASSESSMENT IN BENDING AND SHEAR STRENGTH OF GLUED LAMINATED TIMBER USING SELECTED MALAYSIAN TROPICAL HARDWOOD AS ALTERNATIVE TO TIMBER RAILWAY SLEEPERS
Authors: Mohamad Bhkari Norshariza , Ahmad Zakiah , Abu Bakar Afidah , Md. Tahir Paridah
Published: May 2016

This paper presents a pilot study on bending and shear strength of glued laminated (glulam) timber using selected tropical timber namely, Kekatong (Cynometra spp.) and Melagangai (Potoxylon melagangai) as an alternative for timber railway sleepers. Selected timbers were manufactured in accordance with MS758:2001 and the bending test was conducted according to ASTM D198:2013. The shear test for glue line integrity was performed to observe the bond performance in glulam accordance to MS758:2001.The results showed both species can be used as structural members since the bending strength obtained from the laboratory work is greater than the allowable bending strength. In terms of the percentage of wood failure, the bonding characteristics of both glulam satisfied the bonding requirement stipulated in the standard and have the potential to be used as glulam timber railway sleepers.
EFFECT OF QUADRUPLE P-SPIRAL SPLIT RING RESONATOR (QPS-SRR) STRUCTURE ON MICROSTRIP PATCH ANTENNA DESIGN
Authors: Hassan Nornikman , Abd. Aziz Mohamad Zoinol Abidin , Noor Azizi Muhammad Syafiq , Ramli Mohamad Hafize , Othman Mohd Azlishah , Sulaiman Hamzah Asyrani , Ahmad Badrul Hisham , Sulaiman Mohd Hafiz
Published: May 2016

In this project, the different locations of the quadruple P-spiral split ring resonator (MI-SRR) structure are embedded in the basic rectangular patch antenna. It started with a basic rectangular microstrip patch antenna that simulated in CST Microwave Studio software. After that, four different locations (Location A, Location B, Location C and Location D) of QPS-SRR had chosen to compare its performance of return loss, resonant frequency, surface current radiation pattern, and gain. Location A is representing the antenna with the QPS-SRR at the center part of the patch while Location B has the QPS-SRR at the upper part of the FR-4 substrate. For the Location C and Location D represent the antenna with MI-SRR at the ground at antenna with MI-SRR at the other layer, respectively. Compared with the basic rectangular antenna with only – 27.082 dB, the best return loss was reached by Location A with - 34.199 dB with resonant frequency at 2.390 GHz, while the Location C only shifted the minor value to 2.394 GHz with only - 25.13 dB.
CALCULATING MYELIN SHEATH THICKNESS WITH WATERSHED ALGORITHM FOR BIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Huang Kenneth , Ji Yunxia , Huang Steed , Chen Qi
Published: May 2016

In this paper, the brief reviews of the significance of the myelin thickness to various root courses of the diseases for a human being, and the similarities between the human and the lab mouse being researched extensively so far are presented. Once we establish the necessity for a biological statistical analysis of the myelin thickness with regard to the particular category of the brain cell, we can then develop a mixed algorithm based on the watershed principle and the binaryzation principle that can be used to automatically process the scanning electron microscope pictures in batches. The initial analysis does indicate that the mixed method improved efficiency of data processing while not overlooking some important medical diagnostic factors.
DUAL BAND SECTORIAL SLOT PAC-MAN ANTENNA BY USING POLYPROPYLENE SUBSTRATE
Authors: Azlan A. A. , Ali M. T. , Jamlos M. F.
Published: May 2016

In this paper, sectorial and circular slot Pac-man antenna for dual band frequency, 1.7 GHz for indoor wireless personal communications and 2.45 GHz Industrial science and medical (ISM) was proposed by using polypropylene (PP) flat pressed temperature con-trolled method. The method and material was chosen to reduce the overall cost and proposed new substrate with density =0.9gcm-3, dielectric constant = 2.57 and loss tangent = 0.0352.The dual band operation was distributed by sectorial slot design with, small circular slot to control and tuning the operating frequency. The back to back comparison between normal circular patch with Pac-man antenna using proposed substrate are dis-cussed and overall result distributed that there is no significant changes for gain, directivity, efficiency, vswr and physical size even though the proposed Pac-man antenna perform for dual band operation hence it is al-so improve the bandwidth of 17% compared to normal circular patch. The final Pac-man design fabricated using proposed polypropylene substrate (PP100) was then analyzed by using OTA-500 ATENLAB anechoic chamber.
HEMATOPOETIC STEM CELL RESPONSE TO STIMULATION OF EXTRACTS FROM ANIMAL MATERIALS
Authors: Smirnov Ivan , Keino Victor , Goryacheva Ksenia , Shunk Alexander , Bondarev Alexander , Zhdanov Vadim
Published: May 2016

The article presents the results of the research hemostimulating activity of aqueous extracts of antler young Siberean stag and drone larvae homogenate. These substrates were obtained from raw materials of animal origin. Altai Krai andAltaiRepublicare subjects of theRussian Federationwhich is the place of production of the raw material. Experiments were conducted in two stages. The first stage - in vitro, which included a research of experimental substrates on the culture of mouse marrow cells. During the experiments were obtained different results. We counted the number of colonies grown in cell culture for this. The second stage of experimenters - in vivo. It included an assessment of the myeloprotector on model of cytostatic myelosuppression of mice and analysis of bone marrow and peripheral blood.
DETERMINANTS OF QUALITY OF LIFE RELATED TO ACL RECONSTRUCTION: MALES OF ONE REHABILITATION CENTER
Authors: Haron Rohani , Abdul Latif Rozita , Danis Ajau
Published: May 2016

Anterior cruciate ligament injury is extremely common in athletics and recreational sport. The emphasis of physiotherapy rehabilitation in post-ACL reconstruction is to enhance quality of life. The purpose of the study was to identify determinants of quality of life after ACL reconstruction rehabilitation. Sixty male patients who undergone 12 to 16 weeks of rehabilitation completed the background data, ACL quality of life (ACL-QOL), Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Tanpa Scale Kinesiophhobia (TSK). Multiple linear regression showed that KOOS-pain and KOOS-sport/recreation explained 59.5% of the variation in quality of life. Thus, pain and recreation were the determinants of quality of life. This finding is useful in identifying potential factors that enhance quality of life in ACL reconstruction rehabilitation.