bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring rainfall variabilities using statistical functional data analysis
Authors: Mazelan N A , Suhaila J
Published: May 2023

Functional data analysis (FDA) has been widely applied in various scientific fields, including climatological, hydrological, environmental, and biomedical. The flexibility of the FDA in incorporating temporal elements into the statistical analysis makes the method highly demanded compared to the conventional statistical approach. This study introduces FDA methods to investigate the variations and patterns of rainfall throughout Peninsular Malaysia, which includes 16 rain gauge stations in Peninsular Malaysia from 1999 to 2019. A descriptive statistic of the functional data depicted the mean and variation of the rainfall curve over time, while the functional principal component analysis measured the temporal variability of the rainfall curve. According to the findings, the first and second principal components accounted for 87.4% of all variations. The first principal component was highly characterised by the stations over the eastern region during the northeast monsoon since the highest variability was observed from November to January. On the other hand, the stations impacted by the inter-monsoon season were best described by the second principal component. Based on the factor scores derived from the functional principal component, those rain gauge stations with comparable features were then clustered. Overall, the results showed that the rainfall pattern is strongly influenced by their geographical and topographical features and the seasonal monsoon effect.
A brief overview of the issues faced by Harmful Algal Blooms along Johor straits
Authors: Noor N M , Hazri M I N M , Boo W H , Cob Z C
Published: May 2023

Urbanization of coastal areas worldwide has increased due to an increase in the global population. The production of sustainable aquaculture is greatly impacted by a surge of this urbanization. In certain countries, particularly for individuals with more limited space in metropolitan areas, such as along Johor’s coastal area, aquaculture might well be a good strategy to maintain food availability (continuous production plus high-quality meals). Consequently, the adoption of aquaculture along the Johor’s coastal area has lead to Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB). This paper examines the evolution of the aquaculture industry of Malaysian Johor coastal areas in relation to HABs. In addition to HABs, the aforementioned metropolitan regions confront diverse economic and geographical obstacles when attempting to increase their aquaculture production sustainably. Those problems are therefore addressed using a variety of operations as well as surveillance techniques in this brief overview. Lockdowns and border prohibitions caused by the continuous COVID-19 infection have had a global impact. These logistical difficulties in the seafood industry have increased dependency on imported supplies. It is suggested that international decision- making, supervision, and knowledge exchange can successfully solve the challenges urbanized areas have in ensuring sustainable food security through the evolution within the aquaculture sector.
A systematic review of Climate Change related Coral Reef research trend in Malaysia
Authors: Yu HP , Wee HB
Published: May 2023

Climate change related coral reef research has been receiving great interest globally as the world continues to experience worsening catastrophic climate change events, which causes the degradation of the ecosystem. While Malaysia is known for its extensive coral reef coverage, little is known about its coral reef research trajectory, especially related to climate change. Hence, this study aims to address the state of Malaysian coral reef research trend using the Web of Science (WoS; 1987–2022) database with comparison made within four areas in the country (East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak and Sabah), and explicitly looking into the aspect of climate change using three search strings respectively; (1) Bleach*, (2) Acid*, (3) Climate Change*. The results found the number of such publications in the WoS database is low (total of 31 publications in 36 years), with substantial research location bias dominated at the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Generally, the study subjects of the publications focus on mixed organisms (Coral Reef) and Cnidaria as well as non-biological category ‘Environment’. Overall, the ecological assessment of the study trend shows notable climate change research gap in Malaysian coral reef research (lack of important organism studies; Pisces, Echinodermata, Mollusca). Thus, there is a need for climate change inclusive research direction in Malaysian coral reef research for the understanding, adaptation, prediction, and management of our coral reef ecosystem in an era of accelerated climate change circumstances.
Application of integrated LCA-GIS model in the agricultural sector: A brief overview
Authors: Kaita M S , Harun S N
Published: May 2023

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Geographic Information System (GIS) are two different and complementary tools. LCA is used to evaluate only environmental consequences and cannot be employed to assess spatial environmental impacts, while GIS is a decision-making spatial tool capable of restoring, retrieving, analyzing, modelling, and mapping large areas with a huge volume of spatial data. The Integrated LCA-GIS model is a framework that aims at addressing the unsuitable match in spatial firmness/resolution of LCA. This paper conducted a brief overview of the application of the LCA-GIS model in the agricultural sector to investigate and clarify the current situation of the technique, especially in the areas of environmental assessment, sustainability assessment, energy-environment assessment, and qualitative assessment in terms of system boundaries, functional unit and impact categories in the agricultural sector. Cradle-to-gate system boundary was used in all the studies reviewed and this shows that there was a lack of depth analysis in evaluating the environmental impacts of the whole agricultural process. It is also observed in this paper that, few impact categories were assessed and no single damage category was evaluated, it further revealed that the LCA-GIS methodology for sustainability assessment does not evaluate socio-economic factors thus leading to the establishment of Regional Sustainability Assessment Methodology (RSAM). This paper recommends the use of a cradle-to-grave system boundary thus will help in an in-depth analysis of evaluating the environmental impacts of any agricultural product; evaluation of all the impact and damage categories and development of a single software that integrates LCA with GIS that applies to any research field.
Bivariate copula for flood frequency analysis in Johor river basin
Authors: Jafry N A , Suhaila J , Yusof F , Nor S R M , Alias N E
Published: May 2023

Flooding is a multi-attribute event that is described by many factors such as peak flow and flood volume. It is extremely vital to consider both the flood volume and the flood peak while studying the flood frequency analysis as the univariate analysis cannot accurately portray the flood issue and suffers from an underestimation and an overestimation problem. Traditional univariate and multivariate modeling techniques have several mathematical shortcomings including the inability to distinguish between the marginal and joint behavior of the variables under study. Therefore, the copula function was introduced to tackle the above restriction. Six copula models will be applied in this study to find the best bivariate distribution between the flood variables in Johor River Basin, Malaysia, including Gaussian, Student-t, Clayton, Gumbel, Frank, and Joe. Before that, several marginal distributions were fitted to select the most appropriate distribution for flood variables. It was found that the Pearson Type-III fits both the flood peak flow and the flood volume best. The evaluation of the best univariate marginal distribution and the copula model will be based on Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). Our findings suggested that Frank Copula is more suited to represent the relationship between peak flow and flood volume as it portrays the lowest AIC values of -69.41 and highest log-likelihood values of 35.7, where both values outperform the other proposed copula models. However, future research which considers all three flood variables which are peak flow, volume, and duration should be conducted to attain a more reliable result.
Assessment of water availability in the Sekampung Argoguruh Sub-Watershed for sustainable water management
Authors: Fitri A , Ariyanto L , Pratiwi D , Maulud K N A , Susarman  , Sari R O
Published: May 2023

In the Sekampung watershed, the Sekampung Argoguruh sub-watershed has been planned to be developed into one of the food barn regions, acting as a buffer for the nearby areas. This region is going to be converted from uncultivated to cultivated land in almost all parts. Given the recent developments in that area, it is necessary to determine if the water supply can fulfil the water demand for irrigation. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the water supply-demand in the Sekampung Argoguruh sub-watershed in order to check the condition of long-term water resources for sustainable water management. In this study, the water supply was estimated by using National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) method, while the amount of water required for agriculture and other uses in Sekampung Argoguruh sub-watershed were observed and calculated. The data analysis shows that the average water supply in the Sekampung Argoguruh sub-watershed is around 19.62 m3/s, whereas the average water demand for all activities in that region is roughly 11.65 m3/s. The situation of the water balance can be classified as excess based on the estimation findings, allowing water allocation to be done to satisfy demand.
UAVs for monitoring responses of regenerating forests under increasing climate change-driven droughts - a review
Authors: Luber A , Ramachandran V , Jaafar W S W M , Bajaj S , de-Miguel S , Cardil A , Doaemo W , Mohan M
Published: May 2023

The impact of climate change-driven droughts on regenerating forests is poorly understood due to the complexities involved in regeneration processes and the difficulties in measuring the relevant parameters with sufficient spatial and temporal resolution in a timely manner. Drought increases tree mortality in both undisturbed and disturbed forests and may influence forest regeneration dynamics from seed germination to the recruitment, growth, and survival of tree seedlings. Seedlings and small saplings may be more susceptible to changes in water availability than larger individuals due to their shallower roots that may be unable to reach the deeper, moist soil layers, and due to uneven competition with adult trees for soil moisture. The potential range shifts and local extinction of drought-sensitive species can also result in changes in forest species community composition and diversity loss at different scales. There is a need for precise and low-cost monitoring systems that facilitate better capturing of the complexities of such processes for restoration measures. The objective of this paper is to study the use of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for monitoring responses of regenerating forests under increasing climate change-driven droughts. UAVs have several advantages over traditional field-based monitoring techniques and flexibility in selecting the required spatiotemporal resolution over other remote sensing methods, making them a promising tool for monitoring forest recovery. Although further research is required to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of UAV-facilitated measures for monitoring forest regeneration, UAVs possess great potential in forest management in the event of increasing occurrences of climate-change driven droughts.
Estimating of Photovoltaic Energy Saving Potential and Investment Energy Value in Malaysia based on GIS Technology
Authors: Aldhshan S R S , Maulud K N A , Karim O A , Bahri M A S , Rahman M A
Published: May 2023

Creating environmentally friendly energy schemes that are sustainable is critical as a solution to the economic, ecological, and societal influences related to the energy sector. It should be noted that buildings utilize up to forty percent of global energy consumption. Furthermore, by 2030, it is anticipated to reach fifty percent. As a result, the world faces a significant dilemma in overcoming such worldwide energy generation issues. Concerning primary energy consumption, Malaysia is among Asia’s largest consumers. Malaysia’s immediate energy use in 2018 was 3.79 quadrillion Btu, growing at a 4.58% annualized rate. This article thoroughly reviewed past studies of global energy usage, particularly in Malaysia, and how the geographical information system (GIS) methodologies were employed for spatial evaluation of energy efficacy. Undoubtedly, effective energy strategies are critical in energy policy, and they can be developed through the application of a variety of methods for energy conservation in building structures. The findings of this study indicate that some GIS methods, such as machine learning, deep learning and multiple criteria decision analysis, are mainly employed for calculating energy consumption, researching renewable energy sources, and analyzing solar radiation. The results also show that the fuzzy_AHP and fuzzy_DS techniques have a higher capability and reliability in identifying the most suitable sites for photovoltaic (PV) farms. Due to the generation of a 3D model exportable to software tools through this technique, the 3D models are deemed efficient for calculating solar radiation. Furthermore, GIS and 3D can assist with various tasks, including access to sunlight in built structures and environments in urban areas, urban growth prediction models, and the habitability of public spaces analysis.
Analysis of a tuneable NZRI metamaterial unit cell for satellite applications
Authors: Al-Bawri S S , Islam M T , Singh M J.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a new single negative metamaterial (MTM) unit cell structure with low profile of 6.2 × 6.2 m2 is proposed. The unit cell shows near zero refractive index (NZRI) characteristics in C, X and Ku bands whereas epsilon negative index (ENG) in Ku-Band frequency. The properties of the proposed MTM unit cell are analysed with the Rogers 5880 substrate which displays low permittivity. To verify the effectiveness of the split ring resonators (SRR) as a metamaterial, a comparison of the unit cell properties in 2 × 3 array structures is created. Besides low profile, tunability performance is shown in the proposed design by adjust the central strip line width of the proposed metamaterial whereas the frequency resonance can be shifted and controlled accordingly. Using commercially available CST software, the reflection (S11) and transmission (S12) parameters of the unit cell are determined. The proposed MTM unit cell can be potentially used in many applications including satellite communication systems.
Parametric analysis of epsilon-negative (ENG) and near zero refractive index (NZRI) characteristics of extraordinary metamaterial for 5g millimetre-wave applications
Authors: Musaed A A , Al-Bawri S S , Islam M T , Alkadri W M A
Published: May 2023

A tuneable single layer metamaterial (MTM) unit cell comprised of symmetric H-shaped resonators for 5G applications is proposed with epsilon negative (ENG) between 28 - 32 GHz, near zero permeability along the entire frequency range, and near zero refractive index between 28 - 32 GHz. The constructed design offers wide operational frequency range of 24.6 - 31.8 GHz with transmission coefficient resonances (S21) at 28 GHz. The symmetric resonating patch is partitioned into four comparable and equal quartiles, with an H-shaped resonator in each quartile. The metamaterial copper metallic layer is constructed on a Rogers (RT-5880) substrate and has dimensions of 9 × 9 mm2. The scattering parameter for the interaction with the electromagnetic wave is introduced the interesting properties of the effective parameter. The compactness of the subwavelength based metal-dielectric based resonator is related to the tailored metallic design. Numerical simulation of the proposed design is executed in CST microwave studio.
The production of hydrogen through microwave-initiated catalytic dehydrogenation of model hydrocarbon compounds on Fe/AC catalyst without significant CO2 emissions
Authors: Aldrees S , González-Cortés S , Al-Shihri S , Dilworth J R , Edwards P P
Published: May 2023

The utilization of hydrogen as a fuel source through the microwave-initiated catalytic deep-dehydrogenation (MICDD) of Saudi Arabian light crude oil (LCO) using Fe metal supported on activated carbon has been proposed for this study to achieve the current target of limiting global warming to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels. Should renewable technologies, for example, wind and solar, be not able to decarbonise the energy industry sufficiently in the near future, other approaches are needed to generate energy without the emission of massive amounts of aerial carbon (CO2). The composition of crude oil varies depending on its source; however, it is mainly composed of three families of hydrocarbons (paraffins, naphthenes, and aromatics). The aim of this work is to gain an understanding into the contribution of a single hydrocarbon model compound and combinations of these model compounds in proportions close to their real proportions in the LCO preparing a “synthetic crude oil”. In this work, hexadecane, cyclohexane, and benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) were selected to closely represent paraffins, naphthenes, and aromatics respectively. It was found that this as a facile route to produce both high concentrations of hydrogen from hexadecane (~90 vol. selectivity) and significant amounts of carbon multiwalled nanotubes over 30 wt. % Fe/AC catalyst at 1000 W input power. The results highlighted the effect of the composition of crude oils on the efficiency of H2 production and showed that paraffinic feedstock was relatively better for producing H2 among other hydrocarbons, and the presence of cyclic hydrocarbons, particularly aromatics, may inhibit H2 production. Importantly, this process creates solid carbon as a by-product of the process instead of CO2 and therefore does not contribute to climate change. The approach also has the potential to synthesise other high-value hydrocarbons as by-products.
Visual perception factors on the soundscape of urban shopping streets: Environmental factors
Authors: Abdul Hamid N H , Zainal Abdullah M E , Othmani N I , Mohamed S A , Yeo L B , Wan Mohamad W S N , Ramlee N , Ujang N
Published: May 2023

In urban areas, the urge to improve acoustic environments has led to an increasing interest in the soundscape as an alternative approach to address noise pollution issues. Several studies have shown that the soundscape approach can manage the unwanted sound and transform it into resource sound in the areas, while the urban street context is expected to play an important role too. Thus, this study aims to assess visual perception factors on soundscape (appropriateness, calmness, and eventfulness) of urban shopping street as an environmental factors. Data was collected in three urban shopping streets at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia through a soundscape survey (n = 411) according to the ISO12913-2 technical specifications standards. Multiple Linear Regression was used to analyse the data. The findings revealed in three aspects, that are: (1) The interesting, beautiful and harmonious indicators under visual quality of environment dimension were highly preferred by the users. (2) All the soundscape dimensions have significant effects on the predictors. Appropriateness (R2=.454) is the most prominent factor, followed by eventfulness (R2=.298) and calmness (R2=.139). (3) All soundscape dimension has a higher impact on visual perception (β=.536, β=.356, and β=.202) than other predictors by comparing the standardised coefficients. The result from the present study showed that visual perception factors could be helpful indicators for better understanding soundscapes and assist the urban planners, architects and landscape architects in designing conducive acoustic environment of urban shopping streets.
Modelling of geospatial data through multi criteria analysis for cemetery land management
Authors: Mohamad F , Maulud K N A , Taib A M
Published: May 2023

The suitability of the new cemetery site selection area is one of the management that needs to be emphasized for sustainable development. Lack of suitable land for burial is a major issue that often arises especially in big cities including Malaysia, even though guidelines have been specified. To overcome this problem, the systematic use of technology needs to be implemented. The aim of this study is to analyze the existing modeling method and the factors involved in obtaining a suitable area for a new cemetery site, which has to meet all the specified guidelines. Along with advancement, the uses of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in digital form can help speed up the accession to a suitable physical location. This method is expected to help the local authorities and speed up the process of choosing a suitable place for the cemetery. The application of the AHP technique supports the study results through variable weighting values (weightage) according to the suitability of the study area. Evaluation of the weighted value (weightage) is suggested to be done in areas outside of the study area to assess consistency and appropriateness in all places. Proposals related to the location of new cemeteries require a quantitative study of the ratio of racial composition in an area. As a conclusion, the study is able to find a new cemetery location that is suitable and meets the specified guidelines is very crucial. The criteria used depend on the religious followers in a particular area.
Optimization pollutants removals from wastewater treatment plant using artificial neural networks
Authors: Al-Khuzaie M M , Abdul Maulud K N
Published: May 2023

Water quality, treatment plant management, and environmental concerns all affect how well a sewage treatment plant performs. Due to the high degree of nonlinearity in the plant as well as the nonuniformity and unpredictability of the influent amount, quality parameters, and operational conditions, modelling the sludge capacity index of the activated sludge method in municipal wastewater treatment plants is a challenging mission. To assess the effectiveness of the al-diwaniyah wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) operation and to estimate quality parameters, the study’s first goal is to improve the WWTP by using artificial neural networks (ANNs). Second, increasing the efficiency of the ANNs model to determine the best WWTP procedure. ANNS were created to predict the sludge volume index (SVI) using the al-diwaniyah WWTP operational and influent quality characteristics. The neural network’s best model for predicting SVI consists of an input node with six input variables, a hidden layer with five nodes, and an output layer with one variable, with an R2 value of 0.965. The outcomes show how effective the right neural network models are at predicting SVI. This is a highly helpful tool that WWTP operators may use in their daily management to improve the effectiveness of the treatment process and the dependability of the WWTP.
Progress evaluation of limestone mine in PT. Panca Mitra Makmur using drone to achieve june-july 2021 production target
Authors: Marliani L S , Himawan B , Nugraha A B
Published: May 2023

Limestone is part of sedimentary rock, namely non-clastic sedimentary rock formed from chemical or biological processes. The main content of limestone is mineral calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which occurs due to chemical or organic processes. In general, the mineral contents in limestone are 95% calcite calcium carbonate, 3% dolomite, and the rest is clay minerals. Measurements with drones are expected to be an alternative method other than using Total Station (TS). This research aims to calculate the mined area acquisition at the mining area of PT. Panca Mitra Makmur by using a drone as a measuring device. For final data processing, ArcGis / ArcMap Application 10.3 was used. The mined area was then calculated to determine the extent. The mine progress formula was used to determine the percentage of limestone mining progress each month. This research refers to the Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) prepared by the company on a monthly basis. The mined area acquisition in May, June, and July 2021 was 1,388 m2. Supposedly from May to July 2021, the target mined area for limestone production was 2,298 m2.
An Analysis of Single Slope Stability at Pemenang Road Using Bishop Method
Authors: Putri N A , Azwalanas  , Ahamid  , Harditia  , Alpiana  , Hidayati
Published: May 2023

One of the roads in the Pemenang District, West Lombok Regency, which connects the districts in West Nusa Tenggara, is the Pusuk highway. Due to the area’s considerably steep slope, landslides frequently occur there as much as the rainy season comes. Almost all incidents of abruptly raising slopes, with or without warning indications preceding them, can result in landslides. This is a critical feature for proper handling. Using the survey method, especially the field survey, the researcher used Bishop Method with a 2D SLIDE application model to analyse the data. It was designed to evaluate the magnitude of landslide vulnerability. The safety factor study yielded a score of 0.889 <1.25, indicating that the slope falls under the heading of risky slopes.
Analysis of Andesite Rock Slope Stability with Bishop Method
Authors: Maodin M A , Faryansah  , Ariadi S D , Verlandi G S , Alpiana  , Hidayati
Published: May 2023

Landslides are caused by disruption of the soil’s degree of stability. When a slope’s pushing force exceeds its restraining force, a land slide will result. Moreover, at Human activities, climate change and natural influences can disrupt the stability of the soil and rocks on slopes. Disruption of the level of soil stability causes landslides. A landslide occurs due to the driving force on the slope being greater than the resisting force of the slope. To prevent landslide, a slope stability analysis is necessary. Moreover, the research site tends to produce a gravitational force that moves the soil mass towards a higher surface. This occurs as a result of due to the area’s topography of the area, which has different elevations varying from gentle to step but however, the research location is an andesite rock mining located in Peseng Village, Gerung District, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. The slope stability is required to reveal the shear strength of the slope and its safety factor. The analysis was conducted by using a survey, especially a field method. The field method used was the Bishop method with 2D Slide Program Software. Based on the results of laboratory testing, the value of the bulk weight (ү) is 18.21 kN/m3, dry weight 18.14 kN/m3, wet weight 18.53 phi (Φ) is 13.50° and cohesion (c) is 136.8 kN/m3.
Analysis of Slope Stability Using Applied Research Methods A Case Study at Taman Ayu Gerung Village, Gerung District, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province
Authors: Yusuf M , Helmalia D , Ramadhoan P , Zubaidin  , Alpiana  , Hidayati
Published: May 2023

PT. Nusa Cendana is a mining company operating andesite mining in Taman Ayu Gerung Village, Gerung District, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province. Andesite criteria are classified as hard and difficult to separate. PT. Nusa Cendana carries out mining activities with a quarry mining system. PT. Nusa Cendana has a problem on the slopes because the current slope is 85°, and many joints on the slopes cause landslides. Ideally, the slope is 70°. Slope stability is used to determine the slope’s safety factor and ideal geometry. So, before making slopes in mining, it is necessary to analyze first whether the type of rock supports the geometry of the slope. One method is to assess the rock’s strength, namely the rock’s compressive strength test. Based on the results of laboratory tests, the values for the bulk density were 15.97 kN/m3, internal shear angle (ϕ) 40.36°, and cohesion 42.01 kN/m2. The safety factor analysis using slide2D software obtained 1.233 m for the value of the safety factor for slope stability.
Contribution of Obi Island Reducing the Carbon Footprint in the Transport Sector
Authors: Gultom TH , Nugraha D , Sugiyarno  , Iqbal M
Published: May 2023

Transportation is one of the main sectors contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that cause global climate change. One of the decarbonization strategies from the transportation sector that can be implemented is by switching to a sustainable mode of transportation, especially battery electric vehicles (BEV). Since mid-2021, Obi Island has been producing Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP). It is an intermediate product of limonite nickel ore processed using hydrometallurgical processing techniques through the first refining plant in Indonesia using High Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL) technology. The MHP will be processed into Nickel Sulfate (NiSO4.6H2O) and Cobalt Sulfate (CoSO4.7H2O), the primary precursor materials for electric vehicles. The potential GHG emissions reduction in the transportation sector from the processing of limonite nickel ore in Obi Island is 2.04 MtCO2 in 2022 to 21.02 MtCO2 in 2040 with a total accumulation until 2040 of 344.56 MtCO2.
Strategies on Degraded Lake Management for Sustainable Environmental Ecosystem in Lake Limboto, Gorontalo
Authors: Sumule O , Sitompul R F , Sriharti S , Retno H W
Published: May 2023

This study aims to formulate an integrated and sustainable management strategy for Lake Limboto’s sustainable ecosystem. The stages of the study include (1) identifying the problems that occur in Lake Limboto and analyzing the general conditions of the ecosystem, which includes biophysical waters, land use patterns in water catchment areas, and socio-economics; (2) measuring the sustainability of the lake management using the Multi-Dimensional Scaling (MDS) method and leverage analysis. The results of the Multi-Dimensional Scaling analysis show that the sustainability index value of the ecosystem, economic, social, institutional, and technological dimensions are less sustainable, less than 50. In contrast, the economic dimension is entirely sustainable at 62.90; meanwhile, the ecosystem dimension index is 18.59, which means the sustainability status is poor. These figures indicate that the management of Lake Limboto and its surrounding area mainly considers the economic aspects and relatively ignores the dimensions of its ecosystem.
3D inversion modelling of gravity and geomagnetic in the coastal aquifer of the Mandalika Lombok
Authors: Taurida Alaydrus A , Susilo A , Minardi S , Naba A , Panji Abraham T
Published: May 2023

Coastal aquifers are essential for coastal communities worldwide, one of which is in the Mandalika area (Lombok Island, Indonesia). This area is the tourism sector which requires an adequate supply of fresh water. Mandalika is a coastal area dominated by alluvial plains, an excellent rock as an aquifer. However, alluvial plains are also susceptible to seawater intrusion. This study uses a combination of gravity and geomagnetic methods to estimate bedrock potential as aquifers based on a 3D inversion model. Data collection was carried out at 151 measuring points using the loop method. Data processing was conducted using Oasis Montaj, Mag3D, and Grav3D. The data were combined to reduce ambiguity in interpreting rock-type estimates. The modelling results show that aquifer composition consists of sandstone, clay, and gravel with a density of about (1.3 - 2.4) g/cm3, susceptibility (0.00040 - 0.0045) SI at an average depth of 2 - 12 m with a percentage of 54.849% of the total 3D models. These rocks dominate the research location scattered around the coastal area of Kuta, around the Circuit to the Mertak area, and are concentrated in the flat morphology areas.
Mercury Reduction on Gold Extraction in Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining. A Case Study in Pelangan Village, West Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia
Authors: Rahmawati D , Adiansyah J S , Matrani B F A , Johari H I
Published: May 2023

The most common method used for gold processing in artisanal and small-scale mining is amalgamation using mercury as a gold extracting agent. Indonesia is one of the countries that ratify the Minamata Convention, meaning that Indonesia has agreed to reduce or even eliminate the use of mercury. Some methods for replacing mercury as a gold-extracting agent are cyanidation and borax. The research aims to determine whether the miners in Pelangan still use mercury in gold processing. The method of this research is observation, interviews, and literature review. The data obtained were then analyzed descriptively. The result indicates that the miners in Pelangan Village use two methods of gold processing from ore: (1) amalgamation using mercury followed by cyanidation and (2) cyanidation. Most of the miners use the cyanidation method without going through amalgamation. The main reason they do not use mercury are amalgamation method yields low gold recovery and the price of mercury is high. This indirectly shows that the miners in Pelangan Village have contributed to efforts to reduce mercury use in Indonesia.
The Impact of Sand Mining on Socio-Economic and Environmental Sectors: A Case Study on Sedau Village, Narmada District, West Lombok Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Saputra I , Ferry  , Rahmawati D , Aulia S S , Sidik H
Published: May 2023

Sedau Village is one of the villages in Narmada District, West Lombok Regency. Sedau Village is a tourist destination where the famous Mount Jae campsite is located. However, the environmental conditions of the area are still well-preserved. Around the tourist sites, there is a river flow containing a significant amount of sand and gravel, which the people in the area mine. Problems appeared as the West Lombok Government wanted to stop the sand mining while the Sedau Village Government supported it. This study aims to examine sand mining activities’ socio-economic and environmental impacts. The research methods used are field observation and direct interviews. Data were obtained from socio-economic and environmental sectors based on field observations and direct interviews with the miners and the local village community. The data is presented in the form of tabulated data. The study results indicate that the impact generated on the socio-economic and environmental aspects is positive, including an improvement in economic welfare, the condition of the river getting deeper, allowing it to accommodate larger volumes of water and preventing overflow during the rainy season.
Investigating the performance of ternary cementitious systems incorporating wollastonite powder and lime sludge in concrete
Authors: Venkata Phani Manoj A , Ravichandran K , Kodanda Rama Rao P
Published: May 2023

The production of cement results in a significant amount of energy consumption and CO2 emissions, which are major contributors to environmental pollution. Researchers have developed a ternary blended mix concrete to address these concerns by partially substituting cement with a combination of lime sludge (LS) and wollastonite powder (WP). This study investigated the mechanical properties (compressive strength, spilt tensile strength, and flexural strength) of a ternary blended concrete mix with a grade of M30. 180 specimens, including 60 cubes, 60 cylinders, and 60 prisms, were prepared for testing. The blended concrete mix was produced using different percentages of cement replacement by LS (5%, 10%, 15%) and WP (10%, 15%, 20%). The compressive strength for the ternary mix at 10% LS and 15% WP was 44.78% higher than the conventional mix, the flexural strength ternary mix at 10% LS and 15% WP was 25.46% higher than the conventional mix, and spilt tensile strength ternary mix at 10% LS, and 15% WP was 27.30% higher than the conventional mix at 28 days and trend is almost same for 7,56 and 90 days . The results showed that a ternary mix containing 75% cement, 10% LS, and 15% WP exhibited the best mechanical properties.
Gravity from transactions: fulfilling the entropic gravity program
Authors: Schlatter A , Kastner R E
Published: May 2023

This is a comprehensive review of new developments in entropic gravity in light of the Relativistic Transactional Interpretation (RTI). A transactional approach to spacetime events can give rise in a natural way to entropic gravity (in the way originally proposed by Eric Verlinde) while also overcoming extant objections to that research program. The theory also naturally gives rise to a Cosmological Constant and to Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) and thus provides a physical explanation for the phenomena historically attributed to ‘dark energy’ and ‘dark matter’.
A-292 SINGLE INSTITUTION EXPERIENCE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF LOCALLY ADVANCED (pT4) DIFFERENTIATED THYROID CARCINOMAS
Authors: Sessa L , De Crea C , Voloudakis N , Pennestri F , Revelli L , Gallucci P , Tagliaferri L , Schinzari G , Rossi E D , Pontecorvi A , Bellantone R , Raffaelli M
Published: May 2023

Background

Locally infiltrating (T4) differentiated thyroid carcinomas (DTC) represent a challenge. Surgical strategy and adjuvant therapy should be planned balancing morbidity and oncologic outcome. A series of T4 DTC who underwent multidisciplinary evaluation and treatment is reported.

Methods

All DTC cases operated between 2009 and 2021 were reviewed and T4 DTC cases were identified. En bloc resection of inferior laryngeal nerve (ILN), tracheal (TR) and/or internal jugular vein (IJV) was performed in cases of massive infiltration. In case of pharyngoesophageal junction (PEJ) invasion shaving technique was always chosen.

Results

Among 4775 DTC cases, 60 (1.25%) were T4. ILN infiltration was documented in 45 cases (75% - en bloc resection in 9), TR infiltration in 14 (23.3% - tracheal resection in 2), PEJ invasion in 11 (18.3% - in 7 cases R0 resection, in 4 cases <1cm residual tissue), and IJV resection in 6 (10%). Eleven post-operative ILN palsies, 23 cases with transient hypoparathyroidism and two hematomas requiring reoperation were registered. Final histology showed 7pN0, 22pN1a, 31pN1b tumors. Aggressive variants were observed in 78%. All patients underwent radioiodine treatment and 12 adjuvant external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). At a median follow-up of 47 months, no tumour-related death was registered. Seven patients required re-operation (DFS mean 123.7 months, CI:111.2-136.2).

Conclusion

Multidisciplinary approach is essential for the management of T4 DTC. Individualised and balanced surgical strategy and adjuvant treatments, in particular EBRT, ensure control of locally advanced disease with acceptable morbidity.
Verbal memory formation across PET-based Braak stages of tau accumulation in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Fernández Arias Jaime , Therriault Joseph , Thomas Emilie , Lussier Firoza Z , Bezgin Gleb , Tissot Cécile , Servaes Stijn , Mathotaarachchi Sulantha S , Schoemaker Dorothée , Stevenson Jenna , Rahmouni Nesrine , Kang Min Su , Pallen Vanessa , Poltronetti Nina Margherita , Wang Yi-Ting , Kunach Peter , Chamoun Mira , Quispialaya S Kely M , Vitali Paolo , Massarweh Gassan , Gauthier Serge , Rajah Maria N , Pascoal Tharick , Rosa-Neto Pedro
Published: May 2023

A classical early sign of typical Alzheimer’s disease is memory decline, which has been linked to the aggregation of tau in the medial temporal lobe. Verbal delayed free recall and recognition tests have consistently probed useful to detect early memory decline, and there is substantial debate on how performance, particularly in recognition tests, is differentially affected through health and disease in older adults. Using in vivo PET-Braak staging, we investigated delayed recall and recognition memory dysfunction across the Alzheimer’s disease spectrum. Our cross-sectional study included 144 cognitively unimpaired elderly, 39 amyloid-β+ individuals with mild cognitive impairment and 29 amyloid-β+ Alzheimer’s disease patients from the Translational Biomarkers in Aging and Dementia cohort, who underwent [18F]MK6240 tau and [18F]AZD4694 amyloid PET imaging, structural MRI and memory assessments. We applied non-parametric comparisons, correlation analyses, regression models and voxel-wise analyses. In comparison with PET-Braak Stage 0, we found that reduced, but not clinically significant, delayed recall starts at PET-Braak Stage II (adjusted P < 0.0015), and that recognition (adjusted P = 0.011) displayed a significant decline starting at PET-Braak Stage IV. While performance in both delayed recall and recognition related to tau in nearly the same cortical areas, further analyses showed that delayed recall rendered stronger associations in areas of early tau accumulation, whereas recognition displayed stronger correlations in mostly posterior neocortical regions. Our results support the notion that delayed recall and recognition deficits are predominantly associated with tau load in allocortical and neocortical areas, respectively. Overall, delayed recall seems to be more dependent on the integrity of anterior medial temporal lobe structures, while recognition appears to be more affected by tau accumulation in cortices beyond medial temporal regions.
C4 DOUBLE RHYTHM MAPPING FOR COHERENT ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL SUBSTRATE CHARACTERIZATION IN ATRIAL FIBRILLATION PATIENTS
Authors: Grossi B , Pagani S , Taormina A , Ceriotti C , Poggio L , Battaglia V , Galimberti P , Del Monaco G , Gregusova N , Latini A , Valcher S , Stankowski K , Mincione L , Condorelli G , Frontera A
Published: May 2023

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) progresses with a cascade of combined structural, functional, and systemic dysfunctions. Electro–anatomical maps are employed to investigate pro–arrhythmic areas. However, single rhythm maps provide only a partial reconstruction: rhythm and wavefront directionality might mask some of these areas. Purpose. To demonstrate that the combined quantitative analysis of different rhythm maps (i.e., parallel sinus rhythm and paced maps) could allow consistent identification of structural and functional defects sustaining AF.

Methods

Thirty AF clinical procedures have been performed with mapping system support. In particular, a sinus rhythm activation map and a paced map have been created with a multipolar catheter by setting an extra beat every three sinus beats. Areas of abnormal conduction have been identified and a comparison of electrophysiological biomarkers (EGMs voltage and fractionation) among the two rhythms has been performed.

Results

This comparative analysis allowed us to identify both structural and functional electrophysiological phenomena. Specifically, we distinguished: (i) abnormal conduction zones confirmed in both maps, both characterized by signal fractionation and a lower voltage (0,56 ± 0,18 mV) with respect to healthy atrial tissue (2,40 ± 0,41 mV), and (ii) abnormal conduction zones visible in only one of the two maps. In the latter, we distinguished whether the absence of the phenomena was due to wavefront orthogonality to the diseased area (revealed thanks to a change in wavefront direction) or due to the presence of a functional phenomenon induced by the pacing. In the first group signal fractionation has been detected in both rhythms and a lower voltage has been found (1,79 ± 1,1 mV) with respect to normal conduction zones (3,26 ± 0,98 mV), while in functional cases EGMs fractionation has been identified only in paced maps and no significant difference has been observed in terms of voltage.

Conclusion

Double rhythm mapping provides a more robust characterization of atrial abnormal conduction phenomena which better represent AF electrical substrate. It allows the distinction of true structural dysfunctions from dynamic ones thanks to the different wavefront directionality and paced rhythm. Moreover, the structural defects have been confirmed by EGMs analysis, which revealed both low voltage amplitude and high fractionation, characteristics that have not been reported in functional cases.
C7 COMBINATION OF SPIRULINA, GANODERMA LUCIDUM AND MORINGA OLEIFERA IMPROVES CARDIAC FUNCTIONS AND REDUCES PRO–INFLAMMATORY BIOMARKERS IN PRECLINICAL MODELS OF SHORT–TERM DOXORUBICIN–MEDIATED CARDIOTOXICITY
Authors: Quagliariello V , Ostacolo C , De Anseris R , Di Mauro A , Scognamiglio G , Palma G , Iovine M , Luciano A , Barbieri M , Bruzzese F , Maurea F , Paccone A , Berretta M , Maurea N
Published: May 2023

Background

Anthracyclines are essential adjuvant therapies for a variety of cancers, particularly breast, and gastric and esophageal cancers. Whilst prolonging cancer–related survival, these agents can in–duce drug–related cardiotoxicity. Spirulina, Reishi (Ganoderma Lucidum) and Moringa are three nutaceuticals with anti–inflammatory effects that are currently used in cancer patients to improve quality of life and fatigue.

Methods

Female C57Bl/6 mice were untreated (Sham, n=6) or treated for 10 days with short–term doxorubicin i.p at 2.17 mg/kg (DOXO, n=6), Singo at 12 mg/kg (Singo, n=6) or doxorubicin combined to Singo (DOXO–Singo, n=6). Ejection fraction, radial and longitudinal strain were analyzed through transthoracic echocardiography (Vevo 2100, Fujifilm). Myocardial expression of NLRP3, DAMPs (galectine 3 and calgranulin S100) and 13 cytokines (IL–1α, IL–1β, IL–2, IL–4, IL–6, IL–10, IL–12, IL17–α, IL–18, IFN–γ, TNF–α, G–CSF, and GM–CSF) were quantified through selective mouse ELISA methods. Myocadial fibrosis, necrosis and hypertrophy were analyzed through Immunohistochemistry (IHC). Human cardiomyocytes (HFC cell line) were exposed to subclinical concentration of doxorubicin (200 nM) alone or in combination to Singo ( at 10, 25 and 50 µg/ml) for 24 and 48h. Cell viability studies were performed through MTS assay. Expression of NLRP3 and p65/NF–kB) were made through selective ELISA methods.

Results

In preclinical models of short–term DOXO cardiotoxicity, Singo improved significantly EF and FS and prevented the reduction of radial and longitudinal strain after 10 days of treatment with DOXO. A reduced expression of myocardial NLRP3 and NF–kB levels in cardiac tissues were seen in DOXO–Singo group compared to DOXO mice (p<0.05). Myocardial expression of pro–inflammatory cytokines were significantly reduced after treatment with Singo indicating anti–inflammatory properties. Myocardial levels of Cal–granulin S100 and galectine–3 were strongly enhanced in DOXO group; on the other hand their expression were reduced in Singo–DOXO group vs DOXO (p<0.05). Immunohistochemistry analysis indicates that Singo reduces fibrosis and hypertrophy in myocardial tissue of mice during exposure to DOXO.

Conclusion

Singo is able to improve cardiac function and reduce biomarkers involved in heart failure and fibrosis. Cardioprotective properties of Singo are mediated by the reduction of lipid peroxidation products and expression of NLRP3–NF–kB –cytokine pathways.