bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Firefly Algorithm with Artificial Neural Network (FA-ANN) Classification Model for Handwritten Character Recognition
Authors: Mohamad M.A. , Haron H.
Published: July 2020

This paper acknowledged the issues regarding HCR performances particularly in the classification stage. It is generally agreed that one of the main factors influencing performance in HCR is the development of classification model. As for the classification stage, the problems identified are related to classification model particularly in Artificial Neural Network (ANN) learning problem that results in low accuracy of handwritten character recognition. Thus, the aim of this study is to develop and enhance the ANN classification model in order to identify the handwritten character better. This paper proposed the hybrid Firefly Algorithm with Artificial Neural Network (FA-ANN) classification model for handwritten character. Firefly algorithm acts as optimisation approach in enhancing ANN particularly by optimize network training process of ANN. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) handwritten character database was applied in the experiment.
Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM) optimization process: A conceptual view
Authors: Zarith Rahmah Syed Ahmad Sharifah , Mohd Zain Azlan , Yusoff Yusliza , Effiyana Ghazali Nurzal , Zhou Kai-Qing
Published: July 2020

Optimization technique are solutions for finding for specific problems and solved existing limitation on common problems. This are especially in improving the output of WEDM processing where it involves more than a single objective or multiple output to be optimized synchronously. WEDM machining process usage increased rapidly as its capability in cutting complicated design formation. Thus the precision of the work piece is required. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a quick conceptual view of optimizing WEDM process by providing fundamentals parameters involved. Henceforth, perspective on WEDM optimization process on this paper may be use for future reference.
Study of Artificial Intelligence into Checkers Game using HTML and JavaScript
Authors: K Idzham K , W N Khalishah M , Steven Y W , M F Aminuddin M S , N Syawani H , Zain AM , Yusoff Y
Published: July 2020

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the game industry matures and continues to expand due to its capabilities to explore and exploit in bringing gaming to life. In this paper, we described the game design for the game Checkers, which is developed by using an AI heuristic approach using HTML and JavaScript. A group of people chosen in this study to test the game, which is a validation process to confirm that the game goes as per requirement. The testing activity ends after the final bug fix and the result shows that the game executes properly as expected. The result indicates that the game meets the objective of the system, which is the game, may learn and explore by itself as a heuristic element.
Developing an Impartial Game by Mathematical Approach
Authors: Mohd Zain Azlan , Abdul Rahman Afiq , Hawani Haris Fadzillah Nurhafiyah , Rusdi Aimi , Najwa Anuar Rosdi Ainur , Amin Izam Hasri Muhammad
Published: July 2020

In this study, we developed an impartial game namely Nim by using a mathematical approach. The game consists of multiple ways of movement for player winning the game. A total of five players participating in the game testing. The experiment shows that the proposed impartial game for learning process is easy to use.
Impact on Driver Behavior, Performance, Fatigue, Over Speed and Infrastructure as A Factor of Road Accident: A Review
Authors: Suprihatiningsih W , Leman A.M , Feriyanto D , Pranoto H , Afizi Shuaib Norshah
Published: July 2020

Road safety is become an interesting field to be investigated due to high road accident that still occurred in the world and it increased every year. Second highest accident rate in the world signed by South-east Asia with 20.7 per 100.000 population. That rate include the road accident that occurred in Indonesia. There are several parameters in road accident such as infrastructure, driver behaviour, environment, driver performance, driver fatigue, over speed, vehicle and safety device. Therefore, this study approach a model to interconnect the variables in order to achieve a pattern of road accident factors. This study believe will be improve the awareness of the related agency to increase their responsibility in improving and applying road safety. Moreover, this study output will be comprehensive discuss and critical discussion in terms of road safety plan that may applied in order to reduce the road accident.
Enhancement of The Performance ff Wireless Body Area Networks Through Cooperative Medium Access Control
Authors: Abdumohsin Hammood Dalal , Rahim Hasliza A , Alkhayyat Ahmed , Badlishah Ahmad R.
Published: July 2020

In this paper, it is suggested a cooperative protocol based on two controller nodes. In the proposed protocol, the outer body master node as well as the belt master one are used for the avoiding the retransmitting operation via more than one sensor that increase the probability of the colliding, a master node works cooperatively to reduce BER, Power consumption in term of Duty cycle. We present an arithmetical model of the cycle of duty accompanied by the WBAN suggested protocol.
Bending Fatigue Life Prediction of Spur Gear in Axial Misalignment Condition
Authors: Lias M.R. , Isa M.J. , Ahmad A.S.
Published: July 2020

Misalignment between pinions to wheel gears induces bending stresses continued influences the fatigue life of the spur gear system. Lack of research projected to the issues causes uncertain in their useful lifetime estimation. In this paper, the bending fatigue life of the spur gear in axial misalignments condition was predicted. A three teeth FEM model of spur gear with the same geometrical profiles was constructed according to ISO 6336-1:2006. The gear was subjected with five misalignment from 0.1mm to 0. 5mm at different torque loadings from 50Nm to 300 Nm. Exerted with quasi-static approach; the stress variant was analysed to stress life model as well as the damage accumulation model for fatigue life prediction in ANSYS V19. Results showed that the application of axial misalignment had a small impact significantly reduce the life of the gear, in percentage difference between 0.1 - 2%. This suggested that the bending fatigue life did not reflect to the existence of axial misalignments as the effect is very small that it is possible to be neglected.
Effect of filler size and loading on thermo-mechanical degradation of polypropylene-ethylene/wollastonite composite
Authors: Teng Saw Lip , Zainuddin Firuz , Xuan Viet Cao , Uy Lan Du Ngoc
Published: July 2020

This study is to understand the side effect of wollastonite fillers in polymer compounding that caused different levels of thermo-mechanical degradation (TMD) during extrusion. Wollastonite has a needle-like structure with different ratio of L/D; it compounded with the polypropylene-ethylene copolymer (PPcoE) using a twin-screw extruder. The effect on the TMD of PPcoE was determined by analysing the by-products within the extrudates via FTIR. The rheology of PPcoE composite was measured using a capillary rheometer, and the thermal stability of composite was studied using TGA. In this study, TMD is classified as two levels: chain scission and oxidisation. The wollastonite filler were found to accelerate the TMD mechanism and generated oxidised products during extrusion. The reduction of filler size effectively minimised the chain cleavage of PPcoE matrix, also come with improvement in thermal stability. However, increasing the filler loading had a dominant effect of inducing more chain cleavage on the polymer matrix.
Slagging of Coal Blends: Comparison Between Pre-Blended and in Furnace Blend
Authors: Somad Abdul Latiff Abdul , Musa M. , Anhar Zaki , Illias Suhaimi , Ani MH
Published: July 2020

Coal blending technique in electric generating power plant has been widely used to reduce coal consumption cost. However, due to various coals from different places blended together, it had caused problems. Slagging formed during the operations can reduced boiler efficiency, resulting high costs for maintenance caused by blockage, corrosion and erosion. Many empirical indices and predictive method have been developed to minimize these problems but most are unreliable for coals from different places and many predictive methods are carried out in different environment. In this research, the method starts from fabricating the pre-blended and in furnace blend techniques at a local coal pulverized power plant. After feeding the coal blends for coal trial burn, the resulting ash deposition are collected at the burner where slagging usually occurs. The raw coals in used and the slagging samples are then characterized and determine their crystalline phase and compositions by using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Sacnning Electron Microscope Energy Dispersive Xray (SEM/EDX). From XRD analysis, compounds such as quartz, cristobalite low and manganosite were found as main species in ash deposition at all location of collected slagging. However, there are also some compound exist at specific location with specific technique being used. In the burner area for pre blended technique, compound Al2SiO5, Mg2Al4Si5, KNO2 and FeO was found, whereas in furnace blend K2Mn2(SO4)3 was found. At bottom part of the furnace, pre-blended graphite was presence and in furnace yield MnO2 and Al2SiO5. At top part where superheater reside, the existence of mullite, Al2(Al2.5Si1.5)9.75 was found for pre-blended technique and microcline, KAlSiO3O8 is observed from in furnace blend technique. From the EDX analysis, in furnace technique shows more complete combustion and feasible for less slagging inside the furnace compared to pre-blended technique.
High Temperature Isothermal Oxidation of Heat-treated HR-120 Ni-based Alloys
Authors: Parimin Noraziana , Hamzah Esah
Published: July 2020

The effect of heat treatment of HR-120 Ni-based alloys on the isothermal oxidation at high temperature was studies. HR-120 Ni-based alloys was undergo a heat treatment process at two different temperatures, namely 1000 °C and 1200 °C for 3 h soaking time, followed by water quench. The heat-treated samples were then undergoing an isothermal oxidation test at 500 °C for 500 h exposure time in air. Oxidized samples have been characterized in terms of the kinetics of oxidation, phase analysis using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and oxide surface morphology using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) equipped with energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) spectrometer. The heat treatment process exhibits an increasing of average grain size alloy as the temperature increases. Whereas, the oxidation kinetics of oxidized samples exhibits a parabolic rate law, representing a diffusion-controlled oxide growth rate. The oxidized of heat-treated sample at 1000 °C recorded low oxidation rate with low parabolic rate constant values. The oxide surface morphology of oxidized samples indicates the formation of continuous oxide scales with overgrown Nb-rich oxide particles after exposure for 300 h. At 500 h exposure time, the formation of Nb-rich oxide particles was growing with evidence of crack occurred around the overgrown oxide particles.
Ultrasonication Assisted Dispersive Liquid-liquid Micro Extraction (USA-DLLME) for Determination of Pyrene Concentration in Water
Authors: Nur Atiqah Nik Wee Nik , Afiza Mohamed Soleh Nurul , Md Saled Noorashikin
Published: July 2020

Pyrene is one of the chemical compounds of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that has been reported as toxic, carcinogenic, and mutagenic which commonly found in water, food, soil, and air. Therefore, a study of ultrasonic assisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (USA-DLLME) was conducted to extract pyrene from polluted water. The analytical parameters such as volume of extractant solvent, volume of disperser solvent, sonication time, and centrifugation speed were optimized using response surface method (RSM). Gas chromatography-flame ionization detector was used to analyse the pyrene content. The extraction recovery obtained for validation on real water based on optimization are in the range of 14.8%-49.8%. The low value of extraction recovery must be due to unsuitable types of extraction solvent used. However, this study have achieved all the objectives based on the developed method.
Mechanical Properties of Porous Polylactic Acid (PLA) Via Salt Leaching Method
Authors: Rahim NAM , Rasidi MSM
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the properties and characterization of porous polylactic acid (PLA). The porous PLA was fabricated via salt leaching method whereas PLA was first dissolved in chloroform under mechanical stirring for 7 minutes. Then, sodium chloride (NaCl) was added into the dissolved PLA. The mixture of PLA and NaCl was then left at room temperature for 24 hours for the chloroform to be evaporated. The solidified films was then been washed under tab water to remove the NaCl content. The removal of NaCl content will lead to porous PLA. The effect of NaCl content on the mechanical and morphological properties of PLA was been studied. The increased of NaCl content shown a reduction trend for tensile properties and elongation at break. Meanwhile, the Young’s modulus had been found to increase with increasing NaCl content. The micrograph of the neat PLA showed a smooth surface at the tensile fractured surface. However, the effect of salt leaching method lead to a porous PLA as the NaCl content increased, the pores observed in the micrographs also increased. The higher the content of NaCl increashe amount of pores on the PLA and the number of interconnected pores with uniform pores morphology and well distributed pores.
Fire exposure, impact responses, and burst tests of glass-reinforced epoxy (GRE) composite pipes
Authors: Abrar F. S. B. , Abdul Majid M. S. , M Ridzuan M. J.
Published: July 2020

The paper presents the fire exposure, impact responses, and burst tests of glass-reinforced epoxy (GRE) composites pipes. Fire responses of three different fire exposure times (10 s, 20 s and 30 s) were conducted, followed by impact loadings. Three different energy levels (5 J, 7.5 J, and 10 J) were applied for impact responses and followed by monotonic burst tests. Monotonic burst tests were conducted on GRE samples using hydrostatic pressure testing equipment in accordance with ASTM D1599. The result shows that the longer the time of fire exposure towards GRE pipes, the higher the impact energy applied to the pipes, the lower the burst strength of the pipes. The maximum burst strength found decreased with an increase in the fire exposure time. The results also indicated that the strength of the GRE pipes significantly decreases with an increase in impact energy level.
Carbon dioxide hydrogenation using Ru/YSZ promoted with low-coverage alkaline earth metals
Authors: Sze Yen Tan , Ibrahim Naimah , Fazara Md Ali Umi , Kheireddine Aroua Mohamed
Published: July 2020

Utilization of CO2, which is the main contributor to the global climate change is one of the means to produce useful chemicals and fuels while at the same time reduce CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. Ruthenium (Ru) was chosen as the probe catalyst in carbon dioxide hydrogenation based on its ability to selectively enhance methanation reaction. Ru supported on YSZ solid electrolyte (Ru/YSZ) was modified with alkaline earth metal promoters i.e. calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) at low coverage (0.16%). It was found that Ca-modified system is more favorable to enhance the catalytic activity and selectivity of reaction towards methane production compared to Mg-modified system, perhaps due to the higher basicity of Ca.
Recent research on Energy Trading
Authors: Izzati binti Mohd Asri Lyana , Nur Suryani Firuz bt Wan Ariffin Dr Wan , Syuhada Md Zain Dr Aini
Published: July 2020

Breakthroughs in the smart grid and promotion of “green communication” have encouraged wireless communication network to harness the local environment’s resources and to function economic and ecological benefits in an energy-efficient manner. This paper presents a comtemporary review of recent advancement of energy trading including renewable energy sources, types of energy trading and the advantages of having energy trading.
Sauvola and Niblack Techniques Analysis for Segmentation of Vehicle License Plate
Authors: Ariff F N M , Nasir A S A , Jaafar H , Zulkifli A
Published: July 2020

License plate recognition system is functional to identify the vehicle registration number. This system is popular in image processing field. It’s played important role in transportation system, especially for security system. However, variation condition of image acquisition causes the segmentation of license plate difficult to handle. This paper proposed a methodology for segmentation of license plate number by using thresholding segmentation group. In this study, image segmentation based on threshold has been chosen due to its ability in separating the foreground and the background. Hence, this technique is very useful for segmenting the characters which have tons of noise. Several threshold methods from the most commonly used techniques had been chosen to be compared and analyze the results for license plate detection and recognition. In this research, threshold techniques such as Savoula and Niblack have been select to compare. A total of 100 images captured by using a digital camera has been used the experimental analysis. After segmentation process, unwanted pixel has been removed with fixed value for each technique. Template matching has been used for classification of character recognition. The final result shows that Savoula conquers highest placed with great value in accuracy percentage of license plate recognition.
Characterisation and Comparison of Pith and Cortex of Napier Grass Stem
Authors: Tuan Rohadi T.N. , Ridzuan M.J.M. , Abdul Majid M.S. , Cheng E.M.
Published: July 2020

In the previous study, only pith part had been attracted to be investigated by researcher eventhough cortex had a high percentage content in the Napier grass stems (NG). Hence, further studied can help to achieve the aim of maximizing the use of NG stems by using cortex and pith in manufacturing biopolymers. For this purpose, the thermal,chemical, morphological characterization of cortex and pith of NG stems had been explore. The results of TGA, FTIR, microscope, and SEM had shown the difference in the cortex and pith of NG stems. Although their peak absorption value appear to be different, the group involved in pith still present in the cortex. The cortex showed a high decomposed percentage which was 93.79 % compared to the pith with 92.55 %. The micrographs images display the presence of hemicellulose, lignin, impurities, and wax on the surface of cortex and pith. Overall, the results of the cortex showed that it had the potential to be used the same as the pith for the production of biopolymers in the future.
Optimization Parameter Effects on The Quality Surface Finish of 3D-Printing Process using Taguchi Method
Authors: Radhwan H , Shayfull Z , Nasir S M , Abdellah Abdellah el-hadj , Irfan A R
Published: July 2020

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is a process for developing Rapid Prototype (RP) objects according to numerically defined cross sectional geometry by depositing fused layers of material. This RP may used straight to the application. Therefore, this research has been done to optimize the best parameter towards better roughness on the surface. Plus, this research is to explore the influence of layer height, outline speed and extruder temperature with the surface roughness. A specimen has been proposed to fulfil the objective of the research. In order to build the specimen, it has been drawn by CAD. The, it was transfer to Standard Triangulation Language, (STL) file. The STL will read and the FDM will deposits the material from the bottom curve and build up the model to the top curve. In order to reduce experimental runs, Taguchi Method based on central composite design is adopted. L9 was used to run the specimen. Thus, there is nine experiment that will run. Specimens are prepared to improve surface roughness of the 3D printing. The specimen was measured by Mitutoyo CS3000 525-780EI. Relations among responses and process parameters are determined and their validity is proved using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Response surface are analysed to establish main factor effects and their interaction on responses. The specimen is proposed in flat and curve surface. For the result, it is stated that layer height was the main parameter that effects of the surface roughness, compare to the outline speed and extruder temperature.
Design and Analysis of Solar Car Chassis
Authors: Radhwan H , Shayfull Z , Nasir S M , Abdellah Abdellah el-hadj , Irfan A R
Published: July 2020

A solar car is a lightweight, low power vehicle designed and built with a single purpose in mind–racing with and only drive during the day. It has limited seating (one or two peoples) and usually has very little cargo capacity. However, it offers an excellent opportunity to develop future technologies that can be applied to practical applications. This study will focus on design and analysis solar car chassis part. The primary challenge in developing an effective solar car chassis is to maximize strength and safety while minimizing the weight. Every extra pound requires more energy to move down the road. However, safety is a primary concern and the chassis must meet stringent strength and safety requirements. The purpose of the study is to understand the concept design of solar car chassis in terms of calculation, material selection, chassis style selection and virtual analysis for chassis using CATIA software.
A Study of New Washing Process Which Combines Deflection and Abrasion Action
Authors: Hamzas M F M A , Shayfull Z , Radhwan H , Nasir S M , Abdellah Abdellah el-hadj
Published: July 2020

This study aimed to determine the optimum washing of laboratory washing model that design to stimulate the active washing process and passive commercial washing machine are compared in order to determine the best washing result. Variables of the study include water speed, washing time and radial nozzle inclination angle. The rotational system of an automatic washing machine has two major technical difficulties. One is the collision of the tub against the frame at the beginning of its early spinning stage. A factor that causes such instability of the rotational object can be attributed to the deflection of the liquid inside the liquid balancer due to the unbalance mass. Proposed a new washing technology and new design of the washing machine can be as a base of its new type. These machines have better outcome data; improve quality of washing process and effective use of washing liquid. New washing machine is simple design, does not have rotary parts at all and uses active process of washing process with squeezing of linens and more productive then known washing machines. Also, this machine can recycle and feed cleaned washing liquid. Additionally, in use of ultrasonic technology of washing process, new machine today will be perfect design.
Analysis and Development of a Poultry Hatching Machine
Authors: Irfan A R , Hafiz A A , Ghani H A , Rosli M F , Fazdly M K , Azlida A
Published: July 2020

The egg-hatching machine comprises a several main factors that has been adapted and developed in this machine. The main factors are temperature, humidity, turning orientation and ventilation. The development of the machine without considering these factors will lead to failure or low percentage of hatching success. Therefore, these important factors must be included and adapted to machine. The best temperature for egg incubation is 37.8 °C or 100 °F and for relative humidity is from 55% to 65%. For egg, turning and orientation can be done from 2 to 6 times daily. The angle for turning is from 30° to 90°. The use of forced-air incubation method in this machine instead of still-air incubation had helped to regulate the air and supply oxygen to the eggs in the chamber. Besides considering all factors, other supportive factor that will help to increase the percentage of hatching success also must not be neglected. The supportive factors are location to place the machine, insulation for preventing heat loses and hygiene or cleanliness of the machine. Although these supportive factors are not the main parameter for egg incubation, these factors also need some attention as they also one the keys for hatching success.
Basic Study Converting of Sound Pressure to Electricity with Arrangement of Sound Speaker using Thermoacoustic Technology
Authors: Irfan A R , Faiz C M N , Zarhamdy M Z M , Afizi S N , Azlida A
Published: July 2020

This paper describes the suitability of a loudspeaker to be used as a linear alternator. The present study is intended to clarify experimentally that the ability of loudspeaker to detect a frequency of sound wave by applying the sound into a resonator with the different of length. The result of the experiment will determine the suitable length of resonator that give the best reading. The linear alternator is a linear motor which commonly used as an electrical generator. It is a type of alternating current electrical generator. The function of an alternator is to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy. The linear alternator operate under the principle of electromagnetic induction. Unlike linear alternator, other alternator work in rotary motion while the linear alternator work in linear motion. Electromagnetic induction is a result of an electromotive force across an electrical conductor cause by the dynamic interaction with magnetic field. The data of the experiment was conducted based on the three length of resonator. Based on the experiment, all three resonator give the best reading when the operating frequency of 200 Hz was used. The peak to peak voltage recorded for 100 mm length was 776 mV while the peak to peak voltage recorded for 150 mm length was 824 mV. The last resonator give the reading of 776 mV. For the decibel reading, the 100 mm resonator give the reading of 100.2 dB. The resonator of 150 mm give reading of 98.5 dB and the 200 mm give decibel reading of 99.8 dB. For the experiment with heat engine, the highest peak to peak reading is 40.7 mV and the decibel reading is 110.9 dB.
A Construction Clearing House Framework for Managing Construction Knowledge and Best Practice
Authors: Ta’a Azman , Jamaludin Roslan , Haji Ahmad Azizah , Mohamed Elias Ezanee , Suhairi Abu Bakar Hanid
Published: July 2020

This paper discusses a construction clearing house framework to bridge knowledge management gap in the Malaysian construction industry. A clearing house is an agreed upon mechanism for transferring knowledge, which includes a centralized repository of information and resources on a collection of specific topics that are accessible by interested stakeholders. The focus is on resolving the problem of managing domain knowledge of the construction industry in Malaysia, emphasizing on the knowledge management practices through the capturing and transferring of construction knowledge and best practices of the industry players. The knowledge management research framework used is improvised from the previous researchers, while the transfer and sharing of construction best practices is based on the adapted framework also proposed by the previous researchers. This paper briefly described five areas namely knowledge need analysis, knowledge inventory analysis, knowledge flow, knowledge mapping and the knowledge creation in clearing house framework for sharing/transfer of best practices. The construction knowledge and best practices clearing house framework would facilitate the development of a clearing house system in the future, which will enable players in the industry to both contribute and benefit from the resources contained in the clearing house system. This clearing house framework will enable knowledge management of governance inculcate a good environment for practicing conducive knowledge management through knowledge and best practices sharing in the Malaysian construction industry.
The Influence of the External and Internal Factors on the Adoption of the Performance measurement System in the Construction Industry in Yemen
Authors: Saeed Abdulwasea Hassan Abdulwadod , Nordin Norshahrizan , Anuar Azamin Adi
Published: July 2020

This study was conducted for testing the hypothesis of the relationship between contingency and institutional variables and the adoption of the performance measurement system (PMS) in the construction industry in Yemen. These variables were ordered as external and internal contextual factors that facilitate or hinder the adoption of the modern managerial account systems such as PMS. A survey questionnaire was deployed in this study to gather the data from the largest construction firms representing classes 1, 2, and 3. Then, 104 were returned and usable questionnaires were used for the analysis by employing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 0.3 software. The results show that the stakeholder involvement has the highest impact on the adoption of PMS whereas environmental uncertainty has no effect at all. In addition, leadership, information system, and quality management practices have significant positive effects, while the competition and strategy have significant but negative impacts on the adoption of PMS in construction firms in Yemen. Based on the findings, some implications have been drawn for promoting the adoption of performance measurement system in organizations in developing countries, including Yemen.
An Overview of Medical Applications in Meningitis Detection
Authors: Abdulrahman Ahmed Aiman , Zakaria Zulkarnay , Hamood Ali Marwah , Pusppanathan Jaysuman , Zarina Mohd Mhji Siti , Mohd Noor Anas , Hafiz Fazalul Rahiman Mohd , Khairul Ali Hassan Muhamad , Juhairi Aziz Safar Muhammad , Faizal Salleh Ahmed
Published: July 2020

Meningitis remains one of the common infections among young children with high morbidity and mortality rates. In Southeast Asian, only few studies were reported published which evaluated meningitis clinically in the last two decades. Similarly, few studies in Malaysia evaluated meningitis among adolescents and children. Globally, more than one million cases with 135,000 deaths has been recorded yearly, and in Malaysia, severe neurological complications occurs in 9-25% of cases which affirms the most serious risk manifests from bacterial meningitis. Therefore, early detection and effective treatment are required before the irreversible damages occur. This paper reviews the current states and perspectives of diagnostic techniques on meningitis detection. Currently, there are three diagnostic techniques available for meningitis detection, such as blood cultures, spinal tap (lumbar puncture), and imaging techniques (CT scan, MRI, EIT, Ultrasonography, Nuclear imaging and X-ray). However, these techniques have limitations that may limit the chances of carrying out the early detection of the disease. The essence of this review is that meningitis requires an effective technique that is capable of carrying out the early detection of the disease by differentiating normal people and Meningitis infected patients so as to promote longevity worldwide. In this review magnetic induction tomography (MIT) technique is proposed to diagnose meningitis earlier as it is non-intrusive, non-invasive, contactless, and electrode-less imaging technique which does not expose the patients to a harmful radiation.
Analysis on Behavior Grounding Electrode Resistance base on Profiling Method
Authors: Hashim N. H. , Arshad S. N. M. , Halim N. H. , Wooi C. L. , Ariffen AM , Anuar Aminudin , Aqilah Sofiyah Hasni Nur , Abu Bakar Osman
Published: July 2020

An earthing system or known as grounding system in an electrical installation where by the grounding system connects specific parts of that installation with the Earth’s conductive surface for safety and functional purposes. It is the process of transferring the immediate discharge with the aid of the low resistance wire of the electrical energy directly to the earth. It is really an important role playing in electrical system part as grounding system give protection during fault or lightning occur. In addition, grounding system also give protection for human electrical appliance and building from electrical shocks due to electrical fault or lighting occur. In this research will shows that to identify the best location to install the grounding electrode. This method is used on 10 x 10 meters which is 121 point will be investigated. The result of 0.3m, 0.6m, and 0.9m were analyzed using MATLAB software to produce profiling and shows the perfect location to install the Grounding system electrode.
Effect of Concrete Orientation as an Enhancement Material in Grounding System
Authors: Aqilah Sofiyah Hasni Nur , Nizam Md Arshad Syahrun , Md Ariffen Amizah , Helmei Halim Nasrul , Chin Leong Wooi , Izuan Fahmi Romli Muhammad , Abu Bakar Osman
Published: July 2020

To achieve an excellent grounding system, an alternative solution was developed by using enhancement material to modify the soil surrounding the rod. These materials can effectively reduce soil resistivity and grounding resistance for a better grounding system. To achieve this goal, the fundamental part must be taken into account. In this study, the main objective is to analyze different concrete orientations as enhancement material in the grounding system. A 3-D orientation of concrete has been designed using Finite Element Method (FEM) software to analyze the performance of the electric field in the grounding system with different orientation of concrete. Every orientation of concrete had been clarified into four different cases which are full concrete, half concrete, three-quarter concrete, and a quarter concrete. From the result, full concrete is the best orientation of concrete design to be employed at the grounding site as it has a low electric field compared to the other concrete orientation.
Electrochemical DNA Biosensor based on 30 nM Gold Nanoparticle Modified Electrode by Electro Less Deposition for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 18 E6 Region
Authors: Koo Siew Kim N. S. , Parmin N. A. , Hashim Uda , Gopinath Subash C.B. , Rejali Zulida , Afzan Amilia , Uda M.N.A , Afnan Uda M.N. , Hong V.C.
Published: July 2020

The aim of this work was to develop a novel, simple, inexpensive, sensitive an electrochemical DNA biosensor based on interdigitated electrodes (IDEs) integrated gold nanoparticle modified electrode by electro less deposition for HPV 18. The biosensor was designed with a 30 mer E6 region of HPV 18 DNA modified probe. The E6 region has been used for their clinical importance properties and suitable as recognition biomarker region. Three different target types were tested which complementary target, non-complementary target and mismatch target. All target were analyzed for detection of HPV 18 in early stages by using Dielectric Analyzer (DA), Alpha-A High-performance Frequency Analyzer, Novocontrol Technologies, Handsagen, Germany associated with the software package Windeta. Complementary target gives a positive result in HPV detection, while non-complementary and mismatch target give negative results. IDE device with 5 nm gap sizes has demonstrated a high performance towards the detection of HPV18 ssDNA target by modified with 30 nm gold nanoparticle. The electrochemical biosensor showed better performance compared to agarose gel electrophoresis assay. This technology can be used as a new and attractive sensor development for detection of virus infection in human bodies.
Characterization of Genome Sequence 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) by using BioinformaticTool
Authors: Parmin N. A. , Hashim Uda , Hamidah A Halim N. , Uda M.N.A , Afnan Uda M.N.
Published: July 2020

A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) became the seventh member in the family of Coronavirus that infect human. 2019-nCoV became the most severe virus compare to another family of coronavirus. Human airway ephitelial cells have been used to identify and isolate the virus before proceed to reverse trancriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). Detailed biological knowledge is crucial for the development of effective countermeasures, diagnostic tests, vaccines and antiviral drugs against the 2019-nCoV. Conserved coding sequences within the spike glycoprotein region of open reading frame in the coronavirus genome was used as the basis to design oligonucleotide probe to detect the virus. Analyses on different strain of coronavirus sequences were done to check the percentage of similarity and consensus region that cause different strain of viruses. The biomarker needed an acceptable length between 22 and 31 mers. The choice of S gene region was identified and can be used as a biomarker probe for biosensor development. It has implications for coronavirus detection techniques in clinical and biosensor diagnostic system.
Immobilization of Cellulase from Trichoderma Reesei on Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs)
Authors: Yasmin Hasnol Azahari Natasha , Sandrakesaran Naresh , Chin Gaik Connie Cheah , Balakrishnan Kunasundari
Published: July 2020

Cellulase is an enzyme commonly used to break down cellulose to beta-glucose. The demand of cellulase has been arisen due to its extensive range of applications in the industries such as detergents, foods and biofuel production. In present study, cellulase from Trichoderma reesei was immobilized on a functionalized multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) by physical adsorption method. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) was used to confirm the successful functionalization of MWCNTs and immobilization of cellulase. In this approach, effects of pH and temperature for both free and immobilized cellulase were evaluated. Practically, the immobilized cellulase showed an improvement in pH and thermal stability compared to free cellulase at optimum condition of 50°C and pH 5 with 12% and 8% of increments respectively. For reusability study on CMC analysis, the bionanoconjugate retained 60% of its initial activity even after 3rd cycle of analysis. This feature is beneficial to the industrial applications because of its potential to be easily separated from the end product at the end of the reaction, reuse for several times and helps in development of multiple enzyme reaction systems.
Surface Water Treatment Using Tamarind Seed as Coagulants via Coagulation Process
Authors: Zainol NA , Nasuha Mohd Fadli Nur
Published: July 2020

The potential of natural coagulants is highly sought nowadays as the use of commercial coagulants, aluminum sulfate (alum) affect the environment negatively. An alternative coagulant is needed. In this study, the effectiveness of natural coagulant, the tamarind seed extract is being evaluated as a coagulant to measure the highest percentage removal of turbidity and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in the surface water. The surface water sample taken from the Sungai Perlis located in Kangar, Perlis. The sample were analysed using Jar Test Experimental works with rapid mixing speed of 120 rpm in 1 minutes, slow mixing speed of 30 rpm in 20 minutes and settling time of 1 hour. The tamarind seed is being extracted using distilled water and 1 M of sodium chloride (NaCI). Seed extract from distilled water effectively removes 99.2% of turbidity and 77.2% of COD with optimum coagulant dosage of 30 mg/L and optimal pH 5.0. While, the seed extracts from 1 M of NaCI can remove 99.4% of turbidity and 73.8% of COD with the optimum coagulant dosage of 30 mg/L and optimal pH 3.0. Hence, this study demonstrates the potentials of the seed extract of tamarind seeds using distilled water in treating the surface water.
Design Low Noise Voltage Amplifier for Hand-Held Electronic Reader
Authors: Afnan Uda M.N. , Bahari Jambek Asral , Hashim U. , Uda M.N.A.
Published: July 2020

There are limited number of electrical based two type electrode electronic readers for biosensors are commercial available because of the noise issues and amplification at nano to pico ampere current range. This research is mainly focused on designing an active low pass filter circuit of electronic reader for biosensors. The entire circuits are comprised of a voltage converter circuit, active low pass filter circuit, voltage amplifier, microcontroller and display unit. The circuit capture, filter and amplify nano and pico ampere current convert it to detectable voltage range as an output signal to the processing circuit. NodeMCU was act as the process and control circuit to read the output voltage from the amplifier circuit. The signal generator will act as a replacement for the biosensor input current and oscilloscope will display the input and output signal. The Design Spark PCB software was used to design the voltage amplifier circuit. Arduino software was used to create a programming code to upload in NodeMCU microcontroller.
Harumanis Mango: Perspectives in Disease Management and Advancement using Interdigitated Electrodes (IDE) Nano-Biosensor
Authors: Uda M N A , Gopinath Subash C B , Hashim U , Hakimi Asyraf , Afnan Uda M N , Anuar Aminudin , Bakar M A A , Sulaiman M K , Parmin N A
Published: July 2020

The agriculture sector plays an important role in economic development in providing rural employment, uplifting rural incomes and ensuring national food security. Harumanis mango has been predominantly produced in the Perlis state of Malaysia, and it is the seasonal once-a-year. However, plant diseases became a serious issue that significantly affects both the quality and quantity of Harumanis mango production. The primary problem with Harumanis mango has experienced by farmers is a disease and the farmers are failed to complete the process of post-harvest for Harumanis mango. Further, in the case of Harumanis mango disease, the symptoms are often detected at the later stage, which makes it difficult to take any further action. Usually, the diseases are controlled by fungicides and the use of synthetic chemicals to eliminate the postharvest diseases and deterioration has their limit due to carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, environmental pollution, effects on food and other side-effects on humans. Up to date, the control of Harumanis mango disease is still challenging, although several studies have been conducted to eradicate and prevent its outbreak in the field. This overview is about Harumanis mango and the prospect in preventing a serious outbreak with Harumanis mango production using interdigitated electrodes (IDE) nano-biosensor.
The Study of Interfacial Reaction between SnAgCu (SAC) Lead-free Solder Alloys and Copper Substrate: A Short Review
Authors: Ying Tan Chi , Arif Anuar Mohd Salleh Mohd , Saud Norainiza
Published: July 2020

This paper is aimed to review and study the interfacial reaction between SnAgCu (SAC) lead-free solder alloys and common copper substrates. Among the lead-free solders, a ternary solder alloys, SnAgCu (SAC) based solder, is leading the lead-free solders as it has excellent thermal and electrical properties. The interfacial between solder alloy and substrate comprise an important characteristic in the reliability performance of a solder alloy. As the current industry has driven to miniaturization, high integration and multifunctionality, the reliability and durability of solder joints are gained attention for its long-term performance of electronic products. Therefore, in this short review, the interfacial reaction between SAC solder alloys and copper substrate will be focused. Besides, the effects of the addition of microalloying elements into SAC solder alloys will be discussed.
Optimization of Different Parameter in Synthesis Ion Imprinted Polymers via Precipitation Polymerization for Nitrate Adsorption
Authors: Ishak Noorhidayah , Chin Xin Teh , Mohamed Nasir Azalina , Siew Hoong Shuit
Published: July 2020

An important issue in synthesis of ion imprinted polymers (IIP) is optimization of the main parameters that involved during polymerization process as those parameters can influence the performance of IIP. In this study, IIP was synthesized by precipitation polymerization using allylthiourea (ATU) as monomer, nitrate as template ion, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as crosslinker, 2,2’-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator with 365 nm ultraviolet (UV) light and mixture of acetonitrile and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) as porogenic solvent. The influences of various polymerization parameters in the synthesis of IIPs were investigated. The parameters studied included: ratio of monomer-template, amount of crosslinker and amount of porogenic solvent. These parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) coupled with central composite design CCD). Results showed that IIP with an optimum adsorption capacity of 156.233 mg/g of nitrate ion NO3
−) can be obtained under the following polymerization conditions: 3.90 mmol of ATU, 18.67 mmol of EGDMA and 38.30 mL of porogenic solvent. The nitrate imprinted polymer and non-imprinted polymer were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM micrograph showed microparticles ranging from 14.05 - 16.17 µm in diameter and the surface was rough and porous. The sorption of IIP followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. In this study, the binding capacity indicated that nitrate imprinted polymer recognized NO3
− in aqueous solution more effectively compared to non-imprinted polymer and this polymer particles potrayed better adsorption as compared other adsorbent
Performance of Galvanized – Steel and Copper Grounding Electrodes Using Bentonite and Coconut Husk Ashes as an Additives Material to Grounding System
Authors: Abu Bakar Osman , Nizam Md Arshad Syahrun , Md Ariffen Amizah , Helmi Halim NAsrul , Chin Leong Wooi , Izuan Fahmi Romli Muhammad , Aqilah Sofiyah Hasni Nur
Published: July 2020

Natural enhancement material often uses to improve performance of the soil resistivity in grounding system. Due to the different soil condition, focus for effective grounding go to the soil itself. Soil resistivity, moisture content and surrounding environment contribute to the impedance of the grounding. The usage of material to enhance the grounding can be considering important to maintain the grounding system performance. There are several techniques used to treat the soil using chemical substance known as grounding enhancement material. This technique produces low resistivity to the grounding electrode however the soil become contaminated. This paper will discuss about the performance of coconut husk ashes and bentonite as natural enhancement material and method being used to evaluate the results.
Numerical Simulation of Biodiesel Synthesis in T- Channel Microreactor
Authors: Ahmad Termizi S.N.A. , Khor C Y , Nawi M A M , Syafiqah Binti Mohd Aris Nur , Ikman Ishak Muhammad , Rosli M U
Published: July 2020

Biodiesel promising as an alternative to the diesel. The transesterification reaction process involved the reaction of triglyceride with alcohol in the presence of catalyst. In the research, the Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) method was used to simulate the transesterification reaction process. The inlet pressure range from 0.0001 Pa to 0.01 Pa, temperature of 25°C, 50°C, 75°C and the molar ratio at 6:1, 9:1 were used to investigate their effect of toward the biodiesel conversion. Finding shows that high conversion of biodiesel occurred at low inlet pressure of 0.001 Pa with temperature of 50°C and the ethanol to oil molar ratio at 9:1.