bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipids and Composition of Fatty Acids of Saccharina latissima Cultivated Year-Round in Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture
Authors: Marinho Gonçalo , Holdt Susan , Jacobsen Charlotte , Angelidaki Irini
Published: July 2015

This study is evaluating the seasonal lipid and fatty acid composition of the brown seaweed Saccharina latissima. Biomass was sampled throughout the year (bi-monthly) at the commercial cultivation site near a fish farm in an integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) and at a reference site in Denmark (2013–2014). Generally, there was no difference in the biomass composition between sites; however, significant seasonal changes were found. The lipid concentration varied from 0.62%–0.88% dry weight (DW) in July to 3.33%–3.35% DW in November (p < 0.05) in both sites. The fatty acid composition in January was significantly different from all the other sampling months. The dissimilarities were mainly explained by changes in the relative abundance of 20:5n-3 (13.12%–33.35%), 14:0 (11.07%–29.37%) and 18:1n-9 (10.15%–16.94%). Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA’s) made up more than half of the fatty acids with a maximum in July (52.3%–54.0% fatty acid methyl esters; FAME). This including the most appreciated health beneficial PUFA’s, eicosapentaenoic (EPA; 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3), but also arachidonic (ARA) and stearidonic acid (SDA), which are not found in land vegetables such as cabbage and lettuce. Compared to fat (salmon) and lean fish (cod) this seaweed species contains higher proportions of ARA and SDA, but lower EPA (only cod) and DHA. Conclusively, the season of harvest is important for the choice of lipid quantity and quality, but the marine vegetables provide better sources of EPA, DHA and long-chain (LC)-PUFA’s in general compared to traditional vegetables.
Stress-Corrosion Interactions in Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Gostin Petre , Eigel Dimitri , Grell Daniel , Uhlemann Margitta , Kerscher Eberhard , Eckert Jürgen , Gebert Annett
Published: July 2015

Stress-corrosion interactions in materials may lead to early unpredictable catastrophic failure of structural parts, which can have dramatic effects. In Zr-based bulk metallic glasses, such interactions are particularly important as these have very high yield strength, limited ductility, and are relatively susceptible to localized corrosion in halide-containing aqueous environments. Relevant features of the mechanical and corrosion behavior of Zr-based bulk metallic glasses are described, and an account of knowledge regarding corrosion-deformation interactions gathered from ex situ experimental procedures is provided. Subsequently the literature on key phenomena including hydrogen damage, stress corrosion cracking, and corrosion fatigue is reviewed. Critical factors for such phenomena will be highlighted. The review also presents an outlook for the topic.
Association between Breastfeeding and Endometrial Cancer Risk: Evidence from a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Lianlian , Li Jingxi , Shi Zhan
Published: July 2015

Quantification of the association between breastfeeding and risk of endometrial cancer is still conflicting. We therefore conducted a meta-analysis to assess the association between breastfeeding and endometrial cancer risk. Pertinent studies were identified by a search of PubMed and Web of Knowledge through April 2015. A random effect model was used to combine the data for analysis. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias were conducted. Dose-response relationships were assessed by restricted cubic spline and variance-weighted least squares regression analysis. Fourteen articles involving 5158 endometrial cancer cases and 706,946 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled results suggested that breastfeeding significantly reduced the risk of endometrial cancer (summary relative risk (RR): 0.77, 95% CI: 0.62–0.96, I2: 63.0%), especially in North America (summary RR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79–0.95). A linear dose-response relationship was found, with the risk of endometrial cancer decreased by 2% for every one-month increase in the duration of breastfeeding (summary RR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97–0.99). Our analysis suggested that breastfeeding, particularly a longer duration of breastfeeding, was inversely associated with the risk of endometrial cancer, especially in North America, but not in Europe and Asia, probably due to the small number of cases included. Due to this limitation, further studies originating in other countries are required to assess the association between breastfeeding and endometrial cancer risk.
Peptides-Derived from Thai Rice Bran Improves Endothelial Function in 2K-1C Renovascular Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Boonla Orachorn , Kukongviriyapan Upa , Pakdeechote Poungrat , Kukongviriyapan Veerapol , Pannangpetch Patchareewan , Thawornchinsombut Supawan
Published: July 2015

In recent years, a number of studies have investigated complementary medical approaches to the treatment of hypertension using dietary supplements. Rice bran protein hydrolysates extracted from rice is a rich source of bioactive peptides. The present study aimed to investigate the vasorelaxation and antihypertensive effects of peptides-derived from rice bran protein hydrolysates (RBP) in a rat model of two kidney-one clip (2K-1C) renovascular hypertension. 2K-1C hypertension was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by placing a silver clip around the left renal artery, whereas sham-operated rats were served as controls. 2K-1C and sham-operated rats were intragastrically administered with RBP (50 mg kg−1 or 100 mg kg−1) or distilled water continuously for six weeks. We observed that RBP augmented endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation in all animals. Administration of RBP to 2K-1C rats significantly reduced blood pressure and decreased peripheral vascular resistance compared to the sham operated controls (p < 0.05). Restoration of normal endothelial function and blood pressure was associated with reduced plasma angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), decreased superoxide formation, reduced plasma malondialdehyde and increased plasma nitrate/nitrite (p < 0.05). Up-regulation of eNOS protein and down-regulation of p47phox protein were found in 2K-1C hypertensive rats-treated with RBP. Our results suggest that RBP possesses antihypertensive properties which are mainly due to the inhibition of ACE, and its vasodilatory and antioxidant activity.
From Goals to Action: The Efforts for Increasing Energy Efficiency and Integration of Renewable Sources in Eskilstuna, Sweden
Authors: Vassileva Iana , Thygesen Richard , Campillo Javier , Schwede Sebastian
Published: July 2015

Cities’ energy usage accounts for two thirds of global primary energy consumption. Energy efficiency in urban areas is, therefore, one of the most important topics to consider when dealing with urban sustainability. This paper evaluates the goals for increasing energy efficiency and use of renewable energy sources in the areas of transportation, buildings and consumers’ awareness, as stated in the Climate action plan, for the municipality of Eskilstuna, Sweden. The efforts of the municipality to successfully reach their energy efficiency goals, are described in this paper including future perspectives. The results show that although the municipality counts with the advantage of owning and working together with the local housing company and energy provider, in order to reach the established goals, additional strategies need to be considered. For an increased use of renewable energy sources, analysis of rooftops suitable for photovoltaic (PV) installation should be carried out as well as the integration of goals for self-consumption. In the transport field, the city needs to prepare for large-scale electric vehicle (EV) market penetration and to consider different bike or car sharing options. Finally, more specific awareness campaigns are needed to engage the citizens in reducing their energy consumption and living a more sustainable life.
MagicFinger: 3D Magnetic Fingerprints for Indoor Location
Authors: Carrillo Daniel , Moreno Victoria , Úbeda Benito , Skarmeta Antonio
Published: July 2015

Given the indispensable role of mobile phones in everyday life, phone-centric sensing systems are ideal candidates for ubiquitous observation purposes. This paper presents a novel approach for mobile phone-centric observation applied to indoor location. The approach involves a location fingerprinting methodology that takes advantage of the presence of magnetic field anomalies inside buildings. Unlike existing work on the subject, which uses the intensity of magnetic field for fingerprinting, our approach uses all three components of the measured magnetic field vectors to improve accuracy. By using adequate soft computing techniques, it is possible to adequately balance the constraints of common solutions. The resulting system does not rely on any infrastructure devices and therefore is easy to manage and deploy. The proposed system consists of two phases: the offline phase and the online phase. In the offline phase, magnetic field measurements are taken throughout the building, and 3D maps are generated. Then, during the online phase, the user’s location is estimated through the best estimator for each zone of the building. Experimental evaluations carried out in two different buildings confirm the satisfactory performance of indoor location based on magnetic field vectors. These evaluations provided an error of (11.34 m, 4.78 m) in the (x; y) components of the estimated positions in the first building where the experiments were carried out, with a standard deviation of (3.41 m, 4.68 m); and in the second building, an error of (4 m, 2.98 m) with a deviation of (2.64 m, 2.33 m).
The Graph, Geometry and Symmetries of the Genetic Code with Hamming Metric
Authors: Lenstra Reijer
Published: July 2015

The similarity patterns of the genetic code result from similar codons encoding similar messages. We develop a new mathematical model to analyze these patterns. The physicochemical characteristics of amino acids objectively quantify their differences and similarities; the Hamming metric does the same for the 64 codons of the codon set. (Hamming distances equal the number of different codon positions: AAA and AAC are at 1-distance; codons are maximally at 3-distance.) The CodonPolytope, a 9-dimensional geometric object, is spanned by 64 vertices that represent the codons and the Euclidian distances between these vertices correspond one-to-one with intercodon Hamming distances. The CodonGraph represents the vertices and edges of the polytope; each edge equals a Hamming 1-distance. The mirror reflection symmetry group of the polytope is isomorphic to the largest permutation symmetry group of the codon set that preserves Hamming distances. These groups contain 82,944 symmetries. Many polytope symmetries coincide with the degeneracy and similarity patterns of the genetic code. These code symmetries are strongly related with the face structure of the polytope with smaller faces displaying stronger code symmetries. Splitting the polytope stepwise into smaller faces models an early evolution of the code that generates this hierarchy of code symmetries. The canonical code represents a class of 41,472 codes with equivalent symmetries; a single class among an astronomical number of symmetry classes comprising all possible codes.
Addressing the Vaccine Hesitancy Continuum: An Audience Segmentation Analysis of American Adults Who Did Not Receive the 2009 H1N1 Vaccine
Authors: Ramanadhan Shoba , Galarce Ezequiel , Xuan Ziming , Alexander-Molloy Jaclyn , Viswanath Kasisomayajula
Published: July 2015

Understanding the heterogeneity of groups along the vaccine hesitancy continuum presents an opportunity to tailor and increase the impact of public engagement efforts with these groups. Audience segmentation can support these goals, as demonstrated here in the context of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine. In March 2010, we surveyed 1569 respondents, drawn from a nationally representative sample of American adults, with oversampling of racial/ethnic minorities and persons living below the United States Federal Poverty Level. Guided by the Structural Influence Model, we assessed knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to H1N1; communication outcomes; and social determinants. Among those who did not receive the vaccine (n = 1166), cluster analysis identified three vaccine-hesitant subgroups. Disengaged Skeptics (67%) were furthest from vaccine acceptance, with low levels of concern and engagement. The Informed Unconvinced (19%) were sophisticated consumers of media and health information who may not have been reached with information to motivate vaccination. The Open to Persuasion cluster (14%) had the highest levels of concern and motivation and may have required engagement about vaccination broadly. There were significant sociodemographic differences between groups. This analysis highlights the potential to use segmentation techniques to identify subgroups on the vaccine hesitancy continuum and tailor public engagement efforts accordingly.
A New Predictive Theory of Presupposition Projection
Authors: George Benjamin R.
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
Beyond Truth Conditions: The Semantics of "most"
Authors: Hunter Tim , Halberda Justin , Lidz Jeffrey , Pietroski Paul
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
Dynamic Interpretation and Hoare Deduction: Extended Abstract
Authors: Van Eijck Jan , De Vries Fer-Jan
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
Topic, Focus and Quantification
Authors: Partee Barbara
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
Sluicing as anaphora to issues
Authors: AnderBois Scott
Published: July 2015

Since Merchant 2001, it has been widely agreed that the licensing condition on Sluicing is at least partly semantic in nature. This paper argues that the relevant semantic condition is one of symmetric entailment over a semantics which includes not only truth-conditional information, but also issues in the sense of Groenendijk & Roelofsen 2009. One kind of evidence for the proposal comes from expressions like doubly-negated inde?nites and implicit passive agents which do not license Sluicing despite truth-conditional equivalence to overt inde?nites. In addition to these facts, the paper examines novel data which show that Sluicing is not licensed by even overt inde?nites inside of appositive relative clauses, arguing that these facts (and related facts regarding VP-Ellipsis) follow from the account together with an independently motivated semantics for appositives.
Vivid attitudes: Centered situations in the semantics of 'remember' and 'imagine'
Authors: Stephenson Tamina
Published: July 2015

This paper deals with a subset of uses of propositional attitude predicates such as 'remember' and 'imagine.' I argue that these have a distinct "vivid" reading, which requires direct witnessing or sensory perception similar to that required in direct perception reports. To account for this use, I introduce a notion of centered situations, combining situations in the sense of Kratzer (1989) with centered worlds in the sense of Lewis (1979) and others. I propose that, on their vivid uses, these predicates make reference to a (real or possible) centered situation. This makes it possible in particular to account for attitude reports that are simultaneously vivid and obligatorily 'de se.'
A Note on Interrogatives and Adverbs of Quantification
Authors: Groenendijk Jeroen
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
When Variables Don't Vary Enough
Authors: Beaver David
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
BIM education in Riga Technical University
Authors: Dobelis Modris
Published: July 2015

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a complex process of managing not only design documentation in 3D form but it also includes all the consecutive stages of the design analysis, followed by construction management, and including facility management after the site completion. The success in the collaboration to unite common efforts of architects, constructors and HVAC engineers would make the work of all involved stakeholders more productive because the existing information technologies provide this option already for a long time. The training for effective use of this relatively new and very complex approach from the very beginning of the building lifecycle in the construction industry is even a more complex task. Universities have to join the promotion of BIM ideas not only to the designers and engineers, but to a much wider public than at present. The history of BIM teaching and the approaches used at Riga Technical University (RTU) are outlined in this paper. RTU along with several other universities from Lithuania have joined the EU sponsored Leonardo da Vinci project BIMTRAIN initiated by regional software distributer and developer AGA-CAD which facilitates the BIM implementation through the training.
Mutual support and usage of CAD systems
Authors: Ovcharenko Olga
Published: July 2015

Usage of different CAD systems for engineers is a true reality, therefore it is very useful for a specialist to be able to use different programs. Modern graphic programs (AutoCAD, SolidEdge) do have many similar opportunities but they also contain some very specific dissimilarities. It is necessary to be able to use several of those programs however it could be a problem for a future engineer to be able to find enough time to be able to get familiar with all CAD programs out there. In the article are compare functions of two different graphic programs and look at the possibility of usage both CAD systems to work with drawings.
The Pteridaceae family diversity in Togo
Authors: Abotsi Komla , Radji Aboudou , Rouhan Germinal , Dubuisson Jean-Yves , Kokou Kouami
Published: July 2015

The Pteridaceae family is the largest fern family in Togo by its specific and generic diversity. Like all other families of ferns in the country, Pteridaceae are poorly studied and has no identification key. The objective of this study is to perform a taxonomic revision and list establishment of this family of leptosporangiate ferns in the light of current available knowledge about the family. Pteridaceae was also assessed in terms of its diversity and conservation status, this was conducted through the recent field data and the existing herbaria specimens. The current study permits to confirm the presence of Pteris similis Kuhn. which brought the number of Pteridaceae to 17 in Togo.

This study provides first local scientific information about the fern flora of Togo. It confirmed the presence of Pteris similis Kuhn. in Togo and brought the Pteridaceae family diversity to 17 species. A species identification key is provided for the easy identification of the Pteridaceae of Togo.
Development of Cardiovascular Quality Indicators for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results from an International Expert Panel Using a Novel Online Process
Authors: Barber Claire E.H. , Marshall Deborah A. , Alvarez Nanette , Mancini G.B. John , Lacaille Diane , Keeling Stephanie , Aviña-Zubieta J. Antonio , Khodyakov Dmitry , Barnabe Cheryl , Faris Peter , Smith Alexa , Noormohamed Raheem , Hazlewood Glen , Martin Liam O. , Esdaile John M. ,   the Quality Indicator International Panel
Published: July 2015

Objective.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have a high risk of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD). We developed CVD quality indicators (QI) for screening and use in rheumatology clinics.

Methods.

A systematic review was conducted of the literature on CVD risk reduction in RA and the general population. Based on the best practices identified from this review, a draft set of 12 candidate QI were presented to a Canadian panel of rheumatologists and cardiologists (n = 6) from 3 academic centers to achieve consensus on the QI specifications. The resulting 11 QI were then evaluated by an online modified-Delphi panel of multidisciplinary health professionals and patients (n = 43) to determine their relevance, validity, and feasibility in 3 rounds of online voting and threaded discussion using a modified RAND/University of California, Los Angeles Appropriateness Methodology.

Results.

Response rates for the online panel were 86%. All 11 QI were rated as highly relevant, valid, and feasible (median rating ≥ 7 on a 1–9 scale), with no significant disagreement. The final QI set addresses the following themes: communication to primary care about increased CV risk in RA; CV risk assessment; defining smoking status and providing cessation counseling; screening and addressing hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes; exercise recommendations; body mass index screening and lifestyle counseling; minimizing corticosteroid use; and communicating to patients at high risk of CVD about the risks/benefits of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs.

Conclusion.

Eleven QI for CVD care in patients with RA have been developed and are rated as highly relevant, valid, and feasible by an international multidisciplinary panel.
APPLICATION OF LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT TO VARIOUS BUILDING LIFETIME SHEARING LAYERS: SITE, STRUCTURE, SKIN, SERVICES, SPACE, AND STUFF
Authors: Pushkar Svetlana
Published: July 2015

Currently, green rating systems are not directly related to environmental consequences. Moreover, rating systems score both building-related tasks with long lifetime expectancies and system-related tasks with short lifetime expectancies without separating them. Therefore, passive solar and bio-climatic architectures, which have long lifetime expectancies and thus have a strong, negative impact on the environment, are neglected. The main goal of this study is to explore differences in total environmental impact for a single “typical” building module (with the heavy wall building technology accepted in Israel) in terms of six different lifetime shearing layers, Site, Structure, Skin, Services, Space Plan, and Stuff, each of which reflects a different form of environmental damage. The objective of this study was to evaluate the six shearing layers using life cycle assessment (LCA) by applying Eco-indicator 99 (EI99). It was found that the environmental damage associated with the Building layers (Site, Structure, and Skin) was higher than that associated with the Service layers (Services, Space Plan, and Stuff). The paper may contribute to the development of a more scientific (quantitative) background for green rating systems. As a result, a greater decrease in building-related ecological impacts can be achieved, thus encouraging sustainable building activities.
KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES OF SMALL BUILDERS TOWARD SUSTAINABLE HOMES IN THE UK
Authors: Sun Ming , Geelhoed Erik , Caleb-Solly Praminda , Morrell Andrew
Published: July 2015

Residential homes account for the largest share of carbon emissions in the UK. Making new homes and existing ones more sustainable is essential to achieving the legally binding target of 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050. Small builders have an important role to play in this regard. They usually carry out the majority of refurbishment work of existing houses and small scale new build developments. Their attitudes toward, and knowledge of sustainable homes are crucial to the overall success of the UK's sustainable development strategy. Despite numerous government initiatives in recent years, the uptake of sustainable home building methods is still low. The aim of this study is to investigate the problem from small builders' perspective by examining their current practice and their opinions. Data are collected through an on-line questionnaire survey. Analysis of the results reveals that there is an elementary level of awareness amongst small builders as far as sustainable building is concerned. However, the level of their knowledge is still limited and their attitudes toward sustainable homes are diverse and ambivalent. More efforts are needed to promote sustainable building methods, particularly amongst small builders.
Relevancy of Factors and Mitigation Measures in Controlling Time and Cost Overrun towards Malaysian Environment
Authors: Roslan Nadzirah , Zainun Noor Yasmin , Memon Aftab Hameed
Published: July 2015

Construction projects are facing time and cost overrun globally. Since, this problem occurs due to various factors, hence for achieving successful construction projects, it is very important to control the responsible factors causing time and cost overrun. This study assessed the relevancy for each mitigation measures in relation with causative factors of time and cost overrun in Malaysian construction projects. A total of 56 mitigation measures were identified and correlated with the critical factors of time and cost overrun which were categorized into four phases of project life cycle. Data collection was done by conducting structured interviews amongst the experienced practitioners of the southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia.
The Effects of TiO2 in the Performance of Mortar
Authors: Mat Saliah Soffian Noor , Md Nor Noorsuhada , Jamaludin Muhammad Izzahan
Published: July 2015

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a material that contains photocatalysic which acts as self-cleansing agents on a material surface. In the application of TiO2in the civil engineering construction, it can be mixed with the fresh mortar known as TiO2mortar. Hence, a study on the characteristic strength of the TiO2mortar needs to be carried out. Moreover, the optimum dosage levels of the TiO2in the mortar can be determined. The characteristics of the TiO2were identified based on the compressive strength and flexural strength at 3, 7, 21 and 28 days. A total of five sets of specimens with different dosage levels were prepared and compared with the control specimen.
Preliminary Overview on Thermal Performance of Green Roof
Authors: Kasmin Hartini , Yusoff Nor Azizi , Samsudin Muhammad Hasnolhadi , Atan Norbaasithu , Kassim Rosniza , Ahmad Hanim , Sayuti Zulhazmi , Abdullah Firdaurs
Published: July 2015

Green roof has shown potential contribution on improving the functional performance of buildings by lowering the roof exterior surface temperature, which is indirectly, could potentially reduce the energy demand. In addition, it is likely to provide important ecological services to urban areas through lowering of urban heat island (UHI) temperatures, increasing storm water retention and improves the biodiversity. This paper will then present the initial outcomes of the joint initiative between Malaysia Agricultural Research and Development (MARDI) and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) in promoting this green technology in Malaysia. As green roof technology is still emerging, there is limited technical data available at present in Malaysian climate. The study aims to provide initial observation on the thermal performance of green roof and its effect towards surrounding and associated significant environmental benefit. In order to achieve the goal, the thermal performance of green roof system in experimental plot at MARDI had been monitored. The green roof experimental plot has been set up on two flat roofs in Horticulture Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor and the treatments consists of two green roof system known as conventional system and self-watering system. The substrate depths were 50 mm and 100 mm. In addition, some observation on the attracted wildlife to the green roof was initiated. Based on the initial results, it is interesting to report that the temperature reduction for the green roofs on Roof 1 and Roof 2 were in averages of 6.1°C and 10°C, respectively. In conclusion, this joint study between UTHM and MARDI may facilitate the development of roof top gardening system in greening the urban area. With more studies, it will possibly highlight the engineering significance, furthermore promoting the application of green roof technology in Malaysia.
Technical Competency of Construction Manager in Malaysian Construction Industry
Authors: Yaman Siti Khalijah , Abdullah Abd Halid , Mohammad Hairuddin , Hassan Fadzil
Published: July 2015

Primarily due to contractors’ faults, construction industries in Malaysia have been facing problems such as delays, wastages, cost overruns and others. Inability of construction manager (CM) to efficiently manage construction projects is the major contribution to projects’ failure, and the lack of terms of reference on the technical competency for CM are believed to be the major setback. This paper reports the results of a preliminary study which was carried out to identify the technical competencies of CM. Exploratory mixed research methods were selected by employing qualitative and quantitative approaches. Multi-layered thematic analysis was embedded into literature analysis to maintain reliability and then validate through structured interviews. It was found that CM requires several technical competencies including managing staff, materials, labours, plants, sub-contractors, safety, money, quality, time, environment, administration, pre-construction, closeout and handover, responsibility to other parties, computer literacy, and administration of construction contract. Hence, the technical competencies for CM are believed to be exhaustive and holistic in singling out the appropriate technical knowledge and skills, and bring about numerous advantageous towards technically competent CM.
Methods Comparison for the Synthesis of Deca-Dodecasil 3 Rhombohedral (DDR3) Zeolite Crystals
Authors: Mubashir Muhammad , Yeong Yin 	Fong , Keong Lau Kok , bin Mohd Shariff Azmi
Published: July 2015

In the present work, DDR3 zeolite crystals were synthesized using two different methods. The silica sources used to synthesize DDR3 crystals were tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) and Ludox-40. The resultant samples were characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). The XRD results showed that the peaks representing DDR3 structure were not obtained for the sample synthesized in 5 days at room temperature with ultrasonic pre-treatment of 3h using Ludox-40 as silica source. On the other hand, the XRD pattern obtained for the sample synthesized in 25 days at 160 o C using TMOS as a silica source were similar with the XRD peaks reported in the literature. From these results, it can be concluded that the synthesis conditions of 25 days at 160 o C using TMOS as silica source were the favorable conditions in obtaining DDR3 crystal structure.
Cigarette Butts Pollution and Environmental Impact – A Review
Authors: Kadir Aeslina Abdul , Sarani Noor Amira
Published: July 2015

Worldwide, cigarette butts (CBs) are among the most common type of litter. The United States Department of Agriculture estimates that in 2004 over 5.5 trillion cigarettes were produced in the world. This is equivalent to an estimated of 1.2 million tonnes of cigarette butt waste per year. These figures are expected to increase by more than 50% by 2025 according to American Cancer Society, mainly due to an increase in global population. This paper presents a review of the environmental problems associated with CBs, which have been found to be the number one littered item in Australia over the past years. It is estimated 25 to 30 billion filter cigarettes are smoked each year; of these, an estimated 7 billion become litter. The CBs accumulate due to the poor biodegradability of the cellulose acetate filter, and the toxicity constituent trapped within threatens human life, marine ecosystems as well as the environment if not disposed in an appropriate manner. With the increasing concern arising from insufficient landfill sites and the growing environmental awareness about toxic incinerator emissions, there is a critical need for an alternative method for CB waste disposal which is environmentally acceptable.
Modelling of High Pressure, High Concentration Carbon Dioxide Capture in Absorption Column
Authors: See Tan Lian , Horng Tay Wee , Lau Kok Keong , Azmi Mohd Shariff
Published: July 2015

With the depletion of low carbon dioxide (CO2) content natural gas reserves, there is a pressing need to explore the vastly undeveloped high CO2 content natural gas reserves and reduce the release of greenhouse gas CO2 into environment. Our previous investigation on the absorption performance of CO2 at high concentration level of 50% from mixture of CO2-natural gas stream for 20wt% monoethanolamine (MEA) solution in countercurrent packed column indicated efficient removal at high pressure condition. In this present work, a combination mass transfer, chemical reaction of MEA as well as mass conservation equation was developed to model the removal behavior of the high pressure, high concentration CO2 capture along the absorption column. The model developed in this study had satisfactorily represented the mass transfer behavior for high pressure and high CO2 concentration gas removal along the absorption column.
River Bank Filtration: Study of Langat River Water and Borehole Water Quality
Authors: Ibrahim Nurazim , Abdul Aziz Hamidi , Yusoff Mohd Suffian
Published: July 2015

The characteristics of water sources are important factors that determine the methods of treatments and quality of water distributed to consumers. The quality of Langat River and borehole water were investigated in this study to obtain the baseline water quality for riverbank filtration (RBF) systems. Water samples from Langat River and seven boreholes constructed at different distances from the river bank were collected and analyzed for turbidity, color, BOD5, COD, NH3-N,E.coli, and heavy metals. Results indicate that the average levels of BOD5, COD, and NH3-N in the river are 23, 52, and 2 mg/L, respectively. The water is also very turbid with a turbidity value of over 400 NTU. Metals in the river water are not an issue, except for iron (Fe) and arsenic (As) with average levels of 4.92 and 0.073 mg/L, respectively. In addition, the average concentration of the pathogenic bacteriaE. coliin the river is also high with a value of 7,500 per 100 mL. The quality of water from boreholes exhibits improvement in terms of turbidity, color, total dissolve solid (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), COD, andE.coli. However, the levels of trace elements, such as arsenic (As), are higher in boreholes; the readings reached 0.13 mg/L. The 0presence of manganese (Mn) in wells is likewise high, with readings between 0.35 and 0.95 mg/L. Results indicate that distance is not the main factor in the increase in removal efficiency. Instead, site geology and biogeochemical processes in groundwater are probably the factors that determine pollutant removal and increased As and Mn concentrations in borehole water. Based on the information presented, this study may be able to provide baseline information regarding the suitability of an RBF system for a selected area.
Sustainable Extensive On-Site Constructed Wetland for some Bacteriological Reduction in Kitchen Greywater
Authors: Wurochekke Anwaruddin Ahmed , Radin Mohamed Radin Maya Saphira , binti Lokman Halim Siti Asmah , bin Mohd Kassim Amir Hashim , binti Hamdan Rafidah
Published: July 2015

Malaysia is experiencing water pollution crisis recently. In particular, greywater discharge directly to drains. Therefore, a greywater treatment system was designed to overcome this drain pollution. To investigate the operation and performance of the treatment system, constructed wetland was designed and builds for a small single household. Lepironia Articulata was chosen for populating wetland. The wetland was supplied with kitchen greywater. The selected house is appropriate because it lacks proper drainage system. This study evaluates the characteristic of kitchen greywater before and after treatment. The quality parameters of greywater that involve in this study are Total Coliform and E-coli. The range for reduction efficiency for Total Suspended Solid was 16.02 to 60.56, E.coli was 26% to 51% and Total Coliform was 5% to 63%. Generally, this study showed improved kitchen greywater quality before discharging to the nearest water body. The findings can be used significantly to enhance the knowledge in constructed wetland where it can serve as effective and integrated solutions for managing greywater discharging using control at source approach. A constructed wetland was best chosen due to its good visual impact, removal efficiency of organic material and other pollutant, as well economical.
Development of Temporal Rainfall Pattern for Segamat District
Authors: Ali Noorfathiah Che , Erfen Yuliarahmadila , Amat Nurul Farehah , Mohd Zahudi Zawani , Adnan Mohd Shalahuddin
Published: July 2015

The designing of rainfall temporal pattern is very important in displaying the diversity and intensity of rainfall in addition to flood estimation and planning. The main purpose of this study was to develop a temporal rainfall pattern for Segamat District. Average Variability Method, AVM which had recommended by the Australian Rainfall and Runoff were used to derive design rainfall temporal patterns for this study. The survey data for 5 minute interval from 2003 to 2012 for 4 selected rainfall stations that obtained from the Drainage and Irrigation Department, DID have been selected. In this study, the temporal rainfall pattern is built for 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 120 minutes, 180 minutes, and 360 minutes. The results shows the actual rainfall on the field in the form of temporal rainfall pattern. Up to 75% of the temporal patterns in the region can be classified as intermediate type while the advance and delay type are 11% and 14%, respectively. From the temporal rainfall pattern, the duration of rainfall occurs can be predicted, therefore, the probability of the flooding during the period can be estimated.
Axial Energy Absorption of Kenaf Yarn Winding Cylindrical Composites
Authors: Abdullah N.H. , Irwan M.N. , Ismail Al Emran
Published: July 2015

The use of biopetrol fuel as alternative fuels in gasoline engine has been around for many years and Ethanol-petrol has the potential to be used as alternative fuel that can reduce the total CO2 emission from internal petrol engine. However, the changes of bio-petrol is a very complex and need further understanding for researchers due to the relevance of the increase in the petroleum price and the future environmental regulation. This review paper focuses to ascertain a new approach in potential on ethanol-petrol blends operating with a petrol engine especially the effects of ethanol gas petrol blending ratio and variant types of ethanol on performance and emissions of petrol engine. It is shown that the variant in biopetrol blending ratio and engine operational condition are reduced engine-out emissions and increased efficiency. This paper presents on a review on three different types of ethanol like sugar cane, wheat and corn with various blended rates. Investigation framework study on how to complete the research is also included in this paper.Keywords: biopetrol, petrol engine, performance, emissions, biopetrol fuel properties
Activated Carbon from Honeydew Rind as an Adsorbent in Zinc Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Yunus Zalilah Murni , Othman Norzila , Hamdan Rafidah , Najwa Nurun Ruslan , Kasin Norfarihah Abu , Leman Nur Solini
Published: July 2015

In this study, activated carbon (AC) was produced from honeydew rind, a low-cost agricultural by-product, by chemical activation using H2SO4as an activator was used as an adsorbent for the removal of zinc ions from aqueous solutions. Preparation method on the effect of surface morphology at different carbonization temperatures 450°C, 470°C, 490°C and 510°C was studied. The AC was characterized using FEM-SEM, FTIR and TG. Batch adsorptions were carried out to optimize different variables such as zinc concentration, contact time, pH and biosorbent amount. The results from AAS analysis showed that the maximum adsorption of zinc onto honeydew rind AC was achieved at the conditions of pH 7.5, 1.5g biosorbent amount, 1000mg/L initial zn concentration and 45min contact time. The maximum metal uptake and maximum removal were 66.55mg/g and 99.79% respectively.
Phycoremediation of Dairy Wastewater by Using Green Microlgae: Botryococcus Sp.
Authors: Gani Paran , Sunar Norshuhaila Mohamed , Matias-Peralta Hazel Monica , Abdul Latiff Ab Aziz , Joo Ivor Tan Kian , Parjo Umi K. , Emparan Quin , Er Chin Ming
Published: July 2015

Dairy wastewater are usually much polluted due to the high level of nutrient content such as phosphate, nitrate, sulfate etc. The pollution level are indicated by few characteristics such as BOD (243 mg/L), COD (324 mg/L), pH (9.08), Total Nitrogen (65.06 mg/L), Total Organic Carbon (143.3 mg/L), Total Carbon (312.9 mg/L) and Inorganic Carbon (169.6 mg/L). In this study, Botryococcus sp., a species of green microalgae are used to determine whether it can purify dairy wastewater. In spite of that, the microalgae growth over phycoremediation process also determined daily based on hemocytometer counting. From 100% concentration of dairy wastewater, Botryococcus sp. was capable to reduce the parameters such as BOD of 73.3%, TOC of 65.1%, TC of 61.4%, IC of 58.3% and COD of 48.8% on the 15 days of phycoremediation. Meanwhile, for the 50% of dairy wastewater, the same microalgae be able to remove the parameter such as phosphate of 78.7%, BOD of 73.8%, TOC of 70%, TC of 68,8%, IC of 59.4% and COD of 50%. The overall result from this study shown that the Botryococcus sp. is useful to reduce the inorganic and organic pollutant in dairy wastewater and could be potential to be used for any different wastewater.
Hydrology Properties At Sembrong Dam Reservoir in Johor
Authors: Awang Halizah , Daud Zawawi , Tan Lai Wai , Mohd Hatta Mohd Zainuri
Published: July 2015

Water is fresh potable water is not always available at the right time or the right place for human or ecosystem use [1]. According to Straskraba and Tundisi (1999), water impoundments constructed by damming rivers are called dam reservoirs. Under the Malaysian Western Johore Agricultural Development Project, the main function of the Sembrong dam is flood mitigation. The secondary function of the dam is to provide clean water supply to 240,000 consumers in Kluang district area [2]. Water from the Sembrong dam reservoir is treated at the West Sembrong Water Treatment Plant before the distribution. Daily reservoir inflow data were extracted by applying the water balance model to the Sembrong dam reservoir. Developing hydrologic hazard curves for risk assessment uses the length of record and type of data to determine the extrapolation limits for flood frequency analysis [5]. Extrapolation beyond the data is often necessary to provide information needed for dam safety risk assessments [6]. The sources of information used for flood hazard analyses include stream flow and precipitation records and pale flood data.
Water Quality Study at Sembrong Dam Reservoir in Johor
Authors: Awang Halizah , Daud Zawawi , Mohd Hatta Mohd Zainuri
Published: July 2015

Rivers play a major role for communities especially in fisheries and as a source of water for people residing within the vicinity. Water quality is of utmost importance and it covers a wide range of approaches and conflicts. Water is super abundant on the planet, as whole, but fresh potable water is not always available at the right time or the right place for human or ecosystem use [3]. Water quality refers to the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of water. It is a measure of the condition of water relative to the requirements of one or more biotic species and or to any human need or purpose. It is most frequently used by reference to a set of standards against which compliance can be assessed. Sembrong dam reservoir was built by damming a river. When a reservoir is built along a river’s flow, the physical, chemical and biological conditions of the river are disrupted to some degree [2]. Since Sembrong dam reservoir is constructed on large lowland rivers with gradually sloping banks, it can be characterized by inundation of large areas, extreme horizontal variability with extensive shallows riparian vegetation and shallow reservoir. Such reservoir is usually eutrophic and high natural organic load are likely to contribute to the formation of an anoxic hypolimnion [9]. Shallow reservoir is usually well mixed by wind, and this leads to non-stratified condition [7]. Therefore, Sembrong dam reservoir can be categorized as shallow unstratified reservoir.
Shearing Rate Effects on Research Centre for Soft Soils (Recess) Clay Using Cone Penetration Test (CPT)
Authors: Ayob Azranasmarazizi , Yusoff Nor Azizi , Bakar I. , Azhar Nur Abidah , Abd Aziz Ameer Nazrin
Published: July 2015

A wide range of industrial applications, on land and offshore, require the solution of time domain problems and an associated understanding of rate effects in clay soils. In recent decades many researchers have examined the correlation between shear strength of soils and variation of shear strain rate and it is generally accepted that the strength increases by 1-5% for each order of magnitude increase in shear strain rate. This paper discusses the effects of penetration rate on the penetration resistance (qc) by using cone penetration test (CPT) test setup. The research had been conducted at RECESS and cone penetration test were used in three selected range of rate which were 0.5 cm/s, 1cm/s and 5cm/s. In addition, Mackintosh probe testhad been considered as comparison with CPT test for the unconfined compressive strength. The result shows different penetration rate influenced the soil shear strength. For the slowest rate (0.5 cm/s), the shear strength was approximately 0.15% less compared to the standard rate (2 cm/s). However, for the highest rate (5 cm/s), the shear strength was 0.22% more than the reference rate (0.5 cm/s). In conclusion, it is suggested that the RECESS clay soil influenced by the rate effect and in agreement with previous research findings.
Synthesis and Characterizations of SiO2-Ag Core-Shell Nanostructure Using Fatty Alcohols as Surface Modifiers
Authors: Salim Musdalilah Ahmad , Misran H. , Othman S.Z. , Mahadi Nurfatihah , Pauzi Nur Irfah Mohd , Manap Abreeza
Published: July 2015

SiO2-Ag core-shell nanostructure with silica core (SiO2) and silver shell (Ag) nanoparticles with spherical morphology were successfully synthesized using a modified self-assembly sol-gel method. Ag nanoparticles at ca.10-50 nm were successfully attached on monodispersed silica spheres (SiO2) with diameter of ca. 450 nm. Renewable resources of palm oil, derived fatty alcohols (octyl-alcohol (C8), decyl-alcohol (C10) and dodecyl-alcohol (C12)) were employed as nonsurfactant surface modifiers prior to coating with Ag nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of calcined SiO2-Ag core-shell nanostructure prepared with surface modifiers exhibited amorphous structure of SiO2 (core) and face-centered cubic (FCC) structure of metallic Ag nanoparticles (shell). The results obtained in the present work demonstrated the feasibility of employing fatty alcohols as potential nonsurfactant surface modifiers in synthesizing SiO2-Ag core-shell.
Effect of Porous Materials Combination in Layers on Sound Absorption Characteristics
Authors: Zainulabidin Muhd Hafeez , Yusuff M.H.M. , Ismail Al Emran , Kasron M.Z. , Kassim A.S.M.
Published: July 2015

This paper describes the investigation and analysis on two materials in which one material is a relatively good sound absorber at low frequency range and another is a relatively good sound absorber at high frequency range, combined together in layers to form a better sound absorber for a wider range of frequencies. The layer combinations of the materials are varied and the values of Sound Absorption Coefficient, α are measured experimentally by using impedance tubes with two microphones transfer function method according to ISO 10534-2 standard. The results obtained are compared in terms of the order of material and the number of layer combinations of materials for each sample. The orders of combinations and number of layers of combinations have significant influence on the sound absorption characteristics. The order of materials has reversed effect on Sound Absorption Coefficient, α as the number of layer combination is increased. Increase in the combination number will make the specimen performed relatively better at a wider frequency range.