bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shear Capacity of Singly and Doubly Webbed Corrugated Web Girder
Authors: Abdul Hamid Hanizah , Ibrahim Azmi , Ibrahim Norhisham
Published: April 2019

A conventional plate girder involves the use of transverse intermediate stiffeners, especially in a slender web to avoid catastrophic failure associated with shear buckling of the web. In this study, a profiled web was used to replace the transversely stiffened web. The process involves introducing cold-formed ribs into a flat steel sheet to form alternative stiffeners. This study therefore seeks to establish comparative performance of conventionally stiffened plate girders and profiled web girders of a specially formed rib arrangement with single and also double webs. Nine numbers of specimens were tested to failure under a three-point-bending system. Failure of all the profiled web girders, with either a single or double webs, is characterized by a shorter yield plateau and a steeper descending branch, a failure mode that is commonly referred to as ‘brittle’. The results of the tests on girders with profiled steel sheets, PSS(s) have shown that profiling is extremely effective in increasing the shear buckling load because it moves the sheet material out of the plane of the web, thereby increasing the rigidity 1.08 to 2.0 times higher than the equivalent conventional flat web plate girders. The experimental results also showed that post-buckling capacities are reduced by 30 % to 50 % of their ultimate shear capacities.
Development of an Automated Biaxial Solar Photovoltaic Tracking System
Authors: Omar Ahmad Maliki , Yahir Muhamad Rizuan , Shaari Sulaiman , Omar Abdul Rahman
Published: April 2019

This paper presents and describes a prototype product code-named SolT2A which is a system that tracks the position of the sun automatically across the celestial vault in two axes. This kind of system is typically used in a solar photovoltaic (PV) system in terrestrial applications to provide electrical power. It is designed and fabricated due to Malaysia’s location near the equator, thus the solar altitude crosses the zenith and the azimuth reverses direction during the year. Thus the use of a static PV system is not maximised during half of the year. This situation can be addressed by using a two-axes solar tracking system. So far, Malaysia has not implemented such power-tracking systems. Thus SolT2A has been designed and fabricated to address the problem by using a combination of electro-mechanical devices with an element of programming ingenuity and intelligence. Basically SolT2A measures solar irradiance at four points and makes comparisons in terms of the intensity received. These data are then analysed and processed by a controller before being sent to a DC motor that ensures the maximum amount of solar irradiance received on the PV panels all the time. Thus SolT2A is a system that maximises the power output of the PV panels to obtain the highest power output continuously. Based on field data, the maximum output open circuit voltage produced by the SolT2A tracking system and that with a static PV system is as much as 82 %. The overall increase in open circuit voltage production is between 15 to 20 % daily. With the technical know-how and proven prototype, Malaysia can look into joining the small and limited but niche pool of expertise in this area. This will not only give immediate socio-economic impact to the population, but will give an upgrade to Malaysia as a country with expertise in the area. This concept could also be applied to defence systems. With further testing and improvement, SolT2A system can be further upgraded to reach a commercial stage. This will definitely be of commercial interest to the country.
Bending and Bonding Properties of Sandwiched Polymer Concrete Composites
Authors: Mohd Saman Hamidah , Ibrahim Azmi , Md Taib Ya'kub , Md. Ja’afar Mohd. Faizal
Published: April 2019

It is foreseen that the properties of Polymer Concrete (PC) can be further enhanced if the PC is bonded to or sandwiched between Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) laminates, later termed as PC-GFRP system. In the present investigation, the performance of PC-GFRP was assessed in terms of its bending strength and bonding strength between PC and GFRP. Panels of PC size 500 mm × 500 mm × 20 mm were prepared. The panels then were cut into specimens of appropriate geometry and dimensions required for the tests. Four (4) different resin contents and different percentages of aggregate of different particle size distributions were employed in preparing the PC-GFRP specimens. A batch of PC specimens was layered with a Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) laminate on one side (SSL) and the other batch PC specimens were sandwiched with two GFRP laminates (DSL). The PC-GFRP specimens were tested their bending strength under three-point load test and bonding strength between PC as a core material and glued GFRP laminate(s). The results showed that an increase in the resin content increases the bending strength of the PC regardless of the aggregate grading. The results also revealed that the PC specimens with well-graded aggregate recorded the highest bending strength, with coarser grading resulted in further increase. The bending strength of the PC-GFRP system improved significantly when the PC was externally reinforced with a GFRP laminate (SSL) but did not improve further when another layer of GFRP laminate was applied (DSL). The bonding strength between PC and GFRP was found to be increased as the resin content increases and the GFRP laminate bonded better to the PC as a core material if made of the overall aggregate size.
Ergonomics Analysis of Muscle Activity of Workers in a Metal Stamping Industry
Authors: Bahari Md Fuad , Omar Abdul Rahman , Solomon Darius Gnanaraj , Saad Nor Hayati , Halim Isa
Published: April 2019

Occupational health is considered as a crucial element in almost every Small and Medium Industries (SMIs) and it is believed to be one of vital challenges that can influence productivity and competitiveness. It has been known that the metal stamping industry involved a lot of materials handling tasks such as carrying stamped parts from machine to packaging section, transferring moulds from tools store to machines, sorting the finished products and others. Appropriate materials handling equipments are not often provided in SMIs because of the limitation of capital and lack of ergonomics awareness. The workers have to handle the materials and goods manually. These practices may lead to occupational injuries particularly back pain and musculoskeletal injuries. The objectives of the research are to assess and analyze the muscles activity of workers in metal stamping industry. Three male workers who performed metal stamping process using manual technique were participated in the research. Ergonomic assessment associated with Surface Electromyography (SEMG) was used to capture and interpret the data related to muscles activity at before and after the ergonomic intervention. For the purpose of muscle activity assessment, SEMG electrodes were attached to eight critical muscles: deltoid muscle-medial part (left), deltoid muscle-medial part (right), trapezius muscle (left), trapezius muscle (right), erector spinae muscle (left), erector spinae muscle (right), gastrocnemius muscle (left) and gastrocnemius muscle (right). An ergonomically designed workstation has improved working posture and reduced the total muscle work/loading by about 43 % if it is properly utilized. This design approach can be adopted to improve the working conditions of industrial workers and thus enhance the occupational health practices.
Optimisation of Calcium Silicate and Sand Cement Bricks in Masonary Bearing Walls
Authors: Kamaruddin Kartini , Hamzah Siti Hawa
Published: April 2019

Design and construction of buildings used to be on framed structure incorporating reinforced concrete, steel or timber as structural member to transmit load to the foundation. Bricks are normally used as infill materials in these framed structures. However, research has shown that bricks can also be used as external and internal masonry bearing walls. With the use of structural masonry construction method, cheaper and faster construction can be achieved. Savings are obtained by using less formwork and reinforcing steel, reducing construction time as lesser frames or none are used, and eliminating waiting time for the structural concrete to cure or gain their strength. Calcium silicate and sand cement bricks were tested for their mechanical properties. Investigations were carried out on six masonry bearing walls. Each unit measured 1000 mm × 1000 mm and a half brick thick. The structural behaviour due to compressive axial load was investigated and it shows that both bricks satisfy the requirement as load bearing wall. However, the study concluded that sand cement brick wall showed better performance, with maximum lateral displacement of 3.81mm, vertical deflection of 6.63 mm and ultimate load of 448.13 kN.
Exfiltration from Sewers: Effects of Different Types of Leakage
Authors: Ab Wahab Mohd Ashaari , Abdul Talib Suhaimi , Baharom Bahardin , Marwi Mat Som
Published: April 2019

This research was conducted to study exfiltration of wastewater from gravity sewers. Exfiltration through different types of sewer leaks were studied. With the different size of leakage areas and a constant thickness of soil bedding, it was found that the exfiltration rate reduces and became constant over a duration of one (1) to three (3) days. Knowing the exfiltration rate, the time taken for the polluted water exfiltrate from sewer pipes to reach the groundwater can be determined so that preventive measures can be taken to prevent it. From studies conducted, it can be shown that the size of the leakage area was found to play an important role in determining the size of the clogging zone, the increased in the clogging zone resulted in the decreased of exfiltration rate due to the accumulation of organic matters at the edge of the leakage area and trapped in the pores of the bedding soil.
A Study on the Problems of the Usage of Incinerators in Malaysia
Authors: Sulaiman Muhamad Rosli , Syed Abdul Kadir Sharifah Aishah , Ibrahim Ruhani , Husin Maryam
Published: April 2019

Incineration is one of the options available to dispose municipal solid wastes (MSW) as it is capable of breaking down hazardous non-metallic wastes besides destroying bacteria and viruses. In terms of volume of wastes, incineration can reduce almost instantaneously by 90 %. In 1998, the government of Malaysia embarked on a pilot project to use incinerators to dispose MSW in four popular resort islands to see the effectiveness of this technique of waste disposal. Seven units of mini incinerators were installed on the islands and the local municipals were made responsible to manage and maintain.This project looked into the problems arises when incineration is used for MSW disposal on these islands. Data collected revealed that the plants were not properly managed and maintained. This was due to the lack of funds available for effective and smooth operation and the absence of highly expert personnel required to maintain the plant. Other factors that contribute to the inefficiency are inadequate air pollution control facilities and the infrastructure which do not condon the foul odour. Further research work need to be done to monitor the operation of these incinerators in order to explore its potential to dispose waste safely, effectively and cleanly.
Design and Performance of Pre-Stressed Concrete Railway Sleepers Containing Fibres
Authors: Abu Bakar Afidah , Din Khafilah , Marwi Mat Som
Published: April 2019

The design of railway sleepers must account for irregularities of the train or the rails that generate dynamic loads. The sleepers could develop cracks during a train passage although not influential enough to disturb immediately the global track system. However, these cracks can pose a threat to the overall stiffness properties as they can propagate further under repeated loads induced by the train. Consequently they can cause fatigue, which is a structural failure at service condition. This will later constitute a major maintenance item if the problem is not properly addressed. It is intended that the application of high-strength concrete (HSC) with the inclusion of fibres in railway sleepers could reduce, delay or in certain conditions arrest the rate of crack growth. The design of sleeper was proven to comply in partial of the referenced Standards requirements. The fabrication works undertaken also proved that all procedures were followed satisfactorily and that the laboratory of the Faculty of Civil Engineering was able to handle the production. Structural tests carried out where loads were applied at rail seat showed that behaviour of HSFC sleepers had high flexural strength capacities due to the presence of fibres.
Low Flow Analysis for Drought Management
Authors: Atan Ismail , Jaafar Jurina , Mohd Baki Aminuddin
Published: April 2019

A statistical method to fit the lower tail of the cumulative distribution function of streamflow is presented. The proposed model is distribution-free that is it does not require the specification of a parent distribution. The potential use of the proposed model is its ability to estimate small quantities of low flow distribution for drought management. The accurate estimation of low flow is very important for water resources planning and to illustrate the applicability of this model, the Langat River was selected.
Identification of Bacterial Strains Capable of Degrading Malaysian Petroleum Sludge
Authors: Dzulkapli Noor Fazreen , Abdul Talib Suhaimi , Ramasamy Kalavathy , Yin Chun Yang
Published: April 2019

In an organic sludge bio degradation process, identification of bacterial strains with effective biodegradation capabilities indigenous to the sludge is an important step as isolation and subsequent usage of such strains can enhance the rate of the biodegradation process. In this study, the identification of bacterial strains capable of degrading Malaysian petroleum sludge was carried out using a biolog system kit subsequent to enrichment, isolation and degradation processes. A total of 53 purified strains was obtained from the isolation process. Three strains, namely, Clavibacter michiganesis ss insidiosus, Rhodococcus rhodochrus and Brevibacterium otitidis showed favorable degradation results for nearly all hydrocarbons especially for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) (anthracene, phenathrane and dibenzothiophene). Brevibacterium otitidis is especially interesting since it is the first time such a strain has been reported to have good PAHs degradation capabilities.
Study on Stability of a Novel Binder System Based on Palm Stearin in Metal Injection Moulding Application
Authors: Ismail Muhammad Hussain , Muhamad Norhamidi , Jumahat Aidah , Subuki Istikamah , Omar Mohd Afian
Published: April 2019

Metal Injection Molding (MIM) is a wellestablished technology for manufacturing a variety of complex and small precision parts. In this paper, fundamental rheological characteristics of MIM feedstock using palm stearin are theoretically analyzed and presented. The feedstock consisted of gas atomized 316L stainless steel powder at three different particle size distributions and the binder system of palm stearin (PS) and polyethylene (PE). The powder loading used was 60vol % for all samples (monosize 16 µm, monosize 45 µm, and bimodal 16 µm + 45 µm) and the binder system of 40vol %(PS/PE = 40/60). The viscosity of MIM feedstock at different temperatures and shear rates was measured and evaluated. Results showed that, the feedstock containing palm stearin exhibited suitable rheological properties by increasing the fluidity of feedstock in MIM process. The rheological results also showed a pseudoplastic flow characteristics, which poses higher value of shear sensitivity (n) and lower value of flow activation energy (E), that are both favourable for injection molding process. The green parts were successfully injected and exhibited adequate strength for handling by optimizing the injection pressure and temperature.
Available Transfer Capability Optimisation Using Evolutionary Programming
Authors: Othman Muhammad Murtadha , Sheikh Rahimullah Bibi Norashiqin
Published: April 2019

In a deregulated electric power industry, transmission providers are required to rapidly produce commercially viable information of available transfer capability (ATC) so that such information can help power marketers, sellers and buyers in planning, operation and reserving transmission services. ATC is a measure of the additional amount of power transfer that may flow across the interface, over and above the base case flows without jeopardizing power system security. This paper presents the ATC determination using the evolutionary programming (EP) technique using modified Gaussian formulation. The proposed EP technique has the ability in providing accurate ATC results and the computation burden caused by the AC power flow solutions are significantly reduced. The outages of critical line that adversely affect the amount of ATC are determined by performing the line contingency ranking and selection. ATC determinations have been made on the case study of Malaysian system. Comparison in terms of accuracy and computation time in estimating the ATC are made by considering the three methods which are the EP using modified Gaussian formulation (EPMG), EP using standard Gaussian formulation (EPSG) and the recursive AC power flow solution (RACPF).
Analysis on the Effect of Land Use Changes on Flooding Using SCS Method and GIS
Authors: Jani Janmaizatulriah , Tahir Wardah , Ab. Wahid Marfiah
Published: April 2019

The research investigated the effect of land use changes on flood estimation by focusing on a widely used method developed by the US Soil Conservation Services, namely SCS Curve Number method. This method was developed to estimate the peak flow and flood hydrograph based on several parameters, one of it is known as the Curve Number (CN). The CN which can be measured effectively using GIS is an indirect measure of soil potential storage and is dependent on the land use. The research explored the feasibility of the method to Malaysian catchments by firstly, analysed the CN in a small urban catchment of UiTM campus at Shah Alam and secondly compared the hydrograph calculated by the method with the observed ones. The results indicated a close proximity of the CN values obtained from the observed rainfall runoff and the values published by the US SCS (around 8 % difference). In addition, comparison between observed unit hydrographs and SCS unit hydrographs for the same rainfall duration indicated that the estimated values of peak discharge from the synthetic method were not very far from the observed values. Finally, it was shown that changes in land use especially during urbanization process would increase the peak flow, hence increase the possibility of flooding.
Failure Analysis of Fiber Reinforced Composite Materials Used in Malaysian Industries
Authors: Mahmud Jamaluddin , Kuntjoro Wahyu , Jumahat Aidah
Published: April 2019

The main objective of this paper is to determine the curves bounding the actual load carrying capacity in terms of the First Ply Failure and the Last Ply Failure of composite materials used in Malaysian Industries. A mathematical model and computational model are presented for the analysis. Higher Order Shear Deformation plate theory is employed to predict the deformation of the plate. The selected material properties through thickness is used and accommodated by a discrete layer approach. A program based on finite element method is developed using Fortran-90 to determine the lamina stresses. These stresses are then used in the present failure model to determine the First Ply Failure and Last Ply Failure, by progressively reducing the stiffness of the laminas. Finally, the First Ply Failure and Last Ply failure results are analysed, in terms of lower and upper bound within which the true load carrying capacity lies.
Potentiality of Banana (Musa) Stem as Raw Material in Chemical Nonwood Pulping
Authors: Soo Kwan Leong , Abd Rahman Rakmi
Published: April 2019

Wood is not sufficient in many countries to meet the rise demand for paper and pulp. In recent years, a lot of researches have been done to find a new, non-wood raw material for paper production especially using agricultural waste. Agriculture industry is one of the main industries in Malaysia which has generated a large amount of waste every year such as banana stem, rice hull, sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw. These are regarded as abundant, inexpensive and readily available natural resources for pulping industry. The purpose of this paper is to study of the pulping potentialities of banana stems which are growing in Malaysia. In this research the banana stem is used as raw material in the pulping process for the purpose of producing cellulose as pulp. The chemical pulping method which is used in the study is soda pulping, where NaOH is the main chemical substance used in cooking and with anthroquinone as the additive. Temperature, residence time and dosage of chemical were the parameters to be manipulated in this non-wood chemical pulping process to get an optimum condition for pulping. A 3 litre batch reactor was used in this non-wood chemical pulping process. The concentration of NaOH used was varied from 10 – 45 % and cooking temperature was varied from 100 – 200 °C. The ratio of solid to liquid is set at 1:8 and also the cooking period was varied from 30 – 210 minutes. The result shows that the optimum yield of pulp from this study is at 20 % w/w NaOH, cooking at 160 °C with 120 minutes. The yield of pulp is around 30 %. The cellulose content in the pulp produced is as high as 90 %.
Bending Behaviour of Dowelled Mortise and Tenon Joints in Kempas
Authors: Hassan Rohana , Ibrahim Azmi , Ahmad Zakiah
Published: April 2019

Mortise and tenon are commonly used as timber connections between beam and column with enhancement by pultruded dowel. At present the data on the performance of mortise and tenon joints manufactured using Malaysian tropical timber is not available. Therefore there is a need to provide such data for better guidance and references in design purposes. This study investigates the behavior and strength properties of dowelled mortise and tenon timber connections using selected Malaysian tropical timber with different types of dowels namely steel and timber. Bending tests were performed on mortise and tenon beam-column joints of Kempas when plugged with steel or wood dowel. It is found that pegging the connections with the respective steel and timber dowels resulted in a bending load capacity of 6.09 and 5.32 kN, taken as the average of three samples, the latter being 12 % lower than former. Visual observation of the failed test pieces revealed steel dowels exhibiting yield mode Im and wood, mode IIIs. The wood dowels yielded in bending at one plastic hinge point per shear plane with an associated wood crushing while the steel dowels remained practically undeformed with an associated crushing of the main member.
Properties of Ternary Blended Cement Containing Metakaolin and Fly Ash
Authors: Arshad Mohd Fadzil , Megat Johari Megat Azmi , Muhd Sidek Muhd Norhasri , Mohd Noor Mazlee
Published: April 2019

This paper presents the results of a laboratory study on the properties of Ternary Blended Cement (TBC) containing blends of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), Metakaolin (MK) and Fly Ash (FA). Analyses on the cementitious properties and engineering concrete properties containing TBC produced have been performed. The resulted was than compared with those of OPC and binary blended cementitious (BBC) systems containing OPC:MK and OPC:FA. In general, the results show that the inclusion of MK and FA in TBC alter the properties and performance of the cement paste and concrete to a certain degree as well as the resulting the TBC could potentially be used in the concrete construction industry.
Fatigue Life Monitoring Program of RMAF MiG-29
Authors: Kuntjoro Wahyu , Bahari Ibrahim , Ujang Abdul Ghani , Mohd Mydin Assanah
Published: April 2019

The Royal Malaysian Airforce (RMAF) operates one squadron of MiG-29 which were designed on Safe Life principle. RMAF conducts a fatigue life monitoring program to these airplanes. This activity is conducted based on the experience of having the fatigue life monitoring program to the RMAF F/A-18D. The fatigue life of RMAF MiG-29 is based on the wing-fuselage lug joint structure, and Low Cycle Fatigue (LCF) approach is adopted. The stress spectra of this component, is derived through mapping of g-spectra to the 1-g stress level of the lug. The g-history is obtained from the accelerator installed in the airplane, while the 1-g stress level is obtained by finite element modeling of the wing structure and lug joints. Rainflow cycle counting procedure was then applied. The fatigue characteristics (strain-life) of the lug material was obtained from the laboratory test, using the lug material sample, combined with the empirical formula of strain-life diagram. Notched effect is taken into account using Neuber theory. Mean stress effect is dealt with using Smith-Watson-Topper formula. Miner’s rule is used to calculate the fatigue damage accumulation. A fatigue life prediction software for RMAF MiG-29 which incorporates the above concepts had been developed. Currently, this software is operational with the RMAF MiG-29, and is being used as part of its Aircraft Structural Integrity Program (ASIP). This paper reports on the development of the fatigue life monitoring strategy and software for the RMAF MiG-29.
Assessment of Soil Dispersibility Behaviour In-Relation to Soil Internal Erosion Resistance
Authors: Ismail Fauzilah , Mukri Mazidah , Mohamed Zainab
Published: April 2019

A study was conducted to assess soil dispersibility behaviour in-relation to soil internal erosion resistance. Dispersive soils can be a problem for many geotechnical projects and structures. Water flowing in a crack of earth dam or infiltration of rainwater through the crack of slope surface with enough erosion energy can detach the soil particles into suspension and transport it along the movement that will lead to internal erosion process. Soil samples from sloping area within UiTM Shah Alam Campus were collected and a laboratory study was carried out to assess the soil dispersibility behaviour. A laboratory pinhole test and crumb test were conducted to identify soils which are easily dispersed hence susceptible to internal erosion. Indication of the removal of soil particles during testing is a factor in assessing the possibility of internal erosion. Fine-grained soils are known to have low resistance to erosion however laboratory result shows that soils fraction with high coarse-grained percentage has high dispersibility grade that lead to lower internal soil erosion resistance whereas the high moisture content percentage would enhance the dispersibility characteristic of the soils performance.
Renewable energy from biogas generated by sewage sludge – relationship between sludge volume and power generated
Authors: Ramli Suzana , Mohd Baki Aminuddin , Ayub Muhamad Azmi , Abdul Talib Suhaimi , Mohd Tajuddin Ramlah , Atan Ismail , Jaafar Jurina , Abdullah Nur Aziafwani
Published: April 2019

Biogas is a product of decomposition of organic matter during the process of anaerobic digestion (AD). The main components are methane and carbon dioxide. The methane content in the biogas enables it to be used as fuel which can be converted to heat and electricity. The biogas generated by the anaerobic digesters has the potential to be redirected from the flaring facilities to renewable energy (RE) facilities. The biogas may then be used to generate electricity, which in turn can operate the sewage treatment plant (STP) itself. However, feedbacks from the sewerage industry indicated that heavy investments are needed for any RE initiatives on biogas generated by sewage sludge. In order to find the cost effective way of generating energy from biogas, fundamental relationships are necessary to enable development of prototype in the future. Thus, this paper presents a study to establish the relationship between the volume of sludge and the amount of power and energy that can be generated.
Temperature Effects on Stripping Performance of Superpave Design Mix
Authors: Shaffie Ekarizan , Ahmad Juraidah , Abdul Rahman Mohd Yusof
Published: April 2019

Climatic factor such as temperature and moisture has profound effect on the durability of hot mix asphalt pavements. Couple with high traffic loads/stresses made stripping of pavement materials inevitable. Thus, it has become necessary to improve the efficiency of the design of hot mix asphalt (HMA) for better performance and safe riding comfort. This study investigates and discusses the findings on the stripping performance of dense graded Superpave mixes using two types of binder, Penetration Grade (PEN) 80-100 (unmodified) and PEN 80-100 with rubber-polymer (modified binder). The HMA preparation follows the Superpave mix design AASHTO TP4 procedures. The optimum percentage of rubber crumb and Ethylene-Vinyl-Acetate (EVA) polymer was selected based on the previous research. Indirect tensile resilient modulus test was used to evaluate the stripping performance in both unmodified and rubber-polymer modified mixes. This study also documents the effect of different temperatures on tensile strength ratio (TSR) and resilient modulus ratio (RMR) on the HMA mixtures. Statistical analysis performed indicates that rubber-polymer modified binder mix (RPMM) significantly improved the resistance of the HMA mix to moisture damage compared to unmodified mix (UnM).
Mechanical Properties of Rice Husk Ash as a Mineral Addition in Concrete
Authors: Kamaruddin Kartini , Mohd Saman Hamidah
Published: April 2019

It is shown that some of the wastes have properties that would improve the quality of concrete produced. One such waste is agricultural waste rice husk, which constitutes about one-fifth of 600 million tones of rice produced annually in the world. The performance of RHA concrete was found to be varied among those of researchers and most of the studies encompassed for the utilisation of high grade concrete. This paper reported the investigation carried out on the mechanical properties of normal strength concrete of grade 30 N/mm2 with various partial replacement level of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with Rice Husk Ash (RHA). Two(2) batches of same grade of concrete with and without use of superplasticiser (Sp) were adopted. The mechanical properties evaluated are in terms of compressive strength, flexural strength and tensile splitting strength of RHA concrete with and without superplasticiser (Sp). The results show that the optimum replacement level of RHA was 20 % and with the addition of Sp the replacement of RHA was taken as 40 %. However, the results of the study show that the performance in term of flexural strength and tensile splitting strength does not significantly improved with the replacement of cement with RHA.
Arbitration in Construction Industry in Malaysia
Authors: Bakhary Nor Azmi , Othman Azmi
Published: April 2019

Disputes in construction industry are normal and sometimes cannot be avoided. Disputes arise from the interpretation and/or application of any part of building or engineering contract documents that are ambiguous, unplanned and conflicting at any time during the execution of the contract. There are many methods/techniques have been introduced in order to resolve the disputes and arbitration is one of the popular recommended method. This study examines the concept of arbitration and its acceptance by the Malaysia construction industry. Questionnaires have been sent to the selected contractors to collect information, data and views regarding to arbitration process, procedures and award. The survey reveals that arbitration still fails to impress Malaysian contractors. Lengthy time and high expenses are the common reasons given. Improvement must be made in order to improve the efficiency and the effectiveness of arbitration. New techniques of dispute resolution can be introduced by taking into account the problems existing in the recent techniques available and come out with better techniques that can guaranty satisfaction to the users.
Performance Evaluation of AODV, DSR and DYMO Routing Protocol in MANET
Authors: Abdul Aziz Siti Rahayu , Endut Nor Adora , Abdullah Shapina , Mior Daud Mior Norazman
Published: April 2019

A mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) is a kind of wireless ad-hoc network, and is a self-configuring network of mobile routers connected wirelessly. MANET may operate in a standalone fashion, or may be connected to the larger Internet. Many routing protocols have been developed for MANETs over the past few years. This project evaluated three specific MANET routing protocols which are Ad-hoc On-demand Distance Vector (AODV), Dynamic Source Routing (DSR) and Dynamic MANET On-demand routing protocol (DYMO) to better understand the major characteristics of these routing protocols. Different performance aspects were investigated in this project including; packet delivery ratio, routing overhead, throughput and average end-to-end delay. This project used Linux as an operating system based platform and discrete event simulator NS-2 as simulation software to compare the three MANET routing protocols. This project’s results indicated that all routing protocols perform well according to the performance metrics that have been selected. For packet delivery ratio metric, performance of AODV, DSR and DYMO routing protocols are quite similar to each other. The DSR performance is better compared to AODV and DYMO and has stable normalized routing overhead. In terms of throughput, DYMO routing protocol performs the best as compared to AODV and DSR. Finally, for average end to end delay, DYMO and AODV perform well in comparison with DSR.
PERAN FORUM MEDIASI DALAM MEMINIMALISIR KONFLIK DI KALIMANTAN BARAT
Authors: Irfani Amalia
Published: April 2019

Kalimantan Barat merupakan satu dari sedikit provinsi di Indonesia yang memiliki historis panjang berkaitan dengan ketidaharmonisan etnis. Meminimalisir konflik tidak hanya dilakukan oleh pemerintah, tetapi juga oleh Lembaga, Forum non formal yang berdiri atas prakarsa masyarakat atau individu. Forum Mediasi adalah salah satunya. Berdiri kerena keprihatinan Konflik Komunal yang selalu terjadi berulang. Tulisan ini mengkaji sedikit tentang peran Forum Mediasi dalam menangani konflik di Kalimantan Barat.
Evaluación de la fuerza relativa de las extremidades superiores con la plataforma de Bosco
Authors: Márquez García FJ
Published: April 2019

El propósito del estudio fue comprobar si la Plataforma de contacto Ergojump, utilizada para medir la capacidad de impulsión de las extremidades inferiores a través de saltos, era válida  para hacerlo sobre las extremidades superiores realizando desde tumbado prono una extensión de codos partiendo de la posición clásica de flexo-extensión de brazos y antebrazos de 90 grados. Se realizó un estudio de correlación entre los registros de la  plataforma (Φ=1) y un electromiógrafo. También se ha realizado análisis de la fiabilidad (e) experimental de los distintos planes de medida que conformaban las distintas variables de estudio, obteniendo óptimos resultados.
Efectos del desentrenamiento sobre los valores antropométricos en jóvenes futbolistas
Authors: Schneider Tirado JL , Fenoll JF
Published: April 2019

El desentrenamiento ha sido definido (Mújika et al., 2001a) como pérdida parcial o completa de las adaptaciones fisiológicas, anatómicas y del rendimiento conseguido con el entrenamiento y como una consecuencia de la reducción o suspensión del proceso de entrenamiento. Con este estudio pretendemos evaluar la influencia del desentrenamiento sobre las variables antropométricas en jóvenes futbolistas (13-15 años). Los resultados nos muestran que las variables antropométricas son una herramienta exacta evaluable en futbolistas en formación
Evolución de la preparación física en el fútbol
Authors: Aragüez Martín G , Latorre Muela JM , Martín Recio F , Montoro Escaño J , Montoro Escaño FA , Diéguez Gisbert MJ , Mosquera Gamero, A
Published: April 2019

En el ámbito del deporte, ha venido siendo demostrado, que uno de los factores más importantes para que el deportista pueda rendir en las mejores condiciones es el de tener una buena preparación física. Independientemente del perfeccionamiento técnico, apoyo médico, nutrición, nuevos materiales, etc. la preparación física ha experimentado en los últimos años una evolución extraordinaria, tanto en cantidad como en calidad. En las últimas décadas las ciencias del deporte han evolucionado enormemente, producto de ello son los avances aparecidos en la preparación física en el fútbol a todos sus niveles. En este artículo se analizan las principales tendencias que históricamente han venido empleándose para la mejora de las diferentes cualidades físicas que implican la práctica de este deporte, con el objetivo de alcanzar el mejor rendimiento posible.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Properties of Intercalated Kaolinite Nanoclays: Intercalation and Biocompatibility
Authors: Yilmaz B. , Irmak E. T. , Turhan Y. , Doğan S. , Doğan M. , Turhan O.
Published: April 2019

The aims of the present study were to synthesize the intercalated kaolinite samples with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), glutamic acid (GA), succinimide (SIM), cetylpyridiniumchloride (CPC), and hexadecyltrimethylammoniumchloride (HDTMA+); to characterize by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR), and to determine the hemocompatibility and the cytotoxic effects of the intercalated kaolinite nanoclays on human lymphocytes. It was found that the intercalation with DMSO did not cause any decrease in cell viability until its maximum concentration (500 µg/mL), however, the intercalation with SIM, CPC, and (HDTMA+) causd important decreases in lymphocyte viabilities. It was determined that no significant decrease was observed in protein content of the lymphocyte cells exposed to the kaolinite nanoclays except the ones intercalated with SIM. Furthermore, the pristine kaolinite nanoclays which were intercalated with DMSO, GA, and SIM exhibited high hemocompatibility and the nanoclays intercalated with CPC and (HDTMA+) were highly hemocompatibile for the amounts below 125 and 500 µg/mL, respectively. All the results of this work can serve for the human risk assesment of intercalated nanoclays.
Selected Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Eggs Laid by Hens Fed Diets with Different Levels of Hybrid Rye
Authors: Węsierska Ewelina , Niemczyńska Katarzyna , Pasternak Małgorzata , Arczewska-Włosek Anna
Published: April 2019

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of different levels of dietary hybrid rye on eggs laid by Isa Brown laying hens and their quality, such as physical parameters, nutritional value (basic chemical composition, cholesterol content, fatty acid profile) as well as safety (microbiological purity). A total of 72 Isa Brown hens aged 26 weeks were allocated to 3 groups fed with 0%, 15% and 25% levels of hybrid rye in their diet up to week 50. At week 50, 72 eggs per group were collected for analysis. The 25% rye level had no significant effect on most of the examined physical parameters; however, a tendency to heavier eggs in this group was noted. An increased rye level resulted in lighter yolks with a lowered share of redness and yellowness compared to those obtained from hens fed a control diet. The administration of 25% of rye in the diet influenced the basic chemical composition of the yolks by increasing the water content and reducing the fat content, but with no significant effect on the contents of ash, chlorides and cholesterol. The sum of saturated fatty acids in yolks decreased along with the increase in dietary rye level while the sum of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids increased. Moreover, a lowered ratio of ω-6: ω-3 fatty acids was found with dietary rye level increases.
Considerations Regarding Anodontia in Dental Medical Practice
Authors: Dona Iordan Dumitru Andreea , Andrei Kozma , Cristina Bodnar , Doriana Agop-Forna
Published: April 2019

Aim: This article is set on presenting various types of anodontia, the most frequent types found in a dental office and to bring awareness to parents and also the dentists on the signs of agenesis and its consequences in time. Material and method: for a year (1st September 2017 – 31th August 2018) various patients with different types and locations of anodontia were diagnosed correctly by an oral and radiological exam in a dental office. Results. Anodontia is found almost equally in both sexes without major differences between males and females. Real agenesis is most frequently found in the second premolars – study reports show that this is because of phylogenetic evolution. False agenesis is more frequent in the 3rd molars because they are most likely extracted. Third molars are usually extracted because they don’t have space to emerge on the maxilla or mandible or they emerge in a vicious position. Canine agenesis has a very low frequency. Conclusions: It is very important to do a thorough check-up and a correct case history followed by radiological investigations each time a suspicion of a possible anodontia exists. It can only be certainly diagnosed by having a full oral and radiological exam. Also a difference must be made between the real, false and pseudoanaodontia.
QSAR studies on imidazoles and sulfonamides as antidiabetic agents
Authors: Ravichandran Veerasamy , Harish Rajak
Published: April 2019

The main objective of the present study was to establish significant and validated QSAR models for imidazoles and sulfonamides to explore the relationship between their physicochemical properties and antidiabetic activity. Two dimensional QSAR models had been developed by multiple linear regression and partial least square analysis methods, and then validated for internal and external predictions. The established 2D QSAR models were statistically significant and highly predictive. The validation methods provided significant statistical parameters with q2 > 0.5 and pred_r2 > 0.6, which proved the predictive power of the models. The developed 2D QSAR models revealed the significance of SlogP and T_N_O_5, and Mol.Wt and SsBrE-index properties of imidazoles and sulfonamides on their antidiabetic activity, respectively. These results should prove to be an essential guide for the further design and development of new imidazoles and sulfonamides having better antidiabetic activity.
Development of The Experimental Stand With Centrally Located Specimen For The Investigation of Heat and Moisture Phenomena in Porous Building Materials
Authors: Cieślikiewicz Łukasz , Wasik Michał , Kubiś Michał , Łapka Piotr , Bugaj Marcin , Pietrak Karol , Wiśniewski Tomasz S. , Furmański Piotr , Seredyński Mirosław
Published: April 2019

The paper presents development of an experimental stand with centrally located specimen for the investigation of heating and drying processes in porous building materials. Additionally, the paper contains preliminary results of measurements which test and verify the assumed operation conditions of the stand. In order to control parameters of air which was used to heat and dry the specimen, the stand was operating in a closed loop and was equipped with several elements, i.e., the cooler (humidity condenser), fan with variable rotation speed, humidifier and heater. Moreover, the stand consisted of two square and parallel ducts with air streams which had identical parameters. This allowed for two measurements at the same time.
Public Amenities in Rural Suburban Settlements in Bratislava’s Hinterland
Authors: Sopirová Alžbeta , Bradová Ivana
Published: April 2019

The present paper examines selected urbanistic parameters of public amenities in rural residential areas in the suburban hinterland of Bratislava, which has undergone a rapid development in the past 20 years. In an overall perception of a residential area in terms of its attractivity and vitality, the location, type, structural and technical condition of buildings have a significant influence, together with related public spaces that are indicative of the place’s continuity of development, identity, specificity and standard of living. A quantitative comparison of public amenities presents the differences between selected municipalities on the Danube development axis and their causal relationships. This paper suggests the minimum standards of public amenities necessary for a positive identification with a residential area on both the locals’ and the visitors’ part.
Investment Strategies that Beat the Market. What Can We Squeeze from the Market?
Authors: Ślepaczuk Robert , Sakowski Paweł , Zakrzewski Grzegorz
Published: April 2019

The paper presents a new approach to optimizing automatic transactional systems. We propose a multi-stage technique which enables us to find investment strategies beating the market. Additionally, new measures of combined risk and returns are applied in the process of optimization. Moreover, we define new elements of a risk control system based on volatility measures and consecutive signal confirmation. As a result, we formulate three complex investment systems which maximize returns and simultaneously minimize risk in comparison to all other alternative investments (IR=2, Maximum Drawdown<21%, Maximum Loss Duration=0.75 year). Our analysis is based on historical daily data (1998-2010, in- and out-of-sample period) for index and commodity futures. Afterwards, the systems are reoptimized and reallocated each half a year in order to include the most recent financial data. Finally, we show the results for a joint model consisting of our three systems.
Evaluation of a canine transmissible venereal tumour cell line with tumour immunity capacity but without tumorigenic property
Authors: Zayas Yareellys Ramos , Molina Moisés Armides Franco , Guerra Reyes Tamez , Padilla Cristina Rodríguez
Published: April 2019

Introduction: Canine transmissible venereal tumour (CTVT) is a sexually transmitted tumour affecting dogs worldwide, imposing a financial burden on dog owners. A stable culture cell line in continuous passages for >18 months has only been achieved once. The present study investigated a stable CTVT cell line isolated from a bitch and its potential as a vaccine. Material and Methods: A biopsy from a 2-year-old mongrel bitch with CTVT was obtained for histopathological confirmation and isolation of tumour cells. The isolated cells were cultured to passage 55 and characterised by flow cytometry, with karyotyping by GTG-banding and by PCR detection of myc S-2 and LINE AS1. The isolated CTVT cell line was also used as a preventive vaccine in a canine model. Results: Histopathological analysis of the isolated tumour cells revealed typical CTVT characteristics. Constant proliferation and stable morphological characteristics were observed during culture. Phenotypic analysis determined the expression of HLA-DR+, CD5.1+, CD14+, CD45+, CD83+, CD163+, and Ly-6G-Ly-6C+. GTG-banding revealed a mean of 57 chromosomes in the karyotype with several complex chromosomal rearrangements. LINE-c-myc insertion in the isolated CTVT cell line at 550 bp was not detected. However, a 340-bp band was amplified. Isolated CTVT cell line inoculation at a concentration of 1×108 did not induce tumour growth in bitches, nor did a challenge with primary CTVT cells. Conclusion: The present study successfully identified and isolated a stable CTVT cell line that may be useful in CTVT prevention.