bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fastener Classification Using One-Shot Learning with Siamese Convolution Networks
Authors: Tastimur Canan , Akin Erhan
Published: January 2022

Deep Learning has been widely used in image-based applications such as object classification, object detection, and object recognition in recent years. Classifying highly similar objects is a very difficult problem. It is difficult to classify datasets in this situation where object similarity between classes and differences between classes are high. In this study, Siamese Convolution Neural Network, which is a similarity measurement-based network, has been practiced to classify 6 types of screws, 5 types of nuts, and 7 types of bolts that are very similar to each other. In addition, this neural network formed with the One-Shot Learning technique is trained. Thanks to the OSL technique, there is no need to use large data sets. Also, there is no need to use large amounts of data from each class. Adding a new class to be classified is also made easier by the use of the OSL technique. The performance results of the proposed method are manifested in detail in the article.
« Mort pour la France »
Authors: Collin Camille , Richter Friederike
Published: January 2022

Dans cet article nous analysons les transformations du rôle de l’État dans la prise en charge des corps des soldats « Morts pour la France ». Plus particulièrement, nous examinons le changement de l’action publique depuis le xx e  siècle, dont la systématisation du rapatriement, l’adaptation des modalités d’inhumation et la célébration individualisée des soldats. Le cas des morts pour la France apparaît ici imprégné des principes qui guident les politiques publiques sur tous les « restes humains », que ceux-ci soient civils ou militaires. Nous insistons cependant sur le fait que les restes humains doivent être compris comme partie prenante de la transformation de l’action étatique, car ils témoignent de la violence des conflits et imposent à l’État de s’en accommoder.
Le design social, est-ce un champignon Le concept d’agencement polyphonique d’Anna Lowenhaupt Tsing pour penser la transition écologique par le design
Authors: Hamarat Yaprak
Published: January 2022

Les champignons sont des êtres intimement liés aux autres êtres qui les font apparaître et qui les entourent. En s’appuyant sur ces êtres ni végétaux ni animaux, et particulièrement sur la marchandisation des matsutakes, les concepts d’agencement polyphonique et de contamination développés par Anna Lowenhaupt Tsing montrent que la force écologique d’un système nait à travers la vulnérabilité des entités qui la composent. L’approche méthodologique et conceptuelle de Tsing résonne particulièrement avec celles du design social et permet de poser un regard original sur le design dans le contexte de la transition écologique. Le design prend soin quand il crée les conditions et les agencements propices à l’établissement d’échanges diversifiés et évolutifs dans le temps entre les humains et les non-humains. L’innovation écologique qu’habite le projet du design social réside dans sa capacité à créer des ensembles riches d’éléments précaires collaboratifs, à l’inverse de la figure de l’autonomie tant mise en valeur dans la vie contemporaine.
Boundary Crossing for Education Continuity: Exploring WhatsApp’s Potential in Botswana During and Beyond the Pandemic
Authors: Lyken-Segosebe Dawn , Gamariel Gladys , Bagai Kelebonye
Published: January 2022

Based on a conceptualization of WhatsApp as a boundary object that permits educational institutions to cross over from in-school teaching to out-of-school teaching, this study investigated the viability of WhatsApp as a mobile learning (m-Learning) technology tool for the continuity of teaching and learning in Botswana during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing a narrative review of the literature, we found that WhatsApp’s viability is supported by Botswana’s high mobile phone penetration rate, the extensive coverage of the country’s mobile broadband network, reduced domestic internet prices and research findings of WhatsApp’s technological, educational and academic advantages elsewhere. However, teachers require training to develop relevant technological and pedagogical competences. WhatsApp’s viability also requires inclusive access for all children including those from rural poor families and living with disabilities, and the protection of children learning online from mobile phone dependency and exposure to potentially harmful content and abuse.
Application of Augmented Reality Technology to Access Facial Sunscreen Product Label Information
Authors: Uiphanit Thanakorn , Chutosri Thatsanan , Liangyoo Pongpisid , Wattanaprapa Natcha , Kingsuwankul Pongsakorn , Bunchongkien Wannarat , Chiewchan Phachaya
Published: January 2022

The goals of this study were to 1) examine the behaviors and demands of users who purchased face sunscreens online, and 2) build augmented reality technology for use in the present, 3) to determine the acceptance and satisfactory after using augmented reality technology to provide facial sunscreen data. This study included a sample group of 30 adults who purchased sunscreen for their faces. The results revealed that it had the highest average system use. Users are concerned with the clarity of the content presented on the screen, as well as the convenience and accessibility with which they may utilize the system. Because of the small size of the product labels on the package, they are difficult to read. Furthermore, consumers have expressed an interest in using the application. Because the use of AR technology to present information in a format that gives users a new experience and feel that they can easily access it. However, there may be constraints in terms of processing time and the display of data details while the data is processed. As a result, the system's performance is the worst of the bunch.
La Traduction
Authors: Moore Lisa
Published: January 2022

La Traduction, autofiction de l’écrivaine canadienne Lisa Moore, décrit l’expérience de dédoublement et de mise en danger de l’identité, offerte au risque de l’autre, que constitue la création artistique doublée de l’expérience de la traduction. Par le biais de la fiction, l’œuvre explore la relation complexe entre autrice et traductrice, dans un récit à la tonalité discrètement fantastique.
Equipping Higher Education Students with Digital Skills for the Post-Pandemic World
Authors: Günay Aslı
Published: January 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a digital transformation in global higher education because universities were forced to close, and higher education students faced interrupted education processes. Currently, online learning in higher education is a new phenomenon, and the pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital skills for higher education students for both new distance teaching and learning methods and the new labor market. The longer universities remain closed, the more higher education students will lose their future, resulting in a permanent loss of digital skills for the post-pandemic world. Accordingly, this study presents the current situation of higher education students relative to the pre-pandemic period and offers recommendations about the importance of equipping them with digital skills. In this context, this study overviews the level of digital skills of higher education students by synthesizing and comparing current data from reliable international institutions and provides an overall assessment.
Skills, Practices, and Emotions for Teaching in Times of Pandemic
Authors: Vergara Gabriela , Macia Constanza Faracce
Published: January 2022

This chapter describes how Argentine teachers at the pre-school, primary, and secondary levels adapted to emergency distance education during the Preventive and Compulsory Social Isolation (ASPO) that was established in Argentina due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. From an exploitative-descriptive strategy, a non-probabilistic survey was carried out through an online questionnaire during June 2020, whose sample consisted of 411 cases. Among the results, it is highlighted that the teachers applied their knowledge and skills prior to the pandemic, but they also had to learn to use new resources to adapt to the educational conditions of the pandemic, which led to greater effort and difficulties for older teachers. In accordance with this, the predominance of joy and pride in the younger teachers indicates that they were more satisfied than the older ones. It is concluded that despite the fact that all teachers expressed having adapted, the older ones encountered greater difficulties and, consequently, had to resort to a greater diversity of adaptation strategies.
Design, Development, and Delivery of Global Learning Experiences
Authors: Baylen Danilo Madayag , Dequilla Asuncion Christine
Published: January 2022

This chapter describes the virtual team experience of participants from the United States and the Philippines. The virtual teams designed an online learning experience plan and developed and delivered an online module prototype to K-12 Filipino learners. The chapter discusses the challenges from the beginning to the end of the collaboration experience between the two groups. Finally, it discusses implications to practice for those planning to implement similar collaboration activities at a distance.
Next-Generation Teacher Competencies
Authors: Prakasha G. S.
Published: January 2022

The chapter examines next-generation teacher competencies based on a research study that involved a national level consultative workshop for teachers. Data was obtained from 120 workshop participants through crowd-sourcing data collection technique. As a part of qualitative data, focus group discussion (FGD) with 15 senior high-school teachers selected through snowball-sampling technique was also conducted. The study revealed a diagnostic competency balance scorecard to measure competency levels of teachers, proposed a competency development cycle, and suggested strategies to develop next-generation teacher competencies.
Comparative Study of Fe,N-TiO2 Photocatalysts under UV Light Irradiation
Authors: Malik Zaidi , Aida Ibrahim Siti , Ainun Rahmahwati Ainuddin , Hussin Rosniza , Zakiah Kamdi
Published: January 2022

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) has been acknowledged as a promising photocatalyst in environmental remediation including wastewater treatment. In this study, TiO2 nanoparticles co-doped with iron (Fe) and nitrogen (N) was synthesized via sol-gel method and subsequently followed by calcination process at 300 °C, 500 °C and 700 °C for 3 hours. The prime objective of this study is to investigate an effect of different calcination temperatures in enhancing the photocatalytic activity of synthesized TiO2 which was evaluated through the degradation of methyl orange (MO) dye. The structure and properties of the prepared samples were studied by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) and Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometer (UV-Vis). The results obtained from XRD showed the presence of anatase phase in all samples at 300 °C and 500 °C. Further increase of calcination temperature up to 700 °C, mixed-phase of anatase and rutile formed. XRD results also suggest that the addition of impurities has a great effect on the crystallinity and particle size of TiO2. The obvious agglomeration phenomena existed in the annealed samples with nanometer size, as observed in FESEM images. The photocatalytic performance under UV light shows that co-doped Fe, N-TiO2 at 500 °C indicated highest MO degraded of 96.5 % within 3 hours of irradiation time. From the current finding, Fe,N-TiO2 possessed the potential to be commercialized as a photocatalyst in wastewater remediation especially in treating dye pollution.
Comparative Study on the Wears of ZTA-TiO2-Cr2O3 Ceramic Cutting Tool and Commercial Ceramic Cutting Tool
Authors: Mudzaffar Raqibah Najwa , Manshor Hanisah , Azhar Ahmad Zahirani Ahmad , Rejab Nik Akmar , Ali Afifah
Published: January 2022

The ZTA-TiO2-Cr2O3 ceramic cutting tool is a new cutting tool that possesses good hardness and fracture toughness. Yet, the performance of the ZTA-TiO2-Cr2O3 cutting tool is still unknown and needs further study. In this research, the comparison of the ZTA-TiO2-Cr2O3 and Kennametal ceramic cutting tool is investigated. The turning process by using ZTA-TiO2-Cr2O3 and Kennametal commercial ceramic cutting tools is performed on the Bridgeport ROMI PowerPath CNC lathe machine. The parameters utilized are spindle speed in the range of 907 to 1543 rpm, feed rate from 0.08 to 0.22 mm/rev, and depth of cut of 0.2 mm. Analysis of the flank wear and crater wear were performed by using an optical microscope (NIKON MM-4001L), while the chipping area was observed by scanning electron microscopy, SEM (JEOL JSM-IT100). The surface roughness of the machined surface is measured via portable surface roughness (Mahr MarSurf M3000C). The comparison between the cutting tool produced in this research and the commercial cutting tool shows that the wear performance of the ZTA-TiO2-Cr2O3 ceramic cutting tool is lower than the Kennametal commercial ceramic cutting tool. Even though this newly fabricated cutting tool is far behind compared to the commercial cutting tool, it shows some promising aspects such as the ability to cut at a higher speed.
Electrical Properties and Raman Scattering of Palm Oil Based Carbon Nanotube
Authors: Suhaimi Nur Sabrina , Md Din Muhamad Faiz , Tan Chong Yin , Ishak Mohd Taufiq , Rahman Abdul Rashid Abdul , Wan Zambri Wan Fathul Hakim , Wang Jian Li
Published: January 2022

This paper studies the electrical efficiency of carbon nanotubes (CNT) with nanosized diameter inserted into palm-based oil at various concentrations (0, 0.0125, 0.025, 0.0375, 0.05, 0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 g/L). Dispersion methods, including sonication and drying process were systematically applied for producing stable CNT nanofluids. Several parameters such as electrical properties (AC breakdown voltage) and dielectric properties (dissipation factor, relative permittivity and resistivity) were measured accordingly based on IEC 60156 and IEC 60247 international standards. The test results reveal that the higher concentration of CNTs dispersed in palm oil, the lower AC breakdown voltages produced. At 0.5 g/L concentration, the average of 50 breakdown was 22.30 kV, which is 72.33% decrement compared to palm oil without any nanofiller. Besides, the permittivity and resistivity of CNT nanofluids decrease as concentrations increased, while dissipation factor increases along with CNT concentrations. In order to further support this indication, Raman analysis is measured to relate the behavior of AC breakdown voltages and chemical structure of CNT nanofluids. Based on the Raman spectra at 2800-3200 cm-1 region, it is shown that the value of total unsaturated fatty acid and total fatty acid decreased as concentrations of CNT increased. This occurrence directly influences the degradation performance of AC breakdown voltages.
Fabrication and Characterization of Nickel Oxide Nanofibers by Electrospinning Technique
Authors: Abidin Siti Salwa Zainal , Jian Low Yiin , Ying Kok Kuan , Muslimin Masliana , Saidin Nur Ubaidah , Zali Nurazila Mat
Published: January 2022

Nickel Oxide nanofibers were successfully prepared by electrospinning with a precursor mixture of Ni acetate/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), followed by calcination treatment of the electrospun composite nanofibers. The parameter of solution and effect of applied voltage to the morphology of nanofibers were studied. Both Ni acetate/PVP and NiO NFs, nanofibers were characterized by FESEM and XRD. The results found that the nanofibers form with smooth surface without beads and the calcination temperature was at 500°C to produce NiO nanofibers.
Influence of Electrophoretic Deposition (EPD) Voltage on SOFC Interconnect Morphology
Authors: Lowrance Yohannes Nyambong , Azmi Mohd Azham , Rahman Hamimah Abdul , Rahman Nurul Farhana Abdul , Zakaria Hanis , Hassan Suhaimi
Published: January 2022

Solid oxide fuel cell has become one of the interest in the sustainable energy field. In order to improve the efficiency of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), the interconnect must be coated with a protective coating of (MnCO)3O4 spinel coated stainless steel. Commercial manganese cobalt (MnCO)3O4 was used as a protective coating on ferritic stainless steel in this study using the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) coating technique. This article examines the impact of voltage deposition towards morphological characteristics. The goals of these studies are to find the best interconnect coating parameter while experimenting with voltage deposition. The spinel coated interconnect (MnCO)3O4 was studied using Elemental Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). The surface morphology and coating thickness are examined using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) is used to determine the phase of the spinel coated interconnect. The EPD coating technique for (MnCO)3O4 spinel coated interconnect is carried out in an aqueous suspension with 30V and 40V with coating durations of 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. By observing the deposition morphology and thickness coating at 30V and 40V, the best covering parameter for interconnect is 30V, 40s which fulfil the interconnect requirement.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on Hardness of Bioactive Glass/Cordierite
Authors: Fakhruddin Ahmad Kamil , Hasmaliza Mohamad
Published: January 2022

In this study, a composite of bioactive glass and cordierite (BG/cordierite) was proposed to increase the strength of bioactive glass (BG). Both BG and cordierite were separately synthesized with the method of glass melting and used to fabricate BG/cordierite with sintering temperature in the range from 600 to 1000 °C. The BG/cordierite were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), density, bulk density, porosity and hardness test. The XRD pattern shows amorphous phase and crystalline phase such as combeite, wollastonite and larnite appeared after sintering. The highest hardness value show by BG/cordierite with sintering temperature 950 °C (BG/C950) with 251 Hv.
Detection of Vibration Induced Fatigue Crack Propagation Using a Hybrid Method
Authors: Shamsudin Mohd Fairuz , Gan Tat Hean
Published: January 2022

This paper demonstrates a simple technique to detect vibration-induced fatigue cracks using a hybrid method by vibration and acoustic emission techniques. A thin aluminum plate of 6082-T6 was excited using a vibration shaker to achieve a bending mode where the maximum stress exhibited at the plate mid-span. To simulate crack formation, a sharp notch was created. This systematic setup allows mode I crack propagation through plate thickness. The development of cracks over time changed the natural frequency of the plate which leads to the reduction of vibration amplitudes. This experimental technique facilitates the identification of acoustic emission waves during the onset of damage in the presence of noise due to dynamic motion. The effect of crack development on Lamb waves was investigated. The acoustic emission signals were cross-correlated with a Gaussian window of a central frequency of 250kHz. The results show a reduction in the fundamental wave A0, whilst an increase in S0 wave amplitudes at some stages during crack extension. The current experimental work can be an alternative technique for vibration-induced fatigue test evaluation.
The Effect of Annealing Temperatures on the Phase Transition and Structural Properties of MnCoGe Compound
Authors: Rahman Abdul Rashid Abdul , Mohd Sabri Mohd Salman , Md Din Muhamad Faiz , Suhaimi Nur Sabrina , Wang Jian Li , Idris Nurul Hayati , Ismail Mohammad
Published: January 2022

In this work, the effect of different annealing treatments on the phase transition, structural behaviour and thermal analysis of MnCoGe alloys has been analysed. The changes in the transition temperatures have been studied by Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA). The results show that the structural transition temperature (Tstr) depends on the annealing treatment of the samples preparation. However, under the same heat treatment no significant change is observed on the curie temperature (Tc). The thermal analysis reveals endothermic peak which corresponds to the structural phase transition of the compounds. The microstructural evolution has been monitored using in-situ X-ray diffraction which made known this compound produce three type of structures which are hexagonal, orthorhombic and mix structure (hexagonal and orthorhombic).
Optimization Study of Malachite Green Dye Adsorption by Eggshell Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Hoo Hui Mun , Mohamad Mardawani , Wannahari Rizki , Masri Mohamad Najmi , Ter Teo Pao , Mohidem Nur Atikah
Published: January 2022

Batch adsorption studies for the removal of Malachite green (MG) dye using eggshell was performed. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was applied to investigate the effect of significant operating parameters on the uptake of the dye molecule. The aim of this study is to determine the potential of eggshell as adsorbent for MG removal and determine the optimum conditions for the adsorption process by using RSM with Central Composite Design (CCD). A 23 full factorial CCD was generated using Design Expert. The effects and interactions of different parameters were evaluated which are contact time (20-60 min), pH (4-8) and adsorbent dosage (0.5-2.0 g). A quadratic model was developed correlating the adsorption variables to the response (percentage of MG removal). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the significant factors on experimental design response. The predicted results obtained were found to be in good agreement (R2 = 0.9388) with the experimental results. The optimum percentage of MG removal was found to be 90.66% with the operating conditions of 40 minutes contact time, pH 6 and 1.25 g of adsorbent dosage. It was suggested that eggshell could be a potential adsorbent in removing MG from aqueous solution.
The Effect of Polyvinyl Alcohol Addition on the Solid Carbon Infusion in Zirconia-Toughened Alumina
Authors: Roshidan Nursamirah , Manshor Hanisah , Rozhan Alya Naili , Azhar Ahmad Zahirani Ahmad
Published: January 2022

This study examines the effect of adding various amount of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) from 1 wt. % to 5 wt. % as function to produce porosity of the microstructure on Zirconia-Toughened Alumina (ZTA). Porosity is required in this study which aims to increase the efficiency of carbon infiltration on the porous composite through chemical vapor infiltration (CVI). Moreover, carbon production from empty fruit bunch (EFB) was used as a reinforcement on ceramic composites in this system. The microstructure of samples was characterised by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The density shows the lowest at 2.864 g/cm3 when the percentage of binder is increased at 4wt.% of PVA without carbon infiltration but shows the highest density value which is 4.107 g/cm3 after carbon is infiltrated. Vickers hardness was used to identify the hardness of samples. It was found that ZTA composite with infiltrated carbon has better hardness (2053HV) with addition of 4wt.% of PVA. However, firing shrinkage showed no effect on the composite with or without carbon infiltration. The structure of crystalline carbon in composite was analyses by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Nevertheless, no peak for carbon is observed due to low carbon content and another alternative such as Raman spectroscopy was used to identify the presence of diffused carbon. Based on the result, carbon infiltration on composite will produce better physical and mechanical properties with the help of binders that produce pores for carbon to infiltrate.
UV Radiation Crosslinking of Acrylated Palm Olein (APO) Copolymer Resins for 3D Printing
Authors: Ibrahim Siti Nurul Syafika Sheikh , Wahit Mat Uzir , Talib Marina , Othman Norhayani , Shukri Nor Azwin , Hilmi Farah Fadzehah , Arshad Muhammad Amirul
Published: January 2022

Generally, only a few especially acrylic monomers have photoabsorption characteristics to allow for effective stereolithography (STL) to take place. Biomaterial product from palm oil, Acrylated Palm Olein (APO), is seen as an ideal alternative to petroleum-based polymers due the diminishing petrochemical supply and abundant of the natural polymer in the market. In this study, APO as a biopolymer is introduced to synthetic polymers Polyethylene Glycol Dimethylacrylate (PEGDMA) and Polyethylene Glycol Diacrylate (PEGDA), separately. All three polymers offer photoabsorption characteristics that enable them to be the resins for ultraviolet (UV) 3D printing. The crosslinking of both copolymers is optimized by comparing two different UV radiation techniques; UV cured machine and UV STL 3D printer. The degree of crosslinking for both APO-co-PEGDMA and APO-co-PEGDA through gel fraction analysis are studied and compared with their prepolymer resins. As predicted, the maximum degree of crosslinking of APO-co-PEGDMA and APO-co-PEGDA samples are achieved from the fabrication of samples by 3D printing and recorded at 67.50% and 59.50% respectively, comparing to the samples cured by UV cure machine, which recorded maximum crosslinking percentage at only 21.31%. Further analysis is done using swelling test to study water absorption capacities of copolymers and results shows that APO-co-PEGDMA able to retain water at maximum of 42.47% and APO-co-PEGDA at 52.02% from the 3D printed samples, and recorded lowest readings at 22.82% and 25.56% respectively. UV cured samples are recorded to have lowest readings at 3.89% for APO-co-PEGDMA, and 4.23% for APO-co-PEGDA. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy confirmed the successful crosslinked of the copolymers. Analysis of FTIR shows that there are presence of new peaks and shifting of peaks, indicating that APO is crosslinked with PEGDMA backbone as well as PEGDA backbone. These also suggest that both polymers are suitable to be incorporated with APO as new photopolymer resins, fabricated using UV radiation crosslinking, with PEGDMA shown a slightly better result. All results are agreeable with FTIR results.
Prediction and Optimization on Tribological Behaviour of Kenaf/Carbon Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Matrix Hybrid Composites
Authors: Badari Siti Norbahiyah Mohamad , Sariffudin Norshahida , Ali Afifah , Sharuhil Nurul Atikah Hamdan , Daud Farah Diana Mohd , Zaki Hafizah Hanim Mohd
Published: January 2022

The awareness on sustainability of the environment among the researchers leads to the exploration of natural fiber composite materials. Hybridization of synthetic fiber and natural fiber is one of the potential strategies to enhance the mechanical properties as well as the degradability of such composite materials. However, less information concerning the optimization of tribological properties of this hybrid composite is available in literature. The aim of this study is to propose a statistical model to predict and optimize wear and coefficient of friction of kenaf/carbon reinforced epoxy composite. The value of parameters; load and sliding velocity ranges from 10 to 30 N and 20.9 to 52.3 m/s, respectively, are used to assess wear and coefficient of friction (COF) of different stacking sequences using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The tribological test was conducted using a pin-on-disc tribometer. Multifactorial design analysis was employed to optimize the test control variables. It was found that, the optimized factors that affects the coefficient of friction and wear is at load 30 N and sliding velocity of 52.36 m/s. The proposed statistical models for wear and COF have 99.5% and 97.6% reliability, respectively. The generated equation models are bounded within the wear test control factors and ranges. The outcome from this study will be very useful for main parameter prediction for an optimized wear and COF.
A Study on the Catalytic Technology for Reduction of Naphthenic Acid Compound from Acidic Crude Oil
Authors: Mohd Shukri Nurasmat , Wan Abu Bakar Wan Azelee , Russman Muhammad Reezhuan , Wan Abdullah Wan Nazwanie
Published: January 2022

The existence of naphthenic acid (NA) in acidic crude oil tends to corrode the oil refinery equipment. In this study, a catalytic deacidification reaction involving the deacidifying agent and the synthesised catalyst was aimed to eliminate NA from acidic crude oil. Diethanolamine-polyethylene glycol (DEA-PEG) was introduced as a deacidifying agent. The wet impregnation method was applied for synthesizing the calcium oxide catalyst doped by copper supported on alumina (Cu/Ca/Al2O3). The potential catalyst was characterised utilising field emission scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (FESEM-EDX), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD). The parameters include deacidifying agent dosing, loading dopant ratio and catalyst calcination temperature were performed to enhance the catalytic deacidification process in this study. Data showed that the total acidic number (TAN) value for crude B met the PETRONAS requirement for the TAN value below one using 1500 mg/L of DEA-PEG assisted by Cu/Ca (10:90)/Al2O3 catalyst.
Preliminary Study on the Bioactivity Properties of Cordierite/β-Wollastonite Biocomposite Ceramics
Authors: Ismail Hamisah , Mohamad Hasmaliza
Published: January 2022

The bioactivity properties of pure cordierite (C), pure β-wollastonite (W), and cordierite/β-wollastonite (CW) biocomposite ceramics were studied. Cordierite was prepared via melting, while β-wollastonite was prepared via the wet milling method. A bioactivity test showed that hydroxyapatite (HA) was non-existent in the pure cordierite sample after seven days of being soaked in simulated body fluid (SBF). On the other hand, the cordierite/β-wollastonite bioceramics showed that HA formation has entirely covered the surface of these samples. The XRD patterns showed that the crystallinity of W and CW samples has decreased due to the amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) formation after seven days of soaking. SEM tests revealed that more ACP microstructures were present in cordierite/β-wollastonite samples than those in pure β-wollastonite. The effect of cordierite and β-wollastonite in biocomposite ceramics is described in this paper.
Interfacial Reaction between SAC3807 Lead-Free Solders and Different Copper Substrate via Reflow Soldering Process
Authors: Fauzi Muhamad Razizy , Amiruddin Nurul Amira , Osman Saliza Azlina , Anuar Rabiatul Adawiyah Mohamed , Hashim Muhamad Syafiq
Published: January 2022

The different composition material of copper substrate significantly affects the intermetallic compound (IMC) formation and the solder joints durability. This study was conducted on the interfacial reaction between lead-free solder and the different copper substrates via reflow soldering. The selected substrate is copper (Cu) and copper-beryllium (Cu-Be). The lead-free solder involved is Sn-3.8Ag-0.7Cu (SAC3807) solder ball with a diameter of 700 μm. All the samples were subjected to the isothermal aging process. The material characterization and analysis on the IMC formation were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscope (OM), and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). After the reflow process, the result revealed that Cu3Sn, Cu6Sn5 IMC layer formed at SAC3870/Cu and SAC3870/Cu-Be interface. The changes to a rod-like shape Cu6Sn5 and irregular needle-shaped Cu3Sn4 occur after the aging treatment on SAC3870/ Cu. Meanwhile, the IMC layer for SAC3870/Cu-Be shows a rod-like shape transformed into a blocky-like shape Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn4 diamond-shape. This result indicates that Ag3Sn nanosized was formed on the intermetallic surface during the aging process for both SAC3807/Cu and SAC3807/Cu-Be. The Ag3Sn nanosized element at SAC3807/Cu-Be is many compared to SAC3807/Cu. In addition, IMC thickness for SAC3807/Cu-Be shows a thicker layer than SAC3807/Cu. Lastly, in this research, the element of Be in SAC3807/Cu-Be cannot be defined because the beryllium element is not easily detected as the percentage was very low.
Phase Transformation of FGD By-Product into Plaster Mould via Heat Treatment Process
Authors: Othman Fatin Fatini , Johar Banjuraizah , Khor Shing Fhan , Rejab Nik Akmar , Alias Suffi Irni
Published: January 2022

Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) is a waste incineration process commonly used to eliminate sulfur dioxide (SO2) from flue gas power plants. FGD by-product recorded a rich gypsum content, also known as calcium sulfate dehydrate (CaSO4•2H2O), which has promising practical applications in plaster mould production. Plaster of Paris (POP) with a chemical composition of calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO4•0.5H2O) is widely used in plaster mould production because of its quick setting and hardening upon moistened. Naturally, gypsum with 2 molecules of crystalline water can change to 1.5 molecules via the dehydration process. Various dehydration methods were conducted to transform FGD gypsum to hemihydrate. After undergoing different autoclave processes, the phase transition of FGD by-products was identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) mode and compared with commercial POP. Chemical composition of FGD sludge contains a high amount of calcium oxide (CaO), sulfur trioxide (SO3) and boron trioxide (B2O3), as well as other impurities such as fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), and magnesium oxide (MgO). Based on phase analysis, sample H1 to H5 show the percentage of hemihdyrate is 1.5%, 19.7%, 2.8%, 1.2%, and 46.1%, respectively, after different dehydration methods.
X-Ray Reflectivity Analysis in Evaluating Multilayer Thin Film Fabrication
Authors: Samsudin Nur Nabilah , Omar Muhammad Firdaus , Rudin Nor Shahira Md
Published: January 2022

X-ray reflectivity technique is applied in evaluation of deposition of multilayer thin film fabrication process. Amorphous silicon carlbide (SiC) and carbon (rGO) was deposited alternatively on a glass substrate. Via X-ray reflectivity, every layer deposited can be analyzed, thus every flaws in defected layer can be figure out. This paper will explain further throughout the evaluation process. Deposition process carried out by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering of 99% purity of silicon carbide (SiC) and carbon (C) as a target. Implementation of X-ray reflectivity technique had proven in fabricating better quality of thin film.
Chronic pancreatitis - an update
Authors: Gobishangar S.
Published: January 2022

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a progressive inflammatory process that causes irreversible damage to the pancreas due to fibrosis and scarring. The incidence of CP varies among regions. Alcohol consumption and smoking are the main aetiologicalfactors of CP. In addition, autoimmune diseases, hereditary and genetic factors, and tropical CP also contribute to this condition. Though no single mechanism has been shown to initiate CP pathogenesis, this disease ultimately results in fibrosis, scarring, and insufficiency in the pancreas. Chronic upper abdominal pain, steatorrhea, malnutrition, and diabetes mellitus are the main clinical features of CP. Detecting this disease at an early stage is difficult unless it is explicitly checked for due to strong suspicions. Nevertheless, pancreatic function tests, imaging, and endoscopy are used to diagnose CP . Pain management, exocrine supplementation, diabetic management, and endoscopic or surgical drainage and resection procedures are essential for managing CP. Early surgical intervention can improve the remaining pancreatic reserve, delay pancreatic failure, and improve the quality of life of patients with this disease.
Spectrum of haematological neoplasms at a tertiary care hospital in Northern Province, Sri Lanka
Authors: Kumarasiri T. , Kumar R. , Sooriyakumar T.
Published: January 2022

Haematological neoplasms comprise a collection of heterogeneous neoplastic conditions that arise from cells of the bone marrow and lymphoid system. This study describes the pattern and distribution of haematological neoplasms at a tertiary hospital inNorthernProvince,Sri Lanka. A descriptive retrospective audit was conducted ofall haematological neoplasms diagnosed by bone marrow and peripheral blood examination. A total of 435 haematological neoplasms were diagnosed and reported during the 4-year period. Acute myeloid leukaemia was the commonest haematological neoplasm, followed by plasma cell neoplasmmyelodysplastic syndrome acute lymphoblastic leukaemia chronic myeloid leukaemia and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Male predominance was seen in most haematological neoplasms, compatible with local, regional, and global data. Female predilection was noted in essential thrombocythaemia, matching global trends, andinmyelodysplastic syndrome, incontrast to global data. Acute myeloid leukaemia is the most common haematological neoplasm.
Marchiafava- Bignami disease (MBD): A rare case report
Authors: Sharmika S. , Nalayini J. , Peranantharajah T. , Ajantha K.
Published: January 2022

Marchiafava-Bignami disease (MBD) is a rare neuro degenerative disease characterized by demyelination of corpus callosum. Clinical diagnosis of MBD is challenging due to its nonspecific neurological manifestations. It’s promptly diagnosed by brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Prompt treatment with high dose thiamine could be lifesaving. Here we report a 68 year old male with chronic alcoholism who was diagnosed to have MBD and successfully treated with high doses of intravenous thiamine administration.
Retracted : A case of chronic diarrhea due to Strongyloides stercoralis in an immunocompromised patient
Authors: Karunatilaka K. M. A. G. , Hewageegana H. T. N. , Perera W. N. Y.
Published: January 2022

Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil-transmitted nematode endemic throughout tropical and subtropical regions. Although most of the healthy infected individuals are asymptomatic, it can be life-threatening for immunocompromised patients and is responsible for a wide range of symptoms including chronic diarrhea. Hence, it is vital to have high suspicion and routine screening for immunosuppressed patients in these endemic regions. We report a case of chronic diarrhea due to Strongyloides stercoralis infection in a 55-year-old man who was on dialysis for end-stage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). The patient was initially managed as culture-negative continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) peritonitis. Later a thorough examination of his stools revealed Strongyloides stercoralis rhabditiform larvae, after which he was treated with albendazole. However, he eventually died of CKD. Therefore, we emphasize the need for a thorough examination of stools with a high degree of suspicion in chronic diarrheas, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
Thoracoscopic resection of neurogenic tumours in two children
Authors: Hettiarachchi Mathula , Galketiya K. B.
Published: January 2022

No abstract available
Endoscopic management of Lemmel syndrome: a rare, benign cause of obstructive jaundice
Authors: De Silva G. P. U. P. , Delwatta S. L. , Nandasena R. G. M. S. , Wanigasooriya I. W. M. P. , Pathirana A. A.
Published: January 2022

No abstract available
Live donor kidney transplantation in a COVID 19 positive patient: case report and literature review
Authors: Arudchelvam J. , Samarasinghe R. N. , Nazar L.
Published: January 2022

IntroductionCoronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19] has become a pandemic resulting in a large number of deaths. The compl icat ions of COVID-19 are severe in post -transplantation patients on immunosuppression, resulting in more mortality. Therefore renal transplantations [KT] were  stopped temporarily in Sri Lanka during the peak of the COVID-19 epidemic. And a few months later when the KT was restarted only patients who were real-time polymerase chain reaction [PCR] test negative was accepted for KT. This case report describes a live donor KT done on a patient who recovered from COVID-19 infection but had persistently positive PCR test.Case presentationA 29-year-old male with end-stage renal failure due to chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology underwent a live donor KT. He had COVID-19 infection more than 4 weeks before the KT and was asymptomatic with normal chest X-ray [CXR] and white cell count [WBC]. But his PCR was positive. The donor was a 41-year-old male. The KT was done on 2nd February 2021. He had no significant postoperative complications.Discussion and conclusionsThe main diagnostic tests for COVID-19 infection are PCR and Rapid antigen tests. PCR detects the viral genomic RNA. It is known that patients who clinically recover from COVID-19 infection continue to excrete RNA particles. These are detected by PCR. Therefore it is suggested that if a patient clinically recovers from COVID-19 and has normal WBC, CXR and 6 weeks after the onset of initial infection can undergo KT safely despite having a positive PCR.
Pilot study to assess the role of minimal access surgery in the management of superficial surgical infections
Authors: Goel Ritesh , Rathore Yashwant Singh , Chumber Sunil , Singla Vitish , Baig Moin
Published: January 2022

IntroductionThe standard treatment for an abscess since time immemorial has been Incision and Drainage [I&D] without primary closure at most sites. Post-I&D, pain and ugly scar are the most common complaints in these patients. In this study, we have evaluated the role of minimal access surgery [MAS] in the management of superficial surgical infections. Materials and methodsThis was a prospective study, comparing the clinical and cosmetic outcomes of patients undergoing conventional I&D of superficial abscesses and those undergoing MAS [ 5mm incision for a port of 5mm diameter] drainage. ResultsA total of 50 patients were recruited, out of which 2 patients had a spontaneous rupture. 25 patients underwent I&D and 23 underwent MAS drainage. The mean age was 35.8 ±13.5 years, mean size of the abscess was 6 ± 1.9 cm. Baseline characteristics like age, sex distribution, duration of symptoms, size of the abscess and volume of the pus drained were comparable between the two groups. Resolution of pain and redness was achieved earlier in MAS drainage compared to conventional I&D. Resolution of induration was statistically insignificant. Duration of the need for dressing and duration of return to daily activity was less with MAS drainage. Scar size was significantly less in the MAS drainage group. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism isolated, and both groups had comparable rates of complications and recurrences. ConclusionOur study has shown that MAS drainage offers earlier recovery along with better cosmetic outcomes.
Morphological variations of lung lobes and fissures: a preliminary study
Authors: Mathangasinghe Y. , Samaranayake U. M. J. E. , Abarana K. , Liyanage U. A. , Rajapakse Y. N.
Published: January 2022

IntroductionAnatomical variations of the lung lobes and fissures have implications in diagnostic radiology and thoracic procedures. The prevalence of these variations is not reported in Sri Lanka. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on cadavers to assess the morphological variations of lung lobes and fissures. The presence and absence of lung lobes and fissures were reported in addition to describing the completeness of the major lung fissures. ResultsA total of 24 lungs in 12 cadavers were studied. Inferior accessory fissures were noted in one right and one left lung of two independent cadavers. Two cadavers had no horizontal fissures, and one left lung had an incomplete oblique fissure posteriorly. Azygos lobe was not observed in this study sample. ConclusionsThe morphology of lung lobes and fissures demonstrate a notable variability, on par with previous reports. Further studies with a large sample size in our population are necessary for generalizable results.
Fifty liver transplants: a single centre experience of haemodynamic management in liver transplantation for cirrhosis [part 2]
Authors: Gunetilleke B. , Ranamuni R. , Jayaweera D. , Welikala N. , Kerner V. , Munasinghe N. , Wickremasinghe N. , Withanage R. , Hewage S. , Wijesuriya N. , Rodrigo U. , Mudalige A. , Fernando M. , Hettiarachchi D. , Dissanayake J. , Niriella M. , Dassanayake A. , Wijesuriya R. , Liyanage C. , Thilakaratne S. , Siriwardana R. , De Silva J.
Published: January 2022

Globally, an estimated one million deaths occur annually due to complications of cirrhosis. Cirrhosis with end stage liver disease [ESLD] is a leading cause death due to noncommunicable diseases in Sri Lanka. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD] and alcohol related liver disease [ARLD] are the principal causes of ESLD due to cirrhosis in Sri Lanka. Liver transplantation remains the only curative treatment for such patients. Multiorgan dysfunction and hemodynamic instability characteristic of ESLD adds to the complexity of perioperative care in liver transplantation. Maintenance of stable hemodynamics including optimal hemostasis forms the core of the anaesthetic strategy in liver transplantation.
Management of ureteropelvic junction obstruction in an era of minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Seneviratne Lasantha Niroshan , Hingalagoda Chathura , Manikkage Yasuni , Wickramasekera Chathuri , Udurawana Sajith Udurawana , Samaraweera Chamari , Jahan Nazeer , Rajasinghe Jeevani , Pilimatalawwe Chamila
Published: January 2022

IntroductionIn an era of minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic pyeloplasty has emerged as an alternative to conventional open pyeloplasty. Although the open method boasts a success rate of over 90%, laparoscopic pyeloplasty far exceeds patient satisfaction due to its low perioperative morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of patients who underwent laparoscopic pyeloplasty due to congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). Material and Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted at Sri Jayawardenapura general hospital from March 2014 to December 2020. All patients were subjected to CT urogram and diuretic renogram (DTPA) scan. Clinical, imaging and biochemical findings were recorded. Patients included were those who underwent laparoscopic pyeloplasty based solely on the clinical severity of the disease, those who underwent lap-nephrectomy or open surgery was excluded. Follow up was based on clinical and DTPA scan findings. Improvement in symptomatology, split renal function(SRF) by 5% and/or diuretic curve pattern were considered successful outcomes. Results A total of 40 patients who underwent LP were evaluated with a mean age of 32 years and slight male preponderance. The majority (82.5%) were symptomatic with pain and/or infection. All were diagnosed with hydronephrosis with impaired DTPA. An SRF < 40% in the affected kidney was observed in 22(55%) of patients. Concomitant pyelolithotomy was performed in 7(17.5%) patients. Mean hospital stay was 3.5 days. At mean follow up of 22-months, improvement in symptoms were noted in 35(87.5%) patients and SRF improvement (>5%) were noted in 11(27.5%); the function remained stable in 27(67.5%) and deteriorated in 2(5%) of patients. Discussion Although LP is technically demanding, it offers excellent symptomatic relief and renal preservation. It offers less morbidity, better aesthetic and post-operative convalescence: a promising viable option replacing open surgery.
Manual of multi-organ procurement and transplantation
Authors: Editorial Team SLJS
Published: January 2022

No abstract available
Sri Lanka Journal of Surgery : chronicles of half a century
Authors: Karunarathne Nuwanthika , Malalasekera Ajith
Published: January 2022

No abstract available