bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spalling prediction by distortion strain energy
Authors: Alber M , Bartmann K 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Spalling can be a serious threat to underground excavation works in hard, good quality rock masses at great depth. Spalling endangers drill & blast advance or TBM drives with severe damage of tunnel walls or the face. In mining the concern is about spalling at pillars and at the face. Research on spalling is mainly associated with the definition of Crack Initiation (CI) and Crack Damage (CD) stresses and the definition of the S-shaped spalling strength envelope. Particularly CI stress at low confining stress (σcc/σ3 < 0.05 and σ1/σ3 < 10) is important for defining spalling around an underground excavation in hard rock. We summarize 59 UCS tests and 197 triaxial tests (σ3 < 2.5 MPa) with sedimentary, magmatic, and metamorphic rocks, respectively, and defined robust CI and CD stresses. In this paper, we focus on the distortional strain energy at CI and CD stresses. From a rock mechanical point of view, crack initiation and crack damage are associated with stress (or strain) deviation. Analyses of the very well instrumented tests shows that for any rock type (saturated and dry) crack initiation (CI) occurs at 20% and crack damage (CD) at 75% of the distortion strain energy at failure. This approach was tested at the well-known case of spalling at the test tunnel in the AECL Underground Research Laboratory. Mechanical properties for the Lac du Bonnet granite were used to estimate distortional energy at CI and to model breakout depth and shape.
Rockfall hazard assessment of the Monte Gallo Oriented Nature Reserve area (Southern Italy)
Authors: Cafiso F , Cappadonia C , Ferraro R , Martinello C 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The Monte Gallo area is a carbonate relief that develops a significant nature reserve and highly attracts tourism to the urbanized area of the City of Palermo (Southern Italy). The slopes are affected by several rockfall events, which have also caused death, injuries, material damage, and a strong social and economic impact. Here, a detailed geological and geotechnical study to assess the rockfall hazard relating to two sectors of the mount has been carried out. The hazard assessment at the slope scale was performed based on geological, geomorphological, geomechanical, and seismic analysis. Using both analytical and empirical methods and by means of different software, the reconstruction of the propagation areas for the eastern sector of the Mount was possible. Results were used to better understand the overall structure, characterize the rockfall source areas’ kinematics, and recognize the basic failure mechanisms. The obtained runout areas were compared with each other and with those of previous studies conducted in a neighboring area, as well as with the corresponding hazard area maps of the official cartography, which is being updated. It is expected to be supplemented with maps derived from empirical models.
Rock mass geomechanical properties to improve rockfall susceptibility assessment: a case study in Valchiavenna (SO)
Authors: Bajni G , Camera C A S , Brenning A , Apuani T 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The overarching goal of the study is to develop a rockfall susceptibility map for Valchiavenna (SO), located in the Italian Central Alps. The approach was two-fold: the first part of the work consisted of developing geomechanical maps, which are relevant to rock mass instability, whilst the second part was aimed to the implementation of the obtained geomechanical maps as predictors in a statistically based rockfall susceptibility model. The chosen target variables, collected in an available geomechanical field surveys database, were Joint Volumetric Count (Jv), the equivalent hydraulic conductivity (Keq), and weathering index (Wi). The available dataset was updated with several new geomechanical surveys, whose locations were chosen through the application of the Spatial Simulated Annealing algorithm. Based on this updated and homogenised dataset, the target properties were regionalized using different deterministic, geostatistical and regression techniques, comparing performance and error metrics resulting from a leave-one-out cross-validation procedure. Regionalization results of the target variables showed different reliability degrees. To improve the hydrogeological processes understanding on another spatial scale, an infiltration density map was prepared, based on field-mapped elements prone to infiltration-Rockfall susceptibility modelling was performed using Generalized Additive Models (GAM), along with the more commonly used topographic predictors. Model performance is assessed using both non-spatial and spatial k-fold cross-validations to estimate the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Predictor smoothing functions and deviance explained were analysed in order to assess the influence of the geomechanical predictors on the model. The geological-geomorphological plausibility of the susceptibility map including geomechanical predictors was assessed by a comparison with the only topography-based susceptibility map. Model results showed reliable rockfall discrimination capabilities (mean AUROC>0.7). Rockfall data for model training and testing were extracted from the IFFI (Inventario dei Fenomeni Franosi in Italia) inventory and updated with additional field-mapped rockfalls. A potential inventory bias in the IFFI inventory was observed by comparing performance and predictors behaviour of models built with and without the additional rockfalls.
A new gradient elasticity model for the elastic boreholes
Authors: Efremidis G , Tsagrakis I 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
A new gradient elasticity model is employed to discuss strain gradient effects and its ability in predicting size effects on an elastic rock mass with microstructure, around an axisymmetric borehole under internal pressure and remote isotropic compressive stress. The constitutive equation of the model involves the Laplacian of the strain tensor multiplied by the gradient coefficient. The formulated boundary value problem is solved analytically to derive stress, strain, and displacement distributions and discuss respective gradient effects on the mechanical behavior of the rock mass and the corresponding borehole stability. The paper concludes with the employment of the Rankine failure criterion to investigate size effects on the stress concentration factor at the perimeter of the borehole, and the comparison with another gradient elasticity model which involves the Laplacian of the hydrostatic part of the strain tensor.
Effect of thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling on the evolution of stress in the concrete liner of an underground drift in the Cigéo project
Authors: Alonso M , Vu M N , Vaunat J , Armand G , Gens A , Plua C , De Lesquen C , Ozanam O 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The French National Radioactive Waste Management Agency (Andra) is in charge of studying the disposal of high-level and intermediate-level long-lived waste (HLW and ILW-LL) in a deep geological repository (Cigéo project) within the host formation is the Callovo-Oxfordian claystone (COx). The heat emitted from waste packages induces a thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) coupling within the structural elements and the host rock. This study focuses on the behavior of the concrete lining of an ILW-LL cell subjected to THM loading during its construction and operational phases. The mechanical behavior of the host rock is represented by an elasto-visco-plastic model taking into account the anisotropies in stiffness and strength. The coupled THM formulation is based on the Biot theory. Different simulations including full THM coupling and HM coupling with or without creep behavior of COx claystone have been performed to show the effect of the thermal load (generated by the waste packages), of the water seepage and of the creep strain of the host rock on the stress evolution in the concrete liner. The results show the preponderant role of the creep strain of COx claystone on the stress state of the liner during the operational phase, while the effect of the heat loading is moderate and that of the seepage is not significant.
Evaluation on floral visitors of Zingiber spectabile (Zingiberaceae) at Gua Ikan, Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Arumugam N , Jayaraj V K , Subramaniam S , Appalasamy S 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Insects are the well-known pollinators of angiosperm plants. However, the discovery of specific insect pollinators of a specific plant is still lacking in many angiosperms. Family Zingiberaceae which is also known as a ginger family, is one of the least explored angiosperms in the aspect of plant-pollinator interaction. Hence, this study was conducted to understand the interaction between Zingiber spectabile and pollinators. The aims of the study are i) to determine the floral blooming period of Z. spectabile; ii) to identify floral visitor of Z. spectabile; iii) to identify the insect pollinators of Z. spectabile. The study was conducted in the limestone forest of Gua Ikan (Dabong, Kelantan) in September 2020. Direct observation method was used to achieve the above-mentioned objectives. Observation was performed from 0700 hours to 2000 hours. A floral visitor was counted as pollinator when the insect touches the sexual organs of the flower. This study reveals that flower of Z. spectabile have a lifespan of less than a day. Flower opening (anthesis) starts at 1000 hours while flower closure time starts at 2000 hours. An inflorescence of Z. spectabile produce one to three flowers per day. Insect order Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera are the common floral visitors of the Z. spectabile. However, among the floral visitors, order Diptera, Hemiptera and Lepidoptera were found to play the role of pollinator for Z. spectabile. This study reveals the fundamental information about pollinators of Z. spectabile. Further detailed study is recommended to reveal the effects of floral scent in attracting the pollinators as further evaluation of Zingiberaceae-pollinator interaction.
Spatio-temporal analysis of rainfall data in Kuala Krai Kelantan
Authors: Muhammad M , Ibrahim Q A Q , Ghani M S M , Jemali N , Awang N R 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
This paper interpreted spatio-temporally the relationship between event of weather activities and flooding in Kuala Krai Kelantan. During the Kelantan big yellow flood event in December 2014, Kuala Krai was one of the worst affected area with the rarity of the return period approximately 1 in 1000 years. Many say this is due to the unusual occurrence of extreme rainfall. Therefore, this research work on spatio-temporal analysis of the time series rainfall data in Kuala Krai Kelantan, to describe and determine the behaviour and pattern of the data. The data on the monthly amount of rainfall between (2013-2019), were collected from Department Irrigation and Drainage (DID). The main aim of this study is to statistically determine whether it is true the flooding in Kuala Krai Kelantan on 2014 is because of heavy rainfall. The collected rainfall data had been spatially analysed using ArcGIS to compare the distribution of rainfall from year 2013 to 2019. Then, the trend pattern of the data had been determined using Mann Kendall Test and Sen’s slope Test. From those analysis it can be concluded that the huge amount of rainfall intensity is the major factor that contribute the extreme flood event in Kuala Krai Kelantan on December 2014.
Comparison of terrestrial vertebrates between natural and teak plantation forest in Peninsular Malaysia: A case study in Perlis State Park and Mata Ayer Field Center, FRIM
Authors: Mahyudin N A A , Munian K , Shahfiz M A , Fauzi N FM , Ahmad Ruzman N H , Baharudin M S , Zam Beri A Z , AAzhar M , Fauzi M SA 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Species compositions are influenced by the habitat types and methods used in a study. The objectives of this study are to document species diversity in teak plantation in Mata Ayer Research Station, FRIM and to compare differences in species diversity and composition between plantation and natural forest of Perlis State Park. Different types of traps and methods were used to survey four targeted groups of vertebrates (small mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian), including mist net, harp trap, collapsible trap, and active search. A total of 252 individuals were captured, representing 117 species of 53 families of vertebrates. Alpha diversity analysis shows that natural forest has higher species diversity than a teak plantation. Shannon-Weiner Index show higher result in natural forest (3.768) than teak plantation (3.439) while evenness of species distribution is higher in teak plantation (0.8419) than the natural forest (0.4755). Sorenson dissimilarity index indicates that 90.4% significant difference between sites thus; both sites have different species composition of vertebrates. Taxonomic distinctness however reflects different significant variation responses of both areas. Natural forest shows more species compared to plantation forest as it provides more food resources, suitable home and higher rate of reproduction while teak plantation shows a similar habitable environment with structural and conditions more similar to natural forest. So, both natural forest and plantation should be protected, manage and use suitable planning in order to sustain the biodiversity for future generation.
Optimisation and growth kinetic analysis of Microalgae, Arthrospira platensis in 2-L Photobioreactors
Authors: Hussin A A , To S W , Sani M H , Amin M F M , Kamaroddin M F 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
In recent years, photoautotrophic microalgae are widely recognised due to their diverse yet significant natural values, particularly in healthcare, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and feedstock industries. One of the most exploited blue-green microalgae, Arthrospira sp. has been addressed as a potent superfood. However, the microalgal mass-production requires suitable inoculum strain and controlled cultivation conditions for enhanced growth performance. Hence, this study aimed to maximise biomass of Arthrospira platensis chosen strain in a 2 litres indoor photobioreactor under three different parameters which were aeration rate, light intensity and pH of the medium. In the present study, a comparative study of growth performance between helical (S1) and straight form (S2) of A. platensis was conducted and the results revealed that morphological differences did not affect growth performances. Meanwhile, the optimisation based on the parameters studied shows that cultivation of A. platensis with aeration of 0.5 L/min and medium of pH 9.0 yielded the highest biomass production which were 1.500 ± 0.049 g/L. Under different light intensity, A. platensis produced the highest biomass and maximum specific growth rate of 1.142 ± 0.037 g/L and 0.716 ± 0.018 1/day, respectively when cultivated under irradiance of 6000 Lux. In conclusion, compared to before optimisation, biomass and maximum specific growth rate after optimisation was 137% and 24% increased, respectively.
Vertical distribution of heavy metals in core sediments from Kelantan River off Tanah Merah, Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Yusoff A H , Azmi M S W , Chang C S , Sulaiman A F , Nor A N M , Tan R , Ahmed M F 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Core sediments from two sampling points namely TM 2 and TM3 which are located at the Kelantan Rive near to Tanah Merah district had been collected to determine the vertical profile of heavy metals contents. TM 2 and TM3 were located near to gold mining area and agriculture area, respectively. The heavy metals in Tanah Merah were analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) PinA Acle 900F model. The degree of pollution has been investigated using Geo-accumulation (Igeo) index. For the result, the average value of heavy metals in Tanah Merah are Cu (12.67 ± 5.38 mg/kg), Pb (44.57 ± 8.75 mg/kg), Cr (56.69. ± 10.38 mg/kg), Zn (157.89 ± 88.56 mg/kg), Fe (4.08 ± 0.82 %) and Al (7.84 ± 1.53 %). The vertical profile of Cu and Zn at the bottom layer showed the decreasing trend toward the bottom of sediment suggesting the additional anthropogenic input of both metals to the sediment. In addition, most of the concentration value of Zn at TM2 near to gold mining set were exceed the permissible limit set by WHO. Furthermore, the result from the Igeo index also supported sediments at TM 2 which is located near to mining area are extremely contaminated with Cu and Zn. As conclusion, the authorities should closely monitor the level of pollution at the Kelantan River especially near to mining area.
Estimation of aboveground biomass using allometric relationship between DBH and height for mixed mangrove forest in Setiu Wetland, Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Kasawani I , Mohd-Zaki A , Onrizal  , Zulhazman H 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
A study was conducted to determine aboveground biomass in a mixed mangrove forest in Setiu Wetland, Terengganu, Malaysia. A total of 22 plots were established, diameter breast height (DBH) and height of each of the trees were measured and recorded. A total of three species from Rhizophoraceae and eight species from the non-Rhizophoraceae family were recorded. The highest no. of species for Rhizophoraceae is Bruguiera cylindrica with 189 individuals, meanwhile for non-Rhizophoraceae is Heritiera littoralis with 36 individuals. Linear regression between DBH to height had been done for stem allometry analysis for each species with Avicennia lanata shows good fit (r2 = 0.906). The total aboveground biomass was 5 202.23 kg ha−1. A. lanata recorded the highest (983.78 kg ha−1) total aboveground biomass because of various ranges of DBH and height. Linear regression also had been done between aboveground biomass to DBH and height. Rhizophora apiculata (Rhizophoraceae) and Excoecaria agallocha (non-Rhizophoraceae) show the highest value of regression between aboveground biomass to DBH which are r2 = 0.925 and r2 = 0.948 while B. gymnorrhiza (Rhizophoraceae) and Xylocarpus granatum (non-Rhizophoraceae) show the highest value of regression between aboveground biomass to height with r2 = 0.806 and r2 = 0.839. Overall, non-Rhizophoraceae have higher aboveground biomass as compared to Rhizophoraceae.
Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA): An Important Approach in Mainstreaming Biodiversity Conservation in Malaysia
Authors: Ahmad Ruzman N H , Shahfiz M A , Munian K , Fauzi N F M , Azahar M A , Zam Beri A Z , Appanan M , Baharudin M S , Mahyudin N A A 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Malaysia has adopted two ways of conserving its biodiversity; species-based and landscape-based approaches. However, there are limitations of these approaches that can be addressed via Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA). Hence, the aim of the study is to review and compare several current conservation approaches in Malaysia with KBA. Systematic literature search was done using a set of keywords in search engine and visited official government websites to obtain relevant documentations on conservation and biodiversity in Malaysia. Based on the findings, KBA is a holistic approach consisting of several biodiversity elements, criteria and themes that can be put in place, including Important Plant Areas (IPA), Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBA), Important Fungus Areas and Prime Butterfly Areas. This approach has successfully helped many countries such as the Philippines, Indo-Burma hotspot, Uganda, and Canada identify and prioritize important sites for biodiversity conservation. Thus, KBA approach is an alternative approach to support stakeholders in mainstreaming biodiversity conservation approaches in Malaysia for more effective conservation planning in the future. This approach also offers geographic targets for the expansion of protected area coverage and identifies the site for urgent conservation action.
Managing and protecting of endangered Rafflesia species in Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Fauzan M , Muhammad-Hapiz A M , Azizul R , Rosilan S , Hamidi A H , Zahari I , Aweng E R , Mohamad-Faiz M A , Abas M A , Kamarul-Ariffin H , Nor-Hizami H , Mohammad-Firdaus A K , Susatya A , Zulhazman H 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Rafflesia is the most magnificent and largest flower in the world. In Southeast Asia, the species becoming endangered due to anthropogenic activities such as logging, conversion of forest into large-scale agricultural areas, urbanization and unsustainable ecotourism. This paper has specifically highlighted the efforts that have been taken by the Kelantan State Forestry Department (KFD) in ensuring the sustainability and survival of this gigantic flower in its natural habitat. A survey by Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) shows that many populations of Rafflesia were situated in the forest reserves under the administration of KFD, such as in Lojing, Mt. Chamah, Mt. Basor and Mt. Stong. A lot of initiatives have been implemented by KFD such as organising scientific expeditions and the establishment of the High Conservation Value Forest (HCVF). In July 2011, the State Government of Kelantan declared an area of 404 ha (1,000 acres) bordering Sg. Berok Forest Reserve in Lojing Highlands as the Rafflesia Preservation Area. This recognition by the state government resulted from collaboration efforts of UMK, KFD and South Kelantan Development Authority (KESEDAR). To date, KFD has established a total of two HCVFs in Kelantan and a new area of 50 ha in Compartment 1, Lojing Forest Reserve has also been dedicated for the protection of Rafflesia. This paper was also briefly discussed several issues and challenges in conserving Rafflesia in Kelantan such as the expansion of large-scale agricultural plantation, participation of local community, tourism and income generation, international and internal funds for conservation works, and provide an integrated tourism and management plans. Hopefully, this effort will lead to the establishment of a centre of excellence in nature conservation, ecotourism and scientific research of Rafflesia in Kelantan.
Pre-treatment of Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) using neutral salt to improve protein digestibility of Macrobrachium rosenbergii feed
Authors: Muhammad Amiruddin W , Siti Zarin Sofia A M , Al-Amsyar S M , Rusli N D , Mat K B , Muhamad Sukri S A , Mohd M , Harun H C 
Published: September 2021

Abstract

Macrobrachium rosenbergii (M. rosenbergii) is one of the economically driven freshwater aquaculture species in many countries. The production of M. rosenbergii has been increased over the year. Along with the growth of production of aquaculture species, feed production also rises. Artemia nauplii are the main live feed with partial replacement with egg custard. However, the application of live feed is costly. Black Soldier Fly larvae (BSFL) is a high potential source of protein that can be applied as M. rosenbergii larvae feed. Meanwhile, pre-treatment of BSFL using neutral salt (NaCl and KCl) is essential to improve the protein digestibility of M. rosenbergii larvae. This study aims to produce feed that can help in producing fast-growing and healthy M. rosenbergii larvae. Different percentages of salt were at 5%, 10%, and 15% were used for BSFL pre-treatment, while BSFL without the addition of salt was used as a control diet. The present study showed that pre-treated BSFL with 15% KCl had a higher protein decreased among the other treatments, followed by 10% KCl and 15% NaCl. In addition, egg custard with 100% BSFL has the highest crude protein and lipid content, which was higher than control (without BSFL), which has the lowest crude protein and lipid content. This study shows that the formulated egg custard has the optimum nutrient that meets the M. rosenbergii larvae requirement.