bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2 RNA load and detection rate in exhaled breath condensate collected from COVID-19 patients infected with Delta variant
Authors: Sawano Makoto , Takeshita Kyousuke , Ohno Hideaki , Oka Hideaki 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Delta variant is considered responsible for worldwide surges in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in 2021, with increased infectivity compared to the wild type (Wuhan-1). In a previous study, we identified temporal changes in wild-type SARS-CoV-2 RNA load and detection rate in EBC collected from COVID-19 patients. The primary objective of this study was to clarify temporal changes in Delta-variant SARS-CoV-2 RNA load and detection rates in EBC collected from patients, and to validate the feasibility of Delta-variant SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from EBC for diagnosing COVID-19. The secondary objective was to compare SARS-CoV-2 RNA loads in EBC between Delta-variant and wild-type. Subjects were 41 COVID-19 patients infected with the Delta-variant. EBC samples were collected from subjects on the day of or the day after admission using R-tube® (Respiratory Research, Austin, Texas, USA), as in our previous study. SARS-CoV-2 RNA in EBC samples was detected and quantified by RT-PCR assay targeting the E gene, using the same settings and reagents as in the previous study. The results indicated that SARS-CoV-2 RNA load in EBC collected from subjects infected with Delta-variant decreased exponentially with the passage of days from symptom onset. Sustained high detection rates support the feasibility of Delta-variant SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from EBC by RT-PCR assay as a diagnostic test for COVID-19 within 8 d of onset. SARS-CoV-2 RNA load in EBC collected 2–8 d from onset was significantly higher in Delta-variant-infected subjects than in wild-type-infected subjects on a day-to-day basis (p = 0.005–0.029). However, because of the heterogeneity of the study cohort, conclusions cannot be reached regarding differences in viral RNA load between strains, regardless of the timing of EBC collection.
Approaching to Energy Delivery Services Model for Royal Belum Orang Asli Community
Authors: Mahmud A M , Shaffii H , Mohamed Yunus M S 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
As the nation continues to develop to become developed country, the need for rural area development is essential to ensure no one is left behind. Development for rural area requires improvement in basic infrastructure such as road, electricity and water; and growth in economic that to enhancing the lifestyle of rural community and to preserve the ecosystem, culture and heritage values. Even though so much rural development programs and initiatives has been in place for many years now, some part of the Orang Asli community is still un-developed such as those who lives in Royal Belum Park. Their basic needs of energy, clean water and road access are considered lacking as compared to other populations and poverty is the main issue that need to be addressed properly. The research aim was to examine, understand and align the Orang Asli community needs, opportunity & constraint for sustainable livelihood in terms of socio-economic, technology, cultural & heritage context. It was found that the needs and demand of the Orang Asli community in Royal Belum shall focus on the requirement to having electricity supply to the village that gives direct influence on other needs and demand in term of socio-cultural context. Subsequently, the study concludes with a list of approaches and strategies of action plan to establish an energy delivery services model that inclusively utilize all factors and context in socio-cultural, environmental and support services.
Comparative Study between Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) and IBS 2D: A Case Study of School Extension Project in Malaysia
Authors: Tambichik M A , Sherliza Z S , Abdullah N A 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) is a modular construction system that adopts modern practices in the construction industry. It is an innovative approach introduced to increase construction productivity and reduce high reliance on on-site manpower. PPVC uses prefabricated technology whereby the production of 3-dimensional (3D) modules complete with building finishes and fittings is carried out under controlled conditions at the factory before being brought and installed at the construction site. However, lack of study has been done to see whether this system could be implemented in Malaysia. Therefore, this study is conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of PPVC method in the construction industry in Malaysia. The objective of this study is to make a comparison, in terms of time and cost, between PPVC method and the conventional Industrialized Building System (IBS) 2D method. The results shows that the PPVC method was able to shorten the construction period up to 34.9% compared to when using IBS 2D. However, the construction cost per classroom using PPVC method was increases up to 10.5% higher.
The Technology Landscape of Construction Material in The Indonesian Construction Industry
Authors: Pradoto R G K , Soemardi B W , Gazali A , Putri A T , Purba R P , Mahardika I 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
The Indonesian construction industry is one of the main sectors to support the economic growth in the country. According to a report published by the World Economic Forum, the construction industry currently accounts for about 6% of the world’s GDP. It is expected to reach around 14.7% by 2030. However, on the other hand, the image experienced by the construction sector is dominated by something low-tech, still relying on craft-based methods, characterized by poor performance and low quality. Therefore, it is essential that to better support the nation’s development, it is necessary for the Indonesian construction industry to invest more in the adoption, development, and application of technology. Material technology plays an essential role in construction projects. Based on a survey conducted to 40 Indonesian contractors, it was found that the priority of using concrete and steel materials ranked at the top during normal conditions and the covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, data about the history of development, utilization, and potential of construction technology, especially concrete and steel materials in Indonesia, is almost non-existent. This study aims to present the technological landscape of concrete and steel construction material, providing an overall view of the historical development of the utilization, contribution, and strategy for developing future construction material technology in Indonesia. In contrast, the information data is considered essential to help formulate policies regarding developing and utilizing construction technology in Indonesia. Therefore, this study will map the landscape of technology material in Indonesia. The methodology to be used is literature studies, interviews, and questionnaires.
Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate granules modified by gamma irradiation and their effect as fine aggregates on moisture damage of asphalt mixtures
Authors: Usman A , Sutanto M H , Napiah M , Al-Sabaeei A M , Yaro N S A , Kumalasari I , Saeed S M 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Recently, the excessive quantity of waste polyethylene terephthalate (WPET) creates a significant environmental concern globally. One way to reuse WPET is in the pavement industry as secondary materials. Nevertheless, based on works of literature review on the use of WPET in asphalt materials, inconsistent findings were reported with an increase and decrease in mechanical properties. To overcome this issue, gamma radiation has been utilized on the WPET. This study investigated the effect of using non-irradiated and irradiated WPET on some engineering properties of asphalt mixes. Marshall Samples incorporating a various amount of WPET (Plastiphalt); 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0% and 2.5% by weight of total aggregates were tested based on Marshall Stability (MS), indirect tensile strength (ITS), and resistance to moisture damage. The results of x-ray diffraction (XRD) on the irradiated WPET showed that the degree of crystallinity had increased. The results of Marshall Stability (MS) showed an enhancement with increasing WPET content up to 2.0% for the plastiphalt mixes. Marshall Quotient, and ITS show a decreasing trend with increasing WPET amount for the plastiphalt mixes. Furthermore, results on moisture damage resistance indicated that indirect tensile strength and Marshall Stability ratios were marginally increased for plastiphalt mixes compared to the reference mixture (0% WPET). Comparing the moisture sensitivity tolerance results for the WPET modified mixes shows that irradiated WPET plastiphalt mixes had a better outcome than non-irradiated WPET plastiphalt mixes.
An overview of speed model study under different types of facilities in Malaysian roadway system
Authors: Syed Abbas S K , Md Diah J , Adnan M A , Rosli A Y 
Published: May 2022

AbstractThe present paper reviewed past studies related to speed model studies and the measured traffic parameters used by other researchers. The purpose of the paper is to discover the relationships between speeds with the differences in roadway condition & characteristics, traffic composition, driver behaviour and to propose a research gap related to the future study of Malaysian road conditions. Fundamental relationships were observed over different parameters and were found to be significantly different. However, under uninterrupted flow facilities, using free-flow speed as a prediction for highway capacity analysis and determining the level-of-service (LOS), the time headway threshold, and the speed of observations at certain flow rates must be carefully studied to represent the free-flow speed in ideal conditions. The paper review helps the authors find research gaps for an in-depth investigation of the free-flow speed on Malaysian highways or expressways. Hence, the finding from the paper reviewed will be used in a future research study on developing a free-flow speed model based on the basic section of roadway in Malaysia.
GIS communicate emergency preparedness mapping: the usability for rural area
Authors: Johari N S , Abdullah N M , Mohd Bukari S 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
The importance of geographic information system (GIS) in daily life is well known as it is really helpful and eases the user. GIS is basically a database system with software that can analyse and display data using digitized maps and tables for planning and decision-making. Unfortunately, there are people in rural area that far from unreachable to apply this GIS tool in life. Thus, this reviewed study aimed to provide further understanding of the application of GIS in emergency preparedness for rural areas. It also will be able to recognize a management information system for rural planning. This systematic literature review concentrates on previous research starting from 2015 to 2020 to evaluate the application of GIS in mapping, transportation planning and network service. From 24 papers that have been analysed under eligibility test, 37.5% of them reviewed on the application of GIS, another 37.5% on emergency preparedness and 25% for rural area. The result shows there is a common type of knowledge and the way it can respond to emergency preparedness. Nevertheless, there are fewer cases related to rural areas and it shows the need for more case studies and experimental research to support this promising field. In conclusion, to meet present day and future information needs for emergency preparedness, more attention needs to be given to evaluate the effectiveness of GIS in rural areas.
A Study of Traffic Congestion Influenced by the Pattern of Land Use
Authors: Yap J Y , Omar N , Ismail I 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Traffic congestion has contributed to economic loss and increased the number of traffic accidents. Previous studies have revealed that the land use pattern in Kuala Lumpur is dispersed and leads to traffic congestion. Thus, this study is to investigate the type of land use that affect the traffic congestion in Kuala Lumpur. The data in this study was collected by using 384 design questionnaires and analysed by using descriptive analysis. The results showed that the high proportion of commercial land use causes the highest level of traffic congestion. This study makes contributions as a reference for the students to gain knowledge on how traffic congestion is influenced by the land use pattern and appropriate land use planning such as mixed-land use or grid plan are important to reduce traffic congestion.
A Study on Check Dam Design at Peat Soil Area for Peat Fire Management
Authors: Malikhazulkifli M F D , Yusoff N A , Tuan Chik T N , Muhamad Sa’ed M I , Yahya M A 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
In the past decade, incidents of peatland fires have occurred in Malaysia, especially during the prolonged dry weather between February to May and July to October of each year. The canal blocking system or check dam is commonly used to control water tables in peatland. The objectives of this paper are to review the common check dam used for peat fire management. Next to propose a suitable check dam for peat fire management and to prepare a Sketchup model. The case study at Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve (AHFR) is located in the district of Muar, Johor State, with a total area of 3,797 ha. There are four phases in designing a check dam. There are four phases in designing a check dam. Phase I is to review the check dam that have has been produced before. Next, phase II is a design concept for a check dam that is suitable for construction on peatland areas. Phase III, engineering design, involves calculations related to engineering, AutoCAD drawings, and construction price estimates. Phase IV is the last phase to produce a model using a paper model or Sketchup software. In conclusion, the study manages to innovate a check dam for peat fire management at Ayer Hitam, Muar.
A Review: GGBS as a Cement Replacement in Concrete
Authors: Ainie Mat Dom Adek , Jamaluddin Norwati , Azlina Abdul Hamid Noor , Siok Hoon Chew 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Numerous infrastructures have been effectual on the list with the demands of Malaysia’s economic growth due to the country’s explosive growth. As a result, demand for cement has increased, prompting one of the country’s largest cement producers to increase production. Cement production necessitates a significant quantity of finite supplies, such as stock and hydrocarbon deposit which is expected to produce 5-6 percent of all carbon dioxide greenhouse emissions. This paper emphasizes the viability of GGBS for certain value in cement, as implied by earlier studies. GGBS is a waste product deduced from the iron and steel industries. The use of GGBS as a cement replacement in concrete is desirable since it has equivalent cement fineness and cementitious properties. The specific gravity, specific surface, GGBS’s chemical composition and impact of GGBS on water absorption were discussed in this study. Replacing GGBS in concrete production reduced the highest point heat of hydration rate and time. The use of GGBS as a partial cement substitute in the range of 30% to 60% developed strength at longer hardening periods.
Initial properties of 3D printing concrete using Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as Partial Cement Replacement
Authors: Samad Nur Afifah Izzati Abd , Abdullah Siti Radziah , Ibrahim Mustaffa , Shahidan Shahiron , Ismail Noorli 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
3D printing concrete is an alternative technology for construction industry that are gaining interest among the developers and contractors worldwide. 3D printing concrete requires a good quality printing material that are buildable, strong and durable to be used as construction material. This present study uses Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as cement material replacement in in 3D printing concrete. Initial investigation was carried out to assess the suitability of RHA as cement replacement by conducting basic cement test such as cement consistency, setting time and workability of the mortar. The amount of RHA was constant at 20% used as cement replacement. From this study, the appropriate water-binder ratio of RHA cement replacement was 0.45:1. As for setting time, the time required for mortar mix to be transport and delivered through the nozzles for 3D printing was achieved by implemented the 20% RHA as cement replacement which are initial time at 155 minutes and final time at 312 minutes. The flowability of the mortar with RHA were found to be printable and achieve the requirements of mortar for 3D printing. Hence, RHA exhibits promising material to be used as cement replacement in 3D printing construction.
Study of Water Quality Based on Diversity of Macroinvertebrates Using Average Score Per Taxon Method in Corporate Social Responsibility Program Approach at Gunung Belumut and Gunung Lambak Waterfall
Authors: Aqilah Zakiah J , Mohd Ariff A N , Noor Aliza A 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Bio-monitoring techniques used in evaluating water quality helps in monitoring the ecosystem balanced of the water. This study aims to focus on the water quality properties such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and the bio-indicator method by evaluating macroinvertebrates diversity using the Average Score Per Taxon (ASPT) method. Besides, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program was conducted with an approach with primary school students of Sekolah Kebangsaan LKTP Ulu Dengar, and Sekolah Kebangsaan Abdul Rahman Yassin, Kluang as a pilot program as it is effective in student learning platform and knowledge transfer program. The water quality according to ASPT analysis for upstream of Hutan Lipur Gunung Belumut waterfall is scored 7.94 (very clean water) while for downstream of Hutan Rekreasi Gunung Lambak waterfall scored 5.53 (rather clean to clean water). It is a relevant outcome of water quality level based on the diversity of macroinvertebrates in the river using the ASPT method and the correlation with the in-situ analysis has been supporting the preferred properties of water condition for the macroinvertebrates cycle. In conclusion, the result of water quality in the upstream is relatively good compared to the downstream. The methods and approaches applied were dependable in estimating the current water quality level of the river.
Pre-Treatment of Laundry Greywater by Steel Slag for Safe Disposal
Authors: Ramdzan S N , Mohamed R M S R , Kamaruzaman N H , Gheeti A A S A , Hamdan R , Musa Sabariah 
Published: May 2022

AbstractDirect discharge of laundry greywater without any water pre-treatment in the drainage system has become a common practice in Malaysia. The study aimed to utilise steel slag as an adsorbent material for commercial laundry shop runoff (CLSR) to reduce chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total phosphorus (TP). Optimisation of the pollutants removal efficiency in CSLR by steel slag used Response Surface Methodology (RSM) using independent variables; different percentages of CLSR with tap water and contact time. The highest removal efficiency obtained for COD was 54.49% at 100% CLSR with tap water and 60 minutes of contact time. TP removal efficiency was 45.45% at 10% CLSR with tap water and 90 minutes of contact time. Thus, steel slag can increase the pH value, reducing the COD and TP values from CLSR in a short period. Hence, steel slag has the potential to be included in the “pre-treatment” system for CLSR based on its performance at COD and TP removal efficiency. From RSM, the model F-value and P-value for COD and TP were 5.89 and 10.62, 0.0166 and 0.0036, respectively. These values validated that the model was significant. Therefore, the study can contribute to the safe disposal of untreated laundry greywater to minimise environmental degradation.
Evaluation of Rainwater Harvesting Systems in Three Major cities of New South Wales
Authors: Preeti P , Rahman A 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems are becoming more popular to reduce pressure on mains water as well as to serve as a sole freshwater supply system in rural areas. Australia is a large continent with highly variable rainfall and hence performance of a RWH system varies from location to location. This paper presents reliability and water-saving potential of a RWH system in three major cities namely Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong of New South Wales (NSW) State of Australia. A python-based daily water balance model is built to analyse the performance of a RWH system, which uses rainfall, loss, water demand and roof catchment data. To enable selection of ideal rainwater tank size for the selected locations, three different water uses (toilet and laundry, irrigation, and combined use) and five tank sizes (1, 5, 10, 20 and 30 kL) are considered. It is found that the rainwater tank size is influenced by roof area, number of users, water demand and rainfall characteristics. This study will help in decision-making regarding implementation of a RWH system in these Australian cities. This research also contributes towards achieving water related sustainable development goals (SDG).
Innovative Trend Analysis of Reference Crop Evapotranspiration in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Yong S L S , Ng J L , Huang Y F , Ang C K 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
The inconsistencies in reference crop evapotranspiration (ET0) trends due to the occurrence of climate change have been detected over the world. This has substantially affected both the local and global water resources. The objective of this study is to investigate the historical trend of ET0 and its meteorological variables in Peninsular Malaysia. The meteorological data in daily scale, such as minimum, maximum and mean air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and solar radiation covering the 2000-2019 period were obtained from Malaysian Meteorological Department and used to compute the ET0 estimation using FAO-56 Penman Monteith model. Then, innovative trend analysis was employed to detect the variations trends in ET0 and its meteorological variables. In the study area, the results showed that significant positive ET0 trends were found at Ipoh (8.09), Kuantan (15.10) and Subang (12.7620) stations respectively and no significant negative ET0 trend can be found. The finding of the study can be used to achieve support and improvement in the efficiency of irrigation regions and optimal water resources planning and utilization.