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A Review of PSD and Soil Classification of DMS: Characterization Challenges
No full textDredged marine soils (DMS) are variable sediments excavated for navigation and development. Initially poor in geotechnical quality, their composition reflects diverse geological and anthropogenic influences. Dredging and pretreatment also alter particle size distribution (PSD). The Unified Soil Classification System (USCS), designed for more homogeneous soils, struggles to accurately classify complex DMS mixtures, hindering predictive capability for engineering behavior. A comprehensive characterization of
DMS presents significant geotechnical challenges, particularly regarding the accurate determination of PSD and appropriate soil classification. This study synthesizes extant literature and contemporary geotechnical analyses to
interpret the inherent limitations of conventional classification framework, including the USCS. Effective beneficial reuse requires moving beyond traditional classification towards comprehensive, performance-based
evaluations and site-specific investigations to fully understand and utilize these complex materials
The ‘Nirai’ Guitar (‘Ichigo ichie’) of Okinawa Japan
No full text‘Nirai’ instrument combined the ‘sanshin’ and guitar. It is a mix of the ‘sanshin’ and the guitar. Instead of using the guitar's tuning, ‘nirai’ is tune like a ‘sanshin’. The ‘nirai’ sound were digitally captured using a PicoScope oscilloscope. The outcomes were subsequently examined utilizing PicoScope software (version 6), emphasizing Fast Fourier Transform FFT. The standard ‘sanshin’ tuning is a fifth, a root, and a fifth, so in the key of C, that would be G, C, G (GCG). When a low C (C) is added in ‘nirai’ it makes the tuning a root, fifth, root, fifth. In this work, the ‘nirai’ is being tune into the key of G, the 4th string of ‘nirai’ can be identified as G2 (100Hz), 3rd string as D3 (147 Hz), 2nd string as G3 (197Hz), and 1st string as D4 (296Hz). String 3 and 4 displayed 25 partials frequencies. String 1 and 2 displayed only 12 and 19 partials frequencies respectively. The partials of the overtones confirmed the typical sound quality of ‘nirai’ guitar. The thin string had less partials compared to the thick string. The partials are all integer number of harmonics with 24th, 17th and 13th harmonics missing in string 4, 3 and 2. All harmonics appear in string 1. Even though the numbers of partials are different, with the sensation of a wooden guitar-like sound, the ‘nirai’ guitar displayed similar timbre from every string
A Novel Knowledge Acquisition Framework for Claim Factuality Disambiguation
No full textThe speedy spread of fake news in the digital age has presented significant challenges to accurate and timely truth verification. Traditional fact-checking methods, while valued, are insufficient to address the complexity of online content. Although fact-checking approach offer scalability, they still face critical limitations, including the lack of evidence-supported semantic frameworks for mapping factual coherence between claims and evidence, as well as the absence of mechanisms to capture and represent claim-evidence discrepancies effectively. This research addresses the gap by proposing a novel knowledge acquisition framework that acquires evidence-based knowledge to model the factual coherence relationship between claim and evidence. By systematically mapping claims to retrieved evidence, the framework effectively disambiguates conflicting or ambiguous information, ensuring greater clarity and accuracy in the fact checking process. The significance of the knowledge-level disambiguation approach goes beyond the traditional fact checking methods, as it incorporates a contextual attention mechanism and semantic analysis to detect, represent, and resolve discrepancies. This capability is especially critical for handling complex claims that requires a multi-faceted evidence assessment framework. By ensuring a precise alignment between claim and evidence, the framework effectively resolves semantic uncertainties, thereby enabling a more accurate and context-aware fact-checking. The proposed knowledge level disambiguation mechanism was evaluated using various versions of BERT-based models such as BERT, RoBERTa, and BioBERT on diverse datasets such as FEVER, LIAR-PLUS, HoVer, and PubMed. The outcomes of this research highlight the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid knowledge-level disambiguation approach, which integrates BERT-based models with human-in-the-loop decision-making to ensure accurate claim interpretation, resolve ambiguities, and align claims with
relevant evidence. As a result, the approach establishes a robust capability to address the evidence discrepancies. The findings further underscore the framework’s effectiveness in enhancing fact-checking approach by mitigating ambiguities and maintaining precise claim- evidence alignment. This robust performance highlights the framework’s potential as a comprehensive solution for combating fake news, even in the presence of conflicting or incomplete information. Building on the current framework, future research will extend the hybrid approach to fact- check multimodal datasets, encompassing text, images, and videos. By integrating multiple data modalities, the approach supports more comprehensive and accurate verification in real-world scenarios, thereby further enhancing its adaptability and effectiveness in mitigating misinformation
Reimagining Marik Empang with Bamboo Beads: A Sustainable Framework for Contemporary Costume Design
No full textThis research discusses contemporary costume design that draws inspiration from Sarawak’s traditional Marik Empang weaving technique. In Sarawak, the unique bead weaving known as ‘‘Marik Empang’’ is a cultural icon that embodies centuries-old Iban craftsmanship. Through the incorporation of Marik Empang features into contemporary costume design, the project aims to bring together tradition and modernity, providing an innovative perspective on cultural heritage. Although the adaptability of bamboo in creative applications has been acknowledged, there is nevertheless a noticeable lack of creative bamboo designs, especially in the field of contemporary costume design. Research to date suggests that costume designers rarely experiment with bamboo designs. This emphasizes the necessity to explore previously untouched creative domains. Additionally, there is a recognized disconnect between traditional crafts and contemporary design, demanding more in-depth research into how these two domains can be brought together. The study employs a studio-based approach, integrating data-driven insights with an artistic approach to determine the type of raw bamboo that is ideal for bead weaving. A collaborative relationship between creative development and cultural preservation is intended to be achieved by merging traditional weaving techniques with contemporary design processes. The research evaluated four bamboo types for bead-making, and types B and C were the best due to their larger inner holes and characteristics analyzed in SEM. Three stringing materials performed well in water soaking tests, allowing the researcher to proceed according to the design requirements. The addition of natural seed beads enhanced the creative aesthetic of the designs. A survey conducted using Google Forms and an exhibition at Sarawak Ethnic Elegance: Sustainable Fashion Design Competition 2.0 and Booth 2025 yielded positive feedback regarding the aesthetics, functionality, cultural value, quality, and pricing of the costume designs. The research definitively shows that integrating bamboo beads into contemporary costume design enhances aesthetic value while preserving the local cultural heritage of Marik Empang patterns
Microbiological Quality and Safety Assessment of Selected Food Premises in Sarawak
No full textFoodborne pathogens on food-contact surfaces pose a significant public health concern, particularly in food service establishments, where inadequate sanitation can facilitate cross-contamination and the transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. In this study, the microbiological quality of food-contact surfaces in designated P2 category food premises in Kuching and Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, was examined, with a focus on the prevalence of contamination, antimicrobial resistance profiles, and strategies for food safety management. The most probable number–polymerase chain reaction (MPN-PCR) method was employed to analyse a total of 150 samples from spoons, forks, plates, tables, and glasses. Subsequently, 16S rRNA sequencing was conducted to identify the species and conduct antibiotic susceptibility testing. The results indicated that 46% of the samples were contaminated, with microbial concentrations ranging from 3 MPN/mL to over 1,100 MPN/ml. The genus Enterobacter spp. was the most prevalent, and 34.78% of the isolates exhibited multidrug resistance, which included resistance to carbapenems. Statistical analyses verified that there was a substantial variation in bacterial concentrations among outlets, with Kota Samarahan exhibiting a higher degree of variability than Kuching. The hazard analysis revealed six critical control points, which are primarily associated with the handling of fresh meat, refrigerated storage, cooking, and reheating. Only two outlets in Kuching had documented Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plans, while none were observed in Kota Samarahan, despite the ubiquitous adoption of baseline food safety programs such as Clean, Safe, and Healthy (BeSS) and Food Safety is the Responsibility of the Industry (MeSTI). These findings suggest that sanitation practices are systemically flawed and that HACCP implementation is inadequate. The study concludes that food-contact surfaces in Sarawak food establishments act as reservoirs for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, highlighting the necessity of implementing more stringent sanitation practices, conducting routine microbial monitoring, and promoting the broader adoption of HACCP to protect public health
The Impact of Renewable Energy and Government Effectiveness on CO₂ Emissions in the Top Ten Carbon-Emitting Countries
No full textOver two-thirds of global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions come from just ten countries, making their emission trends critical for global mitigation. This study integrates the
Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) with the STIRPAT framework to analyse the impact of renewable energy on CO₂ emissions in China, the United States, India, Russia, Japan, Indonesia, Iran, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea from 1996 to 2023. Using dynamic panel models, two interaction terms are introduced: Gross Domestic Product per capita with
government effectiveness and renewable energy consumption with government effectiveness. These allow the study to capture how governance effectiveness shapes the effects of income growth and renewable energy use on CO₂ emissions. The results support EKC, confirming a non-linear link between income and emissions. Renewable energy significantly reduces CO₂ emissions, with a stronger effect in countries with an effective government. Governance plays a key moderating role, strengthening the emission-reducing impacts of both economic growth management and renewable energy adoption. This study provides robust evidence to guide CO₂ mitigation policies in high-emission economies. The findings emphasize that effective government and clean energy expansion must be pursued together rather than in isolation. For policymakers in the top ten emitters, this means that regulatory reforms should be integrated with large-scale renewable energy investment, while advanced economies must accelerate innovation and developing economies must enhance institutional quality to ensure that the environmental benefits of renewables are fully realised. This integrated approach is vital to achieving the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals
An Integrative Approach to New Chinese Ink Painting through Digital Art
No full textThis study explores the integration of traditional Chinese Ink Painting with digital art, addressing the tension between preserving cultural heritage and embracing technological innovation. By anchoring the research in Xie He’s Six Principles (liufa)—a foundational theory of classical Chinese aesthetics—the study investigates how digital tools can reinterpret traditional ink techniques while retaining their philosophical and aesthetic essence. A qualitative approach combining visual analysis of historical and contemporary artworks, content analysis of artists’ statements, and practice-led research was employed. The classical Chinese Ink Paintings and digital ink artworks were analysed to identify continuities and innovations in Chinese ink painting’s theory. The study also documents the creation of Borders Unbroken: The Soul of Salako Dayak, a digital artwork integrating Salako Dayak cultural background with ink aesthetics, exhibited at UNIMAS’s FACA Gallery. Findings reveal that digital technologies can preserve traditional aesthetics while enabling participatory and immersive experiences, fostering cross-cultural dialogue.
However, challenges persist in balancing technological experimentation with cultural authenticity
Creating Characters; Supporting Anti-Corrupt Education in Malaysia and Indonesia
No full textHigher education in Malaysia and Indonesia consistently prioritizes graduate employability, often overlooking the crucial development of anti-corruption character essential for an honest society. This study aims to examine the persistent focus on workforce performance within the education system and propose strategies for integrating anti-corruption education into the curriculum. Employing a qualitative, descriptive-critical analysis, this library research drew data from scholarly literature, international journals, and Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index. Whilenot involving primary data collection, the study's analytical framework integrated character education theory with anti-corruption policy, comparing educational approaches in Indonesia (Kampus Merdeka) and Malaysia (Malaysia Education Blueprint). Findingsindicate that an education system solely focused on job absorption tends to neglect moral and ethical aspects, potentially creating a "transactional generation." Therefore, educational reform is vital to balance professional skill development with the cultivation of strong anti-corruption traits. The study concludes by recommending a holistic approach that produces both successful employees and ethical citizens committed to preventing corruption.
Keywords: Character Education, Anti-corruption, Higher Education, Indonesia, Malaysi
Predictive Maximum Power Point Tracking for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell System
No full textProton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) are devices for converting renewable energy sources of hydrogen and oxygen into electricity with several benefits, including quick startup, high power density, and the ability to operate at low temperatures. However, fluctuations in the internal parameters of PEMFC can cause variations in power output. Additionally, PEMFC generates direct current (DC), while most electrical appliances rely on alternating current (AC). This project aims to design the predictive maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and voltage control system for a PEMFC. It incorporates the model predictive control algorithm for a direct current to direct current (DC-DC) boost converter and a single-phase direct current to alternating current (DC-AC) inverter to optimize the output power and convert the electrical power from DC to AC, respectively. All simulations were conducted using MATLAB software to demonstrate the PEMFC power characteristics and output power extraction. The results show that the predictive MPPT algorithms can track the maximum power point (MPP) within 19.2ms with 99.88% accuracy. The new MPP can be determined within 0.5ms when there are fast variations of PEMFC parameters. Therefore, the newly designed predictive MPPT methods exhibit fast-tracking of the MPP locus, outstanding accuracy, and robustness to environmental changes. Furthermore, the predictive voltage control technique supplies the AC power with 12V amplitude and 50Hz frequency throughout the simulations. It ensures that the DC voltage is inverted to a stable AC voltage.
Keywords: DC-DC boost converter, MPPT, PEMFC, single-phase DC-AC inverter, voltage contro
Methylated DNA Damage Repair Genes: RRM2 and GAPDH are Prognostic Biomarkers and Correlate with Immunotherapy in Lung Adenocarcinoma
No full textBackground: Mounting evidence indicated that aberrant DNA methylation is particularly important in the pathogenesis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Systematic screening of methylated DNA damage-repair-related genes (DDRGs) with a bioinformatic approach can establish methylated DDRGs-based prognostic biomarker. Nevertheless, limited previous studies identity methylated DDRGs as prognostic biomarker. In this study, the aim was to assess the prognostic value of methylated DDRGs in LUAD.
Methods: LUAD-related datasets were obtained from public databases. In the TCGA-LUAD dataset, differential expression analysis was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially expressed methylated genes (DE-MGs). Next, methylated DE-DDRGs were identified by combining up-regulated DEGs with demethylated DE-MGs as well as down-regulated DEGs with hypermethylated DE-MGs. Then, univariate and multivariate cox analyses were done using methylated DE-DDRGs to identify prognostic biomarkers and build risk-prognostic models. Independent prognostic analysis was performed using risk scores and clinical features to identify independent prognostic parameters for nomogram development. Finally, the study examined response to immunotherapy responses.
Results: One high-confidence gene, CLU, was hypermethylated and hyperexpressed in LUAD tissues. In addition, eight hypomethylated and highly expressed genes have been identified (BUB1B, SHCBP1, RRM2, RPL39L, TRIP13, GAPDH, ENO1, and CENPM). Among them, RRM2 and GAPDH were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses as significantly associated with shorter overall survival. Meanwhile, the risk score based on the prognostic signature was also identified as an independent prognostic factor for LUAD.Moreover, the high-risk group associated with the poor prognosis of LUAD showed lower immune/stromal scores and immune infiltration characteristics. Ultimately, TIDE, a tool to predict immunotherapy response, analysis revealed that patients in the low-risk group may be more sensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Conclusion: RRM2 and GAPDH could serve as promising prognostic and immunotherapeutic biomarkers in LUAD and can contribute to novel drug strategy for LUAD treatment