bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local high chirality near exceptional points based on asymmetric backscattering
Authors: Yang Jingnan , Li Hancong , Yan Sai , Gong Qihuang , Xu Xiulai
Published: September 2024

We investigate local high chirality inside a microcavity near exceptional points (EPs) achieved via asymmetric backscattering by two internal weak scatterers. At EPs, coalescent eigenmodes exhibit position-dependent and symmetric high chirality characteristics for a large azimuthal angle between the two scatterers. However, asymmetric mode field features appear near EPs, where two azimuthal regions in the microcavity classified by the scatterers exhibit different wave types and chirality. Such local mode field features are attributed to the symmetries of backscattering in direction and spatial distribution. The connections between the wave types, the symmetry of mode field distribution and different symmetries of backscattering near EPs are also discussed. Benefiting from the small size of weak scatterers, such microcavities with a high Q/V near EPs can be used to achieve circularly polarized quantum light sources and explore EP modified quantum optical effects in cavity quantum electrodynamics systems.
Spatiotemporal patterns in the active cyclic Potts model
Authors: Noguchi Hiroshi , Fournier Jean-Baptiste
Published: September 2024

The nonequilibrium dynamics of a cycling three-state Potts model is studied on a square lattice using Monte Carlo simulations and continuum theory. This model is relevant to chemical reactions on a catalytic surface and to molecular transport across a membrane. Several characteristic modes are formed depending on the flipping energies between successive states and the contact energies between neighboring sites. Under cyclic symmetry conditions, cycling homogeneous phases and spiral waves (SW) form at low and high flipping energies, respectively. In the intermediate flipping energy regime, these two modes coexist temporally in small systems and/or at low contact energies. Under asymmetric conditions, we observed small biphasic domains exhibiting amoeba-like locomotion and temporal coexistence of SW and a dominant non-cyclic one-state phase. An increase in the flipping energy between two successive states, say state 0 and state 1, while keeping the other flipping energies constant, induces the formation of the third phase (state 2), owing to the suppression of the nucleation of state 0 domains. Under asymmetric conditions regarding the contact energies, two different modes can appear depending on the initial state, due to a hysteresis phenomenon.
Influence of pressure anisotropy on mass-radius relation and stability of millisecond pulsars in f(Q) gravity
Authors: Maurya S.K. , Newton Singh Ksh. , Mustafa G. , Govender M. , Errehymy Abdelghani , Aziz Abdul
Published: September 2024

In this study we explore the astrophysical implications of pressure anisotropy on the physical characteristics of millisecond pulsars within the framework of f(Q) gravity, in particular

f(Q) = - α
Q - β,
where α and β are constants. Starting off with the field equations for anisotropic matter configurations, we adopt the physically salient Durgapal-Fuloria ansatz together with a well-motivated anisotropic factor for the interior matter distribution. This leads to a nonlinear second order differential equation which is integrated to give the complete gravitational and thermodynamical properties of the stellar object. The resulting model is subjected to rigorous tests to ensure that it qualifies as a physically viable compact object within the f(Q)-gravity framework. We study in detail the impact of anisotropy on the mass, radius and stability of the star. Our analyses indicate that our models are well-behaved, singularity-free and can account for the existence of a wide range of observed pulsars with masses ranging from 2.08 to 2.67 M
⊙, with the upper value being in the so-called mass gap regime observed in gravitational events such as GW190814. A comparison of the so-called Symmetric Teleparallel Equivalent to GR (STEGR) models with classical General Relativity (GR) models reveal that the anisotropy parameter and the sign of β impact on the predicted radii of pulsars. In particular, STEGR models have larger radii than their GR counterparts.
New slow-roll approximations for inflation in Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet gravity
Authors: Pozdeeva Ekaterina O. , Skugoreva Maria A. , Toporensky Alexey V. , Vernov Sergey Yu.
Published: September 2024

We propose new slow-roll approximations for inflationary models with the Gauss-Bonnet term. We find more accurate expressions of the standard slow-roll parameters as functions of the scalar field. To check the accuracy of approximations considered we construct inflationary models with quadratic and quartic monomial potentials and the
Gauss-Bonnet term. Numerical analysis of these models indicates that the proposed inflationary scenarios do not contradict to the observation data. New slow-roll approximations show that the constructed inflationary models are in agreement with the observation data, whereas one does not get allowed observational parameters at the same values of parameters of the constructed models in the standard slow-roll approximation.
Primordial black hole interpretation in subsolar mass gravitational wave candidate SSM200308
Authors: Yuan Chen , Huang Qing-Guo
Published: September 2024

In the recent second part of the third observation run by the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA collaboration, a candidate with sub-solar mass components was reported, which we labelled as SSM200308. This study investigates the premise that primordial black holes (PBHs), arising from Gaussian perturbation collapses, could explain SSM200308. Through Bayesian analysis, we obtain the primordial curvature power spectrum that leads to the merger rate of PBHs aligning with observational data as long as they constitute f
PBH = 5.66+58.68
-5.44 × 10-2 of the dark matter. However, while the gravitational wave (GW) background from binary PBH mergers is within current observational limits, the scalar-induced GWs associated with PBH formation exceed the constraints imposed by pulsar timing arrays, challenging the Gaussian perturbation collapse PBH model as the source of SSM200308.
Measurement of controlled metastable oxygen atom concentration from nitric oxide AC glow discharge plasma
Authors: Fang Hongxin , Zhi Dong , Wu Xuecheng , Li Yunfei , Huang Long , Chang Yu , Kong Rongzong , Hu Shouchao
Published: September 2024

Tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy has proven to be highly advantageous in the diagnostics of high enthalpy air plasma due to its exceptional sensitivity, selectivity, rapid response, and adaptability to harsh environments. However, measuring dissociated atoms remains challenging because these atoms are short-lived reactive species that quickly react with surrounding particles or collide to form stable molecules, making it difficult to prepare an atomic gas source capable of generating sustained, concentration-stabilized, and high signal-to-noise absorption spectroscopy. In this study, we have developed a laboratory-based glow discharge plasma static calibration system designed for time-resolved measurements of the number density of specific electronic states of O atoms. Experimental results indicate that a low-pressure glow discharge of NO can generate a substantial number of metastable O atoms at relatively stable concentrations. The concentration of these metastable O atoms within the discharge tube can be controlled by adjusting gas pressure and discharge current. As the gas pressure in the discharge tube increases, the concentration of metastable O atoms rises to a peak value of 3.66 × 109 cm−3 before declining. The system’s stability was assessed using Allan variance analysis, revealing the detection limit of metastable O atom number density is 8.0018 × 106 cm−3 when the average time is 3.2 s. By varying the input gas, the system is also capable of generating significant quantities of stable N and OH radicals. The system’s stability, controllability, and versatility in producing reference gases of known composition make it a reliable tool for diagnosing high enthalpy flow fields.
Optical measurements of solid volume fraction and granular temperatures in granular flows over erodible bed
Authors: Sarno Luca , Papa Maria Nicolina , Tai Yih-Chin , Wang Yongqi , Villani Paolo
Published: September 2024

Granular media are ubiquitous in geophysics and industrial applications and, hence, have attracted increasing interest in the scientific community. Yet, their dynamics is far from being completely understood and exhibits a rich variety of flow regimes, ranging from solid-like to gas-like behaviours. In the process of understanding these complex systems, experimental investigations at the laboratory scale and non-invasive measuring techniques play a crucial role. In this work, we report the velocity and solid volume fraction measurements of steady dry granular flows, carried out in a narrow flume and over an erodible bed. The sidewall profiles of flow velocity and granular temperature (i.e., a measure of the fluctuation kinetic energy of the particles) are obtained by a multi-pass window deformation particle image velocimetry (PIV) approach. Conversely, the near-wall solid volume fraction profiles are achieved by employing the stochastic optical method (SOM), proposed in [Sarno et al. Granular Matter (2016) 18: 80]. This non-invasive technique is designed to indirectly estimate the near-wall volume fraction by regarding it as a stochastic process depending on a well-determined physical quantity, called the two-dimensional volume fraction. Such a quantity is made optically measurable thanks to controlled illumination conditions, where the incidence angle of a flicker-free light source is carefully adjusted. The measurements show that granular flows over an erodible bed are generally characterized by a stratified structure with weak mass exchange from one layer to the other, which is typical of dense and quasi-static regimes. Conversely, a more collisional upper region, characterized by higher velocity fluctuations and lower volume fraction values, is systematically found in an upper region with thickness of few grain diameters below the free surface, which confirms the crucial role played by the confining pressures. Moreover, the experimental findings corroborate the existence of long-range momentum exchange mechanisms along the flow depth.
Loss of wearability of hearing protectors
Authors: Cavacece Massimo
Published: September 2024

Many workers spend most of the day working with high noise levels. Wearing personal protective equipment safeguards the worker’s long-term well-being. Despite the worker’s diligence, knowledge does not examine exposure to specific risks to the worker’s health. Threats are the high sound levels the worker subjects their ears to daily. Any loud sound can be dangerous. A more common contribution to hearing damage can be headphones. The regulation recalls the evaluation of headphones in the time and frequency domain. The research estimates the noise level in the worker’s external environment and ear to assess the efficiency of headphones in the frequency domain. The double channel comparison measurement technique enables the simultaneous evaluation of noise exposure on both sides of the head and in configurations such as under a headset and on a shoulder. By comparing the measurement with the external ear of the internal worker, the experimental investigation in the frequency domain can improve the accuracy of noise exposure data in various working environments. This valuable ability is beneficial for assessing the asymmetric exposure of the worker’s ears to noise.
Adaptation of DIC technique for simplified applications in experimental mechanics
Authors: Thatikonda Nandini Priya , Baraldi Daniele , Boscato Giosuè , Cecchi Antonella
Published: September 2024

The literature and practical application of Digital Image Correlation (DIC) present sophisticated methodologies and algorithms that through a correlation between image data, capture complex strains and deformation fields. However, its application requires extensive surface preparations, careful calibrations, high computational capabilities, and in some cases is still susceptible to errors. Through two experimental campaigns, this paper presents an adaptation of the 2D Digital Image Correlation (2D-DIC) technique, where instead of a speckle pattern to derive full-field deformation data, markers with high contrast features are adopted to extract point-wise strains. The primary goal of this adaptation is to define an approachable methodology for researchers without any background in DIC or image analysis and offer an additional tool set for experimental campaigns.
DIC vibration measurement through smartphone devices
Authors: Occhipinti Serena , Neri Paolo , Firrone Christian Maria , Botto Daniele
Published: September 2024

Digital Image Correlation (DIC) stands as a promising non-contact method for assessing the complete dynamics of vibrating structures. Utilizing one or two cameras, DIC can capture either 2D or 3D dynamics. Through subsequent post-processing of images, structural points are correlated across different time frames to derive displacement information. Given the abundance of camera options available, spanning frame rate, resolution, versatility, and quality, the selection process is dictated by specific application needs and financial considerations. This study seeks to explore the feasibility of utilizing the cameras integrated into a ubiquitous device of everyday life: the smartphone. The proposed approaches offer straightforward procedures suitable for educational purposes or early investigation of structure dynamics. The paper presents case studies and discusses simple experiments that students or DIC beginners can conduct on simple vibrating structures. Initially, a simple 2D dynamics was investigated by recording the vibration of a clamped beam with moving constraints using just a single smartphone. The L-type cross section of the beam emphasizes its in-plane motion. The frames were post-processed with open-source software and the deformed shapes were extracted. This assignment serves as an introductory exercise in DIC fundamentals. Subsequently, the focus shifts to investigating the 3D dynamics of the beam. Given the challenges associated with synchronizing multiple smartphone video acquisitions, the image of the beam was instead reflected by two mirrors, and these reflected images were recorded by a single smartphone. Then, the recorded images were split and processed to obtain the full-field 3D dynamics of the beam.
Preliminary design and performance evaluation of optical fiber-based load sensor for aerospace systems
Authors: Aimasso Alessandro , Dalla Vedova Matteo D.L. , Bertone Matteo , Maggiore Paolo
Published: September 2024

This paper describes a new Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) optical sensor conceived for load measurements in harsh aerospace environments. This sensor combines miniature size, durability, and precision, making it ideal for aerospace applications with extreme temperatures, vibrations, and mechanical stresses. The proposed sensor combines the peculiarities of the traditional load cells with the well-known advantages due to the use of optical fibers. The paper describes the layout, fabrication and performance characteristics of this sensor design. The used materials and the compact packaging enable its integration into space-constrained aerospace systems without compromising performance. The preliminary experimental results demonstrate its potential under various load conditions, validating their applicability in real-world aerospace scenarios; it addresses a critical need for robust and compact load measurement solutions, contributing to the advancement of aerospace technology. This work demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed concept and defines the functional requirements that must be satisfied by future developments of this type of sensor.
Discrete dynamics in the set of quantum measurements
Authors: Rico Albert , Życzkowski Karol
Published: September 2024

A quantum measurement, often referred to as positive operator-valued measurement, is a set of positive operators

P
j

=

P
j
†

⩾
0

summing to identity,

∑
j

P
j

=
𝟙

. This can be seen as a generalization of a probability distribution of positive real numbers summing to unity, whose evolution is given by a stochastic matrix. We describe transformations in the set of quantum measurements by blockwise stochastic matrices, composed of positive blocks that sum columnwise to identity, and the notion of sequential product of matrices. We show that such transformations correspond to a sequence of quantum measurements. Imposing additionally the dual condition that the sum of blocks in each row is equal to identity we arrive at blockwise bistochastic matrices (also called quantum magic squares). Analyzing their dynamical properties, we formulate a quantum analog of the Ostrowski description of the classical Birkhoff polytope and introduce the notion of majorization between quantum measurements. Our framework provides a dynamical characterization of the set of blockwise bistochastic matrices and establishes a resource theory in the set of quantum measurements.
Compost tea from oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) enriched with chicken manure as a fertiliser source in organic production of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Lasum E , Chan M K Y
Published: September 2024

The trend of organic production is gaining much attention with the utilization of compost teas as organic foliar fertiliser moving towards sustainable farming. Compost tea derived from oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) compost can be used as a source of fertiliser in organic food crop production. A study was conducted to evaluate the growth and yield of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) to EFB Compost Tea (EFBCT) enriched with chicken manure using a Randomized Complete Block Design with five treatments replicated four times. The analytical characteristics of compost tea with or without enrichment of chicken manure based on pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC) and nutrient contents of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were significantly different. The treatments were: T1 (100% Tap water as control), T2 (100% EFBCT with chicken manure), T3 (50% EFBCT with chicken manure + 50% Tap water), T4 (100% EFBCT) and T5 (50% EFBCT + 50% Tap water). Significant growth responses were indicated by the plant height and flower number of tomato at 144.15 cm and 6.15 from T2, respectively. However, the yield response indicated by the number of fruits was significant for T5 but with the most number of small fruits, while the highest number of medium fruits was from T1 and the highest number of large fruits was from T3. In contrast, the yield of tomato showed significance in T2 as indicated by fruit weight, length and diameter. This study showed that EFBCT enriched with chicken manure can be used as an alternative liquid fertiliser to replace chemical fertiliser for organic food and vegetable productions.
Potential of boron nutrition on agronomic performance and yield attributes of two high yielding rice varieties in Malaysia
Authors: Daud M F , Nordin S M A I S , Tajudin M A , Yahana A Y A , Zainurin F A , Jahaya Z , Domingos I F N , Kalee H H H Ashraa , Zakaria N N A , Fairuz K , Wicaksono F Y
Published: September 2024

A pot trial was carried out in the rain shelter number 5 located in the Faculty Plantation and Agrotechnology, Universiti Teknologi MARA Malacca Branch, Jasin Campus in between October 2023 to March 2024. The objective of the trial was to investigate the influence of different levels of boron nutrition on the growth and productivity traits of two selected high yielding rice varieties cultivated in Malaysia. The eight treatments (two high yielding rice varities and four level of boron nutrition treatments) were arranged as a factorial design in the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four times replication. The boron nutrition treatments applied were as T1 (Control), T2 (15kg B/ha), T3 (30kg B/ha) and T4 (45kg B/ha). This pot study demonstrates that supplementary of boron nutrition in rice plant likely resulted a positive response on yield-related traits such as panicle length, panicle number, grain/panicle, filled grain/panicle and yield. Overall, application of boron nutrition at 30kg B/ha (T3) was as the best boron treatment indicated in this pot study particularly on the panicle number, panicle length, grain/panicle and yield. Contrarywise, the rice plants grown without boron supplementation generally exhibited the lowest values of growth, productivity and its related traits respectively.
In vitro screening of rhizobacteria as biological control agents for controlling Thielaviopsis paradoxa a causal pathogen of black rot in MD2 pineapple
Authors: Mohamad A , Tahir N , Wahab M Z A , Othman N M I , Sapak Z
Published: September 2024

Pathological disorder induced by pathogenic fungi is a major factor in pineapple fruit post-harvest losses. A fungal disease known as black rot caused by a facultative parasitic fungus, Thielaviopsis paradoxa (de Seynes) Hohn (Teleomorph: Ceratocystis paradoxa) is considered an economically important disease in pineapple as the disease can have a detrimental effect on fruit quality and quantity in the field and storage. The infected fruit displays disease symptoms of disintegrated fruit flesh, watery rot, and severe damage. This disease is hard to control as chemical fungicides are not applicable to mature pineapple fruits. Therefore, this study aims to screen rhizobacteria isolated from healthy MD2 pineapple plants as biological control agents against the black rot pathogen. A total of 25 culturalable rhizobacteria was obtained from soil samples through a multilevel dilution method of up to 108. These isolates were then in vitro screened for their potential to inhibit the growth of T. paradoxa using a dual culture test method and the percentage of inhibition radial growth (PIRG) of T. paradoxa was recorded. The results showed that two isolates coded as RB1 and RB2 gave the highest values of PIRG which were 85 and 80 % respectively. Based on morphological characteristics, RB1 was identified as Burkholderia sp. and RB2 as Bacillus sp. Their potential as biological agents, however, needs to be further evaluated in a real setting to confirm their capability to control the disease in pineapple.
Potential of turmeric essential oil and wood vinegar for controlling golden apple snail, Pomacea canaliculata
Authors: Azemi M A , Razman N A , Latip S N H M
Published: September 2024

The golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata), a highly invasive species, poses a substantial threat to rice crops and causes significant economic losses in wetland rice cultivation, threatening biodiversity and impacting human health. Pomacea canaliculata attacks cause significant losses, accounting for approximately 80% of rice production. The use of chemical molluscicides became a common practice among the farmers to control the golden apple snail’s outbreak, despite its harm to the environment and health. Biopesticide was an alternative way of controlling the golden apple snail with minimal effect on the environment and human health. In addition, essential oils as biopesticides have a high potency as an eco-friendly pesticide for controlling invasive apple snails, which can be used to replace chemical pesticides. This study was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and the toxicity of turmeric essential oil and wood vinegar against golden apple snail. The bioassay test on golden apple snails was tested on varied concentrations (200, 400, and 600 ppm) of turmeric essential oil and wood vinegar, with three replications for each treatment. Mortality rates were recorded at 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours after treatment. The highest mortality rate of golden apple snails for turmeric essential oil (600 ppm) is 83.3% and wood vinegar (600 ppm) is 76.6% recorded at 120 hours after treatment. Based on the one-way ANOVA analysis of turmeric essential oil and wood vinegar application, it was resulted significant difference in mean mortality of golden apple snails (F (7, 92) = 3.650, p = 0.002). Tukey’s HSD Test for multiple comparisons found that the mean value of golden apple snail mortality was significantly different between turmeric (600 ppm) and wood vinegar (200 ppm) (p = 0.012, 95% C.I. = 0.4172, 5.8494). Both biopesticides showed a mode of action leading to mortality but turmeric essential oil is strongly recommended for biopesticide applications to prevent golden apple snail infestations. Thus, the essential oil of turmeric has a good potential as an effective molluscicide compared to wood vinegar for controlling golden apple snails.
Performance, carcass and sensory evaluation of Saga chicken fed locally planted grain corn
Authors: Nooraisyah S , Farah Nurshahida M S , Nor Syahirah A , Natrah Farina M , Norbaizura H , Nik Muhammad Faris N R , Noraini S
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of three different types of grain corn, that used in feed formulation, on the growth performance, carcass quality and sensory values of Saga chicken. A total of 45 male Saga cockerels aged 40 weeks were subjected to 3 treatments, with 3 replications per treatment. The birds were given formulated feed which were commercial corn (control), locally planted grain corn variety GWG888 and variety P4546. The weight and feed intake of the birds were recorded daily while carcass and sensory evaluations were conducted on Saga chicken meat samples. It was found that there was no significant difference (P>0.05) among the treatments for both parameters. However, chicken fed corn variety P4546 had numerically highest feed intake compared to other treatments. Similarly, the abdominal fat was numerically lesser in chickens fed with grain corn GWG888 compared to other corn varieties. Sensory evaluation was carried out on Saga chicken meat samples based on colour, odour, taste and overall acceptance using a 5-point hedonic scale. Saga chicken meat samples from the GWG888 grain corn treatment showed high scores for texture, taste and overall receptivity through sensory evaluation. In conclusion, the performance and meat quality of chickens fed locally grown grain corn were comparable to those fed on imported corn.
A short review of aquaculture status in Malaysian Borneo: Species, culture systems and diseases
Authors: Harun A A C , Manaf S R , Baharudin S , Zamri N A S , Arshad N M
Published: September 2024

Malaysian Borneo is surrounded by the South China Sea, Sulu Sea, and Sulawesi Sea suitable for freshwater and marine aquaculture of a wide range of species for commercialization. Malaysian Borneo has 10,352 and 12,766 freshwater and marine producers, respectively. The production from both freshwater and marine aquaculture was 205,362 tonnes whereas Sabah solely produced 189,307 tonnes. Sarawak focuses on producing Red Tilapia, Catfish, and River carp for freshwater culture while White Leg Shrimp, Tiger Prawn, and Seabass for marine culture using freshwater and brackish-water ponds. Sabah produces Seaweed, White Leg Shrimp, and Milkfish for marine culture using longline and brackish-water ponds while freshwater culture focuses on Black and Red Tilapia in the pond. Disease outbreak issues arise as the aquaculture sector expands in Malaysian Borneo. The bacterial infection that causes Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (APHND) leads to mass mortality in shrimp production becoming the focus of marine culture for Sarawak and Sabah. Viral infection is the most common in freshwater culture in Sarawak caused by Tilapia Lake Virus Disease (TiLVD) which leads to mass mortality within 10 days. Fungus infection hampers the production of seeds while parasite affects the growth of cultured species for both marine and freshwater species in Malaysian Borneo. The usage of chemotherapeutants to treat disease leads to resistance to drugs creating a new threat to the Malaysia Borneo water. Types of culture system operation affecting the degree of disease outbreak should be the next focus of the study thus providing a brighter perspective on aquaculture management.
Temporal trends and scholarly impact: a quantitative analysis of bamboo biomass research in Southeast Asia
Authors: Muhamad M Z , Mustafa M M
Published: September 2024

Bamboo biomass research has gained significant attention in Southeast Asia due to its potential for sustainable energy solutions. This study aims to provide a comprehensive quantitative analysis of the scholarly landscape surrounding bamboo biomass research in the region from 2013 to 2024. The primary objectives are to map the temporal distribution of research, identify leading journals, and highlight evolving focus areas within the field. A systematic review of 28 peer-reviewed articles was conducted to gather data on publication trends, research themes, and key findings. The analysis reveals a growing scholarly interest in bamboo biomass, particularly in its morphological characteristics that enhance biomass power efficiency. The study identifies key journals and research hotspots, indicating a shift towards more applied research in recent years. This paper delineates the trends that have shaped the current research trajectory in bamboo biomass, offering a foundation for future studies aimed at advancing sustainable energy solutions in Southeast Asia.
Evaluating smallholder’s behaviour in oil palm waste management practice – A case study in Marudi, Sarawak
Authors: Arin P L , Nor R C M , Aziz A S A , Sahmat S S , Yusop Z , Kamil M Z
Published: September 2024

The concern over oil palm waste within the plantation sector has become significant, primarily due to smallholders’ inappropriate waste management practices. This issue emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable and responsible waste management strategies to mitigate environmental risks and promote long-term sustainability within the ecosystem. Thus, this present study was conducted to identify the factors affecting smallholder behaviour on oil palm waste management practices in Marudi, Sarawak. The primary data for this study were collected from 50 smallholder oil palm growers using a non-random sampling method with a well-structured close-ended questionnaire via face-to-face survey. Findings revealed that only attitude and perceived behavioural control significantly influence the smallholder’s behavior in managing the oil palm waste (p-value > 0.05). Meanwhile, subjective norms do not significantly affect the smallholder’s behavior in managing the oil palm waste (p-value < 0.05). It was also found that perceived behaviour was the most significant factor affecting the behaviour of the smallholders toward good waste management practices. In summary, the key roles of agencies in facilitating knowledge transfer and monitoring are crucial to ensuring that smallholders are adopting standardized waste management practices primarily for rural smallholders.
Effect of different cocoa mass levels on total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and sensory acceptability of panned dark chocolate
Authors: Ishak I , Musa N , Hasim N A Muhamad , Hisham N A Badrul , Fadzilah F N Harris , Khaironi J , Ahmad F , Kamarudin W S S Wan
Published: September 2024

Chocolate is one of the most widely consumed confectionery. The high consumption of chocolate-based confectionery, particularly dark chocolate, draws attention as the cocoa mass is higher than in milk and white chocolates. This research was carried out to evaluate the total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activities (DPPH free radical scavenging activity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay) and sensory acceptability of panned dark chocolate (PDC) using three different percentages of cocoa mass, which include 60% (PDC60), 70% (PDC70), and 80% (PDC80). The results show that PDC80 achieved the highest TPC and antioxidant activities compared to the other samples except for ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) (p<0.05). No differences in texture, cocoa flavour, and bitter aftertaste sensory attributes were obtained among all samples for sensory analysis of PDC. PDC70 demonstrates the highest scores for glossiness, colour, sweetness, and overall acceptability (p<0.05). In conclusion, PDC70 was selected for the ideal panned dark chocolate formulation based on sensory acceptability and antioxidant activity.
Influence of enzymatic hydrolysis conditions on the degree of hydrolysis of protein hydrolysate obtained from cocoa pod husk (Theobroma cacao L.)
Authors: Haris H H , Maskat Y
Published: September 2024

In recent years, there has been a remarkable shift of interest towards plant-based protein sources for future functional foods. Concerning food insecurity and nutrient deficiencies due to the rise of the global population, underutilized agricultural waste is highly emphasized as a potential new source of protein. In this study, protein hydrolysate was prepared from the pod husk of three different cocoa clones (Theobroma cacao L.). The effects of various conditions on the degree of hydrolysis (DH) by using few types of enzymes were evaluated with enzyme-substrate ratio and pH being constant. The DH of 64% to 72% was attained under the optimum conditions including enzyme concentration of 6% in an incubation period of 24 hours. The yield of protein hydrolysate was found to be much higher using alkalase enzyme but the production rate of protein hydrolysate was much faster when using trypsin enzyme than others. Among all clones, the PBC 159 clone is the best cocoa clone expressing the highest protein hydrolysate with possible antioxidant and antimicrobial activities in future studies
Livestock waste management adoption among livestock farmers: A study in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Abdullah F A , Sabaruddin S A , Noor W N W M , Zaman N B K
Published: September 2024

Converting livestock waste into compost as crop fertiliser is a wise management practice that will benefit both livestock and crop farmers. This process potentially boosts farmers’ income and practises good environmental techniques in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). However, limited knowledge and lack of extension activity cause the unawareness of this beneficial practice. Besides, some farmers may have problems with where to market the compost made due to uncertain demand, and some refuse to employ organic compost on their crops. Without any doubt, managing livestock waste into compost is a low-cost practice involving simple materials and methods. This study was conducted among 100 livestock farmers using purposive sampling in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia, including Negeri Sembilan, Melaka and Johor. The finding found that the mean score for the adoption of livestock waste management, farmers’ behaviour, external factors and farmers’ perception is 3.992, 3.824, 3.694 and 4.150, respectively. All mean scores except farmers’ perception show moderate levels where most are still in between managing the livestock waste wisely or not. Hence, this practice is suggested for collaboration between the private sector to encourage the farmers to engage more in managing livestock waste and producing it commercially. Besides, the role of extension service is also vital as this effort could enhance farmers’ well-being and improve their livelihood.
Discover the challenges faced by the smallholder in the loose fruit collection process
Authors: Forest I L , Wan Yusuf S M , Saili A R , Mahdian S , Rizieq R
Published: September 2024

The Malaysian oil palm industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, involves large plantations and smallholders cultivating millions of hectares. Palm oil, a major global trade commodity, contributes significantly to Malaysia’s GDP. However, the collection of loose fruit, vital for its high oil content, presents challenges for smallholders. The issue of uncollected loose fruit remains prevalent among smallholders, leading to the growth of unwanted plants and potential misuse of volunteer oil palm seedlings. The manual collection process, which is time-consuming, coupled with technical limitations faced in mechanizing the process, contributes significantly to the handling time of fresh fruit bunches. Hence, a qualitative study was conducted in Saratok, Sarawak, focusing on eight smallholder participants to discover their challenges in collecting loose fruit. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data from the participants using the snowball sampling method, based on the eight participants who were interviewed. The data were analysed using Thematic Analysis (TA) and emerged into five themes. The analysis revealed that their challenges were associated with unsightly areas, manual collection difficulties, physical strain, vast plantation areas, and workforce shortages. The findings of the study contribute to the ongoing discourse on improving the efficiency of loose fruit collection, a critical aspect of Malaysia’s oil palm industry sustainability, which is crucial for enhancing the industry’s productivity and its significant role in Malaysia’s economy and global palm oil trade.
A review on adoption of the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification scheme
Authors: Zainal Abidin M N , Abdul Fatah F , Noor W N W M , Aris N F M
Published: September 2024

The implementation of the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification scheme is essential for promoting sustainability within the palm oil industry. The palm oil industry plays a significant role as a global vegetable oil supplier but faces substantial environmental criticism. Since its mandatory adoption in 2018, the MSPO certification has aimed to ensure sustainability throughout the palm oil supply chain. Through a systematic literature review conducted from January to April 2024, utilizing databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, this study analyzed fifteen relevant studies spanning from 2016 to 2023. The examination identified key determinants influencing the adoption of MSPO certification among smallholders, including heightened awareness of sustainability, access to financial resources, governmental support, provision of training, and facilitation of market entry. However, challenges persist, including financial constraints, knowledge gaps, inadequate extension services, and restricted market opportunities. Notably, government assistance in the form of financial incentives and training programs has been instrumental in expediting the adoption process. This study underscores the importance of internal factors such as education level and age, highlighting the need to address these variables to promote sustainable practices effectively. Effective communication strategies and transparent mechanisms are crucial for enhancing smallholders’ understanding and compliance with certification standards. Targeted interventions are imperative for overcoming existing challenges and fostering broader adoption of sustainable practices among smallholder farmers in the palm oil industry.
Innocent Creation of Risk and Interference
Authors: Steel Sandy
Published: September 2024

This chapter begins the analysis of the special facts which, from the perspective of the current law, trigger P-duties in tort. It considers two special facts: ‘innocent creation of risk’ and ‘interference’. The first section focusses on innocent creation of a risk. It shows that the law accepts this principle: if A substantially causally contributes to an interference with B’s general right-protected interest, or to a non-minimal risk to B’s general right-protected interest, and A ought to know that this poses a foreseeable risk of injury to that interest, then A is under a duty to take reasonable steps to protect B from that risk. The second section focusses on interference.
Easy Rescue
Authors: Steel Sandy
Published: September 2024

This chapter is concerned with a P-duty not recognised by the current tort law in England and most common law jurisdictions: a duty of easy rescue owed by all persons. The term ‘duty of easy rescue’ normally refers to a general duty to provide assistance to another when there is an imminent high risk of death or serious damage to their body, in circumstances in which the assistance needed would not involve significant cost to the duty-bearer, and when the failure to assist will not make the person subject to the risk worse off than if the duty-bearer had not been present. The duty is general in that it applies to all persons, or all persons with sufficient capacity to assist.
Social Inclusion of People with Disabilities Revisited
Authors: Rimmerman Arie
Published: September 2024

Persons with disabilities have been disproportionally affected by the COVID-19 virus, experiencing difficulties in accessing health and social services during the pandemic. Lockdowns enforced public health restrictions to prevent spreading of the pandemic, a step needed to protect life. However, these restrictions have had devastating impacts with regard to social inclusion of people with disabilities. During the pandemic, most communication transitioned from offline to online, raising the following questions: How do people with disabilities cope with this change? and Can digital inclusion compensate persons with disabilities for their social exclusion in virtual reality? This book discusses whether the pandemic changes the nature and climate of social inclusion. One view is positive: Remote learning, working from home, access to health information, and interpersonal relations can enhance social inclusion. The opposite view is quite pessimistic: People who have accessibility difficulties online may have the same difficulties offline, mainly because nothing has changed with respect to their social capital. The book explores the roots of social inclusion and exclusion and current use of the terms with respect to people with disabilities, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social inclusion of people with disabilities, and countries’ responses (particularly the United Kingdom and the United States) during the pandemic and afterward. These issues are discussed with respect to persons with various disabilities living in developed and low- and medium-income countries and children with disabilities.
Introduction
Authors: Rimmerman Arie
Published: September 2024

The term social inclusion means many different things to different people; it is often interpreted by policymakers and politicians as social engagement and participation in society. Social inclusion and social exclusion are often viewed as inseparable. Inclusion is described as the positive outcome of social exclusion, whereas exclusion is viewed as an expression of lack of cohesion and participation in valued social, economic, and cultural activities. Social inclusion gradually changed to digital inclusion during the 21st century and particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The most vulnerable people for social and digital exclusion are those with cognitive disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and visual impairment. This chapter provides an outline of the book.
Social Inclusion of People with Disabilities
Authors: Rimmerman Arie
Published: September 2024

The chapter introduces the evolution of the terminology of social inclusion. The term social inclusion is interlinked with personhood: Being a person entitles them to interaction with other people in their social niche. Social inclusion is often used interchangeably with other concepts, such as social capital, cultural capital, social cohesion, social integration, and social connection. COVID-19 brought with it dramatic changes in the way people live their lives. Throughout the world, lockdown policies forced a move to digital technology. The chapter raises the question of whether digital technology has replaced face-to-face interpersonal communication and enhanced social capital. It is evident that the most vulnerable people for social exclusion and digital inclusion are those with cognitive disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and visual impairment. The chapter also discusses the inclusion of children with disabilities and the social exclusion for people with disabilities in low- and middle-income countries as they face disadvantages in terms of poverty, negative attitudes, and exclusion from society.
Digital Technology and Social Inclusion of People with Disabilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Afterwards
Authors: Rimmerman Arie
Published: September 2024

This chapter examines digital inclusion as related to social inclusion of people with disabilities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and afterwards. One approach is positive regarding the link between social and digital inclusion. Disadvantaged subpopulations, such as people with disabilities, can improve their learning experience online, accessing health information and improving their social networking with others and their social inclusion. The negative approach is that people who have accessibility difficulties online may find the same situation offline. The chapter discusses the digital divide among people with disabilities during the pandemic regarding a lack of hardware, connectivity, and technological digital literacy to access digital devices and the internet. In addition, it discusses the merits and barriers of digital technology for people with all types of disabilities, including visual impairment, auditory disabilities, locomotor disability, cognitive disability, and autism spectrum disorder.
Form-assortative mating behaviors of individuals from parasitic and non-parasitic populations of Arctic lamprey (Lethenteron camtschaticum)
Authors: Daupagne Léa , Furusawa Chiharu , Mieda Hironori , Kishida Osamu , Lasne Emilien , Tentelier Cédric , Koizumi Itsuro
Published: September 2024

Evolutionary theory predicts that assortative mating is crucial for sympatric speciation by generating reproductive isolation between diverging populations. Here, we investigate the potential of form-assortative mating, an assumed mating pattern in lampreys, for sympatric speciation. By continuously recording mating activity between anadromous and freshwater-resident forms of L. camtschaticum that greatly differ in body size, we show that lampreys tend to mate with individuals of similar size in experimental conditions. However, we highlight that this pattern does not result from a choice of same-form partner but is the result of the simultaneous action of a preference of males—whatever their size—for large anadromous females, a higher competitive ability of aggressive males and physical constraints on heteroform pairs. Moreover, we do not advocate that sympatric speciation, as the sole consequence of form-assortative mating through sexual selection, is a plausible mechanism for the diversification of lampreys as a significant number of sneaking behaviors were observed in freshwater-resident males toward large anadromous females. Broader attention should be given to mechanisms other than the sexual selection that may lead to form-assortative mating, such as variations in the spatial or temporal distribution of alternative forms during reproductive season.