bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MOBILE GAS SENSING FOR LABORATORY INFRASTRUCTURE
Authors: Sarif Raduan , Al-Okby Mohammed Faeik Ruzaij , Roddelkopf Thomas , Thurow Kerstin
Published: January 2024

Indoor air quality has become a growing concern in modern society due to prolonged indoor working hours that lead to the frequent exposure to numerous toxic gases from various sources. These pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pose severe health risks such as asthma and lung cancer. To address this critical issue, this project focuses on developing and evaluating an advanced gas detection system that explicitly targets VOCs by integrating two novel metal oxide semiconductor (MOX)-based gas sensors, ENS 160 and TED110. Different sensor parameters, such as the air quality index (AQI) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), were evaluated using 12 volatile organic chemicals. The findings revealed that the ENS 160 sensor performs excellently, detecting 60 gas samples out of 72, with an average detection rate of approximately 83%. In contrast, the TED110 sensor demonstrated considerably lower performance and response in 24 out of 72 gas samples, with a detection rate of about 33%. The results contribute insights into the gas sensor's characteristics, providing essential information to enhance indoor air quality monitoring technology, particularly in laboratory environments.
ABSTRAK: Setiap hari, banyak gas toksik, letupan dan beracun berlaku di dalam dan di luar rumah daripada pelbagai sumber. Dalam masyarakat moden, kebanyakan orang menghabiskan 90% masa bekerja mereka di dalam rumah; oleh itu, kualiti udara dalaman secara beransur-ansur bertambah buruk daripada suasana luar. Projek ini sedang membangunkan sistem pengesanan dan pemantauan moden yang canggih untuk mengesan pelbagai gas berbahaya, seperti sebatian organik meruap (VOC). Dua penderia gas berasaskan semikonduktor oksida logam (MOX) novel telah diperkenalkan dalam projek ini dengan mikropengawal yang dikemas kini untuk pemerolehan data dan pemprosesan data. Tambahan pula, parameter sensor yang berbeza (AQI, TVOC) telah dinilai dengan 12 bahan kimia organik yang tidak menentu. Semua ujian telah dijalankan dalam tudung kimia tradisional dengan tiga kuantiti sampel yang berbeza (5?L, 10?L, 50?L) pada jarak 40 cm dan 100 cm. Akhir sekali, volum minimum yang boleh dikesan berdasarkan jarak antara nod sensor dan sumber bocor telah dianalisis selepas eksperimen yang meluas dengan kedua-dua sensor. Sensor ENS 160 sedang mengesan 60 sampel gas daripada 72, dalam ketiga-tiga parameter seperti AQI, TVOC dan kadar pengesanan CO2 sekitar 83%. TED110 menunjukkan prestasi yang sangat rendah; ia telah bertindak balas kepada 24 daripada 72 sampel gas, dan kadar pengesanan ialah 33%.
SPECTROSCOPY DATA CALIBRATION USING STACKED ENSEMBLE MACHINE LEARNING
Authors: Mahmud Iwan Solihin  , Yuan Chan Jin , Hong Wan Siu , Pui Liew Phing , Kit Ang Chun , Hossain Wafa , Machmudah Affiani
Published: January 2024

Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a widely used analytical technique for non-destructive analysis of various materials including food fraud detection. However, the accurate calibration of NIRS data can be challenging due to the complexity of the underlying relationships between the spectral data and the target variables of interest. Ensemble learning, which combines multiple models to make predictions, has been shown to improve the accuracy and robustness of predictive models in various domains. This paper proposes stacking ensemble machine learning (SEML) for calibration of NIRS data with two levels of learning involved. Eight (8) spectroscopy datasets from public repository and previously published works by the authors are used as the case study. The model well generalized the data in the respective regression tasks with   of at least  »0.8 in the test samples and in the respective classification tasks with classification accuracy (CA) of at least »0.8 also. In addition, the proposed SEML can improve, or at least reach par with, the accuracy of individual base learners in both train and test samples for all cases of regression and classification datasets. It shows superior performance in test samples for both regression and classification datasets with respectively  ranging from 0.86 to nearly 1 and CA ranging from 0.89 to 1.
ABSTRAK: Spektroskopi inframerah dekat (NIRS) adalah teknik analitikal yang banyak digunakan bagi analisa pelbagai bahan tanpa merosakkan bahan termasuk ketika mengesan penipuan makanan. Walau bagaimanapun, kalibrasi yang tepat bagi data NIRS adalah sangat mencabar kerana hubungan antara data spektral dan pemboleh ubah sasaran yang ingin dikaji bersifat kompleks. Gabungan pembelajaran (Ensemble learning), iaitu gabungan pelbagai model bagi membuat prediksi, telah terbukti dapat meningkatkan ketepatan dan kecekapan model prediksi dalam pelbagai bentuk. Kajian ini mencadangkan Turutan Gabungan Pembelajaran Mesin (Stacking Ensemble Machine Learning ) (SEML), bagi teknik penentu ukuran data NIRS melibatkan dua tahap pembelajaran. Lapan (8) set data spektroskopi dari repositori awam dan kajian terdahulu oleh pengarang telah digunakan sebagai kes kajian. Model ini menggeneralisasi data dalam tugas regresi  masing-masing sebanyak ?0.8 bagi sampel ujian dan pengelasan tugas masing-masing dengan ketepatan klasifikasi (CA) sekurang-kurangnya ?0.8. Tambahan, SEML yang dicadangkan ini dapat membantu, atau sekurang-kurangnya setanding dengan ketepatan individu dalam pembelajaran berkumpulan dalam kedua-dua sampel latihan dan ujian bagi semua kes set data regresi dan klasifikasi. Ia menunjukkan prestasi terbaik dalam sampel ujian bagi kedua-dua kumpulan set data regresi dan klasifikasi dengan masing-masing  antara 0.86 hingga hampir 1 dan antara julat 0.89 hingga 1 bagi CA.
THIOL FUNCTIONALIZED GOLD NANOBIPYRAMIDS-BASED PLASMONIC SENSOR FOR GLUCOSE DETECTION
Authors: Salsabiila Natasya , Morsin Marlia , Hasbullah Muhammad Hanif , Nafisah Suratun , Razali Nur Liyana , Iwantono
Published: January 2024

Gold nanobipyramids (GNBPs) have high selectivity in detecting changes in their surrounding medium because of their electric field enhancements and larger surface areas. In this study, we functionalized GNBPs using a thiol group that acts as a ligand to improve the detection performance of the analytes. The investigation is carried out by varying the functionalization periods from 12 to 72 hours. The optimum thiol-functionalized GNBPs (t-GNBPs) are obtained in 60 hours, with a length of 36.84 ± 2.05 nm, a width of 24.02 ± 0.74 nm, and an aspect ratio of 1.54 ± 0.11. Then, the optimum t-GNBPs are used as a sensing material in a plasmonic sensor to detect glucose. The limit of detection (LoD) of glucose is 1 µM for this sensor. The plasmonic sensor has been successfully built with reliable performance in detecting glucose with excellent linearity, sensitivity and R2 = 1; good selectivity compared to four similar chemical structure analytes; high stability with a low error value, i.e., ± 0.02 a.u.; and almost consistent repeatability values in each cycle with low percent variance of 0.000025% for the t-SPR area and 0.000032% for the l-SPR area. Therefore, a plasmonic sensor based on t-GNBPs is an alternative method of detecting glucose with high sensitivity, selectivity and repeatability.
ABSTRAK: Nanobipiramid Emas (GNBPs) memiliki selektiviti yang tinggi dalam mengesan perubahan medium sekitar kerana memiliki peningkatan medan elektrik dan luas permukaan yang besar. Kajian ini merupakan fungsionalisasi terhadap GNBPs dengan menggunakan kumpulan thiol sebagai ligan bagi meningkatkan prestasi pengesanan analit. Kajian ini  dilakukan dengan mempelbagaikan tempoh masa fungsionalisasi dalam julat waktu 12 hingga 72 jam. GNBPs optimum yang difungsionalisasi oleh thiol (t-GNBPs) diperoleh pada 60 jam, dengan panjang 36.84 ± 2.05 nm, lebar 24.02 ± 0.74 nm, dan nisbah aspek 1.54 ± 0.11. Kemudian, t-GNBPs optimum digunakan sebagai bahan penderia pada sensor plasmonik bagi mengesan glukosa. Limit pengesanan glukosa (LoD) bagi sensor ini adalah sebanyak 100 µM. Sensor plasmonik telah berhasil dibangunkan dengan kecekapan boleh percaya dalam mengesan glukosa dengan lineariti dan sensitiviti sebanyak R2 = 1. Pemilihan yang baik dibandingkan dengan 4 analit yang sama dari segi struktur kimia. Kestabilan yang tinggi dengan nilai ralat rendah iaitu ± 0.02 a.u, dan memiliki nilai keberulangan yang hampir konsisten pada setiap kitar dengan peratusan varian rendah iaitu sebanyak 0.000025% bagi bahagian t-SPR dan 0.000032% bagi l-SPR. Oleh itu, pengesan plasmonik berdasarkan t-GNBPs ini adalah kaedah alternatif bagi mengesan glukosa dengan sensitiviti, selektiviti, dan kebolehulangan yang tinggi.
POWER OF ALIGNMENT: EXPLORING THE EFFECT OF FACE ALIGNMENT ON ASD DIAGNOSIS USING FACIAL IMAGES
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Mahbubur , Alam Mohammad Shafiul
Published: January 2024

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that impacts social communication and conduct. ASD lacks standard treatment protocols or medication, thus early identification and proper intervention are the most effective procedures to treat this disorder. Artificial intelligence could be a very effective tool to be used in ASD diagnosis as this is free from human bias. This research examines the effect of face alignment for the early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using facial images with the possibility that face alignment can improve the prediction accuracy of deep learning algorithms. This work uses the SOTA deep learning-based face alignment algorithm MTCNN to preprocess the raw data. In addition, the impacts of facial alignment on ASD diagnosis using facial images are investigated using state-of-the-art CNN backbones such as ResNet50, Xception, and MobileNet. ResNet50V2 achieves the maximum prediction accuracy of 93.97% and AUC of 96.33% with the alignment of training samples, which is a substantial improvement over previous research. This research paves the way for a data-centric approach that can be applied to medical datasets in order to improve the efficacy of deep neural network algorithms used to develop smart medical devices for the benefit of mankind. ABSTRAK: Gangguan Spektrum Autisme (ASD) adalah gangguan perkembangan yang memberi kesan kepada komunikasi dan tingkah laku sosial. Kelemahan dalam rawatan ASD adalah ianya tidak mempunyai protokol rawatan standard atau ubat. Oleh itu pengenalan awal dan campur tangan betul merupakan prosedur paling berkesan bagi merawat gangguan ini. Kecerdasan buatan boleh menjadi alat berkesan bagi diagnosis ASD kerana bebas campur tangan manusia. Penyelidikan ini mengkaji kesan penjajaran muka bagi diagnosis awal ASD menggunakan imej muka dengan kebarangkalian penjajaran muka dapat meningkatkan ketepatan ramalan algoritma pembelajaran mendalam. Kajian ini menggunakan algoritma penjajaran muka MTCNN berasaskan pembelajaran mendalam SOTA bagi pra-proses data mentah. Selain itu, kesan penjajaran muka pada diagnosis ASD menggunakan imej muka disiasat menggunakan CNN terkini seperti ResNet50, Xception dan MobileNet. ResNet50V2 mencapai ketepatan ramalan maksimum sebanyak 93.97% dan AUC 96.33% dengan  sampel penjajaran latihan, yang merupakan peningkatan ketara berbanding penyelidikan terdahulu. Kajian ini membuka jalan bagi pendekatan data berpusat yang boleh digunakan pada set data perubatan bagi meningkatkan keberkesanan algoritma rangkaian saraf mendalam dan membangunkan peranti perubatan pintar bermanfaat untuk manusia.
COMPACT CPW 4X4 MIMO ANTENNA FOR WI-FI 6 (IEEE802.11.AX) AND 5G(NR77/NR78/NR79) COMMUNICATIONS
Authors: Salim Noora , Singh Mandeep S. J. , T. Abed Amer
Published: January 2024

This research proposes a compact 4x4 MIMO coplanar waveguide antenna for 5G NR and Wi-Fi 6 applications. The antenna has a size of 34x32x1.6 mm and operates in the 4.2-7 GHz band. By cutting slots on the ground and radiator, the mutual coupling is reduced to less than -15 dB between adjacent and opposite elements and less than -25 dB between diagonal elements. The antenna achieves good measured gains (3-6 dBi) and efficiency (60%-80%). The proposed antenna is suitable for high-performance wireless communication systems that require a small and low-cost MIMO antenna.
ABSTRAK:  Kajian ini mencadangkan antena pandu gelombang yang kompak 4x4 MIMO koplanar bagi aplikasi 5G NR dan Wi-Fi6. Antena ini mempunyai saiz 34x32x1.6 mm dan beroperasi dalam kelompok gelombang 4.2-7 GHz. Dengan memotong slot pada tanah dan radiator, mutual coupling dikurangkan sebanyak -15 dB antara adjasen dan elemen bertentangan dan kurang daripada -25 dB antara elemen diagonal. Antena ini mencapai ukuran terbaik pada gain (3-6 dBi) dan kecekapan (60%-80%). Antena yang dicadangkan ini sesuai bagi sistem komunikasi tanpa wayar berprestasi tinggi yang memerlukan antena kecil dan murah seperti antena MIMO.
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ADSORPTION PERFORMANCE OF FIXED-BED COLUMNS FOR THE REMOVAL OF PHENOL USING BAOBAB FRUIT SHELL BASED ACTIVATED CARBON
Authors: Nedjai Radhia , Kabbashi Nassereldeen , Alam Md Zahangir , Alkhatib Maan , Tahreen Amina , Al Mamun Abdullah
Published: January 2024

A continuous adsorption study in a fixed-bed column using baobab fruit shell activated carbon (BF-AC) was investigated for phenol removal from an aqueous solution. Baobab fruit shell (BFS) was chemically activated using potassium hydroxide (KOH) at 700 °C in a nitrogen (N2) atmosphere. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and BET surface area analyses were performed for the characterization of BF-AC. Fixed-bed experiments were carried out and the effect of feed flowrate (10, 15, 20 mL/min) and bed height (5, 10, 15 cm) on the adsorption were investigated by evaluating the breakthrough curves. BET surface area of BF-AC was 1263 m2/g, indicating its well-developed pores and its good quality as an adsorbent. The findings showed that the exhaustion time (t????) and breakthrough time (tb) reduced as the flowrate augmented, while they increased as the bed height augmented. With the increase in the bed height and the flowrate, phenol solution volume treated was augmented. Also, BF-AC with bed height of 15 cm provided better elimination of phenol with carbon usage rate (CUR) of 1.74 g/L and empty bed contact time (EBCT) of 9.9 minutes. According to the findings, BF-AC is an effective adsorbent for removing phenol from aqueous solutions.
ABSTRAK: Kajian penjerapan berterusan menggunakan kulit buah baobab diaktifkan karbon (BF-AC) telah dikaji mengguna pakai kolum lapisan tetap bagi penyingkiran fenol daripada larutan cecair. Kulit buah Baobab (BFS) diaktifkan secara kimia menggunakan kalium hidroksida (KOH) pada suhu 700 °C dalam atmosfera nitrogen (N2). Imbasan mikroskop elektron (SEM), pembelahan sinar-X (XRD, dan analisis permukaan BET dijalankan bagi pencirian BF-AC. Eksperimen kolum lapisan tetap bagi mengkaji kesan penjerapan pada aliran suapan (10, 15, 20 mL/min) dengan ketinggian (5, 10, 15 cm) dinilai melalui lengkung bulus. Kawasan permukaan BET BF-AC adalah 1263 m2/g, menunjukkan liang yang elok terbentuk dan berkualiti baik sebagai penyerap. Penemuan ini menunjukkan bahawa puncak masa maksima (t????) dan masa terbaik (tb) berkurangan pada kadar aliran bertambah, sebaliknya ianya meningkat pada ketinggian bertambah. Dengan penambahan ketinggian katil dan kadar aliran, jumlah larutan fenol yang dirawat telah bertambah. Selain itu, BF-AC pada ketinggian 15 cm menunjukkan penghapusan fenol terbaik pada kadar penggunaan karbon (CUR) 1.74 g/L dan masa sentuhan kolum kosong (EBCT) 9.9 minit. Ini menunjukkan, BF-AC adalah penyerap yang berkesan bagi menyingkirkan fenol daripada larutan cecair.
EXTENDABLE HIGH-GAIN DC-DC CONVERTER FOR STORAGE BATTERY AND PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL
Authors: Motakabber S. M. A. , Akter Khadiza , Alam AHM Zahirul , Yusoff Siti Hajar Binti
Published: January 2024

DC-DC converters with significant gain, ripple-free input current, and shared ground are required to elevate the output voltages of batteries, fuel cells, and Photovoltaic sources. The proposed topology utilizes a solitary switch to control the circuit and it has additional inculpation of a voltage doubler cell at the load side, a switch capacitor cell in the middle, and a quadratic cell at the output side. These cascaded configurations lead to significant voltage gains at moderate duty cycle rates. Additionally, the voltage stress over the power components is negligible, coming in under one-third of the resultant voltage. Moreover, the number of cells at the input and output side can be extended to obtain high voltage according to the requirements of the load. The gain in voltage, efficiency, and normalized voltage stress of the semiconductor elements in the circuit are examined concerning other solutions found in the literature. Eventually, photovoltaic and battery sources were included to analyze the proposed topology to confirm the circuit’s multifaceted functionality. The circuit was developed for 270 W, 440 V output from 36 V input, and a 40 kHz switching pulse was used to drive the switch. The theoretical and simulation analysis states that incorporating photovoltaic and other sources did not deteriorate the transformation efficiency. Simulink and PSIM analysis found that the circuit successfully transferred  power from source to load.
ABSTRAK: Penukar DC-DC yang mempunyai gandaan ketara, input arus bebas riak dan pembumi berkongsi penting bagi meningkatkan voltan keluar bateri, sel bahan api dan sumber fotovolta. Topologi yang dicadangkan ini menggunakan suis tersendiri bagi mengawal litar dan ia mengandungi sel pendua voltan tambahan bagi menghentikan arus di bahagian beban, sel suis kapasitor di tengah dan sel kuadratik di bahagian voltan keluar. Konfigurasi berturutan ini membawa kepada gandaan voltan ketara pada kadar kitar tugas sederhana. Tambahan, tekanan voltan ke atas komponen kuasa boleh diabaikan, iaitu satu pertiga daripada voltan terhasil. Selain itu, bilangan sel di bahagian kemasukan dan keluaran arus boleh dilanjutkan bagi mendapatkan voltan tinggi mengikut keperluan beban. Gandaan voltan, kecekapan dan tekanan voltan ternormal pada bahan dalam litar semikonduktor diperiksa dengan menyamai penyelesaian lain yang ditemui dalam kajian terdahulu. Akhirnya, sumber fotovolta dan bateri dimasukkan bagi menganalisis topologi yang dicadangkan bagi mengesahkan fungsi pelbagai rupa litar. Litar yang dibangunkan ini digunakan pada kuasa 270 W, pada aras voltan 440 V dengan kemasukan voltan 36 V dan suis operasi berfrekuensi 40 kHz. Analisis teori dan simulasi menyatakan bahawa gabungan fotovolta dan sumber lain tidak mengurangkan kecekapan transformasi. Analisis Simulink dan PSIM mendapati litar ini berjaya memindahkan 95% kuasa dari sumber kepada beban.
Subcutaneous Panniculitis-like T-cell Lymphoma: A Case Report of A Solved Conundrum
Authors: Chi Adam Khairul Bariah , Jamali Nabilah Rashida , Harun Nor Adilah , Burhanudin Nor Aszlitah , Hamdan Asmah Hanim
Published: January 2024

Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma (SPTCL) is a rare primary cutaneous lymphoma which often be very complexed to be diagnosed. Here we reported a case of a 38-year-old lady with wax and wane course of left facial swelling associated with prolonged pyrexia of unknown origin, lethargy and prominent weight loss. Multiple investigations were conducted to reach to the conclusive diagnosis. Histopathological showed infiltration of neoplastic lymphoid cells within the adipocyte clusters with hyperchromatic nuclei, small nucleoli and scant cytoplasm. Immunohistochemical analysis were immunoreactive to CD3, CD8 & TIA and negative to CD20, CD4 & CD56. Based on clinical findings, histopathology report and immunohistochemical analysis, the patient diagnosed with SPTCL. Hence, any suspicious maxillofacial swelling without obvious sign of infection and trauma shall be investigated until a final diagnosis is reached.
A Comparative Study of the Tolerance to Stress Response Under Spinal Anaesthesia in Diabetic Versus Non-Diabetic Patients
Authors: Saha Prince , Shah Bhavini Bhushan , Vazhakalayil Subha Jose , Thakur Aishwarya
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: Activation of sympathetic nervous system, increase of catabolic hormone release and pituitary gland suppression are responses to surgical stress. Neural blockade via epidural or spinal anesthesia, intravenous administration of high-dose of strong opioid analgesics, and infusion of anabolic hormones such as insulin are three main methods for balancing stress responses to surgery. However, there are conflicting reports about the extent of autonomic disturbances occurring after inducing spinal anesthesia in diabetic patients due to underlying autonomic neuropathy. METHODOLOGY: An observational cohort study was conducted in an operative room of a tertiary health care center involving 25 diabetic patients and 25 non-diabetic patients to evaluate the tolerance to stress. The diabetic patients undergone an exercise tolerance test to evaluate for postural hypotension which would indicate presence of autonomic neuropathy. Stress parameters such as heart rate, mean blood pressure, blood glucose level, and temperature were measured at regular intervals pre, peri- and post-operatively. RESULTS: Intraoperative heart rate, mean blood pressure, and blood glucose level were high in diabetic patients with autonomic neuropathy (p≤0.05). Temperature was higher in diabetic patients with autonomic neuropathy initially (p≤0.05) and had a higher fall peri-and post-operatively (T=15 minutes, T=20 minutes, and T=after surgery). A significant differences in the parameters of stress response were observed in diabetic patients with autonomic neuropathy. CONCLUSION: By understanding the correlation between stress-response in diabetic patients with autonomic neuropathy peri-operatively will help the anesthetist to provide customized services to every patient
Surgical outcome of Acoustic Neuroma Surgery in a Malaysian Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Razak Siti Sarah , Abdullah Asma , Hashim Noor Dina , Abu Bakar Azizi , Sutan Rosnah , Sani Abdullah
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: Acoustic neuroma (AN) or vestibular schwannoma, is a benign, slow-growing tumour that arises from the Schwann cell of the vestibular branch of the vestibulocochlear nerve. Treatment options are mainly conservative or surgical excision. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics of AN and the surgical outcomes in a Malaysian tertiary hospital. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Records of 73 patients who were diagnosed with AN from January 2008 until December 2019 were retrieved. All patients were analyzed for demographic data and clinical characteristics. In all 52 patients underwent AN surgery and had normal preoperative facial nerve function. A descriptive analysis was used for the surgical outcomes of each patient. RESULTS: The median age of patients was 51.5 (15.8 SD). Hearing levels pre-operatively were severe to profound in 74.0% of the patients, followed by moderate to severe in 15.1%, mild to moderate in 6.8%, and mild hearing loss in 2.7%. Retrosigmoid (48.1%) was the most common surgical approach used, followed by translabyrinthine (44.2%) and middle cranial fossa (MCF) (7.7%). The translabyrinthine approach is associated with the least incidence of facial nerve paresis postoperatively (21.2%) when compared to the retrosigmoid and middle cranial fossa approaches (40.4%). However, there was no significant association between surgical approaches and facial nerve outcome (p=0.07). CONCLUSION: AN surgery is a safe procedure, regardless of the surgical approach used. There was a significant relationship between tumour size and facial nerve outcome.
Assessment Tools for Detecting Malnutrition among Elderly in Shelter Homes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Abdul Mutalib Maisarah , Abdul Kadir Noor Atiqah Aizan , Shamsuddin Aida Soraya , Khalid Khalisanni
Published: January 2024

Assessing nutritional status in older people is essential to screen for malnutrition and identify the individuals requiring nutritional intervention for a better quality of life and longer life expectancy. This review aimed to investigate malnutrition and the role of nutritional assessment tools among older people in Malaysia. We systematically reviewed the publications from 2000 to 2019 using PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus databases, recovering 15 original articles published until January 2022. This systematic review was conducted from May to September 2022. Two reviewers were involved in the process of the selection of articles and data extraction. Only research papers on malnutrition among older people in institutionalized settings in Malaysia were included. Four articles related to malnutrition in older people in old folk homes in Malaysia were included in this review. The tools with the most significant evidence were Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and Nutritional Health Checklist (NHC) in residential care for the elderly. It was found that the incidence of malnutrition among the elderly in old folk homes in Malaysia ranged from 12.3% to 17.4%. Meanwhile, 40.4% to 57.7% of the population are documented to be at risk of malnutrition. NA and DETERMINE NHC were found to be most suitable for use in residential care due to their high sensitivity and specificity. A subsequent study is proposed to build and implement a scoring system to rate screening tools based on the validity, suitability, and practicability of the tools to help with malnutrition screening research and clinical practice in Malaysia and internationally.
Characterisation of Human-Wildlife Conflict and Casualties Caused by Wildlife Attacks in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Xin Lim Qiu , Mat Ghani Siti Nor Assyuhada , Rasudin Nur Syahmina , Abdul Ghafar Noraini , Abd Rashid Nur Haslindawaty , Ten Dennis Choon Yung , Saaban Salman , Edinur Hisham Atan , Abdullah Mohd Tajuddin
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: This study examines human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in Peninsular Malaysia, a consequence of human population expansion, natural resource demand, deforestation, resettlement, infrastructure development, urbanization, and agricultural land growth. We analyze HWC incidents and human casualty statistics from wildlife attacks recorded by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Peninsular Malaysia, between 2011-2018 and 2008-2019, respectively. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected on HWC cases reported to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Peninsular Malaysia (locally known as PERHILITAN), from 2011 to 2018. This data underwent processing, analysis, and presentation in tables and bar charts. RESULTS: There was an increasing trend in reported HWC cases from 2012 to 2018 (5,602 to 7,967 cases). The majority of these incidents in Peninsular Malaysia involved mammalian species such as the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis), wild boar (Sus scrofa), elephant (Elephas maximus), civets (Viverridae family), and pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina), totaling 33,198, 6,614, 3,797, 3,219, and 2,232 cases respectively. Notably, snakes accounted for over 80% of fatalities and injuries. CONCLUSION: This report is the first to provide a comprehensive overview of HWC cases and casualties due to wildlife attacks in Peninsular Malaysia. Our findings highlight the urgent need for policy evaluation and improved inter-agency coordination for effective HWC management, wildlife conservation, and reduction of wildlife attack casualties
Brain Tumours and Inflammatory Markers: Mini-Review
Authors: Michelle Hui Ling Tiong , Wan Azman Wan Norlina , Mat Zin Anani Aila , Idris Zamzuri , Maulidiani M. , Mat Desa Wan Nur Syuhaila
Published: January 2024

An inflammatory biomarker is an indicating substance that facilitates the process of cell injury and promotes the development of cancer cells. The brain structure naturally protects the extracellular matrix (ECM), which consists of microglia, astrocytes, and neurons, by separating them from harm with the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Yet, the inflammation process damages the brain cells, thus releasing inflammatory markers into the plasma. Chronic inflammation results from persistent inflammation, and any failure of control mechanisms within the brain tissues will promote the development of cancer cells. Previous studies showed that several proinflammatory biomarkers, which included interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and C-reactive protein (CRP), were observably higher in patients with glioblastoma compared to those with healthy brain tissues. However, the relationship between proinflammatory factors and glioma development remains unclear. Against such background, this review discusses the potential association between inflammatory markers and a brain tumour, along with the importance of these parameters.
The Effect of Doxycycline on Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Levels in the Colon of Wistar Rats with Obstructive Ileus
Authors: Ulfandi Devby , Labeda Ibrahim , Syarifuddin Erwin , Zainuddin Andi Alfian , Faruk Muhammad
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: Obstructive ileus after colonic anastomosis resection can increase leakage up to 2.5-fold. One possibility could be the extracellular matrix degradation, where matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) negatively influences anastomotic healing. This study aimed to determine the effect of doxycycline on MMP-9 levels in the colon of experimental rats with obstructive ileus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 28 male Wistar rats were selected randomly in a post-test control-group design comprising: Group A - control group, Group B - group without obstructive ileus given doxycycline, Group C - group with obstructive ileus not given doxycycline, and Group D - group with obstructive ileus given doxycycline. Doxycycline was given at a dose of 30 mg/kg. Groups C and D underwent anastomotic resection 24 hours following obstructive ileus procedure. Groups A and B underwent anastomotic resection at the same time as Groups C and D. Colonic tissue was collected to examine MMP-9 levels using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data were compared using Shapiro–Wilk tests, ANOVA, and Mann–Whitney U tests, and p<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The results showed that the average MMP-9 levels increased with doxycycline treatment, [Group C (4.294 ± 0.226)], with significantly higher MMP-9 levels than Group A (1.017 ± 1.569, p<0.001). Group B did not differ significantly from Group A (p=0.848). MMP-9 levels differed significantly between Groups B and D (p<0.001), and between Groups C and D (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Oral administration of doxycycline can attenuate increasing MMP-9 levels in Wistar rats with obstructive ileus
Complicated Appendicitis-Shifting towards Early Appendectomy-A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Hari Rajah Kumar , Menon Somanathan
Published: January 2024

The management of complicated appendicitis has undergone a transformative shift in recent years, moving away from the traditional conservative approach followed by interval appendectomy towards early appendectomy. This review article explores the current landscape of complicated appendicitis management, investigating the roles of conservative treatment, interval appendectomy, and early appendectomy. With no definitive consensus in place, the choice of treatment largely depends on the individual surgeon. The emergence of laparoscopic appendectomy has played a pivotal role in this paradigm shift, further highlighting the need to reevaluate and understand the various management options available. A total of 43 articles, 24 from Asia, 12 from Europe, 5 from the USA and 1 from Africa were retrieved from PubMed, Google scholar and the Cochrane database of clinical reviews. This review synthesizes existing literature, shedding light on the advantages and considerations associated with each approach.
Unaltered Long-Term Maternal Endothelin System in a Gestational Hypertensive Rat Model
Authors: Zulkiflee Khodijah , Yusoff Azmi Merican Yusoff Sharizal , Mohd. Zainudin Maizura , Ismawi Hidayatul Radziah , Zainal Abidin Fadhilah , Abd. Fuaat Azliana
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are two to four times more likely to affect women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs). One of the etiologies of CVDs is endothelial dysfunction, which results from an imbalance in the production of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO). Although blood pressure (BP) is normalized postpartum, we hypothesize that a transient increase in BP during HDPs may cause ongoing endothelial dysfunction. We aimed to discover the impact of HDPs in the development of cardiovascular diseases after long-term postpartum changes in endothelin-A receptor (ETAR) and endothelin-B receptor (ETBR) expression and the concentration of ET-1 and NO. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Twenty-four female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were assigned into four groups (n = 6), including two treatment and two control groups. All rats were sacrificed on Day 30 postpartum. The NO and ET-1 concentrations were determined by ELISA and the ETAR and ETBR expression of the mesenteric arteries were measured by immunohistochemistry studies. RESULTS: The mean concentrations of ET-1 and NO were not significantly different in all groups. There was no significant difference in the mean immunoreactivity of ETAR and ETBR percentages area in the tunica intima and media in all groups. CONCLUSION: No evidence demonstrates significant changes in the endothelin system of the resistance arteries at the proteomic level in the long-term duration following HDP. Further investigation of its potential chronic effect warrants a deeper analysis at the molecular and ultrastructural levels.
Prevalence and Factors Determining Adolescents Risk Taking Behaviours in Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Ying Wong Khung , Rahman Mizanur , Kiyu Andrew
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: During adolescence, significant physical, emotional, and social changes influence growth. This phase exposes adolescents to risky situations. Understanding adolescent risk-taking is crucial. This study aims to determine the extent of risk-taking behaviour among Malaysian adolescents and identify associated factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a community-based study, we surveyed 1,344 Malaysian adolescents aged 10-19 across 22 districts in Sarawak using multi-stage cluster sampling and face-to-face interviews. Data analysis was performed with IBM SPSS v28.0. RESULTS: Analysis found that 43.7% of adolescents engaged in risky behaviours, with a higher incidence in males (50.1%) compared to females (37.4%). Multinomial logistic regression analysis identified for low-medium risk behaviours were being aged 15-19 (AOR=1.52; CI:1.14-2.02), infrequent religious practice (AOR=1.70; CI:1.01-2.84), poor parent-child relations (AOR=2.02; CI:1.07-3.83) and having a history of mental abuse (AOR=3.02; CI:1.37-6.62). However, a larger family size appeared to be a protective factor (AOR=0.39; CI: 0.18-0.89). High-risk behaviours were more prevalent in older (AOR=2.65; CI:1.91, 3.68) male adolescents (AOR=2.75; CI: 2.02, 3.75) and low religious value (AOR=3.55; CI: 1.32-9.52), larger families (AOR=2.03; CI: 1.38-3.00), lower school grades (AOR=1.74; CI: 1.27-2.38), physical ailments (AOR=2.63; CI:1.60-4.32), and a history of mental abuse (AOR=3.85; CI:1.78-8.31). CONCLUSION: Adolescents aged 15-19 with weak family ties, low religious engagement, and a history of mental abuse tend to exhibit low to medium risk behaviours. Older male adolescents with health issues are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviours, whereas those from larger families show fewer such tendencies. These insights are crucial for shaping targeted interventions and policies.
CARBON AND NITROGEN CONTENT AND RESERVES IN TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS OF THE MURMANSK REGION
Authors:   Institute of Industrial Ecology Problems of the North, Kola Scientific Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Sukhareva T.A. , Ivanova E.A. , Ershov V.V. , Zenkova I.V. , Korneykova M.V. ,   Рeoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Shtabrovskaya I.M. , Soshina A.S.
Published: January 2024

The article provides an overview of own and literature data on phytomass reserves, carbon and nitrogen content, diversity of soil fauna and mycobiota in terrestrial ecosystems of the Murmansk region under conditions of combined action of natural and anthropogenic factors. The environmental factors determining the functioning of ecosystems, including the regulation of carbon cycles, are considered. It is shown that in representative spruce and pine forests, the concentrations and precipitation of carbon compounds from the atmosphere and its removal from soil waters are higher in the subcron spaces than in the intercron spaces. In soil waters, there is a decrease in carbon removal with the depth of the soil profile. The podzols are characterized by a bimodal distribution of humus over the soil profile with maxima in the organogenic and illuvial horizons. The carbon content in the organogenic horizon of the soils of spruce and pine forests varies from 12 to 54%, nitrogen — from 4.7 to 18.7 g/kg. The main carbon reserves in the organogenic horizon of forest soils are concentrated in the sub-crown spaces and reach 27–34 t/ha. Carbon reserves in the meter layer of soil (mineral horizons) are 47–60 t/ha. The phytomass reserves of the North taiga forests are characterized by low values (12–188 t/ha). Significant reserves of plant organic matter of the North Taiga forests are concentrated in the ground cover. The carbon content in the assimilating organs (leaves/needles, shoots) of plants of the North Taiga forests varies from 35 to 73%, nitrogen — from 5.4 to 23.6 g/kg. The rate of decomposition of plant residues and carbon loss during the decomposition of the fall of evergreen plants in spruce forests is higher than in pine forests, as are the indicators of the number of soil macrofauna. The podzols of the North Taiga forests correspond to the predominance of secondary destroyers of plant litter — humifiers of earthworms and mixophages wireworms, litter mollusks) and the absence of calcifilic groups of mineralizers (woodlice, bipedal millipedes). 122 species of microscopic fungi have been isolated from the soils of the Murmansk region. Species of pp. Penicillium and Umbelopsis were dominant in terms of abundance in the background soil, in anthropogenically altered soils — species of pp. Aureobasidium, Penicillium, Trichocladium, Trichoderma and Umbelopsis.
HISTORY OF RESEARCH ON FOREST PRODUTIVITY IN KARELIA
Authors:   Forest Research Institute of KarRC RAS, Moshnikov S.A. , Kryshen A.M. , Romashkin I.V.
Published: January 2024

The article deals with the history of research on the biological productivity of forests in Republic of Karelia as a methodological basis for the modern field of research into the components of carbon balance in forests. Particular attention is paid to the review of the studies of the researchers of the Forest Institute of the Karelian Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences from the moment of its formation to the present. The studies of the structure and stocks of phytomass, organic matter and carbon in different components of forest ecosystems, as well as biological aspects of the productivity of the republic’s forests are considered. Some results and prospects of studying the carbon balance in the forests of Eastern Fennoscandia at the current stage of the Institute’s activities are discussed. The references list the main studies in this research field.
A METHOD TO DEFINE A CELL SIZE OF REGULAR NETWORK FOR INFRASTRUCTURAL TERRITORY ZONING WITH PURPOSE OF FOREST FIRE PROTECTION
Authors:   Center for Forest Ecology and Productivity Russian Academy of Sciences, Podolskaia E.S. , Ershov D.V. , Kovganko K.A.
Published: January 2024

Infrastructural projects at regional scale are ones of the important components of modern digital economy. In relation to the forestry, the main objects that determine infrastructural load of the territory in the forestry are the networks of fire stations and forest roads with settlements and public roads. A method to define a cell size of a regular uniform rectangular grid based on the pixel size of MODIS-based vegetation raster is described. It is based on the statistics of number of settlements, fire stations and road sections, as well as road sections lengths. Exploratory regression was used to choose a cell size with a number of forest fires as a dependent variable and number of settlements, road segments and fires stations as independent variables. It was found that the most optimal size of regular grid cell for Krasnoyark Region (Kray) is 24 km2. Paper’s findings could be used in climate and economic projects to estimate infrastructural load.
CIÊNCIAS DA NATUREZA E EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA NOS ANOS INICIAIS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL
Authors: Rodrigues Luana Pompéo , Vestena Rosemar de Fátima
Published: January 2024

Atualmente, a compartimentalização dos conhecimentos não faz sentido no contexto escolar dos Anos Iniciais (AI) do Ensino Fundamental. Assim sendo, ressalta-se a necessidade de interlocução de saberes para dar significado e fluidez ao processo de ensino e aprendizagem de crianças. Este estudo tem como foco o currículo dos AI acerca da área do conhecimento de Ciências da Natureza (CN) e do componente curricular Educação Física (EF). Objetiva-se destacar o potencial interlocutor de conhecimentos entre a área e o componente supracitados, nos AI do Ensino Fundamental, a partir de propostas interdisciplinares. O método de pesquisa caracteriza-se como qualitativo, bibliográfico e documental. Esta pesquisa realiza-se basicamente partir das orientações curriculares prescritas na Base Nacional Comum Curricular(BNCC) para os AI, as CN e EF. A análise dos dados dá-se a partir de um estudo comparativo e da análise de conteúdo proposta por Bardin (2011). Assim, a partir da BNCC, percebe-se que as competências específicas da área de CN e do componente EF abrem caminho para o trabalho interdisciplinar. No entanto, o fato das unidades temáticas, objetos de conhecimento e habilidades CN e EF encontrarem-se dentro das especificidades dos dois componentes curriculares, isso não impede a interlocução de conhecimentos entre CN e EF. Outrossim, as orientações curriculares nos AI sinalizam para o ensino globalizado nessa etapa escolar. Portanto, para que isso se efetive nas instituições escolares, cabe aos gestores e docentes articularem saberes a partir de uma postura metodológica interdisciplinar.
O ESTÁGIO CURRICULAR SUPERVISIONADO EM CURSOS DE FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES DE EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL E ANOS INICIAIS NA PANDEMIA
Authors: Manara Alecia Saldanha , Marzari Mara Regina Bonini , Ruppenthal Raquel
Published: January 2024

A orientação pedagógica e o papel do orientador no processo e na construção do conhecimento pedagógico junto ao aluno se torna determinante na condução das atividades durante o estágio. Este estudo objetiva compreender a relação orientador-aluno do ponto de vista do aluno-docente e do professor orientador durante o Estágio Curricular Supervisionado em cursos de Formação de Professores de Educação Infantil e Anos Iniciais - Curso Normal. Trata-se de um estudo de caráter qualitativo. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevistas com a utilização de um roteiro semiestruturado com questões abertas e semiabertas. Participaram 22 sujeitos sendo 16 alunos e 6 professores orientadores de um curso de Formação de Professores de uma escola da rede pública do interior do Rio Grande do Sul. Para análise dos dados utilizou-se Análise Textual Discursiva- ATD, tendo como referencial teórico Moraes e Galiazzi. Aspectos que dificultam a relação de orientação são apontadas pelos alunos-docentes, como a realização do ECS durante a Pandemia de Covid-19, onde o estágio foi realizado via Ensino Remoto Emergencial. O desconhecimento e a falta de domínio da tecnologia por parte dos orientadores foi apontada pelos alunos-docentes como dificuldades do estágio. Já os aspectos relevantes são as trocas de experiência onde ambos os envolvidos no processo educacional (professor e aluno-docente). Destaca-se a necessidade de estudos sobre a temática, pois a maioria dos estudos refere aos cursos de pós-graduação, o que muitas vezes não reflete a realidade de cursos de Formação de professores de Educação Infantil e Anos Iniciais.
A ORGANIZAÇÃO NA OFERTA E DISTRIBUIÇÃO DOS KITS DE ALIMENTOS DURANTE A PANDEMIA: PANORAMA DAS PESQUISAS NO CONTEXTO DA EDUCAÇÃO PROFISSIONAL E TECNOLÓGICA
Authors: Pinheiro Tânia Terezinha , Santos Daniela Copetti
Published: January 2024

A Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) declarou a pandemia pela COVID-19 e medidas diversas foram tomadas para o controle da doença, dentre elas a suspensão de aulas presenciais, colocando em risco a garantia do direito humano à alimentação escolar na rede pública de ensino. Este estudo elencado através do“Estado do Conhecimento”, realizado através de revisão sistemática utilizou como base de dados a BDTD, CAPES e  SCIELO, tendo sido utilizado como marco nos anos de 2020 a 2022. Visou conhecer o que se tem produzido de conhecimento sobre a distribuição de kits de alimentos pela rede federal de ensino, a fim de contribuir para o contexto teórico desta pesquisa. Através da incessante busca em referenciais teóricos verificou-se que não existem estudos específicos sobre o tema e os estudos específicos na área de alimentação escolar são mais restritos ainda. Com certeza temos muito a contribuir nessa área da educação profissional e tecnológica.
CONHECIMENTO E ENSINO: REFLEXÕES SOBRE A URGÊNCIA DE UM NOVO PARADIGMA EPISTEMOLÓGICO E EDUCACIONAL
Authors: Alves Carla Regina Salau da Rocha , Alves Marcos Alexandre
Published: January 2024

Este artigo apresenta reflexões sobre educação e escola e a urgência em se considerar um novo paradigma educacional frente às significativas mudanças vivenciadas em nossa sociedade. Para tanto, o estudo possui uma abordagem qualitativa e de natureza bibliográfica. Inicialmente, a pesquisa examina, a partir do pensamento de Boaventura de Sousa Santos (2008), a crise do paradigma dominante e aponta para a possibilidade de se pensar um paradigma emergente do conhecimento. Em seguida, por meio do aporte teórico de Edgar Morin (2000; 2003), discute a necessidade de uma reforma do pensamento e, por consequência, uma reforma do ensino, além de explicitar os saberes imprescindíveis que a educação pode e precisa considerar para uma formação com vistas à cidadania planetária. Com isso, é possível afirmar o quanto é fundamental a escola considerar este novo modelo de educar, que pensa o sujeito e o conhecimento de forma inter-relacionada e complexa, a fim de que a educação contribua para a construção de estudantes mais críticos e éticos.