bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil Remediation Using Zero-Valent Iron Nano-Particle Modified with Spondias Mombin Leaves Extract
Authors: Ayomide Blessing , Obuzor Gloria , Obi Chidi
Published: August 2022

Zero-valent iron nano-particle (nZVI) was modified with Spondias mombin (Sm) leaves extract (Sm-nZVI) for the removal of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), total hydrocarbon content (THC), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from contaminated soil. Advanced analytical tools such as Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FT-IR) Spectrophotometer, Scanning Electron Microscope(SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) were used to characterize the biosynthesized zero-valent iron nano-sorbent. The Fourier Transform Infra-Red analysis confirmed that the bioactive molecules such as alkaloids, polyphenols, flavonoids, etc. in Spondias mombin leaves extract were responsible for the zero-valent iron nanoparticle synthesis and stabilization. The peaks at 2  equal to 44.9o confirmed zero-valent iron (Fe0) in Sm-nZVI. The micrograph showed an average particle size ranging from 13 nm to 158 nm in Sm-nZVI revealing the micro-porosity of the sorbent. The application of Sm-nZVI for the removal of organic pollutants with varied effects of experimental parameters such as dosage, contact time and pH were successful. The result showed that the pH value for optimum removal efficiency (%) of THC (77.99%), TPH (75.61%) and PAHs (96.98) was 3.0. The adsorbent dosage for optimum removal efficiency (%) was 0.8 g for THC (79.15%), TPH (80.36%) and PAHs (97.31%) and contact time was 45 min for PAHs (97.86%) and 120 min for THC (83.98%) and TPH (85.54%). The biosynthesized zero-valent iron nano-particle showed higher removal efficiency (%) for PAHs (97.29%). This study reveals Spondias mombin zero-valent iron nano-sorbent (Sm-nZVI) as an effective and efficient sorbent for remediation of soil ladened with organic pollutants and the likes.
Аналіз сучасних наукових підходів до розрахунку кількості пасажирів на авіаційному транспорті
Authors: Доля Олена
Published: August 2022

Стаття розкриває стан сучасної наукової думки до питання розрахунку кількості пасажирів на авіаційному транспорті. Дослідження має оглядових характер, задачею якого є визначення й оцінка методів при вирішенні задач транспорту. Для досягнення поставленої задачі використано наукові публікації, які уключено до наукометричної бази Scopus. Відповідні наукові підходи до визначення параметрів пасажиропотоку на авіаційному транспорті досліджено у розділі частини обрання та використання методів для розрахунку відповідних параметрів. Висвітлено авторську думку до питання обґрунтування вибору використаного авторами методу та оцінку адекватності запропонованих авторами методів. В роботі було використано метод системного аналізу при вирішенні поставленої задачі із проведення дослідження стану сучасної наукової думки про обрання методів розрахунку пасажиропотоку на авіаційному виді транспорту.
Jain Life Reimagined: An Examination of Jain Practice and Discourse during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Maes Claire
Published: August 2022

This article analyzes the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the religious practices and the public discourse of Jains in the U.S.A. and India. On the institutional level, I show how Jain organizations made extensive efforts to connect digitally with their community members when collective, in-person celebrations and temple visits were either reduced in number, limited in capacity, or cancelled because of the pandemic. Given the new importance of Jain online platforms, I address their potential role in both blurring sectarian boundaries and creating authentic sacred spaces. On the individual level, I examine the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the everyday religious practices of Jains. I conducted eight semi-structured interviews over Zoom between November 2020 and January 2021. I argue that while there is a great diversity of individual Jain responses, a common feature appears to be a significant increase of Jains participating in scholarly religious activities. In terms of the ways in which Jains talk, write, and reflect on the COVID-19 pandemic, I theorize that the Jain discourse on the COVID-19 pandemic is characterized by environmental concerns and by the processes of scientization and universalization. Building on the work of Knut Aukland (2016) that examines the role of science in contemporary Jain discussions, I define scientization as the ongoing process where Jains underline the convergence of their religion with modern science. With the term universalization, I refer to the noticeable trend among Jains to argue for the need to teach Jainism beyond the Jain community by showing its contemporary relevance and applicability to overcome global problems, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Millimeter-Wave Applications of MIMO Antenna
Authors: Kare Mary Paliwal , Jyothi B. N.
Published: August 2022

For millimetre wave technology (25GHz–30GHz), a rectangular MIMO antenna is created. The design of this antenna radiates at a frequency of 27GHz and comprises of nine numbers of cells arranged in a 3x3 array. Each unit cell has an SRR and a hexagonal patch with a Meta material substrate (MTM). The developed antenna has a gain of 3db and operates between 25 and 30 GHz. The proposed configuration has a small overall antenna size of 52 mm by 23 mm, making it simple to build.
Big Data and 17 SDGs: The role play in India’s GEM Governance
Revolution
Authors: D.Bala Murugan  , G.Linta Shalini
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a study of the implications of big data analytics towards realization of sustainable
development goals (SDGs). The paper begins with a brief overview of the concept big data and its
potentials followed by a discussion of the role of big data in the realization of SDGs. In 2015, world
leaders agreed to 17 goals for a better world by 2030. These goals have the power to end poverty,
fight inequality and stop climate change and so on. Guided by the goals, it is now up to all of us,
governments, businesses, civil society and the general public to work together to build a better future
for everyone.
SOVERIGNITY OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ON
ORGANIZATION EFFECTIVENESS AND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Freddy Chris M  , Renuga Devi S
Published: August 2022

Human Resource Management is a critical function in both the corporate and public sectors. The
process addresses several operational objectives, including recruitment, providing proper training to
the employee, selecting the employee, assessing the employee, motivating and maintaining a proper
relationship with the employee, and ensuring the welfare and health of the employees in the
organisation through laws enacted by the relevant state and country. Human resource management is
the process through which an organisation makes use of its limited skilled staff. The fundamental
goal is to make the most use of the organization's existing human resources. One of the primary goals
of human resource management in the firm is to offer employees with a good working environment.
The actions that promote the employee's dignity and growth in the organisation are referred to as the
quality of work life. It enables employees to collaborate inside the organisation and the activities,
adjustments, and improvements required for goal achievement, improving quality of life, and
increasing organisational effectiveness.
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the effects of human resource management on organisational
performance and development. In recent times, organisations have focused not just on employees for
work-related aspects, but also on an employee's overall well-being. Human resource management is
comprised of four major functions they are Human resource acquisition, development, maintenance,
and motivation. These are the fundamental elements or critical stages that assist an organization in
achieving its objectives. It is a truth that the employee's life cannot be compartmentalised and that
any disruption in the employee's personal life will disrupt the professional life as well. As a result,
human resource management works for the overall growth of the employee by minimising stress and
providing a healthy work environment.
Impact of partial replacement of coarse aggregate with electronic
plastic waste on compressive strength of concrete
Authors: Simranpreet Singh  , Sukhdeep Singh  , Sabha Farooq
Published: August 2022

The need for infrastructure development, electrical equipment, and plastic-manufactured
goods has increased exponentially with the arrival of the twenty-first century. Demand growth was
followed by a notable increase in construction debris and electronic-plastic (e-plastic). Due to its nonbiodegradability and dangerous metallic waste, e-plastic waste, which consists primarily of wires and
discarded plastic components from TVs, refrigerators, and other electronic devices, poses a serious
ecological threat. Being the primary component of construction waste, cement considerably contributes
to CO2 emissions, which cause global warming.. Situations become more distressing for towns with a
large population when such waste is dumped or burned, either of which pollutes the environment.
Thus, the purpose of the article is to evaluate whether e-plastic waste can substitute some of the coarse
aggregates in concrete. In the experiment, the compressive strength of an M40 concrete mix with
weight replacements of coarse aggregates of 5 percent, 10 percent, 15 percent, and 20 percent made
from e-plastic waste was measured and compared to a control mix. In the experiment, e-plastic wastes
were made up of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), a high-density polymer plastic, and polypropylene (PP), a low-density plastic primarily found in electronic gadgets. For efficient test results, a
total of 30 cube specimens with varying proportions of cement, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate, and eplastic were created. According to the conclusions drawn from tests carried out in accordance with
Bureau of Indian Standard (IS), a noticeable increase in compressive strength was seen at a 5 percent
replacement of e-plastic. Nevertheless, a further rise in replacement showed a fall in compressive
strength.
Beeinflusst studienbezogene Auslandsmobilität das Arbeitseinkommen? Ergebnisse eines Literaturreviews
Authors: Netz Nicolai
Published: August 2022

Das vorgestellte Literaturreview fasst die Ergebnisse von Studien zum Einfluss studienbezogener Auslandsmobilität auf das Arbeitseinkommen von Hochschulabsolventinnen und -absolventen zusammen. Es zeigt, dass studienbezogene Auslandserfahrung in vielen Beschäftigungskontexten und Ländern einen moderaten positiven Einfluss auf das Arbeitseinkommen hat. Dieser variiert jedoch nach den jeweils betrachteten Absolventengruppen, Beschäftigungskontexten und Arten von Auslandsaufenthalten. Erklären lassen sich die beobachteten Einkommenseffekte vor allem dadurch, dass auslandserfahrene Absolventinnen und Absolventen häufiger gewinnbringend den Arbeitgeber wechseln, besseren Zugang zu gut zahlenden großen und multinationalen Arbeitgebern haben und eher in Ländern mit hohem Lohnniveau Arbeitserfahrung sammeln. Die besseren Fremdsprachenkenntnisse und eine erhöhte Neigung zu postgradualer Hochschulbildung der auslandserfahrenen Absolventinnen und Absolventen leisten hingegen keinen wesentlichen Beitrag zur Erklärung der Einkommenseffekte von studienbezogener Auslandsmobilität.
A Transcendental Phenomenology into How Teacher Educators Address Social and Psychological Elements of Teachers' Professional Identity
Authors: Meihami Hussein , Rashidi Naser
Published: August 2022

Addressing social and psychological elements of teachers' professional identities is crucially important to develop teachers’ knowledge and practice concerning social and psychological issues in their classes. Thus, this study was an attempt to investigate how Iranian EFL teacher educators addressed social and psychological elements in teacher education programs to develop teachers’ professional identities. To that end, a series of phenomenological interviews were conducted with four EFL teacher educators to delve into their past, current, and future practices. Moreover, the syllabi covered by the EFL teacher educators were analyzed as a verification of the data obtained through phenomenological interviews. Explicitation of data was done through using Moustakas's (1994) systematic approach to analyze the interviews. The thematic analysis of phenomenological interviews indicated that EFL teacher educators addressed the social elements in teacher education programs by introducing sociolinguistics, collaborative activities, social negotiation, social awareness-raising, and social and cultural engagement. Moreover, the findings indicated that teacher educators addressed EFL teachers' psychological elements through action research, critical thinking, autonomy-enhancing aids, and helping teachers understand emotional work values. It can be concluded that Iranian EFL teacher educators address social and psychological elements of EFL teachers’ professional identities through various approaches which have been discussed in the current study. Using approaches that can affect psychological and social elements of professional identity simultaneously is the implication of the current study that should be followed by the EFL teacher educators.
A Comparative Review of Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation
Authors: Agazu Biniam Getnet , Dejenu Adissu Ketemaw , Debela Kenenisa Lemi
Published: August 2022

We review Sharan B. Merriam and Elizabeth J. Tisdell’s 2016 book, Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation and then compare it to three other introductory to qualitative research texts. We found the Merriam and Tisdell book to be useful for both novice and more experienced researchers. The two authors are highly experienced in qualitative research and their book may provide an opportunity to improve our understanding of qualitative research design and implementation when compared to other different qualitative books.
Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction for the Extraction of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Apple Juice
Authors: Liang Sun Tan  , Saw Hong Loh
Published: August 2022

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are hazardous and persistent organic pollutants that usually exist at low concentrations in the environment. In this study, dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) technique coupled with high performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD) was optimized for the analysis of selected PAHs, namely phenanthrene (PHE), fluoranthene (FLA) and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) in apple juice. Under the optimal extraction conditions (the mixture of 200 µL of acetone and 50 µL of 1-octanol was applied to extract the selected PAHs for 1 min), the DLLME-HPLC-FD showed excellent linearity over the concentration range of 5 to 200 µg/L for both PHE and FLA, and 0.01 to 5 µg/L for BaP with correlation coefficients, r ≥ 0.9956. The method offered ultra-trace detection of selected PAHs in the range of 0.002 to 0.5 µg/L, and negligible matrix effects in determining selected PAHs with relative recovery average within the range of 92.6 to 109.6% in apple juice. The advantages of applying this method for the extraction of PAHs include rapidity, simple operation, as well as small consumption of organic extraction solvent, which is beneficial for routine analysis.
An Investigation of Kenaf Plant Fibers as Reinforcements in Interwoven Kenaf/Polyethylene Terephthalate (Pet)/Epoxy Hybrid Green Composites
Authors: Nurul Aimi Nadia Ibrahim  , Mohamad Awang  , Suriani Mat Jusoh
Published: August 2022

Renewable materials have some bearing on the environment and have since increased research works related to polymer composites. This work was conducted to investigate the effects of interwoven kenaf fibers and the use of kenaf fibers in composites. In this research, interwoven between kenaf and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was prepared and epoxy was used as the polymer matrix to form composites. The kenaf fiber composites with various kenaf fiber contents (2, 5, 8, and 10 wt %) interwoven with (PET) fibers were prepared by using open mould method. The properties of kenaf/PET/epoxy composites (KPTE) were studied. The kenaf fiber composites characterization was determined based on their mechanical properties, water absorption, morphology and thermal properties. The tensile strength test was performed using Testometric machine. The finding shows that the strength increases as the amount of kenaf fibers in the composites increases. The composites with 10% kenaf fibers interwoven PET displayed the highest tensile strength (85.3 ± 2.9 MPa) while unfilled epoxy show the lowest tensile strength (64.1 ± 16.5 MPa). The addition of kenaf fibers minimally increases the water absorption up to about 1.4%. The increases of kenaf fibers also reduces the overall thermal stability of the composites compared to the PET and epoxy resin composites. The morphology properties of KPTE composites support the tensile properties surface of the composites. This study assists to propose the kenaf fibers as a potential filler for properties improvements in epoxy-based composites contributing to the development of another environment-friendly material.
Synthesis and Characterization of TiO2/ZnO-Epoxy Beads and their Performance for the Degradation of Dye
Authors: Mohamad Hanif Akmal Hussin  , Wan Rafizah Wan Abdullah  , Mohamad Awang  , Wan Salida Wan Mansor
Published: August 2022

Semiconductor oxides such as titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) are used as the photocatalyst for removing contaminants. In addition, TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles in the suspension form makes it difficult to be recovered and recycled. This study was conducted to investigate the efficiency of immobilizing TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles in epoxy beads. The immobilization process using different ratios of photocatalysts TiO2/ZnO (1:0, 3:1, 1:1, 1:3 and 0:1) fixed on epoxy material. These epoxy beads were used for dye removal in photocatalysis using methylene blue (MB) solution at a concentration of 10mg/L. Besides, epoxy beads also characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results showed that the highly recommended epoxy bead is 3:1 ratio of TiO2/ZnO because it has good performance in dye degradation that proved from reducing concentration of MB to 2.4mg/L (76%). However, TiO2/ZnO characterization of 3:1 by SEM show on the surface the particle are found to be spherical in shape which is relatively high efficiency for the degradation, ATR-FTIR pattern in broad band 4000 cm-1 - 400cm-1 which correspond to hydroxyl stretching to be adsorbed at peak (474.49 cm-1 - 3722.61cm-1) respectively to the optimum for the degradation and TGA rate of change are 5mg to 2.5mg that residue (49.78%) due to decomposition or oxidation from mass loss. These findings are very effective and economical technique to be cost saving and highly efficient photocatalyst.
PARTICULATE RESUSPENSION DURING THE USE OF VACUUM CLEANERS ON OFFICE CARPETS IN UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA TERENGGANU
Authors: ROHADI SYAFIQAH ASYIQIN , JAAFAR IZAN , ISMAIL ISMANIZA , IBRAHIM TENGKU AZMINA
Published: August 2022

The household activities such as vacuuming may elevate the concentration ofparticulate matter in indoor environments. Cleaning workers and occupants inside closed room may be exposed to the fine particulate matter and at risk of developing numerous respiratory symptoms. This study aims to determine the concentration of the particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) that might arise during vacuuming activities and estimated the surface compartmental residence time of particulate matter in indoor environment after each vacuuming activities. The PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations throughout vacuuming were measured in forty-seven offices in Universiti Malaysia Terengganu using the TSI Dust Track DRX. Based on the concentrations measured, the surface compartmental residence time was then estimated using standardized equations taken from literature. The result shows that highest particulate matter concentration was nearly eleven times higher than the World Health Organization guidelines of 25 μg/m3 for PM2.5 concentration (PM2.5 was 270μg/m3, PM10 was 421 μg/m3), while the particulate matter were estimated to remain lingers inside the air for around 1-4 days before being deposited on the surface. In conclusion, the usage of vacuum cleaners may contribute to more particulate matter being released inside the air due to the resuspension phenomenon. Therefore, it is important for the occupants to maintain proper ventilation after each vacuuming activities took place.
IMPACT OF MANAGEMENT POLICY ON DIRECT DRIVERS OF DEFORESTRATION IN MALAYSIA
Authors: MOE SHWE SIN , A/P WASU DAVEN SHANGKARI
Published: August 2022

Deforestation is one of the incredible difficulties confronting mankind. The extraction of woods remains one of the main drivers of deforestation in Malaysia. Relatively, rising in timber values may lead to enlarge in the net advantages of clearing land. Thus, this study is written to assess the process and underlying causes of forest cover change in Malaysia from 1997 to 2016. After assessed the discusses it on the impact of direct drivers with different management scenarios on deforestation in Malaysia. The research design, data, and method also performed by using System Simulation Model. Model validation and sensitivity tests was carried out after the simulation model is implemented to check the correctness in line with the real system. The simulation analysis was carried out with three different simulation periods together with the impact of two main policies: (1) controlling threshold profit; (2) discounted rate. The result of the study indicates that the most suitable policy combination to manage the deforestation is scenario 2 (policy 2B) with the RM650 per/ha threshold profit coupled with interest rate r=4% within 50 years period.
VESSEL LIFE JACKET COMPATIBILITY MOBILE APPS FOR SAFETY ASSESSMENT
Authors: BASRI MUHAMMAD SYUKRI HANAFI , BASIR MOHAMMAD AIZAT , AHMAD FUAD AHMAD FAIZAL
Published: August 2022

Life jacket is one of the safety appliances that can be found on the ship that provide buoyancy and prevention against drowning. Before the ship can sail, every element of safety of the vessel should be confirmed. Despite the establishment of standards for life jacket, both local and international, there have been cases of drowning associated with the usage of life jackets by the passengers of passenger boat/vessels for open-deck situation. Moreover, deficiency of information on safety instruction is reason the passengers are lack of personal safety information during on board. Thus, the evaluation on safety standard of life jackets and passenger vessel are vital for assessing the provision of the life jacket on board passenger vessel with respect to compatibility between life jacket and passenger vessel. In this paper, A Vessel Life Jacket Compatibility Mobile Apps (VELIT) was developed using software development methodology called Rational Unified Process (RUP) to automate the safety assessment process based on model called LCI (Life Jacket Compatibility Index). VELIT apps synchronized the safety assessment aspect and which allow user to compute the element in the model and produce the result of the safety assessment in real time. The VELIT apps are expected to be used in maritime area especially for ship safety assessment process.
MECHANICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF BIO-NANOCOMPOSITE FILMS BASED ON CHICKEN SKIN GELATIN WITH DIFFERENT CONCENTRATION OF CHITOSAN NANOPARTICLES
Authors: LEE GUI CHAN , MHD. SARBON NORIZAH
Published: August 2022

Plastics packaging is non-biodegradable and risks to human health and environmental pollution. In contrast, gelatin-based film lack of desired mechanical, thermal and water vapour barrier properties. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the mechanical and physical properties of bio-nanocomposite films based on chicken skin gelatin with different concentration of chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs). Gelatin/CSNPs film solutions with different CSNPs concentration (0-8%, w/w) were stirred at 45oC for 30 min and oven-dried at 45oC. Film characterization determination includes tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EAB), Young’s modulus (YM), water solubility, water vapour permeability (WVP), film morphology and melting temperature (Tm). Results of the study indicated that incorporation of CSNPs significantly influenced film properties. The addition of CSNPs increased the TS and YM value, which lead to stronger films than the pure chicken skin gelatin films. However the addition of CSNPs decreased the EAB value. Furthermore, WVP and water solubility significantly decreased (p < 0.05) by the addition of 6% CSNPs. Morphology images showed that increased CSNPs reduced the film’s amorphous character, especially in high level, in which higher CSNPs (8%) resulted in the aggregation of particles in the composites. The nano-reinforcement films showed higher thermal stability as compared to pure chicken skin gelatin films. In conclusion, the film with 6% CSNPs showed the best formulation, as it demonstrated high in TS, YM and Tm value, while low in EAB, water solubility and WVP value compared to other films. The results presented in this study showed the feasibility of using bio-nanocomposite technology to improve the properties of biopolymer films based on chicken skin gelatin.
PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF UNDULATED SURF CLAM (Paphia undulata) HYDROLYSATE AS AFFECTED BY DEGREE OF HYDROLYSIS
Authors: YEE YAP JAA , MAT AMIN AMIZA
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to determine the physicochemical properties of undulated surf clam (Paphia undulata) hydrolysate as affected by the degree of hydrolysis (DH). Three levels of DH of undulated surf clam hydrolysate were prepared which were DH 36.57% (without any enzymatic hydrolysis), DH 58.25% (0.5% Alcalase®; 5 min; pH 7.5; 60ºC) and DH 91.26% (1% Alcalase®; 30 min; pH 7.5; 60ºC). After protein hydrolysis, the undulated surf clam hydrolysates were centrifuged, and their supernatants were freeze-dried. This study found that the protein hydrolysate with lower DH (DH 36.57%) gave lower protein content and higher ash and fat contents compared to other samples (DH 58.25% and DH 91.26%). However, the carbohydrate content is similar in all samples (16.56-20.04%). This study also found that foaming properties (29.43-67.50%), emulsifying capacity (11.94-110.52%) and peptide solubility (57.61-94.08%) were affected by the DH. As DH increased, the emulsifying capacity decreased, while peptide solubility increased. While the foaming capacity increased with increasing DH until it reached a maximum value and level off afterwards. For colour parameters, although there were differences between L*, a* and b* values for all three samples, a fluctuating pattern was noted with DH. DH also did not affect the water-holding and oil-holding capacity of undulated surf clam hydrolysate. This study shows that certain physicochemical properties of undulated surf clam hydrolysate can be tailored by adjusting the degree of hydrolysis.
ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF TOTAL LUTEIN CONTENT IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF PUMPKIN (Cucurbita maxima)
Authors: WEN WONG YEN , TUFAIL AHMAD FAUZIAH
Published: August 2022

Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) is a vegetable crop which is commonly consumed as vegetables or incorporated into food products. Pumpkin flesh was reported abundant with carotenoid compounds includes α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. As this antioxidant related to the colour pigment, these nutrients highly potential to be in other parts of pumpkin such as peel and seed. Therefore, the aim of this was to determine the total lutein content in different parts of pumpkin and their antioxidant properties. The pumpkin would be collected and evaluated at the commercial maturity stage (60% to fully orange-yellow of fruit peel). The presence of the lutein properties using DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays in different parts of pumpkin was tested by using microplate spectrophotometer and analysed statistically with SPSS version 20. Among of all pumpkin fruit parts, flesh presented the highest concentration of potential lutein extracts, followed by peel and seed, respectively. On the contrary, potential lutein extracts from the pumpkin peel had the highest antioxidant activity in terms of DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays when compared to the lutein extracts in flesh and seeds. This study indicates that the potential lutein from Cucurbita maxima especially peel may be the alternative to be used as both natural antioxidants in food products due to increasing demand for natural food preservatives. Therefore, this study may act as a source for others to further study to optimize the usage of pumpkin by-products.
FUNGAL SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH BLACK SPOT DISEASE IN ROSE
Authors: MOHD ASMADI NUR ELIA NADHIRA , YIN WONG KAH , SALEH NUR HADINA , IBRAHIM NURUL FAZIHA , LOB SUHAIZAN
Published: August 2022

Black spot disease is a significant worldwide disease on the rose plant. Due to this infection, the leaves become yellow and eventually fall off. The occurrence of this disease has become a major problem, especially in landscape purpose. Therefore, this research was conducted to isolate fungal species from black spot disease in rose and identify using morphological characteristics. Then, all the isolates were tested for pathogenicity to confirm Koch’s postulates. In this study, four fungal isolates have been successfully isolated from black spot disease in rose namely Rhizoctonia sp. (one isolate), Colletotrichum sp. (two isolates) and Penicillium sp. (one isolate). Based on pathogenicity test result using potato dextrose agar (PDA) plug technique, fungus UMTT27R (Penicillium sp.) showed highly pathogenic on rose’s leaves with disease severity (DS) = 88.89% followed by UMTT13R (Colletotrichum sp.) with DS=72.22%, UMTT21R (Colletotrichum sp.) with DS=66.67% and UMTT4R (Rhizoctonia sp.) with DS=61.11%. Correct identification of fungal pathogens is very important to strategize a proper method to control the black spot disease in rose cultivation.
IDENTIFICATION OF FUNGAL ISOLATES ASSOCIATED WITH ANTHRACNOSE DISEASE ON CHILLI AND ITS PATHOGENIC LEVEL
Authors: YIN WONG KAH , MOHD ASMADI NUR ELIA NADHIRA , IBRAHIM NURUL FAZIHA , LOB SUHAIZAN
Published: August 2022

Many chilli producers in Malaysia are facing a huge problem of anthracnose disease that infect the chilli fruits either at pre- or post-harvest stage. Due to this infection, the chilli fruits become rotten and could be colonized by grey conidial masses which is unfit for human consumption and cannot be sold. This study was aimed to isolate the fungal species associated with anthracnose symptoms collected from several mini-markets near Gong Badak, Terengganu. Pathogenicity test was conducted for all these isolates to evaluate their pathogenic level. Based on the results, five fungal isolates were successfully isolated and morphologically identified as Colletotrichum spp. All these isolates were labelled as UMTT46C, UMTT48C, UMTT50C, UMTT52C and UMTT54C. From these, fungal isolate (UMTT54C) showed the highest pathogenic level with disease severity (DS), 68.9%. Other Colletotrichum spp. recorded percentage of DS ranged from 53.3% to 60%. Identification of fungal isolates and their pathogenic level from the infected chilli is very important to assist in control strategy which can further provide a good protection measure for many chilli producers.
EFFECT OF PHOTO-SELECTIVE NETTING ON GROWTH DEVELOPMENT OF GREEN AMARANTH (Amaranthus viridis L.)
Authors: MOHAMMAD SABRI SITI NABILAH , LOB SUHAIZAN , IBRAHIM NURUL FAZIHA
Published: August 2022

Green amaranth (Amaranthus viridis L.) is one of the most popular leafy vegetables cultivated in Malaysia. Photo-selective netting is a revolutionary agricultural-technical idea, allowing traditional nets to be improved to a sophisticated level, which can impact microclimate and solar radiation as well as protect crops from pests. This study aims to investigate the growth performance of green amaranth under different three different treatments of photo-selective nets including black, and yellow shade nets and control. The assessed physiological, pre-harvest and post-harvest parameters were air temperature and relative humidity, measurement of absorption of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), plant height, number of leaves, and dry weight. This study found that the yellow shade net showed the best performance in plant growth with the average difference in plant height (4.11 cm), average leaves number (7 leaves) and average dry weight (18.58 mg) were the highest compared to black shade net and control (without shading). In conclusion, photo-selective yellow shade net was able to enhance the growth development of green amaranth and could be applied in the large scale production to boost the growth and yield of leafy vegetables.
THE PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF OPTICAL WAVE PROPAGATION FOR UNDERWATER WIRELESS COMMUNICATION
Authors: SABRIL MUHAMMAD SAFIY , JASMAN FAEZAH , ABDUL LATIFF NURUL ADILAH , IDRUS SEVIA MAHDALIZA , WAN HASSAN WAN HAFIZA
Published: August 2022

Underwater wireless communications refer to transmitting data in an unguided water environment by wireless carriers including acoustic, radio frequency (RF), and optical waves. Relative to acoustic and RF, the optical wave is more promising to offer higher bandwidth at a lower energy consumption rate. However, an optical wave has its challenges such as attenuation due to absorption, scattering and turbulence effects. Therefore, this work attempts to investigate the performance of lightwave propagation for underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) using simulation and experimental approaches. First, the performance of optical waves was analyzed using MATLAB by simulating the light attenuation model which based on depth-dependent chlorophyll concentration. A depth profile that related to the surface chlorophyll levels for the range 0-4 mg/m3 was used to represent the open ocean. The simulation showed that the attenuation of light less affected for operating wavelength range of 450 – 550 nm. Further, an experimental set-up was developed which consists of a transmitter, receiver, and aquarium to emulate the UOWC channel. Three types of water including clear, sea and cloudy were tested to analyze their interaction with the light emitted by a light-emitting diode (LED) and a laser diode. The emitted light detected by the light sensor and the strength of an audio signal transmitted through the UOWC were measured using a light meter and sound meter respectively. The measured power was plotted against distance and the attenuation constant c was deduced through curve fitting method. The analysis showed irrespective of the light sources, UOWC in cloudy water suffered the highest attenuation relative to still clear and seawater. The received power emitted by laser was at least 41% higher than the LED. This study contributes to identify the potential and limitations of different operating schemes to optimize UOWC performance.
TOURIST PERCEPTION TOWARDS RECREATION CENTRE IN MALAYSIA
Authors: SHARIFF NURUL SYUHADA , YUSOF YUSNITA , HUSSIN NOOR ZATUL IFFAH
Published: August 2022

Recreation centre become one of the centres for a family to bring their children for recreation and leisure activity. Moreover, the recreation centre is the place for education, research, and awareness to the public. The main objective of this study is to investigate factors that relate to tourist perception in their reference to their interest, expectations, satisfaction, and a general understanding of the recreation centre. The antecedent factors are awareness of the surrounding environment, visitor experiences, and destination image. This research using a quantitative method via a survey questionnaire and a domestic tourist as a sample. A sample is consist of 384 respondent of domestic tourists who visited the recreation centre in Malaysia. This survey has been done in Zoo Negara, Aquaria KLCC, and FRIM, Kepong. The results show the majority of respondents are female, age below 26 years old, single, obtained higher education, working, and had an income below RM1000. The respondents are mostly from Selangor and their purpose of visit to the recreation centre is for leisure and recreation. The major source of information to visit the recreation centre was from the internet. There were have a significant relationship between an antecedent factor with tourist perception towards the recreation centre in Malaysia. The result of this study will help marketers and management of recreation centres to understand the perceptions of their future visitors. Based on the study, it is should be used as an initial benchmark for the future study, however, they may execute a depth analysis on the tourism that related to the recreation centre in Malaysia.
THE EFFECT OF TRAWL BOARD PULL-OVER LOAD ON SUBSEA PIPELINE OF OFFSHORE SABAH
Authors: MOLENG MOHD ASLAN , AHMAD FUAD AHMAD FAIZAL , SAID MOHD HAFIZI
Published: August 2022

Trawling is a method of catching fish in a large volume where fish net is pulled through water using one or two boats. Bottom trawling is where the nets are pulled over or close to seabed and can affect the subsea pipeline if found along the route. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the impact of pull-over to selected subsea pipelines in Sabah and Labuan waters. This study involved four oil and gas pipelines in Sabah and Labuan waters from the oil fields to shore terminals. The research started with obtaining data of the pipelines and specification of trawl gear in Sabah. Fishing trawler traffic data along the pipelines route was determined by AIS system and site observation to determine the density of the trawlers. Trawl gear pull-over load was calculated using DNV algorithm and the inputs were trawl gear specification ^and fishing trawl speed. The severity was based on pull-over load calculated and pipeline yield stress. Then frequency was based on AIS data and density of fishing trawl per area. Based on the comparison between trawl pull-over load and yield strength/stress, the effect of trawl board pull-over is considered as minor, which is the lowest in the severity index.
DEVELOPMENT OF BATTERY MONITORING SYSTEM USING ARDUINO UNO MICROCONTROLLER
Authors: ROSLAN NURUL FITRIYAH , WAN MUDA WAN MARIAM
Published: August 2022

Battery Monitoring System (BMoS) is an electronic system that monitors rechargeable battery cells or packs with various parameters, such as battery voltage, current and State-of-Charge (SoC). This system can be used to avoid overcharging or over-discharging of batteries to increase its shelf life. However, BMoS on the market is very expensive and not suitable for low cost embedded systems. As the Arduino Uno is widely used for low cost microcontroller boards, easy programming environment, and open-source platforms for building electronic projects, therefore, this study focuses on Arduino Uno BMoS based system. This system consists of current and voltage sensors, an Arduino Uno microcontroller and a liquid crystal display (LCD). In order to develop this system, there are three objectives to be achieved. First, the relationship between input and output of the sensors must be derived mathematically. The mathematical expression obtained can be verified by connecting and disconnecting the circuit with load and monitoring the value of output sensors. Then, a complete prototype of the BMoS was developed by connecting the LCD, current and voltage sensors to the Arduino Uno microcontroller. The complete prototype was tested using an 11.1 V of Lithium-ion battery and a DC motor as a load. From the results, the current sensor shows zero value when no load is connected as no current flow. The LCD also displays 11.1V of battery voltage when fully charged. Using the developed system, the user can monitor the current, the voltage and the SoC of the battery to ensure the battery is not overcharged and overused. The development of the BMoS can help to monitor the operation and performance of the batteries in any electronic systems. At the end of this study, the complete BMoS prototype gives benefits to the user and makes work easier.
PENILAIAN KESANGGUPAN UNTUK MEMBAYAR DALAM KALANGAN PENGUNJUNG BAGI PEMULIHARAAN HUTAN LIPUR SUNGAI SEDIM, KEDAH
Authors: SUMAMBRI MUHAMMAD FIRDAUS , KAMALUDIN MAHIRAH
Published: August 2022

Mengekalkan sumber semula jadi adalah penting untuk keseimbangan ekosistem, namun aktiviti pemuliharaan tidak dapat dilaksanakan disebabkan kekangan kewangan atau kurangnya perhatian. Oleh itu, pengenalan yuran masuk adalah bertepatan untuk membantu mendapatkan dana bagi penambahbaikan dan pengurusan kawasan rekreasi berfungsi dengan baik. Kajian ini menilai tahap kesanggupan untuk membayar (WTP) pengunjung yang memasuki kawasan rekreasi Sungai Sedim dan untuk mengenal pasti faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kesanggupan untuk membayar menggunakan kaedah penilaian kontingen (CVM). Sejumlah 150 responden dipilih secara rawak dalam kajian ini. Perisian STATA 14.1 digunakan untuk menganalisis data menggunakan analisis deskriptif dan kaedah regresi logistik binari. Kedua-dua model logit dan probit yang digunakan untuk menganalisis data primer yang diperolehi melalui temuduga. Keputusan menunjukkan bahawa harga, pendapatan, dan umur mempengaruhi kesanggupan pengunjung untuk membayar penyelenggaraan Sungai Sedim. Kesanggupan untuk membayar juga dipengaruhi oleh faktor yang dibincangkan dalam kajian ini. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa 64% responden sanggup membayar dan 36% responden tidak sanggup membayar daripada 150 responden. Harga purata kesanggupan membayar adalah RM 3.71 setiap orang, menunjukkan bahawa kebanyakan orang menghargai usaha pemuliharaan hutan untuk melindungi keseimbangan ekosistem dalam jangka panjang.
FORECASTING THE NUMBER OF AIRPLANE PASSENGERS USING BOX-JENKINS AND ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORK IN MALAYSIA
Authors: IDRUS NURFARAHIN , MOHAMED NORIZAN
Published: August 2022

Airline industry is one of the largest industries in the world of transport because it is the most important transport in the global transport system. The airline industry has played a very important role in the economic development in Malaysia. Due to the increase in its operating business, the demand for air travel increases day by day. Hence, this study focused on the number of passengers using air transport in Malaysia. The monthly data from January 2005 to December 2015 were obtained from Malaysia Airport Holdings Berhad (MAHB) in Sepang, Selangor. The data is divided into 2 parts, which are in sample data from January 2005 to December 2014 and out sample data from January 2015 to December 2015. The study was conducted to predict airline passengers in Malaysia using the Box-Jenkins model and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model. Both models were studied to choose the best model. Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and Mean Squared Error (MSE) were used to measure the performance of both models. SARIMA was selected as the best model for Box-Jenkins with MAPE and MSE were 7.3458388 and 2.67011 respectively while Multilayer Feed Forward Neural Network (MFFNN) with seven input variables, with MAPE and MSE, 7.251 and 0.0006 respectively were selected as the best model for Multilayer Feed Forward Neural Network (FFNN). In conclusion, these studies have proven that the Multilayer Feed Forward Neural Network (FFNN) model is the best model for considering airplanes in Malaysia compared to the SARIMA model.
TEKANAN KERJA DAN KOS KESIHATAN MEMPENGARUHI KEBAHAGIAAN STAF UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA TERENGGANU
Authors: PAUZI NURUL ANIS AZWA , KORIS ROSHANIM
Published: August 2022

Kebahagiaan adalah rasa kesejahteraan, kegembiraan atau kepuasan yang boleh membawa kepada satu bentuk emosi yang positif dalam diri seseorang pekerja. Namun kebahagiaan akan merosot akibat daripada tekanan kerja dan masalah yang berkaitan dengan kesihatan. Kebanyakan pekerja tidak menyedari akan bahaya tekanan kerja yang pada akhirnya akan mengakibatkan kemerosotan kesihatan. Kajian ini dijalankan adalah bertujuan untuk mengenal pasti status kebahagiaan dan tekanan yang dihadapi oleh staf Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) serta mengukur kos kesihatan yang terpaksa ditanggung oleh mereka. Seramai 100 orang staf UMT, di mana 50 orang staf daripada bahagian akademik dan 50 orang staf daripada bukan akademik telah terlibat dalam kajian ini. Satu set soal selidik digunakan sebagai instrumen kajian. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan perisian SPSS versi 20.0. Secara keseluruhannya, dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara faktor tekanan kerja dan kebahagiaan. Majoriti staf UMT menyatakan bahawa mereka bahagia ketika berada di tempat kerja iaitu sebanyak 78 peratus. Jumlah kos langsung perbelanjaan kesihatan yang terpaksa ditanggung oleh responden adalah RM2,220, manakala jumlah kos tidak langsung pula adalah RM1,4376.41. Antara kes tertinggi yang dirujuk ke pusat rawatan adalah berkaitan dengan tekanan darah tinggi. Oleh itu, kesedaran dalam kalangan pekerja dari segi cara mengawal tekanan mereka adalah penting untuk mencapai kesihatan yang baik seterusnya merasa bahagia apabila membuat kerja.
SELF – ESTEEM AND PERFECTIONISM AS PREDICTORS OF EATING DISORDERS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: YUSOFF NIK RUSELINDA , SHUKRI MADIHAH
Published: August 2022

This study examined the predictive effect of self – esteem and perfectionism on eating disorders among university students. A total of 327 respondents (15.4% male and 84.6% female) participated in this research, recruited using simple random sampling method. Self – esteem was measured using Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, perfectionism was measured using Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale and eating disorder was measured using Eating Attitudes Test. There was a significant gender difference in eating disorders, t(376) = -2.909, p <.01, where female students are reported to have significantly higher eating disorder (M = 15.32, SD = 9.78) than male students (M = 11.431 , SD = 6.52). Confirming previous Western studies, regression analysis showed that both self – esteem and perfectionism predict eating disorder, in that, lower self-esteem and higher perfectionism increased the risk of eating disorders among university students. Preventive actions should focus on self-esteem and perfectionism as protective factors for eating disorders among people in this particular group.
PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF MAGNESIUM/ALUMINIUM LAYERED DOUBLE HYDROXIDE AS FILLER IN LOW-DENSITY POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITE
Authors: ZULKIFLI NUR ATHIRAH , ABDULLAH MOHD AIDIL ADHHA , MAMAT MAZIDAH
Published: August 2022

Polymer had been widely used in industries nowadays. However, the properties of the polymer itself are limited to a particular application. This study describes synthetic clay, layered double hydroxide (LDH), as a filler in low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composite. LDHs of magnesium/aluminium-dodecyl sulfate (Mg/Al-DS) and its grafted with triethoxymethylsilane (TEMS), (TEMS-g-Mg/Al-DS) were synthesized through co-precipitation and salinization reaction methods. The presence of alkyl group, v(C-H) in both LDH had confirmed through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The appearance of peaks in FTIR spectra within the absorbance range of 2800 – 2930 cm-1 indicates a successful surface modification of LDH, supported by the changes of interlayer spacing and the presence of carbon from X-ray diffractogram and CHNS elemental analysis, respectively. The synthesized LDH was mixed with LDPE via melt intercalation method. The LDH modification resulted in higher interaction and compatibility between the LDPE matrix and LDH by the formation exfoliated type of nanocomposites, as suggested by XRD analysis.