bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Regional Prevalence and Variations in Handwashing Practices among Households in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md. Ismail , Habib Md. Jakaria , Haq Iqramul , Zinnia Maliha Afroj , Kabir Samia , Saleheen Ahmed Abdus Saleh , Alam Md. Mohibul , Hasan Md. Rifat , Talukder Ashis
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Handwashing practice is an effective way to minimize severe infectious diseases such as COVID-19, diarrhea, and pneumonia. The study aimed to explore the prevalence of handwashing behavior and associated determinants in rural and urban areas of Bangladesh.

Methods:

The research was performed using cross-sectional survey data from the 2019 Bangladesh Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, and 61,242 household members were the sample for this study. The Chi-square test was applied for the bivariate analysis. A generalized linear mixed-effects model was used to identify the risk factors of practicing handwashing in both urban and rural areas of Bangladesh.

Results:

Only 65% of the country's households had access to handwashing facilities (place, water, and materials). While urban dwellers were more likely to wash their hands, rural dwellers were only 63% likely to do so. The level of education of household heads, wealth status, division, number of family members, sanitation facilities, and water source were the key factors associated with handwashing behavior. This study revealed that the odds were significantly lower among illiterate respondents compared to those with secondary and above-secondary education in both areas of Bangladesh, and a positive association was found between wealth status and handwashing behavior practiced in both urban and rural areas. In this study, the size of the family was statistically significant for both rural and urban areas of Bangladesh.

Conclusion:

Handwashing is the most prominent consideration for controlling COVID-19. Policymakers are striving to improve handwashing facilities by increasing awareness-raising programs, especially among rural residents of Bangladesh.
Assessment of Heavy Metals and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Agricultural Soils around Kubanni Bridge area, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulqadir Muhammad , Garba Saidu , Maiwada Jibril , Zauro Sirajo
Published: August 2022

The level of heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were determined from agricultural soil collected in Kubanni area of Zaria using standard methods. The result mean±SD of the heavy metals in the five study locations; (KP1- KP3) ranges from 4.05±0.18-1.25±0.32 for Lead, 4.43±0.11-0.03±0.01 for Cadmium,4.30±0.14 - 0.13±0.08 for Chromium, 3.32±0.25-1.03±0.13 for copper. And 1.80±0.01- 0.02±0.01 for Zinc.  The results of the persistent organic pollutants in the five study locations KP1- KP3 showed the mean range (±SD) concentrations from7.08±0.02-0.13±0.01 (naphthalene), 7.00±0.08 - 0.02±0.01 (anthracene) and 7.31±0.21 - 0.02±0.01 (phenanthrene). There was appreciable number of heavy metals and PAH in the study area even though it was found to be below the permissible level set by United State Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) in most of the locations. There is the tendency of these residues from the soil to accumulate into crops grown in the studied area, which can constitute serious health risk.
Are Thermoregulatory Sweating and Active Vasodilation in Skin Controlled by Separate Nerves During Passive Heat Stress in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury?
Authors: Trbovich Michelle , Wu Beth , Koek Wouker , Wecht Jill , Kellogg Dean
Published: August 2022

Background

Sudomotor responses (SR) and active vasodilation (AVD) are the primary means of heat dissipation during passive heat stress (PHS). It is unknown if they are controlled by a single or separate set of nerves. Older qualitative studies suggest that persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) have discordant areas of sweating and vasodilation.

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that neural control of SR and AVD is through separate nerves by measuring SR and vasodilation in persons with SCI to determine if these areas are concordant or discordant.

Methods

Nine persons with tetraplegia, 13 with paraplegia, and nine able-bodied controls underwent PHS (core temperature rise 1°C) twice. Initially, the starch iodine test measured SR post-PHS in skin surface areas surrounding the level of injury. Subsequently, laser Doppler imagery scans measured vasodilation pre- and post-PHS in areas with and without SR. Percent change in red blood cell (RBC) flux was compared in areas with and without SR.

Results

Persons with tetraplegia were anhidrotic on all areas; however, the same areas demonstrated minimal RBC flux change significantly less than equivalent able-bodied skin surface areas. In persons with paraplegia, areas of intact SR correlated with areas of RBC flux change quantitatively comparable to able-bodied persons. In anhidrotic areas, RBC flux change was significantly less than areas with SR and likely resulted from non-AVD mechanisms.

Conclusion

In persons with SCI under PHS, areas with intact SR and AVD are concordant, suggesting these two aspects of thermoregulation are controlled by a single set of nerves.
Space Diverse and Frequency MIMO Antenna with Defected Ground Structure
Authors: Nandamuri Shilpa , Stevens Shankar
Published: August 2022

A four-port DGS (defective ground structure) MIMO antenna is the subject of an inquiry. The proposed design in this study operates at a range of frequencies (1.8 GHz NB-IoT band, 2.4 GHz ISM band, 3.1 GHz sub 6 GHz, Wi-Max, and 4.8 GHz 5G connectivity band). The antenna is driven by an excited microstrip transmission line. All ports of the recommended MIMO antenna are isolated by less than -15dB, and its tiny (20 cm by 15 cm) footprint. It also takes into account radiation characteristics including s-parameters, radiation pattern, directivity, gain, return loss, and bandwidth. Measurements of MIMO performance such the Envelop correlation coefficient (ECC), diversity gain (DG), total active reflection coefficient (TARC), and mean effective gain (MEG) are also employed to ensure proper diversity performance. Utilizing CST Microwave Studio, the proposed antenna is examined. The resonant frequencies of antennas 1, 2, 3, and 4 are 1.8 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 3.1 GHz, and 4.8 GHz, respectively. The greatest gain it provides is 9.15dB. There is 20 dB isolation between ports.
IOT-BASED BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM INELECTRIC VEHICLES
Authors: MITHULKIRUTHIK K S  , KARTHICK K  , KIRITHARAN C
Published: August 2022

We can check battery voltage and Percentages in electric vehicles using this system anywhere
in the world. As we all know, the battery is the most important component in any system or product
because it powers the overall structure. As a result, we must monitor the battery's voltage level. We
are all aware that an inefficient charging and discharging mechanism might result in battery damage
or system failure. The majority of electrical/electronic equipment has a Battery Management System
(BMS). The BMS monitorsall of the battery's attributes such as voltage, current, temperature, and the
auto cut-off mechanism. To guarantee the proper handling and storage of Lithium-Ion or Lithium
Polymerbatteries in the vehicles.
The BMS can monitor the current battery state as well as alert the user through a battery
indicator. However, in this research, we employed Internet of Things (IOT) technology to remotely
inform consumers. We may now automatically inform users thanks to the utilizationof the Internet of
Things. From anywhere in the globe, the user may check the battery status ontheir smartphone as well
as computer dashboard. The Node MCU ESP8266 board will be used in an IOT-based Battery
Monitoring Program to deliver battery status information to the Arduino IOT cloud. In both charging
and discharging scenarios, the IOT Cloud Panel provides the voltage level and the battery percentage.
These all processes are carried out with the help of software.
Using Oblique Elimination to Solve Elliptic Curve Discrete Logarithm Problem
Authors: Abdullah Ansari
Published: August 2022

The elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem is believed to be a secure cryptographic primitive for over
three and a half decades. This problem was reduced to a problem in linear algebra problem by a Las
Vegas algorithm. That algorithm was presented in IndoCrypt 2018. It was further shown that the linear
algebra problem can be solved by zero minors. In this paper, we propose oblique elimination as a way to
solve the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem. This paper provides an improved version of the
oblique elimination algorithm along with an example. This paper also provides an implementation of the
oblique elimination algorithm.
INDIA'S HEAT WAVE MAY BE DEFEATED BY SUSTAINABLE
ARCHITECTURE
Authors: Itika Dadhich  , Kartika Panwar  , Anupriya Malodia  , Ajay Choudhary  , Mayank Dave
Published: August 2022

This paper emphasizes on constructional sustainability and will also acknowledge its misconceptions
which will help in focusing on the fundamental ideas and values of sustainability. The country has to
pay a huge price for these sophisticated structures. Currently this April, sweltering heatwaves have
affected numerous areas of India, with New Delhi seeing temperatures as high as over 120 degrees
Fahrenheit. This occurs before the nation'ssummer season officially begins in a few weeks. The usage
of air conditioning to beat the heat feeds the vicious cycle since it uses more energy and generates
more heat while doing so. Numerous blackouts during the day and night have occurred in numerous
Indian cities as a result of using more electricity. An urban island heat effect is produced by the excess
heat the AC units emit. According to experts, India's contemporary architecture would make it more
difficult for citizens to adjust to heatwaves that may become more frequent and prolonged. A rising
number of environmentalists and young architects who are concerned with sustainability are urging
a return to traditional design in response to the warning signs.
Competency Mapping: An empirical study on manpower skills for a
desired career and sustainability in the profession
Authors: Lalitha Marrivada
Published: August 2022

In the emerging role of professionals with the latest skills demanded and required, the change in
turning the workforce into high-performing employees is the need of the hour. Workforce
management with the new skills and talent is the re-evaluation of the employee performance in the
job context. The tone for the present and the future workplace and the position are set only if a
competitive advantage is made by the employees in their profession. New-age human resource
professionals occupy the predominant position if innovative practices are built that result in
resilience, transformation, and organization growth. Attracting talent, and nurturing and retaining
the right talent is critical for success in the organizational landscape. Rethinking the workforce's
skills and mitigation of strengths and weaknesses would match the potential needed by the
employer. Enabling employees not only to conventional practice in performing tasks but also
encouraging them to imbibe new skills to transform an employee-centric workplace. This ensures
workforce productivity and efficiency in meeting the goals and objectives of the organization.
Identifying the most significant priority is necessary to up skill periodically to pace with the
increasing demands and carve a competitive advantage in redefining the position in their profession.
The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic has revamped the existing work style. Consequently,
technology has proved to be a major enabler in upskilling the workforce irrespective of the
discipline. To maintain continuity in various sectors amid disruptions by adopting digital ways of
working. The insightful technological advancements made the employees rely on them creating a
hassle-free environment to work.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles by using Aloe Vera Leaf Extract as Pontential Anode Material in Lithium Ion Battery
Authors: Siti Rabiatul Adawiyah Mazli  , Hanis Mohd Yusoff  , Nurul Hayati Idris
Published: August 2022

Synthesis of nanoparticles by using plant have sparked interest among researchers due to environmentally safe, inexpensive and simple method to compare with chemical method. Use of plant in synthesis zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) that act as reducing and capping agent are more recommended, due to high production of product and rate of synthesis is faster than using microorganism. This study focus on the synthesis of ZnONPs by using leaf extract of aloe vera (Aloe bardenisis miller) with different concentration (30%, 40% and 50%) and various calcination temperature which are 500 ˚C, 700 ˚C and 900 ˚C for 4 hours. Fourier – transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Brunauer-Emmet and Teller (BET) were used to characterize the prepared samples. FTIR spectra showed present wavenumber in between 400-500 cm-1 indicated the presence of Zn-O stretch. Powder XRD pattern confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite structure with average particles size from 24.19 nm to 67.69 nm for all concentration and temperature by using Scherer’s equation. For SEM analysis the images show irregular shape for concentrations 30% and 50% with size range from 500 nm to 900 nm while for concentration 40% cubic shape was observe with size range from 140 nm to 900 nm. All characterize show that formation of ZnO NPs depend on the concentration and calcination temperature. Sample 30% and 50% ZnO NPs was applied in lithium battery at voltage from 0.01 to 3. 1.2 mAhg-1 was recorded for sample 30% ZnO NPs while 100 mAhg-1.
POPULATION GENETICS OF LONGTAIL TUNA (Thunnus tonggol) (BLEEKER, 1851) FROM EAST MALAYSIA BASED ON MITOCHONDRIAL DNA D-LOOP MARKER
Authors: MOHD YASIN NURUL AZLIANA , KASIM NOORHANI SYAHIDA , MAT JAAFAR TUN NURUL AIMI , MAT PIAH RUMEAIDA , MOHD ARSHAAD WAHIDAH , MOHD NOR SITI AZIZAH , HABIB AHASAN , TAN MIN PAU
Published: August 2022

Present study investigates the genetic diversity and genetic distribution of the longtail tuna Thunnus tonggol collected from east Malaysia (Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak) based on mitochondrial DNA D-loop sequence analysis. 58 fish samples were obtained, specifically from Kota Kinabalu, KK (n = 22), Miri, MR (n=20) and Bintulu, BT (n = 17). DNA template was isolated using the salt extraction method. Final length of 404 base pair (bp) D-loop sequences revealed 52 haplotypes that comprise of 77 variable sites (38 of parsimony informative and 39 singleton). A total of 20 haplotypes were found in KK, 19 haplotypes in MR and 16 haplotypes in BT. Molecular diversity indices revealed high haplotype diversity and low nucleotide diversity in all populations; KK (h = 0.9913 ± 0.0165, π = 0.00239 ± 0.0127), MR (h = 0.9942 ± 0.0193, π = 0.0226 ± 0.0121) and BT (h = 0.9926 ± 0.0230, π = 0.0196 ± 0.0171). Population comparison pairwise FST show that KK and BT were significantly genetically differentiated. The result from this study will be beneficial for fisheries management and also to provide information on the population genetics of T. tonggol in East Malaysian waters.
DOMESTIC VISITORS’ WILLINGNESS TO PAY (WTP) FOR THE PRESERVATION OF WORLD HERITAGE SITE, STADTHUYS, MELAKA, MALAYSIA
Authors: RAZALI MUHD AZRIN SHAH , KAMALUDIN MAHIRAH
Published: August 2022

This research explores the issue of local management system governing the heritage preservation in UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) Stadthuys, Melaka. Thus far, there is no clearly defined value of cultural heritage that justifies the benefits of preserving cultural heritage as a tourism product and as a sustainable heritage site. Most studies have proven that visitors in general are less interested in visiting cultural heritage sites due to the lack of information available there. Another issue identified in the recent research on cultural heritage assessment is the lack of empirical references on the economic valuation of cultural heritage preservation. This study used contingent valuation method (CVM) and questionnaire for data collection. Four sets of questionnaires were designed and distributed to a total of 100 respondents consisting of local community and domestic tourists. On average, respondents are willing to pay RM8.82, in which this value is higher than the current fee, RM5.00, showing that visitors have the awareness to value cultural heritage through preservation in Stadthuys, Melaka, WHS. Finally, this research has established a framework to be considered by the management regarding the WTP value of the cultural heritage in order to create a more sustainable Melaka Historical City.
HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY STATUS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH CHILD FEEDING PRACTICE AND CHILDREN’S WEIGHT STATUS AMONG LOW INCOME MOTHERS IN TERENGGANU
Authors: CHEAH PEI SHYUAN , MOHD YUSOF HAYATI , ALI ASMA , ZAKARIA NOOR SALIHAH
Published: August 2022

Food insecurity is normally associated with lower socioeconomic status and improper feeding practices which may consequently affect growth and development of young children. This study aims to assess household food security status and its association with child feeding practices and children’s weight status among low income mothers in Terengganu. A cross-sectional study using convenience sampling was conducted at four public maternal and child health clinics (MCH) located in Terengganu. A total of 107 of low income mothers between ages of 18 to 45 years with net household income less than RM 3000 who has at least one child aged two years and above were recruited. The instruments used were Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ) and weight-for-age child growth chart for children’ weight status at aged one year. Descriptive statistic and non-parametric tests were employed (SPSS 20). Majority of the households were food secure (85.0%). Yet, it is also important to note that about 15% of the household had experienced some degree of food insecurity. There was no significant correlation between household food security and all child feeding practice domains. Most of the mothers had children with normal weight (mean Z-score =-0.72+0.99). There was statistically significant association between household food security status and weight of children at one year of age (p=0.01). In conclusion, majority of the households experienced food secure. Household food security were associated with children’s weight status at early age but not correlated with parent’s child feeding practice.
NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF GOLDEN LILY AND CHOKANAN MANGO (Mangifera indica) PEELS
Authors: KOK JING WEN , TENGKU MOHAMAD TENGKU ROZAINA
Published: August 2022

Mango is one of the popular fruits in Malaysia and has been used in the jam, puree and drinks production. Production of food products using mango pulp has generated by-products such as peel and kernel. Disposal of these by-products will cause environmental pollution if not properly treated. Mango peel contains high nutritional composition and antioxidant properties and can be utilised as food ingredients. The objectives of this study are to determine the nutritional composition and antioxidant properties of the peels of two selected mango varieties, namely Golden Lily and Chokanan. Analysis of proximate composition, minerals, total phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS) were carried out in this study. Results of the proximate analysis showed that the peels of both mango varieties were a good source of fibre, which were 14.45% for Golden Lily and 14.89% for Chokanan. The crude fat, crude protein, and total carbohydrate of Chokanan peel (2.62%, 4.67% and 57.74%, respectively) were higher than the Golden Lily peel (1.13%, 2.90% and 53.16%, respectively). Contrastingly, the moisture content of the Golden Lily peel (24.67%) was higher than the Chokanan peel (16.61%). Potassium was the main mineral found in both Golden Lily and Chokanan mango peels (8802.10 mg/kg and 8443.60 mg/kg, respectively). The total phenolic compounds in the peels of both mango varieties were not significantly different. The Chokanan peel contained a higher carotenoids content (35.26 μg/g) than the Golden Lily peel (15.03 μg/g). The ABTS value for Chokanan peel was higher (1406.00 μmol TE/g) than Golden Lily peel (1314.00 μmol TE/g). This study showed that Chokanan and Golden Lily mango peels have the potential to be utilised as ingredient in food products due to their high fibre content.
SEASONAL VARIATION OF PARTICLE NUMBER COUNT (PNC) AT THE COASTAL ENVIRONMENT IN PENINSULAR MALAYSIA USING BOOSTED REGRESSION TREES (BRTS)
Authors: ABDULLAH SOBIRATUL NADIA , YAHAYA NOOR ZAITUN , WAN ABDULLAH WAN RAFIZAH WAN
Published: August 2022

The concentrations of airborne particulate matter (PM) is often measured as a mass concentration. However, the other way to express particulate matter is by using the Particle Number Count ([PNC]) concentrations. This study aims to analyse the seasonal variation of airborne particulate matter in terms of [PNC] by using R packages and the Boosted Regression Trees (BRTs) technique. The study was conducted at IOES, Universiti of Malaya in Bachok, Kelantan. The monitoring was important to understand the variability of seasonal effects due to different seasons. In this work, only the datasets for three seasons (Inter Monsoon, North East Monsoon and South-West Monsoon) were analysed involving 25,958 data. The air quality monitoring equipment involved was the particle counter Environment Dust Monitor GRIMM Model 180 and a weather station for recording the meteorological parameters. The data analysis was completed by using R software and its package for evaluating seasonal variability and providing the statistical analysis. The relationship between variables was studied by using the Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) technique. The interaction between independent variables towards the [PNC] in different seasons was discussed. The best setting result of BRT model evaluation R² is 0.22 (North-East Monsoon), 0.87 (Intern monsoon 1), and 0.59 for South West Monsoon which indicated that the model developed is acceptable except for NEM and intern monsoon seasons. Temperature (57 %) and wind direction (67%) were found to be the highest factor influenced by the formation of [PNC] concentrations in this area. Finally, good results indicated that BRT technique is an acceptable way to analysed air pollution data.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE ON SELECTED SECTORS TOWARDS ECONOMIC GROWTH IN MALAYSIA
Authors: SENAWI NURUL FARHANA , CHE SULAIMAN NOR FATIMAH
Published: August 2022

Government expenditure plays an important role in the country’s economic growth. Budget allocations through the annual budget presented have their strategies to ensure that the allocated budget can improve the growth and development in Malaysia and also can be enjoyed by all Malaysian. The government’s expenditure has contributed to the expansion of this country’s development from various sectors. However, there are various problems involving government expenditure such as low level of health, homeless poor people, weak public transportation and illegal immigrants. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between government expenditure on health, education, housing, transportation and defence sectors towards economic growth. The data used is secondary data from 1980-2017 for 38 years from the Department of Statistics, Malaysia and World Bank Data. The method used in this study is Descriptive Analysis and Autoregressive Distributed Lagged Model (ARDL). The result showed that economic growth and government expenditure on health, education, transportation, and defence has a long-run relationship. Therefore, the government should increase more expenditure on crucial sectors such as education, transportation, defence and health that will strengthen economic growth in the long run.
SENTIMENT ANALYSIS OF PEOPLE’S ACCEPTANCE TOWARDS THE NEW MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT USING NAÏVE BAYES METHOD
Authors: GOBITHAASAN R.U , CHE HAMID NUR FARHANA SYAHIRA
Published: August 2022

Sentiment analysis is a field of research that has a significant impact on today’s nations, politics and businesses. It is an algorithmic process to comprehend the opinions of a given subject based on the Natural Language Processing (NLP) methodologies. It has received much attention in recent years and is proven vital in various fields, e.g., online product reviews and social media analysis (Twitter, Facebook, etc.). This paper reports the outcome of sentiment analysis to investigate people’s acceptance of Pakatan Harapan, as the new Malaysian government, spearheaded by Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Dr. Wan Azizah, with an influence of Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The objective is to classify tweets into three types of sentiments; positive, neutral and negative using Naïve Bayes method which is readily available in Python. The first step is tweets extraction for a month (March to April 2019) using search queries: {Pakatan Harapan, Mahathir, Anwar Ibrahim, Wan Azizah}. It is followed by tweets wrangling using NLP library and lastly output visualization in the form of a word cloud. A word cloud is a visual representation of text data with various font sizes depending on its probabilities. Final results showed that the tweets related to new government consist of neutral sentiment (41%) followed by positive sentiment (30%) and negative sentiment (29%). Malaysians do prefer the new government. However careful mitigation steps must be crafted to overcome controversial issues such as the ‘Rome Statute’ to avoid negative digital footprint, hence winning the Malaysians’ heart.
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND EVALUATION OF THE ENZYMATIC ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF SELECTED Mangifera spp. LEAVES (ANACARDIACEAE)
Authors: RAIHANI SAIRUN MISA HARSRINURI , YUSUF NORHAYATI , ABDUL WAHAB NURUL HUDA
Published: August 2022

A study was conducted on the chemical and biological properties of three different species of Mangifera i.e. Mangifera pajang, M. indica L., and M. kemanga leaves obtained from Pitas, Sabah. The aims of this study were to determine the presence of secondary metabolites as well as the antioxidative activities especially the catalase (CAT) and guiacol peroxidase specific activities (gPOD) in the leaves part of these three species. The extraction of these samples was carried out using three different polarities of solvents: hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. The total percentage of the crude extract of is 7.30% for M. pajang, 12.87% for M. indica and 7.98% for M. kemanga. Phytochemical screening was performed with various tests for each of the crude extracts. The results showed that these three species gave positive results for alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, phenols, carbohydrates, phytosterols, and tannins metabolites. Based on the tests, CAT specific activities were significantly higher in the leaves of M. pajang with 4.35 ± 1.18 units/mg protein compared to M. indica L. and M. kemanga. The guaiacol peroxidase (gPOD) specific activities showed that M. indica L. has the highest activity with the value of 0.0047 ± 0.0004 units/mg protein.
STUDY ON AQUEOUS KAFFIR LIME EXTRACT AS TREATMENT AGENT ON FRESH TOMATO FRUITS
Authors: ROSTAM NUR FAZLEEN SYUHADA , NOR AZMAN NOR AMIRA IZATI , IBRAHIM NURUL FAZIHA , LOB SUHAIZAN
Published: August 2022

Tomatoes have a short shelf life thus they pose a big challenge for growers to maintain the quality of tomatoes to increase customer acceptance. In this study, fungi associated with tomato disease symptoms were isolated and the potential of kaffir lime aqueous extract was evaluated in maintaining post-harvest quality of tomatoes. For this purpose, healthy tomatoes were dipped in 10% aqueous kaffir lime extract before evaluating the post-harvest parameters namely weight loss and firmness. A fungus namely Rhizophus stolonifer was isolated from the symptomatic tomatoes. Subsequently, it was confirmed to be pathogenic on healthy tomato fruits with 100% disease severity. Application of aqueous kaffir lime extract showed that tomato fruits dipped in 10% aqueous kaffir lime extract recorded higher weight loss and higher firmness as compared to untreated tomato fruits. The results showed that treatment with this concentration of plant extract did not help to reduce the weight loss, but it retained the firmness of the tomato fruits stored at room temperature at 27+2oC. Higher transpiration process would lead to shrinkage, weight loss, changes in texture and appearance of the fruits. Therefore, this study suggested an increased concentration of aqueous kaffir lime extract as a treatment agent in order to have a better effect in maintaining the quality of tomato fruits.
DETERMINANT FACTORS OF ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTIONS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN TERENGGANU
Authors: SAMSUDIN NUR ERNA ERLIANA , ALI AZWADI , TAHA ROSHAIZA
Published: August 2022

This study was conducted to assess how entrepreneurship experience, family background, and societal factors influence university students in Terengganu to embark on entrepreneurial activities. It cannot be denied that entrepreneurship exposure on campus may drive university students to engage in activities which may enhance their academic achievements in, boost confidence, and instill relevant qualities and skills to be successful graduates in the future. Such valuable experiences may be value added to the graduates. To see the impact of such an experience together with other relevant factors, this study has tested the relationship between entrepreneurship experience, family background, social factors and the subsequent effects among students of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu after graduation. The data were collected from 370 targeted respondents and were analysed using the multiple regression analysis. It was found that entrepreneurship experience and family background have significant relationships with entrepreneurship intention while societal factor was found to be insignificant.
ACCOUNTING STUDENTS’ PREFERENCES TOWARDS LEARNING STRATEGIES IN UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA TERENGGANU
Authors: SHAFFIE NURSHAFIKAH , MAT ZIN ROSLIZA , ISMAIL SHAHNAZ
Published: August 2022

Learning preferences among undergraduate accounting students might vary considerably and are still largely unexplored although their findings might be useful for lecturers to improve learning and teaching strategies. Students’ preferences in selecting the appropriate learning strategies can help improve their understanding and lead to improved competency for better academic achievement. This study examined students’ preferences towards learning strategies and the differences in learning strategies among accounting students in Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, between genders. The data were collected using online survey completed by accounting undergraduate students from Year 1 until Year 3 for the academic session 2018/2019. 150 students responded to the online survey, with 32% response rate. Using a revised two-factor version of the Study Process Questionnaire, the survey assessed deep and surface approaches in learning preferred by the students. The results showed that deep learning approach scored a higher mean of 3.36 compared to surface learning and gender was found insignificantly related to the preferred learning approach. This finding suggests that the use of deep approach (for example, active learning or student-centered learning) is to encourage better learning process that would contribute to better academic performance and teaching strategy practices among accounting students.
MILLENIAL’S BEHAVIOUR AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS NATURAL COSMETICS: A CASE STUDY IN UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA TERENGGANU
Authors: NADIM SITI DIANA KAMILA , MOHD JANI JARINA
Published: August 2022

Investing in natural cosmetics contributes to the sustainability of natural resources in two ways – the emission of less harmful by-products, and the conservation of ecosystems through sustainable harvesting of resources. Therefore, studying students’ (millennials’) behaviour and attitude towards these products may help improve awareness-raising approaches on their benefits for local market acceptance. A study was conducted in Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Malaysia with the aim to understand the current perception and habits of UMT students towards natural cosmetics and their readiness to convert to natural cosmetics. 521 responses were collected through an online survey that focused on three themes: Stage of Change, Decisional Balance Inventory, and Product Knowledge and Perception. The study found that most of the respondents (79%) claim to be using natural cosmetics, while only nine percent are not considering at all. Eighty-six percent of those users practice label reading habits although most respondents could not distinguish natural cosmetics from synthetic ones if solely based on personal knowledge and appearance of product. This proves that product design does influence customers’ purchasing behaviours. Moreover, results indicate that existing natural cosmetic users are quite likely to maintain the habit, while others are still indecisive. Meanwhile, label reading habits are quite likely to be maintained by many respondents. Hence, based on results, businesses should acknowledge that there is a demand in natural cosmetics among Malaysian millennials, and should increase their promotional activities, improve product design and affordability in order to grab consumers’ attention to switch from synthetic to natural cosmetics.
DISCOVERING FACTORS THAT AFFECT IGEN ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN THE UNIVERSITY
Authors: FEIZAL NURUL NADHILAH , ISMAIL SHAHNAZ , WAN ZAKARIA WAN ZURIATI , MOHD NAWI NADIA
Published: August 2022

The advancement of technology in digital revolution such as Internet of Things has gained attention in all over the world. This myriad of technology innovations affects all aspects of the human lives today. The generation who has grown up during this era, known as the iGens, mostly relies on the technology in every aspect of their lives, including education. Thus, technology also gives profound impact in educational transformation nowadays to convey innovative education. However, lack of innovation in education becomes a challenge to meet this demand. Therefore, this study was carried out with the aim to discover factors which may affect academic performance of the iGen students in the university. A total of 250 self-administered questionnaires were distributed to the accounting students at UMT with a response rate of 93.6% (234). Using multiple regression analysis, the findings showed that parental involvement and student’s attitude contribute more towards academic performance of iGen students rather than the technology itself. This finding showed that human factor such as support from their parents and individual factor are vital towards their academic performance regardless of from technology savvy generation or not.
KESEDARAN KEUSAHAWANAN DALAM KALANGAN PELAJAR INSTITUT LATIHAN PERINDUSTRIAN (ILP) JABATAN TENAGA MANUSIA DI TERENGGANU
Authors: WAN ABDUL MAJID WAN NAQIYAH , AHMAD ROHANA
Published: August 2022

Keusahawanan sering dianggap sebagai subjek yang lebih cenderung kepada pelajar dalam bidang perniagaan tetapi tidak untuk pelajar yang mempunyai pelbagai kemahiran yang terlibat dalam bidang teknikal. Namun, ini adalah satu tanggapan yang tidak seharusnya wujud kerana Malaysia seharusnya perlu mengenal pasti kesedaran keusahawanan dalam bidang teknikal. Pada masa kini, kesedaran keusahawanan dalam bidang teknikal tertentu adalah kurang lantaran program keusahawanan lazimnya lebih tertumpu kepada pelajar InstitusiPengajian Tinggi (IPT). Misalnya, Pembangunan Keusahawanan Bumiputera adalah lebih tertumpu kepada golongan siswazah IPT, belia dan wanita. Dasar Pembangunan Keusahawanan IPT juga diperkenalkan agar modal insan dengan daya pemikiran, atribut dan nilai keusahawanan dalam kalangan IPT tempatan dapat dilahirkan. Tujuan kajian ini dijalankan adalah untuk mengenal pasti tahap kesedaran keusahawanan dalam kalangan pelajar Institut Latihan Perindustrian (ILP) di Terengganu berhubung dengan faktor keusahawanan dari aspek individu usahawan yang berbeza serta struktur dan persekitaran perniagaan. Seterusnya, mengkaji hubungan antara kesedaran keusahawanan dengan pembolehubah tidak bersandar lain yang berkait dengan kajian seperti ciri keusahawanan dan cabaran keusahawanan. Kaedah kuantitatif telah digunakan dan borang soal selidik diedarkan kepada 280 orang pelajar. Hasil analisis regresi berganda menunjukkan bahawa cabaran keusahawanan merangkumi sikap dan minat, kemahiran keusahawanan serta pendidikan dan pengetahuan keusahawanan merupakan elemen paling signifikan yang mempengaruhi kesedaran keusahawanan dalam kalangan pelajar berkemahiran di ILP untuk menjadi seorang usahawan. Oleh itu, adalah sangat penting bagi kerajaan Malaysia untuk memberi perhatian terhadap cabaran yang dihadapi oleh para pelajar ini dan mengambil tindakan terhadap segala kemungkinan yang boleh mempengaruhi atau memberi kesan kepada minat pelajar terhadap keusahawanan pada masa akan datang.
CABARAN PEKERJA SOSIAL DALAM MENGENDALIKAN PENGURUSAN KES PENDERAAN KANAK-KANAK DI TASKA
Authors: RAMALINGAM NANTHINI , ALAVI KHADIJAH
Published: August 2022

Peningkatan kes penderaan kanak-kanak sehingga kematian kanak-kanak amat membimbangkan keluarga dan masyarakat. Artikel ini akan membahaskan tentang cabaran pekerja sosial dalam melindungi penderaan kanak-kanak di taska. Kajian lepas amat kurang mengkaji isu penderaan kanak-kanak di taska. Kajian ini dijalankan dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif berpandukan kajian fenomenologi. Teknik pengumpulan data kajian melalui temubual berstruktur secara bertulis. 6 orang informan terdiri daripada pekerja sosial telah dipilih bagi kajian ini dengan menggunakan teknik persampelan bertujuan (purposive sampling). Lokasi kajian yang dipilih ialah taska sekitar Bandar Baru Bangi. Data temubual berstruktur dianalisis secara tematik dan hasil kajian mendapati terdapat tiga cabaran utama iaitu pertama praktis kerja sosial, konflik profesion dan kemahiran dalam mengendalikan pengurusan kes penderaan kanak-kanak. Implikasi kajian ini mencadangkan program kaunseling individu dan kelompok kepada pekerja sosial dan penting meningkatkan latihan dalam kemahiran mengendalikan pengurusan kes penderaan kanak-kanak yang semakin kompleks dan kritikal di masa depan.
ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION IN MARINE SEDIMENTS IN TERENGGANU WATERS
Authors: HING YIP TAIM , EVONNE TAN , HAN POONG JUN , SHENG TEE LIAN , RAMLI MUHAMMAD HASBI , SABUTI ASNOR AZRIN , CHUAN ONG MENG
Published: August 2022

The distribution of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb) in surface sediments was examined in waters off the coast of Marang, Terengganu. A total of 20 samples were collected using Ponar grab and analysed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer after closed digestion with acid. The sediments were filtered using a dry sieving method to determine their particle size. The spatial distribution maps on the concentration of selected metals were drawn using the ArcGIS software. Results showed that the average concentration of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were 2.33±0.38 μg/g dry weight, 28.4±3.78 μg/g dry weight, 0.09±0.01 μg/g dry weight and 8.35±1.48 μg/g dry weight, respectively. The level of pollution was also evaluated using the Index of Geoaccumulation (Igeo) and Pollution Load Index (PLI). All Igeo and PLI values obtained were low, which indicated low or no pollution. Meanwhile, the sediment mean size ranged between -0.77Ø and 3.18Ø, which characterised a sandy type of sediment. Correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between the heavy metals and sediment size. The results indicated that there was a common source of heavy metal pollution in the study area, possibly from shipping activities. Overall, there was no significant heavy metal pollution in the waters off Marang. This finding is important as the data could be used to evaluate the risk of metal contamination and the impact of anthropogenic activities on the marine environment.
CHARACTERISATION OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM KEFIR MILK MADE FROM DAIRY AND NON-DAIRY SOURCES AND THEIR SENSORY ACCEPTANCE
Authors: ZHI CHAN KHER , LANI MOHD NIZAM , HAMZAH YUSNITA , AHMAD FAUZIAH TUFAIL , NIK UBAIDILLAH NIK HAFIZAH
Published: August 2022

Kefir is a fermented milk obtained by fermenting milk with kefir grains. The chemical composition of dairy and non-dairy sources may affect the growth and characterisation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). In this study, different sources of milk (cow milk) and non-dairy milk (soymilk and coconut milk) were used as the fermentation media for kefir products. The objectives of the study were to isolate and characterise LAB from kefir drink produced from dairy and non-dairy milk. LAB was isolated using different cultural methods, such as MRS Agar, MRS with 0.8% CaCO3, and M17 Agar. The characteristics of the LAB isolates were determined using morphological, biochemical tests and the API 50 CHL kit. The physicochemical composition of the samples was determined using titratable acidity and pH level. Sensory evaluation of the kefir drink samples was also carried out. Results confirmed that the isolates were identified as Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus brevis 1, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus acidophilus 3 and Lactobacillus plantarum 1. The L. buchneri, L. brevis, Leu. mesenteroides and L. acidophilus are heterofermentative bacteria, whereas L. plantarum is a homofermentative bacterium. Four LAB isolates have the potential to be used as probiotic strains due to their high resistant to low pH and bile salt. The sensory scores of these products range between 5.00 and 8.00 in the 9-point hedonic scale. Most of the sensory panelists preferred cow milk kefir (p < 0.05) compared with coconut milk kefir and soy milk kefir during the sensory evaluation of all attributes. Meanwhile, the preference between coconut milk kefir and soy milk kefir was similar (p>0.05) in all attributes. Therefore, this study will be useful for probiotic manufacturers in the production of alternative probiotic drinks using dairy and non-dairy milk.
CORRELATION BETWEEN TPC AND TFC WITH ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF Piper sarmentosum EXTRACT AND ITS FORMULATION FOR COSMETIC PURPOSES
Authors: WAN SUKAIRI WAN ASIAH , CHE ROSE LAILI , ASARI ASNUZILAWATI , MOHD RAZALI RAZIFAH
Published: August 2022

This study investigates the characteristics of an antioxidant cream made from the methanol extract of Piper sarmentosum leaves, which is locally known as the wild betel or pokok kadok in Malay. The secondary metabolites of the leaves were subjected to phytochemical tests to detect the presence of natural compounds. Antioxidant activity was described by its total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), which was assessed by 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. A phase diagram was constructed to find a possible region to formulate an antioxidant cream. In phytochemical screening, the methanolic extract showed positive presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids and tannins. In quantitative analysis of antioxidative components, besides having significantly higher TFC content compared with quercetin (P<0.0001), the extract of P. sarmentosum leaves also displayed high phytochemical content and was proven to be an efficient free radical scavenger and reducing agent compared with ascorbic acid (p=0.0121). It was observed that the phytochemical compounds in the leaf extract like alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids and tannins were the major contributors of antioxidant activity. The leaf extract was also a suitable ingredient to produce a cream with good spreadability, homogeneity, consistency, appearance and pH.
NUMERICAL SIMULATION ON A DEEP-DRAFT SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE
Authors: AYUB ALIATULNAJIHA , A RAHMAN MOHD ASAMUDIN
Published: August 2022

A numerical study is conducted to determine the Vortex Induced Motion (VIM) effects on Deep-Draft Semi-Submersibles (DDSS). The VIM phenomena is a crucial problem that can cause severe impact on the fatigue life of mooring risers in DDSS. Therefore, a comprehensive numerical simulation is conducted using the Acusolve computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. Five models of immersed columns with different aspect ratios (ie. 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4) are numerically investigated under two different incidence angles, which are 0° and 45°. The transverse and in-line vibration amplitude, amplitude of lift force coefficient and vortex shedding are analyzed. The numerical measurements are obtained to see the response of horizontal plane motions, which are transverse, in line and yaw motions. This study with detailed numerical results from parametric data will contribute future studies and the comparisons are made to demonstrate the capability of the present CFD approach.
ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS DISTRIBUTION IN THE SURFACE SEDIMENT OF KEMAMAN RIVER, TERENGGANU
Authors: B.MARAN VISHALINI , ANTHONY DASS DORINDA ANTHONY , RAVIKUMAR LAVANNIA , IZYAN ZAINI NUR SYAMIMI , SYAKIRAH ROSLI NUR ALIAH , MIOR BAHARUDIN WAN NUR IZWANI , MUSTAFFA NAJAH KARIMAH , CHUAN ONG MENG
Published: August 2022

In the present day, rivers are used by people as water sources for their daily agricultural, industrial and cleaning purposes. However, industrial development and human activities are rapidly impacting the river’s catchment area, which can cause contamination of heavy metals in the water and sediment. The Kemaman River is one of the rivers that may be affected by these pollutants. Thus, the concentration of selected heavy metals such as copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg), plus the pollution status was determined in the surface sediments of the Kemaman River. A total of 46 sediment samples were collected along the river. Teflon Bomb digestion method with 2.0mL of mixed acid (concentrated nitric acid, hydrochloric acid and hydrofluoric acid with ratio 3:3:1) was performed followed by analyzation using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS). The status of heavy metals contamination in the study area was determined by the index of geoaccumulation (Igeo) and pollution load index (PLI). The calculated Igeo value suggested that the sediments in the Kemaman River were categorized under unpolluted to polluted category. However, the calculated PLI suggested that the study area is polluted with heavy metals. The correlation of the sediment mean grain size and the selected heavy metals was strongly correlated. The concentration of metals increased with the rising mean grain size, which suggests their association with the fine fraction of the sediment.