bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Discrete dynamics in the set of quantum measurements
Authors: Rico Albert , Życzkowski Karol 
Published: September 2024

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

P
j

=

P
j
†

⩾
0

summing to identity,

∑
j

P
j

=
𝟙

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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