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Serology reveals comparable patterns in the transmission intensities of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax in Langkat district, North Sumatera Province, Indonesia
Get PDFIntroduction: The incidence of malaria in Indonesia has declined significantly over the last few decades. Thus, a demand for more sensitive techniques to describe low levels of transmission in the country is important. This study was conducted to evaluate antibody response to Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax in an area nearing elimination in North Sumatera Province, Indonesia.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Langkat district, North Sumatera Province, in June 2019. Basic demographic data and filter paper blood spots were collected from 339 participants. Antibody responses to two P. falciparum (PfAMA-1 and PfMSP-119) and two P. vivax (PvAMA-1 and PvMSP-119) antigens were measured using indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Seroconversion rates (SCR) were estimated by fitting a simple reversible catalytic model to seroprevalence data for each antibody. Multiple logistic regression was used to investigate factors associated with exposure.
Results: The overall malaria seroprevalence was 10.6% for PfAMA-1, 13% for PfMSP-119, 18.6% for PvAMA-1, and 7.4% for PvMSP-119. Seropositive individuals for P. falciparum (PfAMA-1/PfMSP-119) and P. vivax (PvAMA-1/PvMSP-119) were similar at 20.7%, with no significant differences observed between age groups (p > 0.05). Based on the reversible catalytic model, the calculated SCRs indicated a higher level of P. falciparum transmission than P. vivax using all tested antigens. In the adjusted model, only spending nights in the forest was associated with P. vivax seropositivity (odd ratio: 3.93, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The analysis of community-based serological data helps describe the similar levels of P. falciparum and P. vivax transmission in the Langkat district. The use of a serological approach enhances the detection of past exposure, aiding in the identification of epidemiological risk factors and malaria surveillance in low transmission settings in Indonesia
Factors Controlling Durability of Geopolymer Concretes in Chloride Determined via Growing Self-Organizing Maps
Get PDFGeopolymer concrete offers a promising alternative to traditional Portland cement concrete,exhibiting comparable mechanical and durability performance while reducing environmental impacts. However, its mechanical and durability properties depend on many factors, such as the
water/binder ratios, concentration of activator and curing temperatures. This study proposes using an unsupervised Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Self-Organizing Map (SOM) to predict the factors that control the durability of geopolymer concrete in a chloride environment based on experimental
datasets. This research aims to identify the impact of various water-to-binder ratios and molarity of
activators on the durability of geopolymer concretes by applying the Growing Self-Organizing Maps (GSOM) model to predict the durability of the design mix. A series of geopolymer concrete mixes with varying water-to-binder (w/b) ratios and activator molarity were prepared to achieve these
goals. These cylindrical samples of 100 mm height x 50 mm diameter size were cured for 24 hours at 80°C and subject to chloride migration test at 28-day curing age. The data collected was analyzed and modeled using statistical methods and machine learning techniques, i.e., SOM modeling. This
modeling approach effectively revealed patterns and relationships within the dataset, providing crucial insights into the chloride migration behavior. Based on the GSOM modeling, this study highlights efficient data analysis, pattern recognition, and optimization of outcomes, such
as geopolymer concrete durability prediction in a chloride environment based on the selected parameters
Distribution and Habitat Associations of the Genus Diplommatina (Gastropoda: Diplommatinidae) in Sarawak
Get PDFThe formation of the South China Sea separated Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, influencing the evolutionary paths of many species, including land snails, which serve as excellent models for biogeographical studies. Land snails, particularly those of the genus Diplommatina, mainly found in limestone habitats due to the abundance of calcium carbonate, resulting in high levels of endemism and restricted distribution ranges. The habitat association of land snails is influenced by environmental factors such as soil pH, moisture, and calcium levels, with minute land snail species being particularly sensitive to changes to in habitat conditions. Despite the focus on limestone habitats, recent studies have shown that some Diplommatina species are also found in non-limestone areas, highlighting the need for more research on their distribution and ecological preferences in these regions. Hence, the main objectives of this study are to determine the distribution of the genus Diplommatina in Sarawak and the habitat association of selected species. The study was conducted across eight sites in Sarawak, Malaysia, including limestone areas such as Gua Rumbang, Gua Rambus, Gunung Silabur, and Niah National Park, as well as non-limestone areas like Gunung Gading National Park, Kiyau Campsite in Sapit, Mutiara Campsite in Baleh, and Lambir Hills National Park. Fieldwork for this study was conducted from October 2022 to January 2024 across six 20 × 20 m plots per site, where both living snails and empty shells were collected using direct searching method and soil floatation habitat assessment focused on substrate types (e.g., leaf litter, vegetation, and limestone), abiotic factors (e.g., leaf litter depth, soil pH, soil temperature, ambience temperature, humidity, luminosity) and biotic factors (e.g., canopy cover and diameter of tree at breast heigth). A total of 23 Diplommatina species, including both living snails and empty shells, were recorded for distribution mapping. 16 out of 23 species found alive were included in the habitat association analysis. The findings of this study suggest the distribution of Diplommatina species in Sarawak is primarily influenced by the presence of limestone outcrops, species chirality, and shell size, leading to region-specific endemism which allows the understanding of the current distribution of this genus. Additionally, most living Diplommatina individuals were found to be significantly abundant in leaf litter compared to limestone or vegetation habitats. Notable observations, such as the presence of D. baritensis on banana tree trunks in non-limestone areas, provide valuable insights into the occurrence of this genus beyond limestone outcrops and emphasise the need to include these areas in future surveys. Furthermore, the discovery of a new species, D. rumbangensis, highlights the potential for further taxonomic discoveries in the region and underscores the importance of conserving the areas. Soil pH was the only factor that significantly affected species, with D. onyx favoring lower pH levels and D. baritensis associated with near-neutral soils. The other tested biotic and abiotic factors did not show significant differences between species (p > 0.05). These findings underscore the importance of further exploring the ecological factors that contribute to the unique distribution patterns of this genus in Sarawak
Community perception towards employment of people with Down syndrome in Malaysia : a mixed-method study.
Get PDFThis study examines the employability of people with Down syndrome (PDS) by assessing knowledge, attitudes, productivity and challenges from a community perspective. A concurrent parallel mixed methods design combined quantitative data from 104 surveys and qualitative data from 32 unstructured interviews, providing a multifaceted understanding of the issue. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Spearman rank correlation, while qualitative data were examined with Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Results showed moderate knowledge of PDS employability rights and legal information but significant gaps in procedural knowledge. Attitudes were generally positive, supporting inclusive employment policies. Productivity perceptions were moderately positive, with societal ignorance and cost concerns noted as challenges. Qualitative findings supported these results and emphasised the need for better PDS training, support and the identification of communication barriers and physical and cognitive limitations. This study highlights
the need to improve community knowledge, foster positive attitudes and address challenges to enhance PDS employability. Recommendations include targeted education
programmes, supportive work environments, robust policy enforcement and specialised training programmes for PDS and potential employers to bridge communication barriers
and address physical and cognitive limitations
Imposing neural networks and PSO optimization in the quest for optimal ankle-foot orthosis dynamic modelling
Get PDFIndividuals with abnormal walking patterns due to various conditions face significant challenges in daily activities, especially walking. Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) devices are crucial in providing essential support to their lower limbs. Accurately modeling the dynamic behavior of AFO systems, particularly in predicting ground reaction forces, is a complex yet vital task to ensure their effectiveness. This research develops dynamic models for AFO systems using advanced modeling techniques, employing both parametric and non-parametric approaches. Parametric methods, such as particle swarm optimization (PSO), and non-parametric methods, like multi-layer perceptron (MLP) neural networks, are utilized through system identification methods. According to the findings, the MLP neural network continuously generates objective results and performs exceptionally well in correctly detecting the AFO system, attaining a noticeably lower mean squared prediction error of 0.000011. This research highlights the potential of advanced modeling techniques, particularly MLP neural networks, in enhancing AFO system modeling accuracy. Although parametric techniques like PSO are useful, the MLP approach performs better, offering insightful information about modelling AFO systems and indicating that non-parametric techniques like MLP neural networks have potential to further AFO creation and control
Kaunseling Rehabilitasi : Teori dan Amalan
Get PDFKaunseling Rehabilitasi: Teori dan Amalan merupakan sebuah karya komprehensif yang membawa pembaca meneroka dunia kaunseling rehabilitasi dari perspektif yang menyeluruh dan praktikal. Ia menghuraikan pelbagai aspek penting dalam
bidang kaunseling rehabilitasi dengan terlebih dahulu memperkenalkan pembaca kepada asas bidang ini seperti sejarah dan konsep dasar.
Buku ini turut mengupas secara mendalam mengenai amalan praktikal yang sesuai digunakan oleh kaunselor dalam membantu klien kurang upaya melalui proses rehabilitasi. Antara informasi yang disajikan adalah seperti peranan kaunselor dalam kaunseling rehabilitasi, model-model amalan kaunseling rehabilitasi, perancangan intervensi yang berkesan, aspek etika, serta panduan yang jelas mengenai strategi, teknik-teknik, dan pendekatan psikoterapi yang berhubung rapat dengan bidang ini.
Dengan penerangan yang mudah difahami, buku Kaunseling Rehabilitasi: Teori dan Amalan ini amat sesuai dijadikan panduan utama bagi kaunselor, pensyarah, pelajar,
dan pihak yang terlibat dalam perkhidmatan rehabilitasi untuk mendalami pengetahuan dan kemahiran untuk membantu individu kurang upaya mencapai kesejahteraan serta kualiti hidup yang baik melalui rehabilitasi
Microstructural characteristics of laser-treated Ni-Cr alloy via low power CO2 laser
No full textLow laser surface treatment has barely been investigated on Ni-Cr alloy, particularly on improving morphological structures. Hence, a study on the impact of low power laser treatment on Ni-Cr alloy was presented in this paper. An attempt to densify the Ni-Cr alloy via low laser power might lead to the enhancement of mechanical properties. The strength of a normal metal composite can be reduced over time due to exposure to extreme heat and impulsive external forces. This will cause alterations to the atomic structure of the composite, and it will lead to changes in its physical and mechanical properties. The irradiation of the CO2 laser aimed to densify the microstructures of the alloy by melting the surface of the composite. The alloy composites were prepared by mixing Ni powders with 20 wt.% of Cr powders and pelletizing them before sintering at 1400 °C. The laser treatment was conducted with the variation of three different magnitudes of low laser power of 10, 20, and 30 Watt, respectively, by keeping the speed of the laser constant at 10 mm/s. The observation was made using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The significant results displayed that the surface of the alloy was visibly densified after laser irradiation. Currently, it foresees the possibility of a low-power CO2 laser being potentially employed to enhance the morphological structure of an alloy that might lead to obtaining complex structural parts using this alloy
Lignin Nanoparticles as Antifungal Agent for Bamboo
Get PDFLignin is the most abundant aromatic polymer and the second most abundant biopolymer after cellulose. It is a complex biopolymer composed of different amounts of monolignols, namely p-coumaryl alcohol, coniferyl alcohol, and sinapyl alcohol (Ralph et al., 2019). Lignin can be used in industry because it is low-cost, non-toxic, biodegradable, and biocompatible
The Cultivation of Intercultural Communication Competence Using Performed Culture Approach for English Majors in China
No full textWith the increasing frequency of intercultural exchanges, there is a significant rise in social demand for talents with intercultural communication competence (ICC) . However, due to their lack of experience in intercultural language teaching (ICLT), English major teachers in China struggle to effectively develop this core competence in students during their teaching. This issue causes students to easily develop misunderstandings and encounter communication barriers in intercultural interactions, thereby restricting the quality of talent cultivation for English majors. The Performed Culture Approach (PCA) is a new kind of ICLT approach that aims to cultivate students’ ICC. The aim of the present study is to explore the cultivation of ICC using PCA among English majors in China from the perspectives of both the students and teachers concerned. It was achieved by investigating students’ ICC level, comparing the perceived impact of PCA on ICC cultivation between teacher and student participants, and examining teachers’ intention to use PCA. The present study employs an interpretivist case study approach, utilizing the Three-dimensional Theory of ICC, the Context, Input, Process and Product (CIPP) evaluation model, and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as its theoretical framework. Data was drawn from individual interviews with eight teachers and 12 students, and was analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The findings reveal that students’ ICC is at a moderate level, showing an imbalance developmental pattern characterized as “knowledge-attitude-skill”. Both teachers and students affirm the positive impact of the PCA on ICC. PCA enhances students’ language proficiency, improves their intercultural behavior skills, and boosts students’ classroom participation and learning motivation. The learning facilitation factors of PCA include performance evaluation, performance activities, and pre-class tasks. However, there were notable variations in teachers’ intention to use PCA. Perceived behavioral control, attitude toward the behavior, subjective norm, and teachers’ cognition of ICLT influenced their intention to use PCA. Teachers’ intention to use PCA was determined by internal factors more than external factors. A cross-analysis of sub-cases from the perspectives of divergence and convergence yielded three themes: students’ developmental needs for ICC, the consistency between the PCA and students’ ICC developmental needs, and teachers’ ambivalence towards using PCA. An ICC cultivation model in the context of EFL in China was proposed based on students’ ICC development needs and facilitation factors of PCA. These findings have implications for policy and practice for the implementation of PCA in ICC cultivation among English majors in the EFL context of China
Taxonomic Diversity and Functional Ecology of Birds during Seasonal Paddy Farming Practices in Southwestern Sarawak
No full textThe ecosystem of the paddy fields may be impacted by seasonal paddy farming, which is also expected to impact the birds inhabiting it. Relatively little research has been done worldwide on how paddy stages affect birds, and there is currently a dearth of research on the taxonomic diversity of birds in paddy fields caused by habitat heterogeneity on a landscape scale in Malaysia. Likewise, functional traits and groups of birds have been the subject of most research, but these studies were rarely carried out in paddy fields. This research investigated the taxonomic and functional groups of birds as well as the effects of habitat modification during three different paddy stages (planting, harvest and land preparation) in paddy fields of southwestern Sarawak and the objectives are as follows: (i) to compare the taxonomic diversity of birds; (ii) to classify and compare functional groups of birds; and (iii) to evaluate the effects of landscape-scale habitat modifications on bird taxonomic groups. Paddy fields of Kampung Skuduk, Kampung Baru and Kampung PuehSiru Dayak were sampled thrice during each paddy stage for 12 months from December 2021 to November 2022, with a cumulative effort for line transects and mist netting of 90 hours and 10,800 net hours. This study demonstrated the response of birds to continuous habitat modification in a paddy field ecosystem. Wholly, seasonal variations caused by paddy farming did not necessarily affect the bird community. There was no significant difference in bird taxonomic diversity, where paddy stages shared high numbers of bird species. Additionally, the functional groups of birds vary, indicating evolving feeding and foraging strategies in response to changing landscapes. Lastly, bird taxonomic groups had clustered distribution with weak associations of changing microhabitats and stages. This research contributes to developing management plans for birds in paddy fields and provides a method for assessing the ecosystem