Malaysian Journal of Applied Sciences (Journal of UniSZA - Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin)
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A Systematic Review on the Radiation Shielding Performance of Metal-Polymer Composites
Full text linkRadiation usage in various sectors necessitates effective shielding materials to protect workers from ionizing radiation hazards. While lead is commonly used, its application in personal protective equipment (PPE) poses ergonomic and environmental challenges. This systematic literature review has focused on the efficacy of metal and polymer composites in shielding against photon rays. Published papers from the past decade were identified and the selected papers from 2015 to 2023 were analysed based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The paper included must be original studies, English language, published within the last ten years, and the findings of shielding properties against radiation are included. Based on this review, various metals and polymers have been integrated to explore the potential shielding efficiency of composites. As a result, multiple factors such as the metal type, particle size, metal composition, atomic number, thickness, and energy level could affect the radiation shielding ability of these composites. Metals with a high atomic number, for example, tungsten (Z = 74) have been proven to have superior shielding ability compared to metals with a low atomic number, for example, tin (Z = 50). Thus, combining multiple metals could enhance their shielding efficiency based on elevated metal composition and thickness. Nonetheless, the mechanical properties of these composites could be reduced. Higher energy levels were also associated with decreased protection against photon rays. This review would be able to provide comprehensive insights into the efficiency of metal and polymer composites in photon ray shielding for radiation protection by considering multiple factors, such as the type of metal, particle size, metal composition, atomic number of composites, thickness, and energy levels
The Environmental Impacts of E-Hailing Services in Southeast Asia: A Literature Review.
Full text linkThe proliferation of e-hailing services has raised concerns about their role in cities. The environmental impacts of e-hailing services are complex and multi-faceted. This paper provides a review of the literature on e-hailing services in Southeast Asia (SEA) to enhance the understanding of e-hailing services environmental impacts on the urban transportation sector. Through reviewing the literature, this study aims to identify the environmental impacts of these services and to inform related planning and regulatory efforts in the context of emerging economic countries in resolving issues related to urban transportation. A comprehensive and systematic search was performed using Science Direct, Taylor & Francis, Sage Publications, and Emerald Publishing. Each database was searched for literature published between 1st January 2008 and 31st July 2024. Owing to the lack of research on the e-hailing service, there is little evidence in the existing literature on environmental dimension of transportation sustainability. This indicates a need for further research in this area. The results of the review illustrate certain similarities between e-hailing services in SEA countries. Finally, there is also evidence showing that these services provide other opportunities to extend or complement public transit, reduce congestion and car ownership.
Keywords: e-hailing services, environmental impacts, vehicles attributes, environmental emission, sustainabilit
Eco-Friendly Neem Infusion: The Mosquito-Beater Candle
No full textNeem (Azadirachta Indica) is one of India's most valued traditional medicinal herbs, with each part of the tree holding distinct medicinal properties. Mosquito-borne diseases, which pose a significant global health threat, require developing alternative mosquito-repellent solutions. This research explores the potential of neem-scented candles as a natural repellent due to neem's insect-repelling compounds, such as azadirachtin. Various analyses, including percentage yield, moisture content, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy, are conducted to evaluate the neem oil and the candles' properties. Additionally, tests on the candles' melting point, burning rate, scent stability, and candle compression are performed, along with a structured survey to assess consumer perception. FTIR and UV-Vis analyses confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds in the neem oil. The formulated neem-scented candles exhibited moderate effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes, offering a potential alternative to chemical-based repellents. The consumer survey indicated a positive reception towards the neem-infused candles, appreciating their dual functionality as decorative items and mosquito repellents. Neem-scented candles demonstrate potential as an eco-friendly mosquito-repellent solution. The research supports using neem oil as a natural repellent, highlighting its biodegradability and minimal impact on beneficial insects. Future work could focus on optimizing the formulation for enhanced efficacy and exploring other natural additives to improve the candles' performance
Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Characteristic of Isotonic Drink Incorporated with Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) Extract
Full text linkRoselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) extract is a rich nutrient containing vitamins and antioxidants, but it remains underutilized in the food and beverage industries. This study aimed to explore the potential of roselle extract as a main ingredient in isotonic drinks, a commercially viable product. Four roselle-isotonic drink formulations were prepared, varying in sugar and salt types and concentrations. Then, each of formulation was further processed into carbonated and non-carbonated samples. Physicochemical parameters (osmolarity, pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solid and colour) and sensory characteristics were analyzed. There was significant difference in the values for osmolarity, pH, titratable acidity and total soluble solid, while no significant difference was observed in colour. Results showed that simple sugars like glucose and fructose led to higher osmolarity values, while carbonation was associated with increased acidity and lower pH. Sensory evaluation revealed that carbonated roselle isotonic drinks were generally preferred, with formulation with sucrose receiving the highest overall rating. These findings show that roselle extract has potential as a main ingredient, serving as both a natural flavor and color agent in isotonic drinks
Feature Reduction on Sym-H Index Image Using Principal Component Analysis Approach
Full text linkGeomagnetic storms pose significant risks to technological systems on Earth. One of the ways to identify the level of a storm is from the Sym-H plot images. The fewer features used for image interpretation, the simpler and more efficient the analysis becomes. In this study, we applied Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to the Sym-H index images, initially consisting of seven statistical features. Through PCA, this study managed to reduce these features to just two principal components, capturing over 98% of the total variance in the first two components, thereby retaining essential information while simplifying the dataset. This reduction not only simplifies the visualization and interpretation of the Sym-H plot images but also retains the critical information necessary for understanding geomagnetic storm dynamics. By focusing on these two principal components, we can effectively present and analyse the essential patterns and behaviours of geomagnetic activity during storm events. The findings highlight the potential of PCA to enhance space weather forecasting and improve the resilience of technological infrastructure against solar storm impacts
Identification of Electrical Conductivity of The Volcanic Soil on Fertilizer-Exposed Agricultural Field (Case Study on Agricultural Field Parompong, West Java)
No full textParongpong volcanic soil is a type of Andosols soil used for short-lived crop farming. Increased agricultural production is usually by giving excessive fertilizer that causes contamination of farmland and leaves residue residues that contaminate the soil. The research has been done using geophysical methods to determine the soil electrical properties of the Huma EC technology, which results in resistivity value and converts it into conductivity. Data collection on agricultural and non-agricultural land was measured as a comparison. The result shows that agricultural land’s conductivity value is higher than non-agricultural land. The range of conductivity values in non agricultural land is 1.44 - 15.11 mmhos/cm. The content of conductivity values in non-non-agricultural land is 0.72 - 2.7 mmhos/cm. The value can be used as a Parongpong volcanic agricultural area conductivity database.
Keywords: agricultural, electrical conductivity, cation transfer capacity, contamination, HUMA-EC 
Analyzing Seasonal Changes in Water Quality Indicators of Sungai Chantek, Pasir Akar Farm: Implications for Environmental Chemistry and Ecosystem Health
Full text linkWater quality is critical for ecosystem health, especially in river systems that support diverse biological and human activities. Seasonal variations can significantly influence water quality by altering key physical, chemical, and biological parameters. This study aimed to investigate the seasonal changes in Sungai Chantek's water quality by analyzing parameters such as Total Suspended Solids (TSS), pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Ammoniacal Nitrogen (AN). Water samples were collected from three stations over four months, covering the rainy and dry seasons. Heavy metals, including calcium, magnesium, iron, aluminum, boron, and manganese, were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Among these, aluminum showed the highest concentration. The results revealed that during the rainy season, TSS, BOD, and COD levels were significantly higher due to increased runoff, while pH decreased during the dry season, indicating increased acidity. Dissolved oxygen levels were lowest in the dry season, correlating with reduced water flow and higher temperatures. Overall, water quality fluctuated between Class I and II according to the National Water Quality Standards (NWQS), reflecting the influence of seasonal hydrological changes. This study underscores the need for continuous water quality monitoring to ensure sustainable river management in tropical regions
Geriatric Stroke Management: : Lessons Learned from Case Series
Full text linkIntroduction. Stroke is a common medical emergency, requiring prompt recognition and intervention. We examines stroke presentations in patients aged 60 years and above at Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah (HSNZ) Emergency Department, both ischemic and haemorrhagic subtypes. Our aims is to elucidate clinical manifestations, facilitate timely diagnosis, and optimize management strategies.
Case Series. The series comprises four cases illustrating diverse stroke presentations and therapeutic considerations. Case Report 1 highlights the importance of identifying vascular risk factors and urgent neuroimaging. Case Report 2 underscores the need for secondary prevention measures in patients with a history of transient ischemic attack (TIA). Case Report 3 emphasizes rapid assessment, blood pressure control, and neurosurgical intervention in acute intracerebral haemorrhage. Case Report 4 illustrates the complexities of stroke sequelae and comprehensive care.
Discussion. Through neurological examination, neuroimaging studies and initial baseline blood investigation, the cases highlight the significance of a systematic approach to stroke assessment in elderly patients. Interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals is crucial for optimal stroke care management.
Conclusion. The case series provides insights into nuanced stroke presentations and management dilemmas in elderly patients, aiming to inform evidence-based practices and improve outcomes. Continued research and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential for addressing evolving challenges in stroke management and enhancing care for elderly stroke survivors.
Keywords: Stroke, Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, Emergency Department, Elderly Patient
An In Vitro, In silico, GCMS and LCMS Investigation of Crinum jagus (J. Thomp.) Dandy Bulb for Lead Anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Compounds
Full text linkHepatocellular carcinoma is a leading cause of cancer-related death around the world. In this study, the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to investigate the anticancer activity of five chromatographic fractions of Crinum jagus methanol bulb extract against the hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell line. The IC50 value was used as a measure of anticancer activity. The most active fraction was analyzed using GCMS and LCMS. The binding energies of the identified compounds with Caspase-3, Caspase-9 and EGFR were evaluated and compared with that of the standard drug, Sorafenib. The compounds' drug-likeness was evaluated by applying Lipinski's rule of five. The IC50 value of the most active fraction was 37 μg/ml. Nineteen (19) compounds, primarily fatty acids, fatty acid esters, and flavonoids, were identified from the fraction by GCMS and LCMS analysis. Of the nineteen (19) compounds identified in the most active fraction, linoelaidic acid (-8.23 kcal mol-1), hexadecanoic acid (-7.96 kcal mol-1) and 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (-7.78 kcal mol-1) had better binding affinity for Caspase-3 than Sorafenib; hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (-8.10 kcal mol-1) and pentyl linoleate (-8.00 kcal mol-1) had comparable binding energy with Sorafenib (-8.47 kcal mol-1) against Caspase-9; while hexadecanoic acid (-8.29 kcal mol-1), linoelaidic acid (-8.58 kcal mol-1), and pentyl linoleate (-8.66 kcal mol-1) had better binding energy than Sorafenib (-8.24 kcal mol-1) against EGFR. These compounds passed Lipinski’s test for drug-likeness. The study's findings lend credence to the plant's traditional use as a cancer remedy
Green Innovation: Kenaf Fiber as a Sustainable Filler in Composites
Full text linkKenaf fiber has recently gained significant attention as a reinforcement in composite materials across various industries due to its excellent mechanical properties, ease of manufacturing, and natural biodegradability. This brief review examines the physical and chemical properties of kenaf. The high cellulose content of kenaf composites enhances their mechanical and thermal properties. Additionally, several previous studies focusing on improving kenaf composites are highlighted. The reinforcement made by using the kenaf fiber shows its potential to replace the glass fiber composite. The review also discusses the applications of kenaf in various industries, as well as the challenges faced by the kenaf industry in Malaysia and globally. Finally, the review addresses the potential and market demand for kenaf fiber and kenaf seed oil