UNIMAS Journal (Universiti Malaysia Sarawak)
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Effects of Salinity Changes on Hematological Blood Parameters and Stress Responses in Red Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) Infected with Vibrio harveyi: Salinity changes in Tilapia Infected with V. harveyi
No full textThe effect of salinity manipulation on the blood parameters and stress responses of red tilapia, Oreochromis spp. During infection with Vibrio harveyi was investigated. The fish were reared in five different salinities (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 ppt) with three replicates for 30 days and were injected with 106 CFU/mL V. harveyi intramuscularly in all treatments except the negative control. After infection, the fish were observed for clinical signs for 14 days, collected blood samples, and measured stress responses in 0, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 14-days post-infection (dpi) with V. harveyi, meanwhile the cortisol plasma was taken on 0, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6-dpi. The analysis of blood parameters consisted of total erythrocyte count (RBCs), total leucocyte count (WBCs), hemoglobin (Hb) level, percentage of monocytes (Mon), lymphocytes (Lym) and neutrophils (Neu). The stress response parameters included primary responses (cortisol plasma), secondary responses (blood glucose), and tertiary responses (ventilation rate). The results indicate that salinity manipulation influenced the resistance of red tilapia after infection with V. harveyi
Optimizing Silicon Application for Enhancing Growth and Chlorophyll Concentration in Pepper Plants (Piper nigrum L.) Cultivar Kuching: Silicon Enhances Pepper Plant Growth and Chlorophyll
No full textSilicon is known to play a central role in regulating various aspects of plant growth and development, including nutrient uptake, root formation, and growth. Silicon is the second most abundant element found in soil primarily as neutral, monomeric silicic acid, which is the biologically available form for plant uptake. Although silicon is not considered an essential nutrient for the basic life cycle of most plants, its availability can significantly benefits to plant health, growth, and stress tolerance. However, previous research has mainly focused on plants grown in silicon, and silicon occurs naturally as silicon dioxide (SiO2), and is not in a form that is easily absorbed by plants. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of silicon (Si) in silicic acid form (H4O4Si) on the growth and chlorophyll concentration of pepper (Piper nigrum L.) seedlings, particularly the Kuching variety. The Si application had been applied once a week with five different concentrations via root applications; T1 [0.5% Si (v/v)], T2 [1.5% Si (v/v)], T3 [2.0% Si (v/v)], T4 [1.5% potassium silicate (v/v)] as positive control and T5 [negative control (without silicon)] on pepper cutting-grown plants. Growth parameters such as plant height, stem diameter and chlorophyll concentration were observed and collected. Our results showed that the treatment with Si nutrients is promising, as the Si-treated pepper clones showed faster and more robust growth compared to the control plants in the early growth stages. The results indicate that a 0.5% Si concentration (v/v) effectively maintains the high chlorophyll content over four weeks, in contrast to the decreasing trend observed in the control group. This study thus presents the first report on the application of Si in P. nigrum L., demonstrating the feasibility of Si uptake and growth enhancement in pepper plants. The results suggest a stepwise application of Si, starting with low concentrations (0.5% Si v/v) via the root in the early growth stages to strengthen young plants before transplanting to the field. However, foliar spraying could also be considered in future studies as the silicon is absorbed faster compared to root application. Further studies on the passive defence structure (physical barriers such as cuticle, wax, and trichomes) are needed to prove that it can repel pathogens and insects
Morphology and Molecular Characterisation of Karenia mikimotoi (Dinophyceae) from Sabah Malaysian Borneo, with a Focus on the Second Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS2) of Ribosomal RNA gene : Characterisation of Karenia mikimotoi from Sabah
No full textThe first recorded bloom of Karenia mikimotoi (initially Gymnodinium mikimotoi) occurred off the coast of Japan in 1934, causing mass mortality of shellfish and fish. This event highlighted the devastating impact of K. mikimotoi blooms and marked a turning point in harmful algal bloom (HAB) research, driving studies on its identification, biology, toxicology, and effects on marine life and ecosystems. The past reported bloom events in Southeast Asia have raised public concerns, leading to further investigation into the occurrence and geographical distribution of K. mikimotoi in the region. As of yet, there is no recorded evidence of K. mikimotoi blooms in Malaysian waters. This prompt the investigation of the occurrence and distribution of K. mikimotoi in Malaysia, and this study represent the first record of K. mikimotoi in Malaysian waters. In this study, clonal cultures of K. mikimotoi isolated from Sepanggar Bay, Sabah were examined using light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe its morphological features. Cells of K. mikimotoi from Malaysian Borneo exhibited a typical dorso-ventrally flattened body with bi-lobed and linear apical grooves on the cell apex. Molecular characterisation of the strains based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and large-subunit (LSU) ribosomal DNA revealed close phylogenetic relationships with other strains of K. mikimotoi from other regions, forming a monophyletic clade that positioned as sister to K. brevis, supporting the species identity of K. mikimotoi. The secondary structure of the ITS2 RNA transcript revealed a universal structure with four major helices. Structural comparison between K. mikimotoi and its relatives revealed four to six hemi-compensatory base changes. The results demonstrated the efficacy of ITS2 secondary structure information in delimiting species in Karenia. The detailed morphology and molecular characteristics of K. mikimotoi were revealed, for the first time, from the coastal waters of Malaysian Borneo
The Danger of Foot and Mouth Disease in Livestock – A Review: Foot and Mouth Disease in Livestock
No full textThe FMD virus, also known as FMDV, is a member of the Picornaviridae family of the genus Aphthovirus. There are seven immunologically distinct FMD virus serotypes, known as Asia-1, A, C, O, South-African Territories (SAT) -1, -2, and -3. The disease's clinical symptoms include the development of vesicles on the lips, tongue, palate, tooth pads, nose, coronary band, gums, and interdigital spaces. There are many viral, host, and environmental factors that affect the epidemiology of FMD, including variations in viral virulence, particle stability in diverse microenvironments, and possible long-term survival. FMD can spread in a variety of ways, including through human contact with contaminated milk tankers or animal transport vehicles, the use of contaminated animal goods, equipment, or vehicles, or by the transmission of windborne viruses. Foot and mouth illness is not considered to be a serious public health hazard because the infection seems to be rare and the effects are self-limiting. Since the cost of disease control is added to the direct economic losses brought on by animal deaths, decreased milk production, and slowed animal growth rates, FMD epidemics indirectly harm the economy. Some of the techniques used to control FMD epidemics include mobility restrictions, quarantines, the death of infected and exposed animals, and cleaning and disinfecting impacted buildings, equipment, and vehicles
Chemistry Profile and Biological Activity of Campnosperma auriculatum Extracts: Chemistry and Bioactivity of C. auriculatum Extracts
No full textAs our ongoing investigation for bioactive natural products from tropical plant, we performed preliminary study on one of important tropical plants in West Kalimantan, Terentang putih, Campnosperma auriculatum. The aims were to determine effective solvent used for extraction, chemistry profile, total phenolic content, free-radical scavenging, cytotoxicity, and anti-termite activities of leaves, stems, and roots extracts of C. auriculatum. Variation of solvent for extraction was selected based on its polarisation, namely, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane. The effectiveness of solvent was determined by observing the rendemen of each extract, where amount of sample and solvent volume, duration of extraction, temperature, and maceration technique were controled. Determination of total phenolic content was performed using Folin-Ciocalteu method. IC50 value for free-radical scavenging activity was calculated by plotting standard concentration and absorption data observed through DPPH method. Cytotoxicity evaluation was performed to each ethanolic extract against 4T1 cancer cell line using MTT assay. Anti-termite activity was conducted against Coptotermes curvignathus by calculating percentage of termite mortality and paper weight loss. This research showed that ethanol solvent was the most effective extraction solvent giving the highest yield in each part of plant. Phytochemically, all extracts showed that they contain phenolics and alkaloids. Ethanolic extract of stems showed the highest total phenolic content with 737.6 ± 0.56 ppm (GAE) and the most active as free-radical scavenger with IC50 value of 135.51 ± 0.91 ppm. Meanwhile, the roots extract exhibited pronounce cytotoxicity toward 4T1 cancer cell line with IC50 value of 1.55 ± 3.29 µg/ml and high selectivity index. Furthermore, the roots extract displayed most active as anti-termite as well as antifeedant. Hitherto, this study is the first report on phytochemistry and biological activity from leaves, stems, and roots of C. auriculatum. Moreover, this plant can be explored further for its potential on medicinal and agricultural industries
Physico-Chemical Properties and Mineral Identification of Salt Licks Soil in Segaliud Lokan Forest Reserve: Minerals and Chemistry of Salt Lick Soils
No full textThis study intended to describe the physicochemical and mineralogical properties of salt licks discovered in Segaliud Lokan Forest Reserve. The salt licks in this forest reported to be visited and used by wildlifes via camera trap studies. In order to understand this wildlife’s behavior, the physicochemical and mineralogical properties of the salt lick especially the salt lick soil are important to determine the cause of the wildlife visitation. Five salt licks area as well as controlled soils were selected. Water and rock samples were also collected for the comparison study. The physical characteristic of licks soil shows pH ranges from slightly acidic to alkaline, high moisture content (23.30% – 59.35%), wide range of organic matter content (0.38% – 9.65%) and electrical conductivity range between 41.82 µS/cm to 243.32 µS/cm which is higher than the controlled soils. The soil texture from the salt licks soils is mostly classified as loam. The result of chemical analysis shows that the concentration of elements is higher in the lick soil compared to the controlled soil such as Ca (1101.92 mg/kg – 11551.64 mg/kg), K (767.32 mg/kg – 2432.11 mg/kg), Na (85.83 mg/kg – 754.20 mg/kg), Mg (986.05 mg/kg – 5843.29 mg/kg) and P (47.23 mg/kg – 290.215 mg/kg). Water samples from salt licks area are rich in Ca (637.67 mg/L – 3074.25 mg/L) and Na (572.35 mg/L – 2554.63 mg/L) compared to river nearby. The mineral analysis indicated the appearance of clay such as illite, chlorite and smectite. As a conclusion, the salt lick soil’s pH varies from slightly acidic to alkaline (5.38 – 8.98) compared to controlled soils (4.54), The salt lick surface soils also show higher percentage of moisture content (69.38%) and soil electrical conductivity (78.41%) difference compared to controlled soils. Meanwhile the organic matter percentage in salt lick soils is slightly lower (48.85%) than the controlled soils (51.11%). The salt lick soils also exhibit higher elements concentration than the controlled soils such as average concentration of Ca (96.14%), K (86.09%), Na (89.51%) Mg (91.38%) and P (86.78%)
Farmers' Perception Towards Agroforestry Practices in Siburan: Perception of Agroforestry in Siburan
No full textClimate change increasingly affects agricultural output and productivity, prompting a search for resilient and sustainable land use practices. Among these, agroforestry has gained recognition as a crucial strategy, offering mitigation against climate change and providing environmental, economic, and social benefits. Agroforestry is a practice that integrates trees and crops for sustainable land management to mitigate climate change and generate income. Although there are successful pilot projects for wet rice cultivation in Kampung Skuduk and Kampung Chupak, agroforestry activities in the paddy fields have yet to be documented. Therefore, it is crucial to introduce agroforestry practices to farmers in order to diversify their income sources and aid in their adaptation to climate change. Thus, this study aimed to determine farmers’ perception towards agroforestry, as it will influence farmers’ attitudes and the likelihood of them adopting agroforestry practices to adopt agroforestry practice. Data was gathered via structured questionnaire interviews, employing a five-point Likert scale to evaluate respondents’ views on agroforestry. The data were analysed using SPSS and the trend of the composite score was used to interpret the five-point Likert scale data. The results show that the respondents have a positive attitude toward agroforestry practices. They also expected awareness-raising activities and workshops on agroforestry, indicating that they are willing to learn more about these practices. Eighty percent of respondents who do not practice agroforestry are interested in practicing agroforestry if there are no obstacles. This positive attitude indicates that farmers in the study area are ready and willing to practice agroforestry if there are no obstacles, because a positive attitude towards an agricultural innovation will increase the likelihood of adoption
Red Seaweed Carrageenan: A Comprehensive Review of Preparation in Cosmetics - An In Depth Analysis: Red Seaweed Carrageenan for Cosmetics
No full textCarrageenan, an extract from red seaweed (Rhodophyta), has many uses in cosmetics, and this literature review delves into them all. Due to its superior gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties, carrageenan, a polysaccharide with a wide range of chemical structures, has been utilized in various industries throughout history. In recent years, the cosmetics industry has shown growing interest in harnessing the potential of carrageenan, driven by the increasing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the botanical background, types of carrageenan, and the most effective extraction methods for obtaining the key bioactive compounds that enhance its functionality in cosmetic formulations. The functional properties of carrageenan in cosmetics are discussed in depth, including its gelling and thickening capabilities, moisturizing effects, and stability enhancement. Additionally, its biological activities, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contribute to its appeal as a valuable ingredient in skincare products. Formulation considerations, including compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients and optimal concentrations, are explored to facilitate the development of effective products. The review also addresses the incorporation of carrageenan into cosmetic formulations, along with safety and regulatory aspects, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the product's conformity with industry standards. In conclusion, the review provides an overview of current challenges, potential future research directions, and case studies showcasing the incorporation of carrageenan into cosmetic products. This review aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, formulators, and industry professionals interested in the innovative use of carrageenan in the evolving landscape of cosmetic science by synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps in the current scientific literature
Icts And Labour Productivity Nexus In Developing Countries: Evidence From Panel Estimation Approach
Full text linkThis study examines the impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on labour productivity in developing countries from 2000 to 2019, using the two-step System GMM estimation and dynamic panel quantile regression. The empirical results present new evidence on the moderating effect of ICTs with human capital, financial development and trade openness on labour productivity in developing countries. The interaction terms between ICTs and these three moderators show positive and statistically significant determinants of labour productivity. These three interaction terms have a greater influence on labour productivity than the impact of each variable assessed individually. The dynamic panel quantile regression results revealed that ICTs statistically significant to enhance labour productivity in lower and intermediate quantiles than in the highest quantiles in developing countries. This finding suggested that ICTs play an essential role in improving productivity at the lower and average labour productivity levels. This study can help policymakers develop a long-term strategy in terms of ICTs adoption and usage more intensively in developing countries as they strive to achieve the goals of industrial 4.0
EUROPE UNION BAN ON PALM OIL: THE TREND OF PALM OIL COMPETITIVENESS AND THE CO-INTEGRATION ON THE SOYBEAN AND RAPESEED OIL
Full text linkPalm oil highly demanded in global trade and expected to gain more demand in the future market. The primary concern regarding palm oil production is its environmental impact. The issue that is focused on in this study the European Union to promote the banning of oil palm in the world market in 2018 and the European parliament decided to ban palm oil for biofuel used. The Europe Union also promoted soybean and rapeseed as replacement for the banned of palm oil in Europe market. Therefore, this study aims for the effect toward the competitiveness using the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) and Revealed Symmetrical Comparative Advantage (RSCA) indices among the major crude palm oil exporters especially within 1991 to 2020 period of years. Moreover, this study also clarified the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) co-integration for the soybean and rapeseed oil toward the competitiveness for 2 largest palm oil exporters in the world from 1989 to 2021