17362 research outputs found
Sort by
Canarium odontophyllum from Borneo Island: Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and modern applications
Canarium odontophyllum, commonly known as dabai, is a seasonal indigenous fruit from Borneo (East Malaysia). It has been reported to have significant potential in pharmaceutical and modern applications; however, its full potential has yet to be thoroughly explored. Results Phytochemical studies have identified seven therapeutic properties in C. odontophyllum. Modern applications include its use as an alternative biofuel (e.g., cooking oil and biodiesel), chocolate production, a component in dye- sensitized solar cells, and in wastewater treatment. Conclusion C. odontophyllum contains a rich array of phytochemical compounds with potential applications in the pharmaceutical and engineering sectors. This review aims to encourage further research into phytochemistry, pharmacology, and modern applications
Waste to wellness: Exploring the prebiotic potential of fruits and vegetable by-products for probiotic-enriched functional foods, Lactobacillus pentosus A6
Prebiotics are indigestible dietary fibers that enhance the host's health by encouraging the growth and activity of particular bacteria in the colon. Incorporating agricultural by-products as prebiotics into human diets is an effective way to contribute to both environmental conservation and personal well-being. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the growth of probiotic lactic acid bacterium, Lactobacillus pentosus A6 with the presence of various types and concentrations of freeze-dried fruits (watermelon rind, melon rind, mango peel, jackfruit peel and sweet potato peel) and vegetables (cabbage, garlic chives, bitter bean peel, pumpkin peel, and seaweed) by-products at concentration of 1.0 - 2.5% (w/v), respectively. The results obtained in this study revealed that the growth of L. pentosus A6 was improved with the addition of prebiotics into the culture media. Moreover, all treatments supplemented with vegetable-by products exhibited higher viable count as compared to fruit-by products. The preference of L. pentosus A6 towards vegetables-by products was pumpkin peel, bitter bean peel, garlic chives, cabbage, and seaweed. The highest viable cells among the vegetables and fruit by-products were recorded at 2.0% (w/v) of pumpkin peel (9.47 x 1011 CFU/mL) with final pH value of 5.07 (concentration of lactic acid: 0.17) and 1.5% (w/v) of watermelon rinds (4.20 x 1010 CFU/mL) final pH 5.06 (concentration of lactic acid: 0.06), respectively. The symbiotic relationship between prebiotics and probiotics underlines the importance of selecting appropriate prebiotic sources to support the growth, the production of bioactive compounds, and the overall effectiveness of probiotic bacteria
Validation of principal’s innovation leadership scale using factor analysis in Malaysian school context
This study addresses the need for a standardized tool to assess innovation leadership in secondary education. Despite its importance, no established instrument exists for evaluating and developing innovation leadership among school administrators. The principal innovation leadership scale (PILS) was developed and validated to bridge this gap. The process involved a literature review, expert consultations, and an initial 58-item pool. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) refined the scale to 18 items across five dimensions, demonstrating strong model fit (comparative fit index (CFI)=0.957, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA)=0.080, incremental fit index (IFI)=0.958, normed fit index (NFI)=0.947, Tucker-Lewis’s index (TLI)=0.90). The fitted model indicated a satisfactory fit, confirming that the five latent constructs effectively measure the observed variables in the questionnaire. The PILS offers a standardized tool for assessing innovative leadership among school leaders, enabling targeted improvement strategies and informing professional development programs. This study significantly contributes to the discourse on innovation leadership in education by providing a valuable instrument for evaluating and enhancing school leadership practices. © 2025, Institute of Advanced Engineering and Science. All rights reserved
Perkembangan pengajian Ilmu mukhtalif Al-hadith: Kajian ketokohan Al-Marbawi
Mukhtalif al-hadith is one of the crucial branches in the science of hadis, as it serves as a tool for resolving apparent contradictions in hadis. Recognizing its importance, Muhammad bin Idris al-Marbawi, a renowned scholar of hadis in the Malay Archipelago, dedicated special attention to discussing this discipline in his works. His ability to resolve contradictions between hadiss highlighted his expertise in the science of mukhtalif al-ḥadīth. Thus, this study aims to examine the development of al-Marbawi's contributions to the study of mukhtalif al-ḥadīth. To achieve this objective, a qualitative research method was employed through a literature review. Information related to al-Marbawi's contributions in the field of mukhtalif al-ḥadīth was collected and analyzed using inductive and deductive methods. The findings of this study reveal that al-Marbawi's journey in seeking knowledge, coupled with his diligence in mastering the science of mukhtalif al-ḥadīth, qualified him to be recognized as a prominent hadis scholar. From the outset, he received systematic education in hadis studies at Pondok Tuan Hussain Kedah before pursuing further studies in mukhtalif al-ḥadīth at Al-Azhar University. In Egypt, Al-Marbawi also engaged in informal studies through talaqqi sessions at mosques around Cairo to broaden his existing knowledge spectrum. Among al-Marbawi's key teachers who significantly influenced his prominence in the field of mukhtalif al-ḥadīth were Muḥammad bin Ibrāhīm al-Samālūṭī, Muḥammad ‘Alī al-Mālikī, and Yūsuf al-Ḥāwī
Evaluating the impact of species and glue spread rate on hybrid plywood bonding strength
In this study, we investigated how glue spreading rate and veneer species influence the bonding performance of three-layered hybrid plywood comprising Laran (Neolamarckia cadamba) and Red Seraya (Shorea curtisii) veneers at the faces and core, respectively. We bonded hybrid plywood using phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin at spreading rates of 200, 220, and 240 g/m2. For comparison, we also prepared control samples of three-layered plywood made of 100% Laran and 100% Red Seraya, bonded with PF resin at 220 g/m2. We evaluated veneers for their buffering capacity and wettability, also testing their physical (i.e., moisture content, density, water absorption, and thickness swelling) and mechanical (i.e., elasticity and rupture moduli, as well as shear strength) properties according to ISO standards. We detected significant differences in all properties except for moisture content and shear strength upon BDB pre-treatment. Hybrid plywood demonstrated superior bonding strength compared to 100% Laran plywood, with the high-density Red Seraya core contributing to enhanced mechanical properties. However, a glue spread rate beyond 220 g/m2 induced a decline in mechanical strength, indicating diminishing returns with excess adhesive. These results suggest that while glue spread rate influences plywood properties, species-specific veneer characteristics, such as density and wettability, are key bonding performance determinants
Unveiling trends and gaps: A systematic review of business English teaching research in China (2007–2023)
A rapidly increasing body of research shows that language skills significantly impact decision-making in today’s globalized business environments. Based on findings from a large data-driven literature sur- vey using the PRISMA framework, this study applied descriptive statistics and content analysis to pro- vide a comprehensive synthesis of key features of China’s business English teaching, as seen through the lens of n = 23 major research studies, drawn from a total of N = 521 English journal articles published during 2007 to 2023. The synthesis suggests that (1) curriculum development, language acquisition, technology-aided language learning, and assessment in language learning were found to be the most focal topics among business English teaching; and (2) in most studies, quantitative research was utilized compared to a medium use of mixed methods and the least use of a qualitative approach to address issues raised within business English teaching. However, (3) a clear gap is identified by con- sidering these findings for future research agendas, suggesting a possible investigation into teaching reforms of business English teaching and research methodology and setting. This study also advocates for more multi-level studies and suggests paying greater attention to potential new data sources and means of analysis. Future directions and implications are also discussed
A new species of Fissidens (Fissidentaceae, Bryophyta) from Peninsular Malaysia
A new species of moss, Fissidens Damanhurii Norhazrina & Syazwana from Gunung Senyum Recreational Park, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia is described and illustrated. The species is characterized by large cells, short costae, leaves with differentiated margins of small, isodiametric cells and weakly limbate vaginant laminae on the perichaetial and subperichaetial leaves. The new species belongs to the subgenus Aloma and a key to the species of Fissidens subgenus Aloma is provide
Diversity of Orthoptera at Bukit Ulu Piah, Tambun, Perak, Peninsular Malaysia
Orthoptera carries important role in maintaining the ecosystem thus are diversely distributed and have over 29,100 described species worldwide. No such description has ever been reported in Bukit Ulu Piah, Tambun, Perak, ergo this study is conducted to identify the diversity of Orthoptera and to provide the first Orthoptera species checklist of the area. Net sweeping sampling was executed from January to April 2022, between 0900 a.m. until 1700 p.m. The species abundancy data were analyzed using PAST software to determine the Shannon diversity index (H’), Marg alef index (Dmg), and Evenness index (E). Accumulation of 508 specimens from six families of Acrididae, Pyrogomorphidae, Chloropidae, Tetrigid Ae, Gryllidae, and Tettigoniidae were successfully recorded with Acrididae noted the highest percentage value of 39.5% (15 species). Species composition breaks apart into 38 species in 32 genera with two Suborder Caelifera (21 species) and suborder Ensifera (17 species). Melanoplus sp. was the common and most abundant species with a total of 59 individuals (11.6% of total specimens). Orthoptera diversity in Bukit Ulu Piah, Tambun records a high diversity (H’= 3.037), a high species richness (Dmg = 5.939) and uniform species evenness (E = 0.5487). The one-way ANOVA in duration of four months of Orthoptera sampling indicates no difference (p = 0.4316; p > 0.05). However, a significance t-test value between S1 and S2 as well as between S2 and S4, with p = 0.0282 and p = 0.014, respectively is due to human activities of grass-mowing and pest control. In conclusion, our first species checklist will provide preliminary information for references in upcoming research and contributes to achieving the goal of the National Biodiversity Policy 2025
Next‑generation sodium alginate hydrogels for heavy metal ion removal: properties, dynamic adsorption–desorption mechanisms, and sustainable application potential
Heavy metal contamination constitutes a significant global environmental issue, primarily attributable to industrial operations. Adsorption is one of many techniques used to clean up pollution, and it has become an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to remove heavy metals from industrial wastewater. This review assesses the efficacy of sodium alginate hydrogels, a naturally sourced biopolymer, in eliminating heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. Biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and high adsorption capacity of sodium alginate hydrogels make it an attractive candidate for environmental applications, particularly in water treatment. The heavy metal elimination primarily occurs through adsorption, which involves mechanisms such as ion exchange, complexation, chelation, electrostatic interactions, and hydro- gen bonding. These processes work synergistically to enhance the hydrogels’ effectiveness in capturing heavy metal ions. This review also highlights the regeneration and reusability of adsorbent that allows for multiple cycles of use without needing constant replacement. Besides laboratory studies, the practical applications of sodium alginate hydrogels in extensive environmental remediation, including waste- water treatment and industrial effluent management, are examined. The feasibility of incorporating these hydrogels into current water treatment systems is thoroughly evaluated alongside scalability considerations. Challenges and future directions are also addressed, emphasizing the need to enhance the performance of sodium alginate hydrogels through structural modifications, composite formation, and synergistic materials. This review aims to comprehensively understand sodium alginate hydrogels’ role in heavy metal removal, providing valuable insights for researchers and practitioners in food science, technology, and environmental management
Relationship between previous hand hygiene training and hand hygiene behavior among elderly in Kudat
In 2020, Malaysia achieved a significant milestone in its demographic transition by transitioning into an aged society. It was found that 6 out of every 10 COVID-19 deaths consisted of senior citizens aged 60 and above with chronic diseases. Hand hygiene is the cheapest yet the most ignored preventive measure in infection control. Thus, the aim of this study is to assess the relationship between previous hand hygiene training and hand hygiene behavior among older adult in Kudat. Materials and Methods: Simple Random sampling was used to the selected areas from the village head. Using Sample size calculator, 386 is the required sample size. Hand Hygiene Behavior questionnaire adapted from G.Aryan et al, 2021 study was used. Result: Analyses using Generalized LinerLinear model version SPSS 26. The dependent variable is Hand Hygiene Behavior score which has been classified into 3 groups, low, moderate and high. The intercept (independent variable) is previous training on Hand Hygiene, was found to be 2.073 (SE = .0237, 95% CI [2.026, 2.119], Wald χ2 = 7617.504, df = 1, p < .001), indicating that the expected value of Total Hand Hygiene is 2.073 when all predictors are equal to zero. We can conclude that both the intercept and Scale are statistically significant predictors of Hand Hygiene behavior. Conclusion: The hand hygiene training has positive impact on hand hygiene behavior among the rural older adult therefore it should be be conducted in regular interval