17362 research outputs found
Sort by
The relationship between peer relationships and classroom engagement among undergraduate private college student
No full textClassroom engagement is a key determinant of student learning and academic success, yet relatively little attention has been paid to the role of peer relationships in shaping engagement levels within private higher education settings in China. This study aims to examine the relationship between peer relationships and classroom engagement among undergraduate students at a private university in Qingdao, Shandong Province. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 17,122 students from a private undergraduate college in Qingdao, Shandong, China, yielding 534 valid responses. The average peer relationships score was 3.29, suggesting a relatively harmonious relationship among students. Simple linear regression analysis revealed that peer relationships positively predicted classroom engagement, explaining 30.3% of its variance (R²= 0.303, Adjusted R²= 0.302). Additionally, the hierarchical multiple regression results indicate that gender (β=0.096, p=0.007) plays a significant moderating role in the influence of peer relationships on classroom engagement, and similarly, grade (β=0.080, p=0.023) exerts a significant moderating effect on the relationship between peer relationships and classroom engagement. Moreover, the moderating effects of gender and grade on the relationship between peer relationships and classroom engagement are more pronounced among female students. These findings highlight the importance of fostering positive peer interactions and considering gender- and grade-specific needs when designing engagement-enhancing interventions in private college contexts in China
Antibacterial, antibiotic-potentiating, and antiviral activities of selected endemic primary rainforest plants of Peninsular Malaysia
No full textBackground: There is a need to identify original molecules to develop drugs for the treatment of microbial infections. Such chemical entities could be found in secondary metabolites of rainforest plants that are not so well-known. This study examines the antibacterial and antibiotic- potentiating effects, and antiviral activities of six rainforest plants endemic to the primary rainforest of Malaysia. Methods: Leaves, bark, fruits, and wood of Burkillanthus malaccensis, Cleistanthus bracteosus, Diospyros hasseltii, Kibatalia maingayi, Knema retusa, and Litsea spathacea were extracted successively with hexane, chloroform, and methanol, and tested against six human pathogenic bacteria species by disc diffusion and broth microdilution. The extracts were tested against influenza virus A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (H1N1) using MDCK cells. Results: Of the 42 extracts tested, the hexane extract of fruits of D. hasseltii inhibited the growth of E. coli with the MIC value of 39 μg/mL. The chloroform extract of leaves of C. bracetosus potentiated the activity of levofloxacin against P. aeruginosa. The strongest antiviral activity was observed with the chloroform extract of leaves of C. bracteosus with the IC50 value of 6.3 μg/mL. The chloroform extract of bark of B. malaccensis with the IC50 value of 0.6 μg/mL was the most cytotoxic. Conclusion: Preserving the primary rainforest of Malaysia is a means to preserve natural products with the ability to be developed as antimicrobial leads. In particular, D. hasseltii, C. bracteosus, and B. malaccensis could be examined for their active antimicrobial constituents
Kajian tarian Zapin belituk-lituk suku kaum tidung menggunakan wadah motion capture: Sebuah pendekatan inovatif dalam melestarikan budaya tempatan
No full textMotion captureadalah teknologi yang membolehkan pengumpulan data gerakan manusiasecarareal-timedalam bentuk tiga dimensi. Teknologi ini telah digunakan dalam pelbagaibidang seperti filem animasi, permainan video, sains sukan dan kedoktoran. Dalam bidang seni dan budaya,motion capturejuga dapat digunakan untuk merekod gerakan tradisionalseperti Zapin, tarian tradisional Melayu yang popular di Malaysia dan Indonesia. Kajiangerak zapin dengan menggunakan motion capturememberikan peluang untuk mempelajarigerakan yang lebih tepat lagi dan memudahkan dalam merekod dan mengkaji setiap darigerakan. Kajian ini memberi manfaat seperti melindungi, melestarikan dan mengajarkanwarisan budaya tempatan kepada masyarakat dari generasi ke generasi serta memberikanbahan kajian yang lebih mendalam untuk seniman dan para penari.Motion capturejugamemberikan kemampuan untuk merekod dan memperbaiki tahap gerakan, sehingga pemainatau penari dapat memahami setiap gerakan dan mengalami lebih banyak perubahan dalamproses pembelajaran dan latihan tata gerakan. Dalam kesimpulannya, teknologi motion capture memiliki potensi besar dalam kajian gerak seni dan budaya seperti Zapin, dan dapatmeningkatkan pemahaman tentang seni tradisional dan memastikan warisan budaya itudikekalkan dan diwarisi ke generasi akan datang
Effects of effective Microorganisms on soil pH and nut yield of coconut trees in the taniaga plantation located in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
No full textProlonged or overuse of chemical fertilizers can cause soil acidification in coconut plantations. This study investigated the effects of Effective Microorganisms (EM) on soil pH and nut yield of coconut trees in the Taniaga Plantation, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia. Conducted over 12 months (June 2023– May 2024), the experiment evaluated five treatments, including various EM application rates and dolomite, in a randomized design using Tagunan coconut varieties. Results showed that EM significantly increased soil pH from strongly acidic levels (3.82–4.08) to a more favorable range (up to 5.23), particularly in treatment T4 (8 kg EM). However, the highest nut yield was recorded in T3 (4 kg EM), indicating an optimal balance between microbial activity and nutrient availability. In contrast, dolomite treatment resulted in lower yields due to potential nutrient imbalances and suboptimal pH levels. The findings suggest that EM enhances soil health, buffers pH, and improves coconut yield, with 4 kg EM per tree identified as the most effective treatment. Continued EM application is recommended for sustainable coconut production and improved soil fertility
Empirical analysis on the impact of financial technology at the financial system towards the performance of financial institutions in Malaysia
No full textThis research aimed to identify the impact of financial technology in the financial system towards the performance of financial institutions in Malaysia, in the short run and long run. The performance of financial institutions which refers to the profitability of the financial institution after the utilization of financial technology into the daily transactions. A framework which included return on equity (ROE) as a dependent variable, fintech application, size of financial institutions, age of financial institutions as independent variables while Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and inflation act as controlled variables was designed. Quantitative methods which involved secondary data from eight local banks financial reports that range from 2004 to 2023 were analyzed using the panel data analysis with the help of software like Stata and MS Excel. The highlight of this study is the financial technology application which was represented by the digital innovation index. The analysis begins with unit root test, then followed by diagnostic tests such as autocorrelation, normality, stability, multicollinearity, heteroskedasticity tests will be conducted to ensure the validity and the reliability of the model. The findings revealed that mobile banking, earnings per share, size and GDP had a significantly positive relationship with the institution's performance. All other factors were found to be insignificant
Sustainable construction site planning and resource efficiency
No full textThis study examines sustainable construction site planning and resource efficiency, focusing on industry challenges, sustainability principles, and the role of technology and policy in promoting sustainable practices. The objective is to identify best practices, innovative strategies, and frameworks to enhance resource efficiency and waste management in the construction industry, with a particular emphasis on Malaysia. A systematic literature review was conducted, analysing publications from 2018 to 2024 sourced from Science Direct, ResearchGate, and Scopus. Key areas explored include energy efficiency, waste reduction, the use of sustainable materials, and advancements in green technology. Findings reveal that while sustainable construction is essential, it faces significant challenges including lifecycle assessments, adoption of green building technologies, and the integration of sustainable materials. Policy support and industry collaboration are critical to advancing resource efficiency and ensuring long-term sustainability. Specific results indicate that techniques like Design for Disassembly (DfD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and the 3R approach (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) significantly improve waste management and resource optimization. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for policymakers, industry professionals, and educators emphasizing the need to adopt sustainable practices and leverage technological innovations to achieve global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while minimizing environmental impacts
Assessing flushing dynamics and eutrophication vulnerability in Salut-Mengkabong lagoon, Sabah, Malaysia
No full textFlushing time and volume are important initial measurements for understanding the susceptibility of a lagoon to microalgal eutrophication and pollution. This approach is no longer as crucial in regions where management resources are limited, except for obtaining bathymetry and access to modeling expertise. The goal of this study is to estimate the flushing time and vulnerability to eutrophication over spring and neap cycles. The MIKE 21 model was used, and eight monitoring points were selected in four areas within the Salut-Mengkabong Lagoon in Sabah, Malaysia—an estuary with a narrow entrance. After calibration, the advection-dispersion module was used to calculate residence times using a virtual dye tracer method. In the period of investigation spanning from October 2015 to August 2016, it was noted that residence times were notably shorter in January 2016, particularly during spring tides, lasting less than a day compared to other months. This phenomenon was attributed to the smaller volume and poor dilution within the inner Mengkabong region, increasing its vulnerability to eutrophication and pollution. The findings of the lagoon hydrodynamics modelling suggest that relocating potential sources of pollutant discharge away from high-risk areas could mitigate the impacts of coastal eutrophication. The model’s results have the potential to assist local authorities in effectively managing lagoon water quality by informing development plans in the lagoon vicinity and implementing controls on pollutant discharges into the lagoon
The effectiveness of the University Knowledge Transfer Program (KTP) on the performance of homestay operators in Sabah: The role of ai and website development
No full textThis study explores the impact of a Knowledge Transfer Program (KTP) focused on generative AI and website development for homestay operators in Sabah, Malaysia. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), which focuses on 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) strategic plan, and supporting the National Entrepreneurship Policy (NEP) 2030, It assesses the program's impact, evaluates trainer effectiveness, and measures participant satisfaction levels before and after the training. This study seeks to fill the research gap resulting from the scarcity of quantitative studies on the homestay program, as existing research in this area predominantly employs qualitative methods. The program aimed to equip homestay operators with digital skills to improve their marketing strategies and business growth, addressing common challenges like limited infrastructure and weak promotion. The program trained 32 homestay operators from the west coast of Sabah, utilizing a focus group approach with a quantitative methodology. The survey questionnaire was modified, adapted, and adopted from the Kirkpatrick Model to assess the effectiveness of the training. The participants learned to use generative AI tools like ChatGPT and build websites via Google Sites through lectures, hands-on workshops, and surveys. The outcome of the program improved participants' knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and confidence, fostering high engagement and motivation. The collaboration between the Centre for the Promotion of Knowledge and Language Learning under Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Sabah Homestay Association demonstrated positive outcomes in enhancing knowledge and skills through its knowledge transfer program for homestay operators. Findings show high satisfaction levels and strong intentions to apply the learned skills indicate the program's effectiveness. Managerial implications emphasize multi- stakeholder collaboration, AI literacy, and sustainable development, aligning with SDG 4, SDG 17, and NEP 2030. Theoretically, the study applies the Resource-Based View (RBV) and extends the Kirkpatrick Model, linking micro-level training to broader socio- economic goals. This initiative not only supports rural education (SDG 4) but also fosters partnerships (SDG 17), contributing to local job creation and income growth. It aligns with the National Entrepreneurship Policy (NEP) 2030 goals and MOTAC's strategic focus on human capital development, thereby enhancing community development and economic sustainability
Exploring gender-based psychological profiles in Malaysian sub-elite athletes
No full textThis research investigated gender differences in the psychological profiles of Malaysian sub-elite athletes, concentrating on emotional intelligence, mental toughness, mood states, and sports anxiety. A total of 228 student-athletes (146 men and 82 females) from the Malaysian National Sports School engaged in the study via a cross-sectional survey methodology. Standardized tools were employed to evaluate the specified psychological characteristics, and independent sample t-tests were performed to ascertain gender differences. The results indicated that male athletes exhibited markedly elevated levels of dedication, confidence, and focus, but female athletes had heightened levels of anxiety and concentration disturbance. No notable discrepancies were detected in the aspects of emotional intelligence or in mood states, including wrath and perplexity. The findings underscore gender-specific psychological strengths and weaknesses influenced by cultural expectations, social upbringing, and sports contexts. These observations underscore the necessity for culturally attuned and gender-specific psychological treatments in sports environments to improve athlete performance and mental health. Future study should utilize longitudinal and mixed methods approaches to investigate the developmental trajectories of psychological attributes in varied sports groups
Innovating teaching aids for early childhood education through sensory development and play-based learning: CUESORY
No full textThe creation and efficacy of CUESORY, a cutting-edge sensory-based teaching tool intended for play-based learning in early childhood education, are examined in this study. The study tackles the dearth of all-encompassing sensory teaching resources that holistically support preschoolers' cognitive and socioemotional development, and it is based on Jean Piaget's developmental theory. The primary tool for gathering data in this study was an observation checklist, which was part of a Design and Development Research (DDR) methodology using the ADDIE paradigm. Ten three-year-olds from a Penampang, Sabah nursery was chosen and split into two groups. One for treatment (using CUESORY) and the other for control (conventional instruction). Both pretests and post-test observations were conducted during the two-week intervention. The results show that the therapy group significantly improved in early science, early mathematics, socioemotional development, and fine motor skills. Indeed, the greatest mean increase (1.10) was seen in early science development, which was followed by socioemotional development (1.06). These findings show that CUESORY promotes holistic child development and successfully improves integrated learning approaches. As a fundamental teaching method, the study suggests including CUESORY into the preschool curriculum. To guarantee the successful application of sensory-based learning and maximize children's developmental results, it also emphasizes the necessity of teacher preparation, family participation, and continuous evaluations