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Ahmadipour M, Ardani MR, Sarafbidabad M, Missaoui N, Satgunam M, Singh R, Kahri H, Pal U, Pang AL, Iqbal MS, Garg R, Bhattacharya A. Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis of CaCu 3Ti 4O 12/reduced graphene oxide composites for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of pharmaceutical products: Ibuprofen and Ciprofloxacin. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2024; 31:27770-27788. [PMID: 38514592 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32977-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this research is to create a highly effective approach for eliminating pollutants from the environment through the process of photocatalytic degradation. The study centers around the production of composites consisting of CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) using an ultrasonic-assisted method, with a focus on their capacity to degrade ibuprofen (IBF) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) via photodegradation. The impact of rGO on the structure, morphology, and optical properties of CCTO was inspected using XRD, FTIR, Raman, FESEM, XPS, BET, and UV-Vis. Morphology characterization showed that rGO particles were dispersed within the CCTO matrix without any specific chemical interaction between CCTO and C in the rGO. The BET analysis revealed that with increasing the amount of rGO in the composite, the specific surface area significantly increased compared to the CCTO standalone. Besides, increasing rGO resulted in a reduction in the optical bandgap energy to around 2.09 eV, makes it highly promising photocatalyst for environmental applications. The photodegradation of IBF and CIP was monitored using visible light irradiation. The results revealed that both components were degraded above 97% after 60 min. The photocatalyst showed an excellent reusability performance with a slight decrease after five runs to 93% photodegradation efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Ahmadipour
- Institute of Power Engineering, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Serdang, Malaysia.
| | - Mohammad Rezaei Ardani
- School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Engineering Campus, 14300, Nibong Tebal, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Mohsen Sarafbidabad
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nadhem Missaoui
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials and Interfaces (LIMA), Faculty of Science of Monastir, University of Monastir, Avenue of Environment, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Meenaloshini Satgunam
- Institute of Power Engineering, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Serdang, Malaysia
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Ramesh Singh
- Center of Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Processing (AMMP), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hamza Kahri
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials and Interfaces (LIMA), Faculty of Science of Monastir, University of Monastir, Avenue of Environment, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ujjwal Pal
- Department of Energy & Environmental Engineering, CSIR Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Tarnaka, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Ai Ling Pang
- Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 31900, Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Saqlain Iqbal
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore campus, 54000, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Renuka Garg
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anish Bhattacharya
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
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Ferdowsi M, Kwan BH, Tan MP, Saedon NI, Subramaniam S, Abu Hashim NFI, Mohd Nasir SS, Zainal Abidin I, Chee KH, Goh CH. Classification of vasovagal syncope from physiological signals on tilt table testing. Biomed Eng Online 2024; 23:37. [PMID: 38555421 PMCID: PMC10981362 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-024-01229-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnostic test for vasovagal syncope (VVS), the most common cause of syncope is head-up tilt test (HUTT) assessment. During the test, subjects experienced clinical symptoms such as nausea, sweating, pallor, the feeling of palpitations, being on the verge of passing out, and fainting. The study's goal is to develop an algorithm to classify VVS patients based on physiological signals blood pressure (BP) and electrocardiography (ECG) obtained from the HUTT. METHODS After 10 min of supine rest, the subject was tilted at a 70-degree angle on a tilt table for approximately a total of 35 min. 400 µg of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) was administered sublingually after the first 20 min and monitoring continued for another 15 min. Mean imputation and K-nearest neighbors (KNN) imputation approaches to handle missing values. Next, feature selection techniques were implemented, including genetic algorithm, recursive feature elimination, and feature importance, to determine the crucial features. The Mann-Whitney U test was then performed to determine the statistical difference between two groups. Patients with VVS are categorized via machine learning models including Support Vector Machine (SVM), Gaussian Naïve Bayes (GNB), Multinomial Naïve Bayes (MNB), KNN, Logistic Regression (LR), and Random Forest (RF). The developed model is interpreted using an explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) model known as partial dependence plot. RESULTS A total of 137 subjects aged between 9 and 93 years were recruited for this study, 54 experienced clinical symptoms were considered positive tests, while the remaining 83 tested negative. Optimal results were obtained by combining the KNN imputation technique and three tilting features with SVM with 90.5% accuracy, 87.0% sensitivity, 92.7% specificity, 88.6% precision, 87.8% F1 score, and 95.4% ROC (receiver operating characteristics) AUC (area under curve). CONCLUSIONS The proposed algorithm effectively classifies VVS patients with over 90% accuracy. However, the study was confined to a small sample size. More clinical datasets are required to ensure that our approach is generalizable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahbuba Ferdowsi
- Department of Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000, Kajang, Malaysia
- Centre for Healthcare Science and Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000, Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Ban-Hoe Kwan
- Department of Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000, Kajang, Malaysia
- Centre for Healthcare Science and Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000, Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Maw Pin Tan
- Ageing and Age-Associated Disorders Research Group, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nor' Izzati Saedon
- Ageing and Age-Associated Disorders Research Group, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sukanya Subramaniam
- Cardiorespiratory Laboratories, Universiti Malaya Medical Center, 50603, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
| | | | - Siti Sakinah Mohd Nasir
- Cardiorespiratory Laboratories, Universiti Malaya Medical Center, 50603, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Imran Zainal Abidin
- Department of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kok Han Chee
- Department of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choon-Hian Goh
- Department of Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000, Kajang, Malaysia.
- Centre for Healthcare Science and Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000, Kajang, Malaysia.
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Ramalingam V, Cheong SK, Lee PF. Effect of six-week short-duration deep breathing on young adults with chronic ankle instability-a pilot randomized control trial. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2023; 15:155. [PMID: 37968738 PMCID: PMC10652500 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-023-00758-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is the most common injury in youth sports, which leads to psychological stress from doubting their performance. Cost effective and easy to access tool to reduce the stress among this target group are desired. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of adding on intervention with short-duration deep breathing (SDDB) alongside with conventional physiotherapy (CP) among young adults with chronic ankle instability (CAI). METHODS Total of 30 CAI participants attended physiotherapy, who were randomly assigned into control and experimental groups. The participants in the experimental group received combined intervention (SDDB + CP), and the control group received CP for 6 weeks. The effectiveness of interventions was assessed at 3 intervals with a battery of questionnaires (Visual Analog Score, Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and Oxford Happiness Questionnaire) at the end of week 3, week 6, and week 12 as follow-up. A two-way repeated measures of ANOVA was applied to report the statistical significance at p < 0.05. RESULTS The results showed a better improvement in pain, balance, happiness, and mindfulness attention among participants in the experimental group, with a significant improvement in mindful attention over the time point as compared to the control group. CONCLUSION The findings provide insight into incorporating SDDB additions to the existing CP for better CAI management. Breathing techniques that improve attention and happiness play a vital role in CAI, which recommends the biopsychosocial approach in chronic injury rehabilitation. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials using Clinical Trials Registry under ID number NCT04812158 retrospectively registered on 23/03/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinodhkumar Ramalingam
- Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia.
| | - Soon Keng Cheong
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Poh Foong Lee
- Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering & Science, University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Selvakumar K, Lee Fan T, Chai Nien F, Hou Kit M. Preliminary efficacy of aerobic training among university students with migraine symptoms: Study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291534. [PMID: 37747888 PMCID: PMC10519594 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migraine is a primary neurological headache. Treatment of this condition includes medications; however, these medications, when given for a longer duration, can have side effects. If migraine is left untreated or undiagnosed, it is reported that around 2.5% of individuals with migraine may develop to have a chronic condition. This study aims to analyse the preliminary effectiveness of aerobic training on migraine pain level, sleep quality, quality of life, and resting-state brain waves among university students with migraine symptoms. METHODOLOGY 88 university students with migraine symptoms are the target participants. 4 of 5 on the Migraine Screen Questionnaire, 5 of 7 on the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition (ICHD-3), and both genders aged 18-40 years will be included. The participants with a score of more than or equal to 5 on the visual aura rating scale, diagnosed with a secondary headache, pregnancy, medication for neurological and cardiorespiratory conditions, and unwilling to participate will be excluded. Based on the disability questionnaire, the participants will be randomly assigned to either of the three groups. The primary outcome is resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) brain, and the secondary outcomes are sleep quality, quality of life, and migraine pain level. The post-test assessments will be performed at week 6. RESULT After the primary EEG analysis using MATLAB, the amplitude, frequency, frequency band ratio, and power spectrum density will be analysed. Mixed design analysis and intention-to-treat analysis will be used to assess the efficacy of aerobic training. DISCUSSION Migraines can be unpredictable, sometimes occurring without symptoms. If underdiagnosed or over-looked, it encompasses a serious of long-term effects. Hence with appropriate intervention, the symptoms can be prevented from worsening. But there is an unmet need for evidence-based non-pharmacological approaches to complement pharmacotherapy in migraine prevention. Moreover, an exercise intervention may be more suitable for people with migraine considering their tendency toward inactivity. Although some studies developed exercise programs for untrained patients with migraine, the outcome was primarily in terms of exercise capacity rather than the primary characteristics and secondary brain wave/ sleep quality changes, indicating the need for this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiruthika Selvakumar
- M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Tan Lee Fan
- Department of Mechatronics and BioMedical Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Foo Chai Nien
- M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Population Medicine, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mun Hou Kit
- Department of Mechatronics and BioMedical Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia
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Yap CTJ, Lam SM, Sin JC, Zeng H, Li H, Huang L, Lin H. Treatment of diluted palm oil mill effluent (POME) synchronous with electricity production in a persulfate oxidant-promoted photocatalytic fuel cell. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:96272-96289. [PMID: 37566326 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29165-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Attributable to the prosperous production growth of palm oil in Malaysia, the generated palm oil mill effluent (POME) poses a high threat owing to its highly polluted characteristic. Urged by the escalating concern of environmental conservation, POME pollution abatement and potential energy recovery from the effluent are flagged up as a research topic of interest. In this study, a cutting-edge photocatalytic fuel cell (PFC) system with employment of ZnO/Zn nanorod array (NRA) photoanode, CuO/Cu cathode, and persulfate (PS) oxidant was successfully designed to improve the treatment of POME and simultaneous energy production. The photoelectrodes were fabricated and characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller analysis (BET). Owing to the properties of strong oxidant of PS, the proposed PFC/PS system has exhibited exceptional performance, attaining chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency of 96.2%, open circuit voltage (Voc) of 740.0 mV, short circuit current density (Jsc) of 146.7 μA cm-2, and power density (Pmax) of 35.6 μW cm-2. The pre-eminent PFC/PS system performance was yielded under optimal conditions of 2.5 mM of persulfate oxidant, POME dilution factor of 1:20, and natural solution pH of 8.51. Subsequently, the postulated photoelectrocatalytic POME treatment mechanism was elucidated by the radical scavenging study and Mott-Schottky (M-S) analysis. The following recycling test affirmed the stability and durability of the photoanode after four continuous repetition usages while the assessed electrical energy efficiency revealed the economic viability of PFC system serving as a post-treatment for abatement of POME. These findings contributed toward enhancing the sustainability criteria and economic viability of palm oil by adopting sustainable and efficient POME post-treatment technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ting Joyee Yap
- Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900, Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Sze-Mun Lam
- Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900, Kampar, Perak, Malaysia.
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Theory and Technology for Environmental Pollution Control, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China.
| | - Jin-Chung Sin
- Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900, Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Theory and Technology for Environmental Pollution Control, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Honghu Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Theory and Technology for Environmental Pollution Control, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Haixiang Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Theory and Technology for Environmental Pollution Control, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Liangliang Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Theory and Technology for Environmental Pollution Control, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Hua Lin
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Theory and Technology for Environmental Pollution Control, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
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Chan YB, Aminuzzaman M, Tey LH, Win YF, Watanabe A, Djearamame S, Akhtaruzzaman M. Impact of Diverse Parameters on the Physicochemical Characteristics of Green-Synthesized Zinc Oxide-Copper Oxide Nanocomposites Derived from an Aqueous Extract of Garcinia mangostana L. Leaf. Materials (Basel) 2023; 16:5421. [PMID: 37570124 PMCID: PMC10419950 DOI: 10.3390/ma16155421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Compared to conventional metal oxide nanoparticles, metal oxide nanocomposites have demonstrated significantly enhanced efficiency in various applications. In this study, we aimed to synthesize zinc oxide-copper oxide nanocomposites (ZnO-CuO NCs) using a green synthesis approach. The synthesis involved mixing 4 g of Zn(NO3)2·6H2O with different concentrations of mangosteen (G. mangostana) leaf extract (0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05 g/mL) and 2 or 4 g of Cu(NO3)2·3H2O, followed by calcination at temperatures of 300, 400 and 500 °C. The synthesized ZnO-CuO NCs were characterized using various techniques, including a UV-Visible spectrometer (UV-Vis), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) with an Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyzer. Based on the results of this study, the optical, structural and morphological properties of ZnO-CuO NCs were found to be influenced by the concentration of the mangosteen leaf extract, the calcination temperature and the amount of Cu(NO3)2·3H2O used. Among the tested conditions, ZnO-CuO NCs derived from 0.05 g/mL of mangosteen leaf extract, 4 g of Zn(NO3)2·6H2O and 2 g of Cu(NO3)2·3H2O, calcinated at 500 °C exhibited the following characteristics: the lowest energy bandgap (2.57 eV), well-defined Zn-O and Cu-O bands, the smallest particle size of 39.10 nm with highest surface area-to-volume ratio and crystalline size of 18.17 nm. In conclusion, we successfully synthesized ZnO-CuO NCs using a green synthesis approach with mangosteen leaf extract. The properties of the nanocomposites were significantly influenced by the concentration of the plant extract, the calcination temperature and the amount of precursor used. These findings provide valuable insights for researchers seeking innovative methods for the production and utilization of nanocomposite materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bin Chan
- Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Kampar Campus, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia; (Y.B.C.); (Y.F.W.)
| | - Mohammod Aminuzzaman
- Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Kampar Campus, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia; (Y.B.C.); (Y.F.W.)
- Centre for Photonics and Advanced Materials Research (CPAMR), Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Sungai Long Campus, Jalan Sungai Long, Bandar Sungai Long, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Lai-Hock Tey
- Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Kampar Campus, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia; (Y.B.C.); (Y.F.W.)
| | - Yip Foo Win
- Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Kampar Campus, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia; (Y.B.C.); (Y.F.W.)
| | - Akira Watanabe
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials (IMRAM), Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8577, Japan;
| | - Sinouvassane Djearamame
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Kampar Campus, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia;
| | - Md. Akhtaruzzaman
- Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), Universiti Kebangsanan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi 43600, Malaysia;
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Yong SN, Lee WS, Chieng S, Lim S, Kuan SH. Impact of Bacillus species on Fe reduction of kaolin in bioleaching: surface, structural, and chemical studies. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s00253-023-12622-0. [PMID: 37314456 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12622-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Conventional techniques to remove Fe impurities in kaolin typically involve high environmental impact and cost. Alternative methods have been focused on the use of bioleaching where Fe in kaolin is reduced with microorganisms. Early results established a noticeable effect of the bacteria on the redox state of Fe, but knowledge gaps persist such as details on the bacterial-kaolin interactions during attachment of bacteria onto kaolin surface, the metabolites produced by bacteria, and changes in Fe(II)/Fe(III) ion equilibria in solution. To bridge these gaps, this study was conducted to determine the detailed physicochemical changes in bacteria and kaolin during bioleaching through surface, structural, and chemical analysis. Bioleaching experiments were conducted for 10 days where each of the three Bacillus sp. was put in contact (at 9 × 108 CFU) with 20 g of kaolin powder using 200 mL of 10 g/L glucose solution. All samples treated with bacteria showed increasing trends in Fe(III) reduction up until day 6 or 8 followed by a slight decrease towards the end of the ten-day period. Examination of scanning electron microscope (SEM) images suggests that bacterial activity damaged the edges of kaolin particles during bioleaching. Ion chromatography (IC) results showed that during bioleaching, Bacillus sp. produced organic acids such as lactic acid, formic acid, malic acid, acetic acid, and succinic acid. EDS analysis of kaolin before and after bioleaching showed Fe removal efficiencies of up to 65.3%. Analyses of color properties of kaolin before and after bioleaching showed an improvement in whiteness index of up to 13.6%. KEY POINTS: • Dissolution of iron oxides by Bacillus species proven with phenanthroline analysis. • Organic acid type and concentration unique to species detected during bioleaching. • Whiteness index of kaolin is improved after bioleaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih Nee Yong
- Department of Mechanical and Material Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wei Sheong Lee
- Department of Mechanical and Material Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sylvia Chieng
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Steven Lim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Centre for Photonics and Advanced Materials Research, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Seng How Kuan
- Department of Mechanical and Material Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Centre for Photonics and Advanced Materials Research, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Lim H, Lee SY, Ho LY, Sit NW. Mosquito Larvicidal Activity and Cytotoxicity of the Extracts of Aromatic Plants from Malaysia. Insects 2023; 14:512. [PMID: 37367328 DOI: 10.3390/insects14060512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite ongoing control efforts, the mosquito population and diseases vectored by them continue to thrive worldwide, causing major health concerns. There has been growing interest in the use of botanicals as alternatives to insecticides due to their widespread insecticidal properties, biodegradability, and adaptability to ecological conditions. In this study, we investigated the larvicidal activity and cytotoxicity effects of solvent extracts from three aromatic plants-Curcuma longa (turmeric), Ocimum americanum (hoary basil), and Petroselinum crispum (parsley)-against Aedes albopictus. Subsequently, we examined the phytochemical composition of the extracts through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Results revealed that the hexane extracts of O. americanum and P. crispum exhibited the greatest larvicidal activity with the lowest median lethal concentration (LC50) values (<30 µg/mL) at 24 h post-treatment, with the former found to be significantly less toxic towards African monkey kidney (Vero) cells. The GC-MS analysis of the said extract indicated the presence of different classes of metabolites, including phenylpropanoids, very long-chain alkanes, fatty acids and their derivatives, and terpenes, with the most abundant component being methyl eugenol (55.28%), most of which, have been documented for their larvicidal activities. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential use and development of bioinsecticides, particularly from O. americanum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Lim
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia
| | - Sook Yee Lee
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia
| | - Lai Yee Ho
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia
| | - Nam Weng Sit
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Malaysia
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Toh WK, Teo YL, Tor XY, Loh PC, Wong HL. Development of constitutive and IPTG-inducible integron promoter-based expression systems for Escherichia coli and Agrobacterium tumefaciens. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:91. [PMID: 36825259 PMCID: PMC9941393 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-023-03507-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Broad host range (BHR) expression vector is a vital tool in molecular biology research and application. Currently, most of the plasmid vectors used in Agrobacterium spp. are binary vectors that are designed for plant transformation, and very few are designed for expressing transgenes in Agrobacterium spp. Class 1 integrons are common genetic elements that allow for the efficient capture and expression of antibiotic resistance genes, especially in Gram-negative bacteria. One of its compound promoters, PcS + P2, was used in this study and has been reported to be the strongest class 1 integron constitutive promoter; it is referred to as "integron promoter" (P int) henceforth. Herein, we created two versions of isopropyl-d-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG)-inducible promoters by substituting and/or inserting lacO sequence(s) into P int. These inducible promoters, which possess different degrees of stringency and inducibility, were used to construct two broad host range expression vectors (pWK102 and pWK103) based on the versatile pGREEN system. This allows them to be stably maintained and replicated in both Escherichia coli and Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Functional validation of these vectors was performed by the expression of the reporter gene, superfolder green fluorescent protein (sfGFP), which was cloned downstream of these promoters. Due to the strong induction and tunable expression of a transgene located downstream to the inducible integron promoter, these vectors may be useful for heterologous gene expression in both E. coli and A. tumefaciens, thus facilitating recombinant protein production and genetic studies in Gram-negative bacteria. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-023-03507-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Keat Toh
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
| | - Yuh Leng Teo
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
| | - Xin Yen Tor
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
| | - Pek Chin Loh
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
| | - Hann Ling Wong
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
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Lee KW, Yap SF, Ong HT, Leong PP, Mohamad Hatta N, Lye MS. Knowledge, Perceptions and Behaviors Related to COVID-19 in a University Setting in Malaysia. Front Public Health 2022; 10:873022. [PMID: 35480574 PMCID: PMC9035815 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.873022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Malaysia the COVID-19 disease (COVID-19) has continued to escalate since its first detection in late January 2020, despite widespread implementation of control measures. This study aims to determine the knowledge, perception and behaviors with respect to COVID-19 in the midst of the third wave of the infection. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out among staffs and students of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). The survey consists of basic sociodemographic information, 22 items on knowledge on COVID-19, 3 items on perceived self-risk, 2 items on preparedness & perceived self-efficacy, 10 items on preventive (own) measures, 9 items assessing unwanted and desirable behaviors during the pandemic. Simple and multiple linear regression were performed to determine the factors associated with knowledge, preventive measures adopted, self-risk perception, preparedness & perceived self-efficacy, and behaviors. Results A total of 434 responded to the survey of whom the majority (85.1%) had high scores for knowledge (mean score of 18.72 out of 22). A significant positive association was found between knowledge and older age (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.046 (0.022), p = 0.039), those from medical faculty (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.870 (0.420), p = 0.039) and residence in high-risk areas (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.831 (0.295), p = 0.005). Predictors for higher perception of COVID-19 risk included presence of COVID-19 cases among social contacts (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.751 (0.308), p = 0.015) and living with elderly (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 1.137 (0.296), p < 0.001), while that for perception of preparedness and self-efficacy were living with children (adjusted Beta coefficient (SE) = 0.440 (0.173), p = 0.011) and absence of positive cases among social contacts (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.418 (0.183), p = 0.023). Good preventive measures among the respondents were positively associated with knowledge (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.116 (0.025), p < 0.001), as well as with female gender (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.348 (0.142), p = 0.014). Unwanted behavior was significantly associated with male gender (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.664 (0.321), p = 0.039) and COVID-19 positive status (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 9.736 (3.297), p = 0.003). Knowledge of COVID-19 (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.069 (0.035), p = 0.048) and being married (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.917 (0.462), p = 0.048) were the predictors of desirable behavior. Conclusion Overall, the UTAR community had demonstrated a good level of knowledge and preventive behaviors, albeit with some areas for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wei Lee
- Department of Pre-clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
- Centre for Research on Communicable Diseases, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Sook Fan Yap
- Department of Pre-clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
- Centre for Research on Communicable Diseases, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Hooi Tin Ong
- Department of Pre-clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Pooi Pooi Leong
- Department of Pre-clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Nadia Mohamad Hatta
- Department of Pre-clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Munn Sann Lye
- Department of Population Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Malaysia
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Joachimdass RJ, Subramaniam K, Sit NW, Lim YM, Teo CH, Ng CJ, Yusof AS, Loganathan A. Self-management using crude herbs and the health-related quality of life among adult patients with hypertension living in a suburban setting of Malaysia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257336. [PMID: 34506588 PMCID: PMC8432735 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the prevalence of crude herbs' use in the self-management of hypertension and the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with hypertension. METHODS This cross-sectional study was performed among patients with hypertension attending a government health clinic. Socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle modifications, medical history and predictors of crude herbs users were obtained. The diversity of crude herbs used was assessed using a modified international complementary and alternative medicine questionnaire (I-CAM-Q) and the HRQOL was assessed using the SF36 instrument. RESULTS Out of the 294 patients recruited, 52.4% were female, 41.5% were Malay and 38.8% were within the 60 to69 age category. The prevalence of crude herbs users was 30.6% and the most common herbs used were pegaga (Centella asiatica), peria (Momordica charantia) and betik (Carica papaya). Using the regression analysis, significantly higher odds of using crude herbs are noted among Malay or Indian patients who have these characteristics: attained secondary education, experienced falls or muscle pain, and had systolic blood pressure of more than 140 mmHg. There was no significant difference in HRQOL domains between the crude herb users and non-users (p>0.05). CONCLUSION Besides taking allopathic medications, certain patients with hypertension use crude herbs as a form of self-management. Although patients are adamant about integrating crude herbs as a form of self-management, the effects of doing so have not been properly investigated. This implies that the healthcare staff members need to communicate with the patients regarding the use of crude herbs together with conventional drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nam Weng Sit
- Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kampar, Malaysia
| | - Yang Mooi Lim
- Department of Pre-Clincal Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sungai Long, Malaysia
- Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chin Hai Teo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chirk Jenn Ng
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Yap ACW, Lee HS, Loo JL, Mohd NS. Electron generation in water induced by magnetic effect and its impact on dissolved oxygen concentration. Sustain Environ Res 2021; 31:7. [PMCID: PMC7875160 DOI: 10.1186/s42834-021-00080-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
pH, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration are important parameters in water quality surveillance and treatment. The changes of these parameters are associated with electron density in water. Several techniques including electrolysis and catalysis which require redox reactions and electron exchange are employed to improve these parameters. In recent years, studies reported that magnetic effects can impart considerable changes on the pH, ORP and DO concentration of water. However, the correlation between electron density and magnetic effects on these parameters has yet to be disclosed despite the fact that increased electron density in water could improve water’s reductive properties, heat capacity and hydrogen bonding characteristics. In this study, the magnetic effects on pH, ORP and DO concentration were investigated using different magnets arrangements and water flow rates based on reversed electric motor principle. Results showed that the improvement of pH, ORP and DO concentration from 5.40–5.42 to 5.58–5.62 (+ 3.5%), 392 to 365 mV (− 6.9%), and 7.30 to 7.71 mg L− 1 (+ 5.6%), respectively were achieved using combined variables of non-reversed polarity magnet arrangement (1000–1500 G magnetic strength) and water flow rate of 0.1–0.5 mL s− 1. Such decrement in ORP value also corresponded to 8.0 × 1013 number of electron generation in water. Furthermore, Raman analysis revealed that magnetic effect could strengthen the intermolecular hydrogen bonding of water molecules and favor formation of smaller water clusters. The findings of this study could contribute to potential applications in aquaculture, water quality control and treatment of cancer attributed to free radical induced-oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustine Chung Wei Yap
- Department of Mechanical and Material Engineering, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000 Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Hwang Sheng Lee
- Department of Mechanical and Material Engineering, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000 Kajang, Malaysia
- Centre for Photonics and Advanced Materials Research, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000 Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Joo Ling Loo
- Department of Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000 Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Nuruol Syuhadaa Mohd
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Wei LK, Griffiths LR, Kooi CW, Irene L. Meta-Analysis of Factor V, Factor VII, Factor XII, and Factor XIII-A Gene Polymorphisms and Ischemic Stroke. Medicina (Kaunas) 2019; 55:E101. [PMID: 30979054 PMCID: PMC6524011 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55040101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies examined the association between factors FV, FVII, FXII, and FXIII-A gene polymorphisms and ischemic stroke, but conclusive evidence is yet to be obtained. Thus, this meta-analysis aimed to investigate the novel association of FV rs1800595, FVII rs5742910, FXII rs1801020, and FXIII-A rs5982 and rs3024477 polymorphisms with ischemic stroke risk. A systematic review was performed on articles retrieved before June 2018. Relevant data were extracted from eligible studies and meta-analyzed using RevMan version 5.3. The strength of association between studied polymorphisms and ischemic stroke risk was calculated as odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, by applying both fixed- and random-effect models. A total of 25 studies involving 6100 ischemic stroke patients and 9249 healthy controls were incorporated in the final meta-analysis model. Specifically, rs1800595, rs5742910, rs1801020, rs5982, and rs3024477 consisted of 673, 3668, 922, 433, and 404 cases, as well as 995, 4331, 1285, 1321, and 1317 controls, respectively. The pooled analysis indicated that there was no significant association of FV rs1800595, FVII rs5742910, FXII rs1801020, FXIII-A rs5982, and FXIII-A rs3024477 polymorphisms with ischemic stroke risk, under any genetic models (dominant, recessive, over-dominant, and allelic). The present meta-analysis concluded that FV rs1800595, FVII rs5742910, FXII rs1801020, and FXIII-A rs5982 and rs3024477 polymorphisms are not associated with ischemic stroke risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loo Keat Wei
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, Kampar 31900, Perak, Malaysia.
| | - Lyn R Griffiths
- Genomics Research Centre, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove QLD 4059, Australia.
| | - Cheah Wee Kooi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Taiping, Jalan Tamingsari, Taiping 34000, Perak, Malaysia.
| | - Looi Irene
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Seberang Jaya, Jalan Tun Hussein Onn, Seberang Jaya 13700, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
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Yim JSC, Moses P, Azalea A. Effects of psychological ownership on teachers' beliefs about a cloud-based virtual learning environment. Res Pract Technol Enhanc Learn 2018; 13:13. [PMID: 30595741 PMCID: PMC6294206 DOI: 10.1186/s41039-018-0081-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use constitute important belief factors when technology adoption decisions are made within a non-mandatory setting. This paper investigated the role played by psychological ownership in shaping teachers' beliefs about using a cloud-based virtual learning environment (VLE). Psychological ownership is increasingly becoming a relevant phenomenon in technology adoption research, where people can feel psychologically attached to a particular technology. The study proposed that such phenomenon can also occur when using a VLE, and a hypothesised model with six constructs was tested with 629 Malaysian teachers from 21 schools. Results from structural equation modelling-partial least squares analysis found teachers' experiences with the VLE significantly influenced psychological ownership, which in turn significantly predicted perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the VLE. Overall, the model possesses predictive relevance for the outcome predictors as indicated by Stone-Geisser's Q 2, and accounted for 61.6% of variance in perceived usefulness and 62.0% of variance in perceived ease of use. This study provides insights into the motivation behind teachers' beliefs which are shaped by their experiences with the VLE. Implications for theory and practice were discussed based on the insights of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Sau-Ching Yim
- Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
- Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Jalan Kolej, Taman Bandar Baru, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
| | - Priscilla Moses
- Faculty of Creative Industries, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sungai Long Campus, Jalan Sungai Long, Bandar Sungai Long Cheras, 43000 Kajang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Alia Azalea
- Faculty of Arts and Social Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kampar Campus, Jalan Universiti Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Malaysia
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