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Fulltext FUZ-SMO: A fuzzy slime mould optimizer for mitigating false alarm rates in the classification of underwater datasets using deep convolutional neural networks

Liang Zhang D, Jiang Z, Mohammadzadeh F, Hasani Azhdari SM, Abualigah L, Ghazal TM

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28681.
PMID: 38586386 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28681

Sonar sound datasets are of significant importance in the domains of underwater surveillance and marine research as they enable experts to discern intricate patterns within the depths of the water. Nevertheless, the task of classifying sonar sound datasets continues to pose significant challenges. In this study, we present a novel approach aimed at enhancing the precision and efficacy of sonar sound dataset classification. The integration of deep long-short-term memory (DLSTM) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) models is employed in order to capitalize on their respective advantages while also utilizing distinctive feature engineering techniques to achieve the most favorable outcomes. Although DLSTM networks have demonstrated effectiveness in tasks involving sequence classification, attaining their optimal performance necessitates careful adjustment of hyperparameters. While traditional methods such as grid and random search are effective, they frequently encounter challenges related to computational inefficiencies. This study aims to investigate the unexplored capabilities of the fuzzy slime mould optimizer (FUZ-SMO) in the context of LSTM hyperparameter tuning, with the objective of addressing the existing research gap in this area. Drawing inspiration from the adaptive behavior exhibited by slime moulds, the FUZ-SMO proposes a novel approach to optimization. The amalgamated model, which combines CNN, LSTM, fuzzy, and SMO, exhibits a notable improvement in classification accuracy, outperforming conventional LSTM architectures by a margin of 2.142%. This model not only demonstrates accelerated convergence milestones but also displays significant resilience against overfitting tendencies.
Fulltext Enhancing construction site performance through technology and management practices as material waste mitigation in the Malaysian construction industry

Abdullah Abkar MM, Yunus R, Gamil Y, Albaom MA

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28721.
PMID: 38586423 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28721

The construction industry, increasingly prioritizing sustainability, necessitates an exploration of technology and management's role in mitigating material waste at construction sites. This study examines the impact of 3R, IBS, BIM, and MMA in enhancing Construction Site Performance (CSP) in the Malaysian construction sector. Seven hypotheses were formulated to assess the relationship between technology adoption, material management practices, and the moderating influence of Material Management Adoption (MMA) on CSP. Data were collected through an online survey from 295 valid responses in the Malaysian construction sector, focusing on professionals involved in solid waste management. Utilizing Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), the findings highlight the importance of technological integration, efficient material management, and competitive strategies in effective material waste mitigation. Furthermore, the qualitative aspect of the study, conducted among 6 solid waste organizations in Malaysia, enriches the findings by providing nuanced insights into local practices and challenges. Emphasizing the importance of contextual insights, the study addresses professionals involved in solid waste management within the Malaysian construction industry. The geographical specificity adds depth to the analysis, offering a comprehensive understanding of regional dynamics. Despite acknowledging limitations in technology and material usage, the study offers recommendations for refining waste mitigation and improving construction site performance. This research model offers actionable insights for construction site stakeholders, emphasizing the criticality of waste mitigation and CSP. The results, both quantitative and qualitative, underscore the potential of these practices within the Malaysian construction industry to foster innovation and drive positive change.
Fulltext The application of Moore's online learning interactions model in learning outcomes: The SOR (stimulus-organism-response) paradigm perspective

Pan J, Ishak NA, Qin Y

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28505.
PMID: 38586353 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28505

This study presents an in-depth exploration of the impact of online learning interactions on student learning outcomes. Drawing from the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) paradigm, our study focuses on the effects of online learning interactions on learners' perception usefulness and ease of use, subsequently impacting their learning outcomes. The study employs a quantitative research methodology, gathering data from a sample of 397 students enrolled in various higher education institutions across China. Data collection involved administering structured questionnaires that were designed to quantitatively assess the three components of the SOR model: stimulus (online learning interactions), organism (students' perceptions), and response (learning outcomes). The measurement model assessment and structural model assessment were conducted. Our findings reveal that online learning interactions can effectively enhance learners' perception of online learning (usefulness and ease of use), thereby influencing their learning outcomes. Notably, perceived usefulness negatively mediates the relationship between online learning interactions and learning outcomes, while perceived ease of use positively mediates this relationship. These findings offer both theoretical and practical implications.
Fulltext COVID-19 pandemic, Russia-Ukraine conflict and shale gas development: Evidence from fractional integration

Solarin SA, Lafuente C, Gil-Alana LA, Goenechea M

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28215.
PMID: 38586422 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28215

Although there are papers on the persistence of energy series including the persistence of shale gas, the impact of recent developments such as the Covid-19 pandemic and Russia-Ukraine conflict have been rarely explored in the existing literature. This paper examines the structure of shale gas production in the U.S. by looking at the degree of persistence across different areas, with the aim to determine if shocks in the series are permanent or transitory. Using fractional integration methods (which unlike the conventional methods, allow for the determination of the persistence of energy and non-energy series in a robust manner), and different subsamples that include the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, our results indicate that there is a substantial decrease in the integration order in the total shale gas production in the U.S. as well as in four other plays-Haynesville, Permian, Utica and Eagle Ford. However, no differences are observed with respect to the Russia-Ukraine war. There is another group of four series (Marcellus, Niobrara-Codell, Woodford and Rest of US 'shale') with a very small reduction in the degree of persistence and another group of three series with almost no reduction at all in the order of integration (Barnett, Mississippian and Fayetteville). Several implications in terms of policy are reported at the end of the manuscript.
Fulltext Enhanced efficacy of β-carotene loaded solid lipid nanoparticles optimized and developed via central composite design on breast cancer cell lines

Dutta RS, Elhassan GO, Devi TB, Bhattacharjee B, Singh M, Jana BK, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28457.
PMID: 38586388 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28457

β-carotene is obtained from both plants and animals and has been the subject of intense research because of its provitamin-A, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. Its limited absorption and oxidative degradation significantly reduce its antitumor efficacy when taken orally. In our study, we utilize a central composite design to develop "bio-safe and highly bio-compatible" solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) by using only the combination of palmitic acid and poloxamer-407, a block co-polymer as a surfactant. The current research aim to develop and characterize SLNs loaded with β-carotene to improve their bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. In addition, the improved cytotoxicity of solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with β-carotene was screened in-vitro in human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7). The nanoparticles exhibits good stability, as indicated by their mean zeta potential of -26.3 ± 1.3 mV. The particles demonstrated high drug loading and entrapment capabilities. The fabricated nanoparticle's prolonged release potential was shown by the in-vitro release kinetics, which showed a first-order release pattern that adhered to the Higuchi model and showed a slow, linear, and steady release over 48 h. Moreover, a diffusion-type release mechanism was used to liberate β-carotene from the nanoparticles. For six months, the nanoparticles also showed a notable degree of physical stability. Lastly, using the MTT assay, the anti-cancer properties of β-carotene-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles were compared with intact β-carotene on MCF-7 cell lines. The cytotoxicity tests have shown that the encapsulation of β-carotene in the lipid bilayers of the optimized formulation does not interfere with the anti-cancer activity of the drug. When compared to standard β-carotene, β-carotene loaded SLNs showed enhanced anticancer efficacy and it is a plausible therapeutic candidate for enhancing the solubility of water-insoluble and degradation-sensitive biotherapeutics like β-carotene.
Fulltext Synthesis, solvent role, absorption and emission studies of cytosine derivative

Elangovan N, Arumugam N, Almansour AI, Mathew S, Djearamane S, Wong LS, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28623.
PMID: 38590870 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28623

The (E)-4-((4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-5-nitrobenzylidene) amino) pyrimidin-2(1H)-one (C5NV) was synthesized from cytosine and 5-nitrovanilline by simple straightforward condensation reaction. The structural characteristics of the compound was determined and optimized by WB97XD/cc-pVDZ basis set. The vibrational frequencies were computed and subsequently compared to the experimental frequencies. We investiated the electronic properties of the synthesized compound in gas and solvent phases using the time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) approach, and compared them to experimental values. The fluorescence study showed three different wavelengths indicating the nature of the optical material properties. Frontier molecular orbital (FMO) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) analyses were conducted for the title compound, and electron localized functions (ELF) and localized orbital locators (LOL) were used to identify the orbital positions of localized and delocalized atoms. Non-covalent interactions (H-bond interactions) were investigated using reduced density gradients (RDGs). The objective of the study was to determine the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the C5NV. The molecular docking study was conducted between C5NV and 2XNF protein, its lowest binding energy score is -7.92 kcal/mol.
Fulltext Estimation of soil erodibility in Peninsular Malaysia: A case study using multiple linear regression and artificial neural networks

Rehman MA, Abd Rahman N, Ibrahim ANH, Kamal NA, Ahmad A

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28854.
PMID: 38576554 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28854

Soil erodibility (K) is an essential component in estimating soil loss indicating the soil's susceptibility to detach and transport. Data Computing and processing methods, such as artificial neural networks (ANNs) and multiple linear regression (MLR), have proven to be helpful in the development of predictive models for natural hazards. The present case study aims to assess the efficiency of MLR and ANN models to forecast soil erodibility in Peninsular Malaysia. A total of 103 samples were collected from various sites and K values were calculated using the Tew equation developed for Malaysian soil. From several extracted parameters, the outcomes of correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) revealed the influencing factors to be used in the development of ANN and MLR models. Based on the correlation and PCA results, two sets of influencing factors were employed to develop predictive models. Two MLR (MLR-1 and MLR-2) models and four neural networks (NN-1, NN-2, NN-3, and NN-4) optimized using Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) and scaled conjugate gradient (SCG) were developed and evaluated. The model performance validation was conducted using the coefficient of determination (R2), mean squared error (MSE), root mean squared error (RMSE), and Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NSE). The analysis showed that ANN models outperformed MLR models. The R2 values of 0.446 (MLR-1), 0.430 (MLR-2), 0.894 (NN-1), 0.855 (NN-2), 0.940 (NN-3), and 0.826 (NN-4); MSE values of 0.0000306 (MLR-1), 0.0000315 (MLR-2), 0.0000158 (NN-1), 0.0000261 (NN-2), 0.0000318 (NN-3), and 0.0000216 (NN-4) suggested the higher accuracy and lower modelling error of ANN models as compared with MLR. This study could provide an empirical basis and methodological support for K factor estimation in the region.
Fulltext Factors affecting metaverse adoption in education: A systematic review, adoption framework, and future research agenda

Maghaydah S, Al-Emran M, Maheshwari P, Al-Sharafi MA

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28602.
PMID: 38576548 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28602

The Metaverse, underpinned by its technical infrastructure, heavily relies on user engagement and behavior for successful integration into educational settings. Understanding its driving factors is essential for such a platform to transition from theory to practice, especially in educational settings. However, these factors remain elusive due to inconsistencies in infrastructure and environments. Therefore, this systematic review aims to fill this void by presenting an integrative view on Metaverse adoption in education. This is achieved via three primary dimensions: establishing a taxonomy of the factors influencing Metaverse adoption in education, proposing a framework for Metaverse adoption, and suggesting future research trajectories in this domain. The review systematically classifies the influential factors into four distinct categories: psychological and motivational factors, quality factors, social factors, and inhibiting factors. The proposed framework provides a structured approach for future studies investigating the Metaverse adoption in educational settings. The proposed framework also emphasizes that educational institutions should not only consider the technical prerequisites but also the social, psychological, and motivational aspects of the Metaverse. The study also pinpoints several critical research agendas to enhance our understanding of Metaverse adoption in education. The insights from this review are invaluable for educational institutions, policymakers, developers, and researchers, significantly enriching the emerging field of Metaverse adoption.
Fulltext Energy efficient optimal deployment of industrial wireless mesh networks using transient trigonometric Harris Hawks optimizer

Abdulrab H, Hussin FA, Ismail I, Assad M, Awang A, Shutari H, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28719.
PMID: 38596048 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28719

Wireless mesh networks (WMNs) play a vital role in modern communication systems, and optimizing the placement of wireless mesh routers is crucial for achieving efficient network performance in terms of coverage and connectivity. However, network congestion caused by overlapping routers poses challenges in WMN optimization. To address these issues, researchers have explored metaheuristic algorithms to strike a balance between coverage and connectivity in WMNs. This study introduces a novel hybrid optimization algorithm, namely Transient Trigonometric Harris Hawks Optimizer (TTHHO), specifically designed to tackle the optimization problems in WMNs. The primary objective of TTHHO is to find an optimal placement of routers that maximizes network coverage and ensures full connectivity among mesh routers. Notably, TTHHO's unique advantage lies in its efficient utilization of residual energy, strategically placing the sink node in areas with higher energy levels. The effectiveness of TTHHO is demonstrated through a comprehensive comparison with seven well-known algorithms, including Harris Hawks optimization (HHO), Sine Cosine Algorithm (SCA), Gray Wolf Optimization (GWO), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Moth Flame Optimization (MFO), Equilibrium Optimizer (EO), and Transient Search Optimizer (TSO). The proposed algorithm is rigorously validated using 33 benchmark functions, and statistical analyses and simulation results confirm its superiority over other algorithms in terms of network connectivity, coverage, congestion reduction, and convergence. The simulation outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness and efficacy of the proposed TTHHO algorithm in optimizing WMNs, making it a promising approach for enhancing the performance of wireless communication systems.
Fulltext Associations between meteorological variation and hospitalisations for rotavirus infections in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Khoo MS, Ahmad Azman AH, Ismail NAS, Abdul Wahab A, Ali A

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28574.
PMID: 38596105 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28574

OBJECTIVES: Rotavirus (RoV) infections have emerged as a significant public health concern around the world. Understanding the relationship between climatic conditions and hospitalisations due to RoV infections can help engage effective prevention strategies. This study aims to investigate the potential associations between meteorological variability and RoV-related hospitalisations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
METHODS: Hospitalization data from a tertiary teaching hospital in Kuala Lumpur over a twelve-year period were retrospectively collected. Concurrently, meteorological data were obtained from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) including variables of temperature, humidity, precipitation, and atmospheric pressure to further demonstrate relationship with RoV-associated hospitalisations.
RESULTS: The results indicated positive correlations between increased rainfall, rainy days, humidity, and RoV-related hospitalisations, suggesting the influence of environmental factors on the transmission of RoV.
CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights positive associations between meteorological variations and hospitalizations for RoV infections in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Further investigations, including national-level data, are needed to deepen our understanding of these associations, particularly within the context of Malaysia and to develop targeted interventions for disease prevention and control.
Fulltext Agricultural value chain and households' livelihood in Africa: The case of Nigeria

Adediran O, Osabuohien E, Silberberger M, Osabohien R, Gbenro Adebayo W

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28655.
PMID: 38596041 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28655

One of the critical issues of concern is how African countries can take agriculture as a business that creates wealth which can help transform rural communities, increase income, reduce poverty and help the continent achieve the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs) of no poverty (SDG-1) and food and nutrition security (SDG-2) by 2030. Hence, this study examines how participation in agriculture through cassava value chain can improve households' livelihood income in Africa using the case of Nigeria. To achieve its objective, the study utilised quantitative analysis approach to address the linkages among economic agents within the agricultural value chain. The logit regression and propensity scores matching technique are used for the quantitative analysis. The result show that, while more significant proportion of male cassava production household heads sell cassava in its fresh form, their female counterparts add value by processing cassava further into finished staple foods. Another key insight is the high involvement of youth and women in cassava production, processing and marketing. Thus, they have greater influence in promoting and improving households' livelihood income. Therefore, more targeted efforts should be made by all stakeholders to ensure that youth and women have better, less expensive and dependable assess to facilities at lower interest rates to participate in agricultural value chain. This will engender inclusiveness of the vulnerable groups in agricultural value chain.
Fulltext The impact of wet cupping on haematological and inflammatory parameters in a sample of Jordanian team players

Abdelfattah A, Zureigat A, Almotiri A, Alzughailat M, Al-Khreisat MJ, Abdel Fattah O

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e29330.
PMID: 38633638 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29330

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: The practice of complementary and alternative medicine has significantly gained acceptance worldwide, such as Al-Hijama, also known as cupping therapy. Despite the growing popularity of therapeutic cupping among athletes, little is known about the impact of cupping therapy on sports fields. The current study was designed to explore the effect of wet cupping therapy on the haematological and inflammatory parameters in Jordanian national team players.
METHODS: The procedure was carried out at a specialized centre for cupping in Amman on the morning of the 19th Rajab. The data were obtained from 14 healthy male participants aged between 21 and 22 years. The haematological and inflammatory parameters were assessed by comparing venous blood components before and after four weeks of wet cupping.
RESULTS: Complete blood count (CBC) analysis of venous blood samples four weeks after wet cupping showed a significant increase in the values of total white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophils, lymphocytes, red blood cells (RBCs), haematocrit, and haemoglobin as compared with venous blood samples before cupping. Blood film examination of venous blood samples post-cupping revealed normocytic normochromic RBCs; WBCs and platelets were unremarkable. Analysis of inflammatory markers post cupping showed a significant decrease in the monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) but no differences in neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR).
CONCLUSION: The findings of this study suggest that wet cupping has an indispensable influence on haematological and immunological parameters in athletes, where it reinforces cellular immunity, generates younger blood cells, and reduces inflammation markers. It is probable, therefore, that cupping improves sports performance and achievement. The evidence from this research adds to a growing body of literature on cupping therapy in sports.
Fulltext Polyrhodanine-based nanomaterials for biomedical applications: A review

Hiba IH, Koh JK, Lai CW, Mousavi SM, Badruddin IA, Hussien M, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28902.
PMID: 38633652 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28902

Rhodanine is a heterocyclic organic compound that has been investigated for its potential biomedical applications, particularly in drug discovery. Rhodanine derivatives have been examined as the medication options for numerous illnesses, including cancer, inflammation, and infectious diseases. Some rhodanine derivatives have also shown promising activity against drug-resistant strains of bacteria and viruses. One of these derivatives is polyrhodanine (PR), a conducting polymer that has gained attention for its biomedical properties. This review article summarises the latest advancements in creating biomaterials based on PR for biosensing, antimicrobial treatments, and anticancer therapies. The distinctive characteristics of PR, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and good conductivity, render it an attractive candidate for these applications. The article also explores obstacles and potential future paths for advancing biomaterials made with PR, including synthesis modifications, characterisation techniques, and in vivo evaluation of biocompatibility and efficacy. Overall, as an emerging research topic, this review emphasises the potential of PR as a promising biomaterial for various biomedical applications and provides insights into the contemporary state of research and prospective directions for investigation.
Fulltext Knowledge mapping analysis of the global seaweed research using CiteSpace

Segaran TC, Azra MN, Mohd Noor MI, Danish-Daniel M, Burlakovs J, Lananan F, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28418.
PMID: 38560172 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28418

Seaweed research has gained substantial momentum in recent years, attracting the attention of researchers, academic institutions, industries, policymakers, and philanthropists to explore its potential applications and benefits. Despite the growing body of literature, there is a paucity of comprehensive scientometric analyses, highlighting the need for an in-depth investigation. In this study, we utilized CiteSpace to examine the global seaweed research landscape through the Web of Science Core Collection database, assessing publication trends, collaboration patterns, network structures, and co-citation analyses across 48,278 original works published since 1975. Our results demonstrate a diverse and active research community, with a multitude of authors and journals contributing to the advancement of seaweed science. Thematic co-citation cluster analysis identified three primary research areas: "Coral reef," "Solar radiation," and "Mycosporine-like amino acid," emphasizing the multidisciplinary nature of seaweed research. The increasing prominence of "Chemical composition" and "Antioxidant" keywords indicates a burgeoning interest in characterizing the nutritional value and health-promoting properties of seaweed. Timeline co-citation analysis unveils that recent research priorities have emerged around the themes of coral reefs, ocean acidification, and antioxidants, underlining the evolving focus and interdisciplinary approach of the field. Moreover, our analysis highlights the potential of seaweed as a functional food product, poised to contribute significantly to addressing global food security and sustainability challenges. This study underscores the importance of bibliometric analysis in elucidating the global seaweed research landscape and emphasizes the need for sustained knowledge exchange and collaboration to drive the field forward. By revealing key findings and emerging trends, our research offers valuable insights for academics and stakeholders, fostering a more profound understanding of seaweed's potential and informing future research endeavors in this promising domain.
Fulltext Macroalgae farming for sustainable future: Navigating opportunities and driving innovation

Khan N, Sudhakar K, Mamat R

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28208.
PMID: 38560151 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28208

Seaweed cultivation has garnered significant interest, driven by its wide range of biomass benefits. However, comprehensive assessments from various perspectives are imperative to ensure the sustainable cultivation of seaweed. Biotic and Abiotic factors can significantly impact seaweed yield in complex commercial farming. Biotic factors include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other algae, while abiotic factors include environmental conditions such as temperature, salinity, light intensity, and nutrient availability. Additionally, the susceptibility of seaweeds to pests and diseases further compounds the issue, leading to potential crop losses. This study endeavours to shed light on the immense potential of macroalgae cultivation and underscores the pressing need for scientific advancements in this field. The comprehensive review clearly explains the latest developments in seaweed cultivation and highlights significant advances from diverse seaweed research. Moreover, it provides insightful glimpses into possible future developments that could shape the trajectory of this promising industry.
Fulltext Effect of banana tree leaves ash as cementitious material on the durability of concrete against sulphate and acid attacks

Bhutto S, Abro FU, Ali M, Buller AS, Bheel N, Gamil Y, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e29236.
PMID: 38601592 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29236

The construction industry's rapid growth poses challenges tied to raw material depletion and increased greenhouse gas emissions. To address this, alternative materials like agricultural residues are gaining prominence due to their potential to reduce carbon emissions and waste generation. In this context this research optimizes the use of banana leaves ash as a partial cement substitution, focusing on durability, and identifying the ideal cement-to-ash ratio for sustainable concrete. For this purpose, concrete mixes were prepared with BLA replacing cement partially in different proportions i.e. (0 %, 5 %, 10 %, 15 %, & 20 %) and were analyzed for their physical, mechanical and Durability (Acid and Sulphate resistance) properties. Compressive strength, acid resistance and sulphate resistance testing continued for 90 days with the intervals of 7, 28 and 90 days. The results revealed that up to 10 % incorporation of BLA improved compressive strength by 10 %, while higher BLA proportions (up to 20 %) displayed superior performance in durability tests as compared to the conventional mix. The results reveal the potentials of banana leave ash to refine the concrete matrix by formation of addition C-S-H gel which leads towards a better performance specially in terms of durability aspect. Hence, banana leaf ash (BLA) is an efficient concrete ingredient, particularly up to 10 % of the mix. Beyond this threshold, it's still suitable for applications where extreme strength isn't the primary concern, because there may be a slight reduction in compressive strength.
Fulltext Plastic pollution and degradation pathways: A review on the treatment technologies

Zaini N, Kasmuri N, Mojiri A, Kindaichi T, Nayono SE

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28849.
PMID: 38601511 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28849

In recent years, the production of plastic has been estimated to reach 300 million tonnes, and nearly the same amount has been dumped into the waters. This waste material causes long-term damage to the ecosystem, economic sectors, and aquatic environments. Fragmentation of plastics to microplastics has been detected in the world's oceans, which causes a serious global impact. It is found that most of this debris ends up in water environments. Hence, this research aims to review the microbial degradation of microplastic, especially in water bodies and coastal areas. Aerobic bacteria will oxidize and decompose the microplastic from this environment to produce nutrients. Furthermore, plants such as microalgae can employ this nutrient as an energy source, which is the byproduct of microplastic. This paper highlights the reduction of plastics in the environment, typically by ultraviolet reduction, mechanical abrasion processes, and utilization by microorganisms and microalgae. Further discussion on the utilization of microplastics in the current technologies comprised of mechanical, chemical, and biological methods focusing more on the microalgae and microbial pathways via fuel cells has been elaborated. It can be denoted in the fuel cell system, the microalgae are placed in the bio-cathode section, and the anode chamber consists of the colony of microorganisms. Hence, electric current from the fuel cell can be generated to produce clean energy. Thus, the investigation on the emerging technologies via fuel cell systems and the potential use of microplastic pollutants for consumption has been discussed in the paper. The biochemical changes of microplastic and the interaction of microalgae and bacteria towards the degradation pathways of microplastic are also being observed in this review.
Fulltext Designing a pedagogical framework for mobile-assisted language learning

Wang X, Hamat AB, Shi NL

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28102.
PMID: 38601617 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28102

With the high penetration of mobile devices and wide coverage of wireless networks, mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) has been widely utilized to enhance language teaching and learning. However, the integration of MALL into language pedagogy has been hampered by a lack of a cohesive and unified framework for MALL pedagogy. Most of the existing frameworks were not specifically designed for language pedagogy and failed to balance the technological and pedagogical dimensions of MALL pedagogy. This study sought to promote the incorporation of MALL and tertiary EFL pedagogy by designing a pedagogical framework for MALL (PF4M) using design-based research (DBR) as the overarching research methodology. The DBR investigation adopted a mixed research approach, incorporating systematic review, expert survey, thematic analysis, and expert review. The resulting PF4M is anticipated to aid in the integration of MALL into language pedagogy by offering practical and theoretical guidance for effective teaching and learning. The findings may also suggest future directions for pedagogical innovations in MALL.
Fulltext A review of the discussions on cultivated meat from the Islamic perspective

Hamdan MN, Abdul Jalil R, Ramli MA, Ramli N, Ibrahim MNA, Ab Rahman MF, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28491.
PMID: 38601623 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28491

Since the introduction of the cultivated meat burger in 2013, numerous discussions have transpired between researchers and consumers, manifesting in various forms such as academic publications, opinions on personal websites and interactions on social platforms. For Muslim consumers, a primary concern revolves around the halal status of cultivated meat, given the pivotal role of adhering to a halal diet as a divine obligation in their lives. Therefore, this article seeks to systematically review the existing literature on cultivated meat from an Islamic perspective as articulated by Muslim scholars, whether these perspectives are issued by an established fatwa organisation or representations of personal views. The sources incorporated into this analysis span from academic publications, newspaper articles, fatwa bodies, personal websites and interviews. Employing thematic analysis, five principal themes were discerned within the discourse among Muslim scholars regarding cultivated meat: (i) the ontological status of cultivated meat, (ii) the status and source of stem cells used in the cultivation process, (iii) the theological implications of cultivated meat production on altering God's creation, (iv) foundational principles for halal cultivated meat production, and (v) the contemporary necessity of cultivated meat from the perspective of al-maqasid al-shariah. It is duly recommended that international fatwa organisations such as the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA) engage in discussions and deliberations on this matter of growing significance within the food industry. The fatwas and resolutions issued by IIFA are frequently cited as the most recognised authority in many Islamic countries.
Fulltext Modeling of success factors of using PU coats in concrete construction projects

Waqar A, Shafiq N, Bheel N, Benjeddou O, Hamah Sor N, Hu JW, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Apr 15;10(7):e28908.
PMID: 38601646 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28908

Polyurea coatings are well recognized for their remarkable protective properties, making them highly appropriate for practical use in the field of concrete building. The use of polyurea coatings in the concrete building business is currently constrained, despite its prevalent application in industrialized nations. The limited use may be ascribed to ambiguities about the determinants of effective implementation in this particular setting, as well as the dearth of extensive study in the realm of new building materials. The primary objective of this research is to assess and conceptualize the key determinants linked to the use of polyurea coatings in concrete building endeavors. Utilizing a quantitative research approach, a comprehensive literature analysis was conducted to identify a total of 21 probable success variables. The reliability of the questionnaire was established by the administration of a pilot survey, and afterwards, an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed to enhance the clarity and precision of the underlying components. The researchers used structural modeling (SEM) approaches to develop a robust model using the primary data obtained from the questionnaire survey. The EFA revealed the presence of five unique constructs that have an impact on the effectiveness of polyurea coatings in concrete building projects. These constructions comprise several characteristics, including environmental considerations, functional requirements, protective properties, execution processes, and creative elements. The significance and relevance of this research are shown by the validation of the study's results using SEM. The study makes a valuable contribution towards the progression of polyurea coating use within the concrete building sector.

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