Displaying publications 61 - 80 of 798 in total

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  1. Fulltext Modelling the utilization rates of pedestrian crosswalks
    Al Bargi WA, Daniel BD, Khalifa NA, Rohani MM, Hussain Q, Hamdan RB
    Heliyon, 2023 Sep;9(9):e19310.
    PMID: 37681154 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19310
    A zebra crossing is a form of pedestrian crossing provision point on roads that have significant volumes of traffic. It is one of the safety measures employed to reduce avoidable pedestrian-motorist conflicts and accidents on such roads. In the past several studies have been conducted on the behaviours of road users (pedestrians and motorists) especially on non-signal intersections. Although, various recommendations and solutions have been proffered to the many road-crossing challenges. But there has been little to no change in pedestrians' perceptions and preferences of zebra crossing. Contemporary researches have tried to rectify this by applying several models to rate the use of pedestrian zebra crossing. This study uses a Regression Model Techniques to analyse factors influencing utilization rate of pedestrian zebra crossing. In this study, 450 samples were collected from 12 locations, covering school, public building, residential and business areas to examine the utilization rate of the zebra crossing by pedestrians. To examine the significance level on the crossing utilization rates by pedestrian at 95% confidence interval, a pedestrian utilization rate (PUR) was acting as the dependent variable and the remaining variables served as the independent variables. The Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) model was also used to determine the utilization rate needed to develop the zebra crossing utilization model. From the findings, the calibrated R2 value was discovered to be at 0.937 and the descriptive statistics of MLR test, t and p-values, were also found within an acceptable range. The result also showed that, out of all the variables which were used, only three have a significant effect on the utilization rates of pedestrian zebra crossing while the remaining variables have an insignificant effect. The study concluded that among the different variables, Guardrail, number of lanes and Width of zebra crossing were the most influential variables. It is believed that the conclusions drawn from this research are expected to be useful to improve the state of pedestrian facilities in Malaysia.
  2. Predicting the intention and adoption of hydroponic farming among Chinese urbanites
    Al Mamun A, Naznen F, Jingzu G, Yang Q
    Heliyon, 2023 Mar;9(3):e14420.
    PMID: 36925515 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14420
    Urban agriculture has become increasingly popular as a viable solution to the global food insecurity, but the uncontrollable expansion of cities and populations has led to the significant decrease in cultivable space for conventional soil-based farming. Unlike conventional agriculture, soil-less hydroponic farming allows sustainable food production in urban areas without compromising the environment and public health. Using both theory of planned behaviour and knowledge-attitude-behaviour theory with four additional factors, the current study examined the intention and adoption of hydroponic farming among Chinese urbanites. An online survey, which involved 661 respondents from different cities in China, was conducted. The results of partial least squares structural equation modeling revealed the significant influence of tolerance of diversity, innovativeness, and knowledge about hydroponic system on attitude towards hydroponic system. Additionally, knowledge and attitude towards hydroponic system, perceived need for hydroponic farming, and hydroponic farming compatibility were found to significantly influence the intention of adopting hydroponic farming, which was also found to exhibit significant influence on its actual adoption. This study presented valuable insights that contribute to the development of a framework that promotes effective farming practices and strategies. The obtained findings can benefit marketers, practitioners, and policymakers in the agricultural and environmental fields, particularly in their efforts of planning, designing, marketing, and strategizing to promote modern agricultural practices and create a favourable environment for urban hydroponic farming in developing countries.
  3. Fulltext A deep learning approach for lane marking detection applying encode-decode instant segmentation network
    Al Mamun A, Em PP, Hossen MJ, Jahan B, Tahabilder A
    Heliyon, 2023 Mar;9(3):e14212.
    PMID: 36942238 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14212
    A lot of people suffer from disability and death due to unintentional road accidents, which also result in the loss of a significant amount of financial assets. Several essential features of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are being incorporated into vehicles by researchers to prevent road accidents. Lane marking detection (LMD) is a fundamental ADAS technology that helps the vehicle to keep its position in the lane. The current study employs Deep Learning (DL) methodologies and has several research constraints due to various problems. Researchers sometimes encounter difficulties in LMD due to environmental factors such as the variation of lights, obstacles, shadows, and curve lanes. To address these limitations, this study presents the Encode-Decode Instant Segmentation Network (EDIS-Net) as a DL methodology for detecting lane marking under various environmental situations with reliable accuracy. The framework is based on the E-Net architecture and incorporates combined cross-entropy and discriminative losses. The encoding segment was split into binary and instant segmentation to extract information about the lane pixels and the pixel position. DenselyBased Spatial Clustering of Application with Noise (DBSCAN) is employed to connect the predicted lane pixels and to get the final output. The system was trained with augmented data from the Tusimple dataset and then tested on three datasets: Tusimple, CalTech, and a local dataset. On the Tusimple dataset, the model achieved 97.39% accuracy. Furthermore, it has an average accuracy of 97.07% and 96.23% on the CalTech and local datasets, respectively. On the testing dataset, the EDIS-Net exhibited promising results compared to existing LMD approaches. Since the proposed framework performs better on the testing datasets, it can be argued that the model can recognize lane marking confidently in various scenarios. This study presents a novel EDIS-Net technique for efficient lane marking detection. It also includes the model's performance verification by testing in three different public datasets.
  4. Fulltext Modelling the significance of celebrity endorsement and consumer interest on attitude, purchase intention, and willingness to pay a premium price for green skincare products
    Al Mamun A, Naznen F, Yang Q, Ali MH, Hashim NMHN
    Heliyon, 2023 Jun;9(6):e16765.
    PMID: 37292299 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16765
    Due to the major shift in online purchasing during the COVID-19 lockdown, celebrity endorsement marketing has gained traction. Concurrently, COVID-19 has also transformed consumers' attitudes toward using eco-friendly products, such as green skincare products, to ensure a healthier lifestyle. This study developed a comprehensive framework based on the stimuli-organism-response theory and the parasocial interaction theory to empirically evaluate the impact of celebrities' credibility attributes and consumers' interests in celebrities on their attitudes towards advertisements for endorsed green skincare products, their intentions to make a purchase, and their willingness to pay a premium price for these products. 778 Malaysian consumers participated in the online survey, and their responses were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The results showed the positive effects of credibility traits (trustworthiness - β = 0.100, p-value = 0.026; exquisite personality - β = 0.075, p-value = 0.028; dignified image - β = 0.152, p-value = 0.001; expertise - β = 0.221, p-value <0.001), and customer attention to celebrities (β = 0.184, p-value <0.001) on their attitudes toward endorsed advertisements. Likewise, credibility features (exquisite personality - β = 0.116, p-value = 0.002; dignified image - β = 0.112, p-value = 0.017; expertise - β = 0.207, p-value <0.001) and customers' companionship with celebrities (β = 0.142, p-value = 0.001) also have a significant positive impact on attitudes towards brands. Finally, consumers' purchasing intentions and willingness to pay premium prices for green skincare products were strongly influenced by their attitude toward advertising (β = 0.484, p-value <0.001) and brands (β = 0.326, p-value <0.001). Evidently, the findings of this study may help players in the cosmetics industry enhance their marketing and promotion tactics for eco-friendly beauty and personal care products.
  5. Fulltext Modelling the mass adoption potential of food waste composting among rural Chinese farmers
    Al Mamun A, Yang Q, Naznen F, Aziz NA, Masud MM
    Heliyon, 2023 Aug;9(8):e18998.
    PMID: 37609413 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18998
    As a safe alternative to hazardous agrochemicals, food waste compost could prevent human health hazards and environmental degradation. Food waste composting has not garnered much popularity among farmers given their sole dependence on synthetic fertilizers for high yields and commercial returns. Hence, this study aimed to identify the factors influencing farmers' adoption of food waste composting for regular use. Empirical data were collected from 399 farmers residing in different second-tier cities in China through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. The partial least squares-structural equation modelling was used to statistically examine the models and construct correlations. Based on the study outcomes, the perceived usefulness of food waste compost, awareness of the consequences, social influence, anticipated guilt, and attitude towards food waste composting substantially impacted food waste composting intention. Intriguingly, the perceived value of sustainability and ascription of responsibility did not have a significant impact on food waste composting intention, whereas food waste composting intention substantially influenced food waste composting behavior. The results of the multi-group analysis revealed differences in the relationship between awareness of consequences and food waste composting intention across genders and educational levels. This intriguing finding provides new avenues for future research and offers novel insights into the practical applications and promotion of food waste composting. These results will improve the relevant aspects among farmers for eco-friendly farming practices, innovate food waste management strategies, and mitigate environmental deterioration resulting from hazardous agrochemicals. This study expands the current body of literature by providing government regulators and other social enterprises with effective laws, policies, and strategy development guidelines for adopting natural composting on a large scale and enhancing the nutritional value of food to prevent unforeseen health risks caused by toxic chemicals.
  6. Fulltext Energy saving potential analysis applying factory scale energy audit - A case study of food production
    Al Momani D, Al Turk Y, Abuashour MI, Khalid HM, Muyeen SM, Sweidan TO, et al.
    Heliyon, 2023 Mar;9(3):e14216.
    PMID: 36923846 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14216
    An energy audit (EA) is a crucial step in boosting factory energy efficiency and obtaining certification for cleaner manufacturing. The results of a preliminary energy audit carried out at a sizable industrial facility in Jordan that creates some of the most well-known foods in the Middle East are presented in this study. The monthly demand of the factory for diesel ranged from 75,251.545 to 166,666.67 L. The factory energy model which is used to examine the impact of various energy-saving practices on the factory's primary energy consumption, was developed with the help of the energy audit. It has been established that optimizing the factory's energy use and the boiler systems' performance with regards to diesel consumption can withstand an expected monthly financial savings of 14205.85 Jordanian Dinar (JD). This has allowed a reduction in energy use of up to 18%. The CO2 harmful emissions were also decreased. Additionally, it is estimated that switching from the proposed motors to energy-efficient motors will cost less overall over time, saving around 3472.314 JD/month or 0.33576/year on average. Moreover, it was discovered that a total of 772.82021 Ton CO2/year emissions may be avoided each year.
  7. Fulltext Corrigendum to "Energy saving potential analysis applying factory scale energy audit - A case study of food production" [Heliyon 9 (3), (March 2023) Article e14216]
    Al Momani D, Al Turk Y, Abuashour MI, Khalid HM, Muyeen SM, Sweidan TO, et al.
    Heliyon, 2023 Jun;9(6):e16551.
    PMID: 37484411 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16551
    [This corrects the article DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14216.].
  8. Antihypertensive activity and vascular reactivity mechanisms of Vitex pubescens leaf extracts in spontaneously hypertensive rats
    Al-Akwaa AA, Asmawi MZ, Dewa A, Mahmud R
    Heliyon, 2020 Jul;6(7):e04588.
    PMID: 32775735 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04588
    Background: Vitex pubescens has been used traditionally in hypertension treatment but not yet scientifically assessed. The objective of the study is to investigate the antihypertensive and vasorelaxant activities of V. pubescens, study its underlying pharmacological mechanisms, and identify the relevant vasoactive compounds.

    Methods: Successive extractions of V. pubescens leaf were carried out to produce petroleum ether (VPPE), chloroform (VPCE), methanol (VPME), and water (VPWE) extracts. Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) received a daily oral administration of the extracts (500 mg/kg/day; n = 6) or verapamil (15 mg/kg/day; n = 6) for 2 weeks, while the systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured using non-invasive tail-cuff method. Vasorelaxation assays of the extracts were later conducted using phenylephrine (PE, 1 μM) pre-contracted aortic ring preparation. Mechanisms of vasorelaxation by the most potent fraction were studied using vasorelaxation assays with selected blockers/inhibitors. GC-MS was conducted to determine the active compounds.

    Results: VPPE elicited the most significant diminution in systolic and diastolic blood pressure of treated SHRs and produced the most significant vasorelaxation in the aortic rings. Vasorelaxant effects of F2-VPPE were significantly reduced in endothelium-denuded aortic rings by glibenclamide (1 μM), whereas calcium chloride and PE-induced contractions were significantly suppressed. Endothelium removal of the aortic rings or incubation with indomethacin (10 μM), atropine (1 μM), methylene blue (10 μM), propranolol (1μM) and L-NAME (10 μM) did not significantly alter F2-VPPE-induced vasorelaxation. Seven compounds were identified using GC-MS, including spathulenol.

    Conclusion: F2-VPPE exerted its endothelium-independent vasorelaxation by inhibition of vascular smooth muscle contraction induced by extracellular Ca+2 influx through trans-membrane Ca+2 channels and/or Ca+2 release from intracellular stores, and by activation of KATP channels. The vasorelaxation effects of V. pubescens could be mediated by the compound, spathulenol.

  9. Fulltext The impact of curcumin-graphene based nanoformulation on cellular interaction and redox-activated apoptosis: An in vitro colon cancer study
    Al-Ani LA, Kadir FA, Hashim NM, Julkapli NM, Seyfoddin A, Lu J, et al.
    Heliyon, 2020 Nov;6(11):e05360.
    PMID: 33163675 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05360
    Natural plants derivatives have gained enormous merits in cancer therapy applications upon formulation with nanomaterials. Curcumin, as a popular research focus has acquired such improvements surpassing its disadvantageous low bioavailability. To this point, the available research data had confirmed the importance of nanomaterial type in orienting cellular response and provoking different toxicological and death mechanisms that may range from physical membrane damage to intracellular changes. This in turn underlines the poorly studied field of nanoformulation interaction with cells as the key determinant in toxicology outcomes. In this work, curcumin-AuNPs-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite (CAG) was implemented as a model, to study the impact on cellular membrane integrity and the possible redox changes using colon cancer in vitro cell lines (HT-29 and SW-948), representing drug-responsive and resistant subtypes. Morphological and biochemical methods of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), apoptosis assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants glutathione and superoxide dismutase (GSH and SOD) levels were examined with consideration to suitable protocols and vital optimizations. TEM micrographs proved endocytic uptake with succeeding cytoplasm deposition, which unlike other nanomaterials studied previously, conserved membrane integrity allowing intracellular cytotoxic mechanism. Apoptosis was confirmed with gold-standard morphological features observed in micrographs, while redox parameters revealed a time-dependent increase in ROS accompanied with regressive GSH and SOD levels. Collectively, this work demonstrates the success of graphene as a platform for curcumin intracellular delivery and cytotoxicity, and further highlights the importance of suitable in vitro methods to be used for nanomaterial validation.
  10. Fulltext Removal of copper by Azolla filiculoides and Lemna minor: phytoremediation potential, adsorption kinetics and isotherms
    Al-Baldawi IA, Yasin SR, Jasim SS, Abdullah SRS, Almansoory AF, Ismail N'
    Heliyon, 2022 Nov;8(11):e11456.
    PMID: 36406685 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11456
    Phytoremediation is an eco-friendly biotechnology with low costs. The removal of copper (Cu) from polluted water by the two floating plant species Azolla filiculoides and Lemna minor was observed and recorded. Plants were exposed to different Cu (II) concentration (0.25-1.00 mg/L) and sampling time (Days 0, 1, 2, 5 and 7). Both plants can remove Cu at 1.00 mg Cu/L water, with the highest removal rates of 100% for A. filiculoides and 74% for L. minor on the fifth day of exposure. At the end of the exposure period (Day 7), the growth of A. filiculoides exposed to 1.00 mg Cu/L was inhibited by Cu, but the structure of the inner cells of A. filiculoides was well organized as compared to the initial treatment period. Regarding L. minor, Cu at 1.00 mg/L negatively impacted both the growth and morphology (shrinking of its inner structure) of this plant. This is due to the higher accumulation of Cu in L. minor (2.86 mg/g) than in A. filiculoides (1.49 mg/g). Additionally, the rate of Cu removal per dry mass of plant fitted a pseudo-second order model for both plants, whereas the adsorption equilibrium data fitted the Freundlich isotherm, indicating that Cu adsorption occurs in multiple layers. Based on the results, both species can be applied in the phytoremediation of Cu-polluted water.
  11. Fulltext Palmitic acid-based amide as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1M HCl
    Al-Edan AK, Roslam Wan Isahak WN, Che Ramli ZA, Al-Azzawi WK, Kadhum AAH, Jabbar HS, et al.
    Heliyon, 2023 Apr;9(4):e14657.
    PMID: 37025890 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14657
    Due to growing environmental concerns and regulations limiting the use of harmful and toxic synthetic corrosion inhibitors, there is a high demand for sustainable corrosion inhibitors. In this study, a green and rapid technique was used to synthesize amide N-(4-aminobutyl)palmitamide (BAPA) which yielded 91.17% of the product within 2 min, compared to a low yield of 75-80% and a very long 8-10 h reaction time with the conventional thermal condensation method. The chemical structure of BAPA was analyzed by FT-IR, 1HNMR and 13CNMR spectra, as well as CHNS elemental analysis. When applied to mild steel exposed to 1 M HCl, BAPA delayed and reduced corrosion by adsorbing to the steel surface to form a protective layer. The inhibition efficiency increased with increasing amide concentration, and maximal inhibition of 91.5% was observed at 0.5 mM BAPA. The adsorption of BAPA on mild steel in an acidic solution was studied and inhibition performance was correlated with the calculated adsorption-free energy ΔGads, indicating good agreement between the experimental and adsorption findings. Surface morphology of untreated and treated mild steel coupons was evaluated by SEM, and based on density functional theory (DFT) computations and atomic charges analysis, a stronger interaction was observed between BAPA and mild steel surface leading to the formation of a compact protective film on the metallic surface. This protective film is attributed to the presence of nitrogen atoms and carbonyl group in the chemical structure of BAPA.
  12. Fulltext Understanding Trust Drivers of S-commerce
    Al-Kfairy M, Shuhaiber A, Al-Khatib AW, Alrabaee S, Khaddaj S
    Heliyon, 2024 Jan 15;10(1):e23332.
    PMID: 38163094 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23332
    Trust has emerged as a pillar in the acceptance and use of new technologies in the ever-changing digital landscape, notably in the booming field of social commerce. The importance of this study lies in the fact that it explores in-depth the aspects of customer trust in Instashopping using new constructs that have yet to be explored in s-commerce literature. Focusing on Instashopping, the research proposed a multi-dimensional model of trust to examine the dynamics of user trust in social commerce platforms and analyses the effects of various factors, including institution-based trust, disposition to trust, personal inventiveness, perceived page quality, and overall web experience. Structural equation modelling and confirmatory factor analysis were used to examine data from 267 responses in a survey of university students in the United Arab Emirates who have used Instagram for shopping. The analysis showed that user trust and trusting beliefs were significantly influenced by the disposition to trust, institution-based trust, and general web experience. Still, no significant association was found between perceived site quality and trusting beliefs. These findings highlight the crucial part that user trust plays in social commerce platform success and how important it is for online platforms to build and maintain user trust. The work also contributes theoretically to the knowledge body by comprehensively analysing trust dynamics in social commerce. In practice, the knowledge gained can help organisations plan their strategy for gaining and keeping client trust, which is essential for long-term success in the digital arena. To ensure long-term success, organisations must emphasise building and maintaining customer trust.
  13. Fulltext Phytochemical composition and bioactivities of Crataegus aronia as antioxidant, antibacterial and antioxidative stress in red blood cells - Is it a window of hope for children with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
    Al-Mazaideh GM, Al-Mustafa AH, Alnasser SMA, Nassir-Allah I, Tarawneh KA, Al-Rimawi F, et al.
    Heliyon, 2022 Nov;8(11):e11516.
    PMID: 36468128 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11516
    BACKGROUND: Crataegus aronia (C. aronia) extracts have been used medicinally since ancient times and are often utilized in traditional Arab medicine. An extensive study has revealed that Crataegus species have antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and hypotensive properties.

    OBJECTIVES: This work was performed to explore the phytochemical contents of C. aronia extract, as well as its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, and to assess the lipid peroxidation level as an oxidative stress biomarker in erythrocytes.

    METHODS: Chemical constituents in the methanolic extract of C. aronia were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and their relative concentrations were determined. The antioxidant activity of C. aronia extract was determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The effect of C. aronia on the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the erythrocyte hemolysates was studied. Also, the crude extract was assessed for its antimicrobial activity through agar diffusion and microbroth dilution assays.

    KEY FINDINGS: The DPPH IC50 value of the extract showed that the antioxidants activity was equal to (14.3 μg/mL) and according to FRAP assay, the antioxidant activity was in the range of 33.9 μmol-82.86 μmol Fe+2/g dw. The extract exerts a protective effect against oxidative stress in RBCs and shows a 50% inhibition of malonyldialdehyde (MDA) at 39.48 μg/mL extract. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were found in the range of 800-1000 μg/mL of leave extracts. The phytochemical analysis showed that the total phenols, flavonoids, and flavonols content were 494.071 mg GAE/g extract, 155.251 mg RE/g extract, and 103.2049 mg RE/g extract). C. aronia extract contains alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids. Crude extract of C. aronia was more potent in inhibiting the growth of B. subtilis, S. aureus and M. luteus with MIC and MBC values of 800,800 and 1000 μg/mL, respectively. According to GC-MS, 20 compounds were identified: dihydro-3-methylene-5-methyl-2-furanone (14.71%), hexanoic acid (6.57%), ethyl 3,5-ditert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzoate (6.4%), N, N-dimethylheptadecan-1-amine (4.91%), methyl 2-oxobutanoate (4.14%), glyceraldehyde (3.98%), and 2-methoxy-1-(2-nitroethenyl)-3-phenylmethoxybenzene (3.16%), were the major constituents.

    CONCLUSION: This study may open a window of hope for children with Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase disorder by possible utilization of the active ingredients of C. aronia to minimize both oxidative stress and infection which negatively impact the disease sequelae.According to these in vitro experiments, this plant extract has a significant amount of natural antioxidants, which may aid in the protection of various oxidative stresses. As a result, employing the active components of C. aronia to minimize oxidative stress and infection, both of which have a detrimental impact on disease sequelae, may bring hope to children with Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase disorder.

  14. Fulltext Risk assessment of driver performance in the oil and gas transportation industry: Analyzing the relationship between driver vigilance, attention, reaction time, and safe driving practices
    Al-Mekhlafi AA, Isha ASN, Chileshe N, Kineber AF, Ajmal M, Baarimah AO, et al.
    Heliyon, 2024 Mar 30;10(6):e27668.
    PMID: 38515678 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27668
    The increasing use of road traffic for land transportation has resulted in numerous road accidents and casualties, including those involving oil and gas tanker vehicles. Despite this, little empirical research has been conducted on the factors influencing tanker drivers' performance. This study aims to address this knowledge gap, particularly in the energy transportation industry, by examining the driving performance factors that affect tanker drivers and incorporating risk assessment measures. The model variables were identified from the literature and used to develop a survey questionnaire for the study. A total of 307 surveys were collected from Malaysian oil and gas tanker drivers, and the driving performance factors were contextually adjusted using the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) approach. The driving performance model was developed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The EFA results categorized driving performance into two constructs: 1) drivers' reaction time with β = 0.320 and 2) attention and vigilance with β value = 0.749. The proposed model provided full insight into how drivers' reaction time, attention, and vigilance impact drivers' performance in this sector, which can help identify potential risks and prevent accidents. The findings are significant in understanding the factors that affect oil and gas drivers' performance and can aid in enhancing oil and gas transportation management by including effective risk assessment measures to prevent fatal crashes.
  15. Fulltext Combination of sweet orange, lentisk and lemon eucalyptus essential oils: Optimization of a new complete antimicrobial formulation using a mixture design methodology
    Al-Mijalli SH, Jeddi M, El Hachlafi N, M Abdallah E, Assaggaf H, Qasem A, et al.
    Heliyon, 2023 Sep;9(9):e19814.
    PMID: 37809691 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19814
    Sweet orange (Citrus × sinensis (L.) Osbeck), lentisk (Pistacia lentiscus L.) and lemon eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora Hook) are medicinal plants known by its culinary virtues. Their volatile oils have demonstrated promising antimicrobial activity against a panel of microbial strains, including those implicated in food deterioration. In this exploratory investigation, we aimed to determine the antimicrobial formulation of sweet orange, lentisk and lemon eucalyptus essential oils (EOs) using the simplex-centroid mixture design approach coupled with a broth microdilution method. EOs were first extracted by hydrodistillation, and then their phytochemical profile was characterized using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). GC-MS analysis identified d-limonene (14.27%), careen-3 (14.11%), β-myrcene (12.53%) as main components of lentisk EOs, while lemon eucalyptus was dominated by citronellal (39.40%), β-citronellol (16.39%) and 1,8-cineole (9.22%). For sweet orange EOs, d-limonene (87.22%) was the principal compound. The three EOs exhibited promising antimicrobial potential against various microorganisms. Lemon eucalyptus and sweet orange EO showed high activity against most tested microorganisms, while lentisk EO exerted important effect against some microbes but only moderate activity against others. The optimization formulations of antimicrobial potential showed interesting synergistic effects between three EOs. The best combinations predicted on C. albicans, S. aureus, E. coli, S. enterica and B. cereus correspond to 44%/55%/0%, 54%/16%/28%, 43%/22%/33%, 45%/17%/36% and 36%/30%/32% of Citrus sinensis, Pistacia lentiscus and Eucalyptus citriodora EOs, respectively. These findings suggest that the combination of EOs could be used as natural food preservatives and antimicrobial agents. However, further studies are needed to determine the mechanisms of action and efficacy of these EOs against different microorganisms.
  16. Fulltext Review of driving-behaviour simulation: VISSIM and artificial intelligence approach
    Al-Msari H, Koting S, Ahmed AN, El-Shafie A
    Heliyon, 2024 Feb 29;10(4):e25936.
    PMID: 38384549 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25936
    Examining driving behaviour is crucial for traffic operations because of its influence on driver safety and the potential for increased risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Approximately 95% of severe traffic collisions can be attributed to human error. With the progress in artificial intelligence in recent decades, notable advancements have been achieved in computer capabilities, communication systems and data collection technology. This increase has significantly influenced our capacity to replicate driver behaviour and comprehend underlying driving mechanisms in diverse situations. Traffic microsimulation facilitates an understanding of traffic performance inside a given road network. Among the microsimulation software packages, Verkehr In Städten - SIMulationsmodell (VISSIM) has garnered significant attention owing to its notable ability to accurately replicate traffic circumstances with high dependability in real-world scenarios. Given the diverse applicability of VISSIM-based schemes, this review systematically examines the applications of the VISSIM-based driving-behaviour models within different research contexts, revealing their utility. This review is designed to provide guidance for researchers in selecting the most suitable methodological approach tailored to their specific research objectives and constraints when utilising VISSIM. Five important aspects, including calibration, driving behaviour, incident, and heterogeneous traffic simulation, as well as utilisation of artificial intelligence with VISSIM, are assessed, which could yield substantial advantages in advancing more precise and authentic driving-behaviour modelling in VISSIM.
  17. Fulltext Docking based screening and molecular dynamics simulations to identify potential selective PDE4B inhibitor
    Al-Nema M, Gaurav A, Lee VS
    Heliyon, 2020 Sep;6(9):e04856.
    PMID: 32984588 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04856
    Inhibition of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) is a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of inflammatory pulmonary disorders, i.e. asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, the treatment with non-selective PDE4 inhibitors is associated with side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Among the subtypes of PDE4 inhibited by these inhibitors, PDE4B is expressed in immune, inflammatory and airway smooth muscle cells, whereas, PDE4D is expressed in the area postrema and nucleus of the solitary tract. Thus, PDE4D inhibition is responsible for the emetic response. In this regard, a selective PDE4B inhibitor is expected to be a potential drug candidate for the treatment of inflammatory pulmonary disorders. Therefore, a shared feature pharmacophore model was developed and used as a query for the virtual screening of Maybridge and SPECS databases. A number of filters were applied to ensure only compounds with drug-like properties were selected. Accordingly, nine compounds have been identified as final hits, where HTS04529 showed the highest affinity and selectivity for PDE4B over PDE4D in molecular docking. The docked complexes of HTS04529 with PDE4B and PDE4D were subjected to molecular dynamics simulations for 100ns to assess their binding stability. The results showed that HTS04529 was bound tightly to PDE4B and formed a more stable complex with it than with PDE4D.
  18. Fulltext An improved model and performance analysis for grid-connected photovoltaic system in Oman
    Al-Shahri OA, Ismail FB, Al-Muhsen NFO, Al-Bazi A, Hannan MA
    Heliyon, 2022 Dec;8(12):e12237.
    PMID: 36590488 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12237
    The PV systems' sources are environmentally friendly, but at the same time, they are constantly changing with time. When evaluating solar energy resources, it is necessary to consider the variability and effects of different environmental operation parameters like solar irradiances, ambient temperature, and module temperature. The study introduces a method to simulate an existing photovoltaic system using a mathematical model that permits intelligent strategies to optimise the efficiency and adjust the most effective operational parameters for the solar energy systems. A mathematical analysis for the data framework, including correlation and regression coefficients, was calculated to identify and chart the relationships between the system's most influential parameters and the generated power from the PV system. An improved mathematical model was built with the most influential parameters. The improved model was simple, accurate, and based on the loss ratio by eliminating the unknown parameters. The system's efficiency was analysed using an existing data framework-recorded hourly from 1st January 2017 to December 2018 for a grid-connected photovoltaic system installed in the south of Oman. The results showed that the most influential parameters on the efficiency were the module's solar irradiance and surface temperature. The operating parameters such as ambient temperature, wind speed, and air humidity had a negligible effect on the generated power compared to the cell temperatures and solar radiation. The dissipation factor was used in the new output current and voltage equations to stimulate the output power of the PV model. The improved model was validated in a MATLAB Simulink and showed a more promising output with a lower RMSE of 5 %.
  19. Fulltext Happiness at workplace on innovative work behaviour and organisation citizenship behaviour through moderating effect of innovative behaviour
    Al-Shami SA, Al Mamun A, Rashid N, Cheong CB
    Heliyon, 2023 May;9(5):e15614.
    PMID: 37215933 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15614
    The current study primarily aims to investigate the happiness at workplace (HAW)-innovative work behaviour (IWB) correlation through the mediating effect of organisation citizenship behaviour (OCB) and moderating effect of organisational innovative culture (OIC). Notably, 383 questionnaires were collected from lecturers employed in three local universities in Malaysia and subsequently evaluated using structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Based on the study outcomes, HAW positively and significantly affected employees' IWB through the mediating and moderating effects of OCB and OIC, respectively. University directors should establish effective HAW approaches that elevate workers' organisational satisfaction, involvement, and commitment and develop a creative culture that acknowledges and complements innovation. This study, which pioneered the examination of the moderating effect of OIC, (i) filled the literature gap on the HAW-IWB link in emerging nations and (ii) expanded the 'broaden and build' and 'social exchange' theories with concrete proof of the HAW impact on OCB.
  20. Fulltext Determinants of cloud computing integration and its impact on sustainable performance in SMEs: An empirical investigation using the SEM-ANN approach
    Al-Sharafi MA, Iranmanesh M, Al-Emran M, Alzahrani AI, Herzallah F, Jamil N
    Heliyon, 2023 May;9(5):e16299.
    PMID: 37251849 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16299
    Although extant literature has thoroughly investigated the incorporation of cloud computing services, examining their influence on sustainable performance, particularly at the organizational level, is insufficient. Consequently, the present research aims to assess the factors that impact the integration of cloud computing within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and its subsequent effects on environmental, financial, and social performance. The data were collected from 415 SMEs and were analyzed using a hybrid SEM-ANN approach. PLS-SEM results indicate that relative advantage, complexity, compatibility, top management support, cost reduction, and government support significantly affect cloud computing integration. This study also empirically demonstrated that SMEs could improve their financial, environmental, and social performance by integrating cloud computing services. ANN results show that complexity, with a normalized importance (NI) of 89.14%, is ranked the first among other factors affecting cloud computing integration in SMEs. This is followed by cost reduction (NI = 82.67%), government support (NI = 73.37%), compatibility (NI = 70.02%), top management support (NI = 52.43%), and relative advantage (NI = 48.72%). Theoretically, this study goes beyond examining the determinants affecting cloud computing integration by examining their impact on SMEs' environmental, financial, and social performance in a comprehensive manner. The study also provides several practical implications for policymakers, SME managers, and cloud computing service providers.
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