Journal of Tropical Resources and Sustainable Science (JTRSS)

Improving the BRIS Soil management and practices for growing roselle (Hibiscus sabradiffa L.)

Razifah Mohd Razali — 2023-12-31

Beach ridges with interspersed swales (BRIS), commonly referred to as BRIS soil or sandy soil, are extensively distributed along the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Despite the challenging nature of the lowland agricultural soil, characterised by its sandy texture and sterility, agricultural activities on BRIS soils have experienced an upward trend in recent times. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on the challenges and possibilities of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) growth in the BRIS soil environment. Soil concerns can be classified into three categories: physical, chemical, and biological. The soil in BRIS is characterised by its acidic nature and low CEC values, with sand content occasionally reaching as high as 95 percent. Significant challenges associated with sandy soil conditions encompass soil water repellency (SWR), soil compaction, surface crust formation, soil erosion, low fertility, and Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) value, as well as nutrient leaching into the groundwater, leading to pollution. The roselle plant is currently being commercially cultivated in the state of Terengganu as a substitute for tobacco in BRIS soil. This is due to the plant's exceptional aeration and deep root zone. However, owing to its diminished fertility, its output is restricted. This book concentrates on the challenges related to BRIS soil and environmental concerns, including issues such as inadequate nutrient levels, weak soil structure, and excessive drainage. This review comprehensively elucidates the management strategies for sandy soil in the context of agricultural operations and evolving climatic conditions, thereby contributing to the advancement of research on the prospective cultivation of roselle.

Effects of different physical parameters on the stability of anthocyanin from coconut (Cocos nucifera) husk

Rodiah M. H. — 2023-12-31

Anthocyanin, a bioactive compound present in plants, possesses the characteristic of being an extractable pigment. Due to its bioavailability and wide spectrum of colors, extensive research has been conducted on anthocyanin to explore its medicinal advantages and its potential as a natural coloring agent. However, it is reported to be easily degraded by external environmental factors due to its high reactivity. The husk from coconut (Cocos nucifera) has been proven to contain a significant amount of anthocyanin. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effects of temperature, autoclaving condition, pH, and light on the stability of anthocyanin from coconut husk. The anthocyanin extracted from the mesocarps of brown coconut husks was tested at different temperatures (50 ? to 70?), pH (1 to 14), autoclaving conditions (15 minutes to 60 minutes), and light exposure (room temperature for 70 days). In extreme temperatures and long durations of autoclaving conditions, anthocyanin extracts were slightly degraded in terms of colour strength and total anthocyanin content. The acidity and alkalinity of the samples affected the stability of anthocyanin extracts drastically. The colour strength and total anthocyanin content steadily increased as the pH rose. Light exposure also influenced the stability of anthocyanin extract throughout the 70-day exposure to fluorescent light. To sum up, anthocyanin extracts from the C. nucifera are stable in a highly alkaline condition and must be stored away from light, extreme heat, and high pressure.

Assessment of certain micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Ni, and Se) in some herbal snuff stocks consumed in Sokoto, Nigeria

Aminu Umar Imam — 2023-12-31

The objective of this study was to assess the concentrations of Zn, Fe, Se, and Ni micronutrients present in some commonly consumed herbal snuffs in Sokoto, Nigeria using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The concentrations of zinc and iron metals present in brands of herbal snuff in Sokoto Nigeria reveal, the zinc concentration ranges from 0.12 ± 0.02 (recorded in DR Lambo special Sundu) to 0.33 ± 0.002 ppm (Hajiya Ayisha Snuff AK47 Blue cover), and iron ranges from 0.97 ± 0.6 (found in DR Lambo special Sundu) to 8.92 ± 0.2 ppm (AK 47). The concentrations of selenium and nickel metals in some selected snuff materials consumed in Sokoto, Nigeria reveal, the selenium concentration ranges from 0.05 ± 0.002 (Hajiya Ayisha snuff AK 47 green cover) to 0.12 ± 0.001 (revealed in Dr Lambo Herbal Powder) ppm. Nickel ranges from 0.02 ± 0.001 to 0.04 ± 0.002 ppm. All the determined elements are within safe levels when compared to World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits and are probably safe for human consumption.

Snails (Mollusca) diversity and its distribution in various type of microhabitats

Suhaila Ab Hamid — 2023-12-31

Snails have some preferences in the way they choose to inhabit and multiply in certain areas. Therefore, a study was conducted to study the microhabitats that influence snail diversity. A total of nine species of 581 snails were collected and examined comprising both terrestrial and freshwater species. The number of snails found in each habitat was significantly different across all locations except for the habitat of the living plant. The water that exists in the sampling areas was examined and only water pH was found to have a positive relationship with the number of snails, (r=0.573, P<0.05). The dissolved oxygen has a significantly negative relationship with the total number of snails collected (r=-0.776, P<0.01). Besides, the relationship between vegetation species present in the area with several snails was also studied. The Macrochlamys sp. have a significant positive relationship with vegetation species Mikania micrantha, Vigna sp. and Panicum repens, (r=0.710, P<0.01), (r=0.714, P<0.01) and (r=0.710, P<0.01), respectively. These grasses are preferred by the Macrochlamys sp. snails probably due to the high ability of the grasses to absorb nutrients from the soil and their high tolerance to herbicides. Besides, these grasses could survive throughout the year despite extreme conditions and for that reason, they can serve the nutrients that snails needed.

Back passage of haemorrhagic septicaemia (HS) vaccine seed C82 in cattle calf

Nurulaini Raimy — 2023-12-31

Haemorrhagic septicaemia (HS) is caused by Pasteurella multocida serotypes B: 2, a Gram-negative coccobacilli bacterium. It causes fatal septicaemia with high mortality in cattle and buffaloes. Disease control and prevention are by effective HS vaccination in animals. A study was conducted on one mixed breed cattle calf for back passage of haemorrhagic septicaemia (HS) seed strain C82. Prior to bacterial inoculation in the calf, Mouse Protection Test (MPT) was conducted to ensure the calf is free from any HS antibody. The calf was injected subcutaneously with 0.5 ml dilutions of 10-3 of the bacteria incubated overnight (approximately 106 CFU/ml). After ±30 hours inoculation, post-mortem was conducted on the calf showing sign of HS. Heart blood and organ samples were collected and cultured on blood agar to determine bacteria purity. Blood and organ samples were also sent to the bacteriology laboratory in VRI for confirmatory tests. The death of the calf is confirmed by re-isolation of Pasteurella multocida Type B. Heart blood collected was processed, freeze-dried and keep as vaccine seed for further usage in vaccine production. Revival of vaccine seed is needed to ensure its pathogenicity and functionality for production purposes.

Importance of small urban parks towards becoming low-carbon cities: Analyzing Malaysian policies and strategies for climate change mitigation

Siti Afiqah Mohammad Sabri — 2023-12-31

With urban expansion and densification escalating, Small Urban Parks (SUPs) have emerged as crucial components in urban landscapes, offering diverse ecosystem benefits. This paper aims to achieve two primary objectives: (i) conduct an extensive analysis of Malaysia's national climate and planning policies, evaluating their incorporation of preservation open spaces and interconnected climate change considerations, and (ii) explore sustainable strategies for SUP management, underlining their contribution to cultivating green, low-carbon urban environments. The study employs a content analysis approach to examine Malaysia's environmental policy documents, gauging their alignment with the objective of utilizing open spaces for climate change mitigation. The findings emphasize the importance of embedding SUPs in urban planning as a strategic approach to carbon sequestration and highlight the pivotal role of local authorities in realizing a carbon-neutral urban vision by 2050. Supported by robust policy frameworks and grassroots endeavors, urban green spaces, regardless of their size, can make significant strides towards a sustainable urban future.

Phytochemical analysis, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of two varieties of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. leaves

Syaliza Omar — 2023-12-31

The leaves of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) are usually used in food and traditional medicine. It also has been recognized as a source of natural antioxidants. Antioxidants are known as molecules that prevent the oxidation process caused by free radical compounds that can harm the human body. Thus, this study aims to characterize the chemical constituents found in ethanolic extracts of red roselle (RR) and white roselle (WR) leaves and determine their antioxidant activity. The phytochemical screening indicated that RR leaf extract contained phenols, tannins, saponins and steroids, while WR leaf extracts consisted of phenols, tannins and reducing sugars. The total phenolic content in RR and WR leaf extracts was 42.07 ± 0.48 mg GAE/g dry weight of leaf and 38.59 ± 1.75 mg GAE/g dry weight of leaf, respectively, while the DPPH radical scavenging activity was 85.65 ± 0.33 % and 83.49 ± 0.13 % at a concentration of 1 mg/ml for RR and WR extracts. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity showed that RR leaf extract was significantly higher than WR leaf extract. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) separation revealed a few prominent spots in both crude extracts, which were polar in nature. The TLC results can be used as preliminary data to further investigate the compounds. Characterization of the isolated crude compounds in the extracts was done using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR). The infrared spectrum exhibited the presence of hydroxyl group, carboxylic acids, alkanes, the presence of esters (-C=O) and the involvement of aromatic structure of the compound. The study demonstrated the ethanolic extract of two varieties of roselle leaf contains phytochemical constituents that could contribute to the antioxidant activity. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of herbal teas or food supplements to maintain good health. The data from this study will also provide valuable information for future research on the fractionation and purification of potential antioxidant compounds found in the extract.

Physicochemical and antioxidant properties of commercial shrimp paste in Besut market

Nurhayati Yusof — 2023-12-31

Shrimp paste is a popular traditional fermented seafood product and is used in cooking as a food seasoning. The unique taste and aromatic compounds of shrimp paste are made from the degradation of shrimp protein by salt-tolerant microorganisms. This study aims to compare the physicochemical composition and antioxidant activity content among different brands of shrimp paste at the local market. Four different samples of shrimp paste were labelled as SP1, SP2, SP3 and SP4. Sample SP1 showed the highest protein content (35.22 %) while sample SP4 contained the lowest protein (18.34 %). Sample SP4 showed significantly the highest moisture and ash content which were 39.25 % and 57.46 % respectively. The highest titratable acidity for sample SP4 (1.63 %) was significant in with accordance of high salinity content in shrimp paste. Sample SP1 was significantly higher (p<0.05) in free fatty acid which was 31.87 % while sample SP4 has the lowest which was 19.69 %. All shrimp paste samples showed water activity in the range of 0.72 – 0.76. Furthermore, the pH value for all the commercial shrimp paste samples was in the range of 7.00 – 7.32. For the colorimetric of shrimp paste, sample SP3 had a significantly higher L* value (49.08) than sample SP4 (39.33). Sample SP4 showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity which was 3.68 µmol TE/g sample. These findings provide nutritional value and information to the consumer and thus help consumers decide for their choices.

Assessment of flora diversity and population structure in Lagos-Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway, Southwestern Nigeria

Okwong John Walter — 2023-12-31

The Lagos-Shagamu-Abeokuta Expressway is a globally important biodiversity hotspot and is facing rapid loss in floristic diversity and changing patterns of vegetation due to various biotic and abiotic factors. This has necessitated the qualitative and quantitative assessment of floral diversity and population structure. The vegetation survey along this route was conducted using the systematic sampling methods. Three sample plots of 50 m x 50 m were laid in alternate side at 100m interval. In each sample plot, all living trees (with GBH at 1.3 m of trees) greater than or equal to 3 m high at midpoint were measured. A total of 4212 individuals representing 134 species, 117 genera, and 48 families were recorded. Fabaceae was the dominant family in this route with 22 species, followed by Euphorbiaceae (8 species), Apocynaceae (8 species), and Poaceae (5 species). Among genera, Senna was followed by Ficus, Terminalia, Cola, Clerodendrum, Albizia, and Alchornea. The population structure of woody species based on diameter class distribution reflected reversed J-shape. The species diversity indexes for dominance (0.02, 0.06), Simpson index value (0.97, 0.93), Shannon–Weiner (3.91, 3.25), evenness (0.59, 0.52) and Margalef (11.22, 6.15) were recorded for arboreal and non-arboreal species respectively. Results obtained revealed high diversity of woody species in the vegetation along this route. The non-arboreal species along this route is threatened by continuous animal grazing, intensification of commercialized farming and invasive species. The information on tree species structure and function can provide baseline information for the conservation of the biodiversity of the tropical forest in this area.

Determinant of Extension Agent’s Skills Towards Work Performance As Perceived By Productive Cocoa Farmers In Malaysia

Norizatulshima Ibrahim — 2023-12-31

Work performance refers to the outcome or behaviour exhibited by extension agents (EA) to perform certain job activities over a specific period. Using Transfer of Technology (ToT) and Human Resources Development (HRD) competencies, the work performance (WP) of EAs was assessed. This research aimed to determine which skills, contribute the most towards WP of EAs perceived by productive cocoa farmers (PCF) in Malaysia and determine the most performed EA between areas. This study derived from the Iceberg Model of competencies and employed quantitative methods with a well-structured questionnaire. A sample of 353 and 315 PCFs, for the Peninsular and East Malaysia, respectively, who have attended two training programs exposed by EA and have cultivated cocoa for five to seven years. The respondents were chosen through a multi-stage sampling method. Descriptive and multiple regression analyses were used. The results revealed that social, leadership, technical, and decision-making support skills from Peninsular Malaysia have significantly contributed to the WP. Social skill is the factor that contributes the most to the WP of EA in Peninsular Malaysia. For East Malaysia, only three skills, namely, decision-making support, technical, and leadership skills contributed to WP significantly. Decision-making support skill is the highest contributing skill to WP of EA in East Malaysia. Then, the EA in Peninsular Malaysia performed better than Eastern Malaysia because the R2 value for Peninsular Malaysia is greater than the of Eastern Malaysia, which is 0.637 and 0.521, respectively. In conclusion, MCB agency may focus on relevant skills by area to improve the WP of their EA.