ABSTRACT
Antimicrobial biocompatible polymers have highly desirable materials in medical technology to prevent any healthcare-associated infections from the in-dwelling on medical device that could pose a risk to patients, and this is gaining attention particularly in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, ester free type of poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) derivatives containing cinnamyl group has been synthesized. Also, several of alcohol-based initiators;benzyl alcohol, 2,2-dimethyl-1-propanol, 4-(2-hydroxyethoxy) benzaldehyde and 2-(p-tolyloxy)ethan-1-ol and polymer structure has been designed and analyzed its molecular weight on thermal and physical properties effect. The homopolymers and copolymers of PTMC derivatives with cinnamyl group had achieved with molecular weight up to 7400 — 12,300 g/mol with the improved physical state and glass transition temperature, Tg at 8 ֩C respectively. Different types of essential oil, which is thymol and carvacrol, have been incorporated with cinnamyl PTMC had resulted the suppression of E.coli and S.aureus growth. The results showed a promising of introduction of cinnamyl derivatives into ester free-type of PTMC derivatives, as well as create more alcohol-initiators for polymerization of trimethylene carbonate, for more advanced development in the future. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.
ABSTRACT
Initiatives for marine conservation are funded by revenue from marine sites. However, the emergence of COVID-19 has restricted travelling, thus leading to decreased revenue and weakening conservation efforts. Virtual reality technology to support marine conservation efforts is explored as it allows users to experience marine sites, without having to be there physically. This study examines factors influencing users' desire to adopt virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism. With the integration of Stimulus-Organism-Response framework and three behavioural theories (i.e. health belief model, attitude, and eTrust), a hypothetical model was constructed to investigate consumers' intention to adopt virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism amidst the pandemic. The data were analysed and interpreted using structural equation modelling after 451 survey responses were obtained via an online questionnaire. Outcome expectation, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, self-efficacy, and cues to action exhibit significant positive effects on attitude towards virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism. Consequently, attitude has a direct and indirect influence on use intention via eTrust. Post hoc analysis revealed that self-efficacy has a direct impact on eTrust and use intention. Total effect analysis further concluded that attitude has the greatest influence on use intention of virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism. This research contributes to the existing literature by utilizing health belief factors to explain use intention of technology towards marine conservation efforts. Recommendations including policy formulation and marketing initiatives were generated for marine ecotourism operators and policymakers. © 2022 Elsevier Ltd