VRU Research and Development Journal Science and Technology

FORMULATION OF AN INCENSE CONTAINING Molineria latifolia Herb. ex Kurz FOR THE TREATMENT OF VAGINAL DISCHARGE IN REPRODUCTIVE-AGE WOMEN AND ITS ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study was aimed to investigate antioxidant activity and develop a suitable incense formulation containing Molineria latifolia Herb. ex Kurz for alleviating vaginal discharge symptoms in reproductive-age women. The active ingredients were extracted from the herbal incense formulation including Molineria latifolia Herb. ex Kurz, Zingiber montanum (J.Koenig) Link ex A. Dietr., Curcuma longa L., Citrus hystrix DC., Curcuma aromatica Salisb., Acorus calamus L., Curcuma zedoaria (Christm.) Roscoe, Areca catechu L., Alyxia schlechteri H. Lev., Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. and Styrax tonkinensis Craib ex Hartwich, using 95% ethanol as the solvent. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging method. The incense formulation was developed to be suitable for use in sitting charcoal based on the quality assessment criteria adapted from the Community Product Standard (TCPS 181/2003) and Thai Industrial Standard for incense sticks (TIS 2345-2007). The study results showed that the herbal incense formulation exhibited antioxidant activity with an EC₅₀ value of 30.37 ± 1.46 µg/ml. The development of the incense formulation containing Molineria Latifolia Herb. Ex Kurz was carried out by comparing the adhesion, combustion, smoke, and temperature of pyramid-shaped, spindle-shaped, and gourd-shaped incense. It was found that the spindle-shaped incense demonstrated the most favorable qualities: strong adhesion without cracks, forming a uniform structure, consistent combustion as well as straight and continuously smoke. Temperature measurements of the spindle-shaped incense burning for 0, 10, 20, and 30 minutes were found their consistency of 73.80 ± 11.48, 136.23 ± 12.73, 113.53 ± 29.23, and 39.87 ± 1.89 °C, respectively. These findings could support further investigation into the effectiveness of this herbal incense formulation for alleviating vaginal discharge symptoms in reproductive-age women and provide a foundation for future commercial product development.

INFORMATION SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT FOR MANAGING DATA ON INDIVIDUALS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aimed to 1) develop an information system to manage data of students with learning disabilities; 2) examine the efficiency of the developed information system, and
3) evaluate the users’ satisfaction with the system. The population included personnel who took charge of the learning-disability students in 144 schools under the Lopburi Primary Educational Service Area Office 1. The research samples were personnel who has taken charge of learning-disability students in the seven leading schools under the Lopburi Primary Educational Service Area Office 1. They were selected through purposive sampling. Research instruments included 1) information system for managing data on students with learning disabilities, 2) an evaluation form for the efficient system, 3) an assessment form for comparing the efficiency between the previous and the latest system, and 4) users’ satisfaction assessment form. Data were analyzed using mean ( ), and standard deviation (S.D.).

The findings showed as follows: First, an information system for managing data on students with learning disability was successfully developed. Secondly, the overall efficiency of the information system was rated at the highest level ( = 4.89, S.D.= 0.09), which was approved by the experts. Thirdly, the latest developed information system demonstrated significantly greater efficiency than the previous system at the highest level ( = 4.91, S.D. = 0.16). In addition, fourthly, the users had the highest level of satisfaction with the system ( = 4.91, S.D. = 0.11), indicating its suitability for implementation in the organization.

A STUDY OF FACTORS INFLUENCING HOTEL MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT THROUGH THE APPLICATION OF SMART MAINTENANCE TECHNOLOGIES: A CASE STUDY OF HOTELS IN PHUKET PROVINCE

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study was aimed to examine factors influencing the implementation of maintenance systems in the hotel industry. The data was collected from members of Southern Region Engineering Management and Skill Development Association. A research tool was the validated questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.8730. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression. The research results were revealed that corporate planning, organizing, leading organization, and controlling significantly and high impacted maintenance operations employing the regression model which explained the variance in system effectiveness at 71.50%. Key predictors included efficient resource management, use of technology-based performance indicators, integration of Internet of Things (IoT) or Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, continuously technological training, fostering collaborative work attitudes, data-driven problem analysis, efficient time management of maintenance, maintenance scheduling based on technological data analytics, and technology-based readiness and risk assessment. These research insights could be applied as guidelines for developing a sustainable and resource-efficient maintenance system of hotel industry.

HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF RESPIRATORY EXPOSURE TO FINE PARTICULATE MATTER (PM2.5) AMONG AKHA ETHNIC LABOR GROUPS IN CHIANG RAI PROVINCE

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study was aimed to investigate personal factors, knowledge regarding particulate matter PM_2.5, the factors associated with such knowledge, as well as to assess the health risks from respiratory exposure to PM _2.5 among Akha ethnic laborers in Chiang Rai Province. Data were collected from 360 participants using a stratified sampling method based on the area proportions and then using simple random sampling. The data were gathered through questionnaires and PM _2.5 concentration levels obtained from the Air4Thai application of the Pollution Control Department. Descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used to analyze the data, while inferential statistics were analyzed using the Chi-Square test.

The results of the study showed that most of the participants were female (58.30%) with an average age between 27–35 years (29.70%). Most respondents demonstrated
a moderate level of knowledge regarding PM2.5 (55.30%). Statistically significant factors associated with PM_2.5knowledge (p < 0.05) included age, educational level, and monitoring news issues related to PM_2.5. The average PM_2.5concentration at 0.0761 mg/m³ with a standard deviation of 0.046 including the hazard quotient of 2.04 ± 1.15 could indicate a moderate health risk level. Therefore, it was recommended to promote knowledge about PM_2.5 by considering factors in terms of age and educational level, encouraging those to monitor PM_2.5 news as well as continuously being aware of respiratory symptoms among the local population.

DEVELOPMENT OF A DIGITAL DATABASE SYSTEM TO ENHANCE MANAGEMENT EFFICIENCY FOR CASSAVA FARMERS IN LOEI PROVINCE

Sunksun Lapunt, Sujitranan Mungklachaiya — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Cassava is a significant economic crop in Loei Province, with a production value of 1,506.69 million baht, cultivated across 178,639.72 rai. However, cassava farmers continue to face challenges such as limited knowledge in enhancing productivity, absence of systematic digital databases, and failure to record production costs, resulting in inefficient production management that adversely impacts farmers' income. This research aims to: 1) develop a digital database system for cassava farmers in Loei Province; 2) evaluate the system's effectiveness in enhancing farm management efficiency; and 3) assess user satisfaction with the system for improving production and farm management. The system was developed as a web application using PHP, Bootstrap Framework, and MySQL database management system. Expert evaluation by five specialists yielded an overall mean score of 4.38 (SD = 0.31), indicating the highest performance level. User satisfaction assessment by 60 farmers showed an overall mean score of 4.49 (SD = 0.54), also at the highest level.

The findings demonstrate that the developed digital database system exhibits high performance and achieves the highest level of user satisfaction. The system can be effectively implemented to enhance farm management efficiency for cassava farmers in Loei Province.

CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP MODEL OF PREDISPOSING, ENABLING AND REINFORCING FACTORS ON DISEASE PREVENTION BEHAVIORS AND OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES OF GARBAGE COLLECTORS IN CHACHOENGSAO PROVINCE

Amornrat Dokmaikaw, Wanlop Jaidee, Danai Bawornkiattikul — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The objectives of the current study were to develop a causal relationship model of predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors on disease prevention behaviors and occupational injuries of garbage collectors as well as examine the consistency of developed model with empirical data. A Cross-sectional analytic study was used. The research sample consisted of 382 garbage collectors working under Chachoengsao Municipality. The sample size was calculated using the G*Power program and multistage sampling was employed. The research instruments were questionnaires with confident value at 0.703-0.771. To analyze Structural Equation Model (SEM), LISREL was employed. The research results indicated that the developed model was consistent with the empirical data with Chi- Square = 68.83, df= 55, Relative Chi-Square = 1.251, p = 0.09958, RMSEA = 0.026, SRMR = 0.0269, CFI = 0.993, GFI = 0.976, AGFI = 0.954, NFI = 0.967. All variables of the model were accounted for 46.4 % of variance for disease prevention behaviors and occupational injuries. Predisposing factors had a direct effect on disease prevention behaviors and occupational injuries. Enabling factors and reinforcing factors had both direct and indirect effects on disease prevention behaviors and occupational injuries via Predisposing factors. The research findings could be effectively designed to promote predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors, in order to reduce occupational diseases and injuries of Garbage collectors.

DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS’ ENROLLMENT CONFIRMATION PREDICTION SUPPORT SYSTEM APPLYING DEEP LEARNING TECHNIQUES: A CASE STUDY OF FACULTY OF SCIENCE, UBON RATCHATHANI UNIVERSITY

Supawadee Hiranpongsin, Pattadon Jaisin, Phaichayon Kongchai — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The process of selecting and confirming enrollment in higher education institutions is crucial. However, inefficient management of enrollment confirmation data led to inaccuracies in new student admission planning. This research aimed to 1) design and develop a prediction support system for enrollment confirmation and 2) evaluate the effectiveness of the developed system. The developed system leveraged a deep learning model, specifically a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) which was trained employing students’ admissions data from the Faculty of Science at Ubon Ratchathani University for the academic years 2018–2021. The system's effectiveness was then evaluated by purposively research sample comprising 15 faculty members (lecturers) and 5 admissions officers employing a satisfaction survey. The research results were found that the developed system featuring seven core functionalities: 1) overview report viewing 2) school-specific report viewing 3) rights-based report viewing 4) individual prediction 5) prediction using data files 6) user management and 7) student data management. User feedback indicated a high level of satisfaction, with a mean score of 4.49 (SD = 0.48). However, the study is subject to certain limitations. The integrated model possessed
a moderately predictive accuracy of 63.27%. In addition, the user evaluation was conducted with a small sample size. Despite these constraints, the developed system remained a valuable tool for the Faculty of Science in terms of efficiently supporting decision-making and proactive planning for student recruitment.

FORECASTING LABOR DEMAND OF THAILAND UTILIZING BASIC MOVING AVERAGE AND EXPONENTIAL SMOOTHING TECHNIQUES

Orawan Suebsen — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study objectives were to 1) develop a model for forecasting Thailand's labor demand, 2) compare forecasting models utilizing basic moving average method and basic exponential smoothing techniques and 3) forecast Thailand's labor demand in August 2022. The forecast in the current study was carried out employing monthly time series data from January 2017 to July 2022, totaling 67 data points. The data were divided into two sets: The first set comprised 60 data points being collected from January 2017 to December 2021 and being used for developing the forecasting models. The second set comprised 7 data points being collected from January to July 2022 and being used for evaluating the accuracy of the models. The Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) was employed as the criterion for comparing the performance of the forecasting models.

The findings of this study indicate that the simple moving average method demonstrates superior forecasting accuracy, with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 8.2243, which is lower than that obtained from the simple exponential smoothing method. This result suggests that the simple moving average approach is more appropriate for forecasting labor demand in Thailand. Moreover, the forecast estimated that the labor demand in August 2022 amounted to 40,516 persons, thereby underscoring the potential applicability of this method in enhancing labor force planning and informing evidence-based policy formulation.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT MODEL FOR THE ESTUARY COASTAL COMMUNITY IN BAN KOH KHIAM, KANTANGTAI SUB-DISTRICT, KANTANG DISTRICT, TRANG PROVINCE

Puttipong Boonchu, Narong Bensa-ard — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This action research aimed to 1) create the solid waste management model for the estuarine coastal community in Ban Koh Khiam and 2) study the results of the solid waste management model. The research target groups were 35 members of the waste management implementation group and 252 households’ representatives. Stratified sampling and simple random sampling, which were applied on the health assembly process, were employed. The research tools consisted of questionnaires which had reliability values between 0.87-0.92, performance recording forms, and in-depth interviews. Data was analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and paired t-test statistics. The research results showed that, firstly, the solid waste management model consisted of 12 activities, namely, 1) Organizing training on waste management, 2) Making garbage bags from fishing nets, 3) Following up and communicating via LINE, 4) Dropping waste using students' cars; 5) Shops and customers helping reduce plastic, 6) Cleanliness with Islam, 7) Protecting Koh Khiam with our own hands, 8) Collecting waste together based on the zone groups, 9) Fishermen bringing waste back to the shore, 10) The most beautiful house competition, 11) Arresting and fining those who throw waste in public and 12) Organizing a schedule for waste collection in the community. The second research result related to the use of solid waste management model of household representatives showed that, firstly, the amount of solid waste collected by the Subdistrict Administrative Organization was decreased, with statistical significance at the 0.05 level. Secondly, the average participation rate increased from 36.50 to 44.99, and the average score of solid waste management behavior increased from 43.51 to 48.57, both with statistical significance at the 0.05 level.

DEVELOPMENT OF A LIBRARY BOOK RECOMMENDATION SYSTEM BY ANALYZING USERS’ BEHAVIORS EMPLOYING THE FP-GROWTH ALGORITHM AND USER PROFILE

Karn Sappasan, Wongkot Sriurai — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aimed to generate accurate association rules from library borrowing and returning data using the FP-Growth algorithm, to develop a library book recommendation system using the FP-Growth algorithm combined with user profile data, and to study user evaluation with the book recommendation system. The data used to generate association rules were derived from the borrowing and returning history of Ubon Ratchathani University Library during the academic years 2018 – 2022, totaling 6,630 records. These records were processed to generate association rules using the FP-Growth algorithm via the Weka program, with the confidence level of the rules set at 85%. The research consisted of six main steps: (1) data collection, (2) data preparation, (3) generation of association rules using FP-Growth, (4) creation of user profiles for association rule matching, (5) development of the book recommendation system, and (6) evaluation of user satisfaction. The results showed that the association rules generated using FP-Growth could be effectively applied to develop a book recommendation system, helping to suggest books that are likely to match students’ interests. The evaluation of the recommendation system demonstrated a precision of 73.06%, a recall of 85.60%, and an overall F1-score of 78.67%. Furthermore, the user satisfaction assessment of the system usage by forty students, using a questionnaire, showed that the students had an overall satisfaction mean at the highest level ( = 4.77, SD. = 0.32). Based on the satisfaction assessment results, it can be concluded that the developed system is effective and can be practically implemented.

EFFECTS OF COMPOST ON MORPHOLOGY AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to compare the morphology and biological activities of Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. grown in compost-amended and non-amended soils. The soil was improved using a developed compost consisting of dry leaves, manure, and raw rice husks at a ratio of 3:1:1. Soil preparation involved mixing soil with compost, raw rice husks, and rice husk charcoal at a ratio of 2:1:2:1. B. rotunda seedlings were then planted in both compost-amended and non-amended plots. Morphological characteristics were recorded, and the content of bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, and antibacterial activity were evaluated.

The results revealed that B. rotunda plants grown in compost-amended soil exhibited darker green leaves compared to those grown in non-amended soil. Additionally, plants in amended soil showed greater average height, larger rhizome size, and higher rhizome yield than those in non-amended soil. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis revealed similar compound bands in samples from both soil treatments; however, the band intensity was higher in B. rotunda from compost-amended soil. Furthermore, the Panduratin A content in B. rotunda from amended soil (0.71 g/100 g) was significantly higher than that from non-amended soil
(0.58 g/100 g). Regarding biological activities, extracts from B. rotunda grown in compost-amended soil demonstrated superior antioxidant activity compared to those from non-amended soil. Both extracts exhibited inhibitory effects against Streptococcus mutans.

The results indicated that the compost affected the growth and biological activities of Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. This information was useful for the cultivation development of Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. to produce future medications.

ASSESSMENT OF LOCAL WISDOM POTENTIAL IN ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPE DESIGN FOR ENHANCING THE AGRO-ECOSYSTEM OF MUANG KHONG BASIN COMMUNITY, CHIANG DAO DISTRICT, CHIANG MAI PROVINCE

Aumpika Amloy — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aimed to assess the potential of local wisdom in ecological landscape design to enhance agro-ecosystem resilience in the Muang Khong Basin community, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Province. The study examined three key dimensions: (1) natural resource management (water, soil, and forests), (2) economic and social impacts, and (3) development strategies and advancement of local wisdom. A qualitative research methodology was employed, with data collected between September and December 2024 through in-depth interviews and field surveys. The sample comprised 36 participants, including six community leaders and 30 residents, selected using purposive and quota sampling methods. Research instruments included semi-structured interview guides, spatial data survey forms, and a potential assessment framework.

The findings revealed that: (1) In natural resource management, the community demonstrated high potential in water and forest management through traditional irrigation systems (Muang Fai) and community forest conservation. However, soil management remained at a moderate level due to residual chemical contamination. (2) Regarding economic and social impacts, the community's overall potential was moderate. While reliance on natural resources enhanced food security, agricultural income and revenue from local wisdom-based products remained unstable due to inefficient market channels. Nevertheless, community participation in resource management remained high, although knowledge transfer to younger generations showed a declining trend as youth increasingly pursued non-agricultural careers. (3) In terms of development strategies and advancement of local wisdom, the community faced limitations in budget and technology. Overall potential ranged from moderate to high, with strength in preserving local wisdom and successfully integrating traditional knowledge with modern ecological landscape design concepts. However, the community continued to face constraints in budget allocation, technology access, and policy support, which are essential for long-term development.

QUANTIFICATION OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS IN CRUDE EXTRACTS FROM DIFFERENT PARTS OF Nerium oleander L., AND THEIR ANTIOXIDANT, TYROSINASE INHIBITORY, XANTHINE OXIDASE INHIBITORY, AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITIES

Napattaorn Buachoon — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Nerium oleander L. is a plant from the Apocynaceae family traditionally used in herbal medicine; however, comprehensive studies on the bioactivities of all plant parts remain limited. This study aimed to determine the total phenolic and flavonoid contents and to compare the bioactivities of crude extracts obtained from the leaves, flowers, and stems of N. oleander. Extraction was performed using 95% ethanol through maceration. The results revealed that the flower extract exhibited the highest levels of total phenolics and flavonoids, along with the strongest bioactivities across all assays. Specifically, the flower extract demonstrated potent antioxidant activity, tyrosinase inhibitory activity, xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity, and antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Salmonella typhimurium, performing better than the leaf and stem extracts, with activities comparable to those of the standard references. These findings suggest that N. oleander flower extracts demonstrate high potential for development as natural antioxidants, tyrosinase inhibitors for skin-conditioning products, xanthine oxidase inhibitors for gout treatment, and antimicrobial agents. Nevertheless, product development from N. oleander must carefully address safety concerns, as the plant contains highly toxic cardiac glycosides. Further studies on compound isolation and clinical safety evaluations are warranted to support future applications.

PROTOTYPE GINGER SLICING MACHINE WITH PARAMETER CONTROL FOR IMPROVED PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY

Yotsawat Jantana — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aimed to design and develop a ginger slicing machine with appropriate parameter control suitable for the Tid-Mai-Tid-Mue Community Enterprise. The study employed the principles of Design of Experiment (DoE) using a 2^k Full Factorial Design to investigate the factors affecting the machine's performance. The experimental results revealed that the coefficient of determination (R-sq) was 99.61% and the adjusted R-sq was 98.23%, indicating excellent model fit. A two-tailed hypothesis test was conducted with the null hypothesis H₀: = 78.63 and the alternative hypothesis H₁: ≠ 78.63. The P-value was 0.809 at a significance level of 0.05 indicated that the results followed a normal distribution and met statistical validity requirements. A performance evaluation comparing manual slicing with the developed ginger slicing machine showed that manual labor required 486 seconds to slice 3 kilograms of ginger, whereas the developed machine achieved an 80.38% reduction in processing time, completing the same task in approximately 95 seconds. Implementation of the machine significantly reduced labor workload, production costs, and operator fatigue while increasing productivity. Additionally, it contributed to the enhancement of herbal product processing to better meet market and community enterprise demands.

A STUDY ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF A PROTOTYPE FOR PLAI HERBAL AEROSOL SPRAY

Siwapong Tansuwanwong, Manthana Kham-ai, Nissara Chaiwong, Teeranan Tananchai — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The objectives of this research were to 1) study and develop the formula of the product prototype for Plai aerosol spray and 2) study the physical and microbial properties of product prototype. Developing formula and proportion of Plai oil and propellant was appropriately carried out using trial-and-error method. Then physical properties of the product prototype were determined including color, odor, viscosity, pH value and skin-pathogenic microbial contamination. The results of the study showed that the Plai oil formula for preparing Plai aerosol spray consisted of two components including, firstly, Plai essential oil and Plai oil and secondly, coconut oil, borneol, camphor and menthol. When two components were mixed, they would be packaged in a 100-milliliter aerosol spray can. The proportion of drug and butane gas used as the propellant was 40% each and another 20% was an empty space. It was the appropriate proportion for mixing before spraying aerosol. When Plai aerosol spray was tested, it showed non-sticky texture. The average number of sprays was 69.00±1.48 times per can and each spray provided an average dosage of 1.05±0.05 milliliters. The physical properties of product prototype exhibited light-yellow color and a subtle fragrance of Plai with a viscosity of 20cST and a pH of 3.95±0.01. In addition, microbial contamination was checked immediately after packaging and when the spray was stored at room temperature for 3 and 6 months, respectively. It was found that there was no contamination with skin pathogenic microorganisms of yeast and mold, total bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Clostridium spp. The results of this study gained a prototype of a Plai aerosol spray with the suitable proportion for filling into spray can. It was able to relieve muscle pain more conveniently than using Plai oil in liquid form. It also penetrated the skin more easily than liquid form. Therefore, it was an opportunity to develop Plai aerosol spray for healthcare and promote the benefit of Plai herb.

DEVELOPMENT OF BANANA PSEUDOSTEM FIBER-BASED FAUX LEATHER FOR CREATIVE COMMUNITY PRODUCT DESIGN IN PHETCHABUN PROVINCE

Nirut khantaree, Thanet Ruangdech, Krisana Ketkham — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Natural fiber-based faux leather has emerged as a sustainable alternative to synthetic leather but continues to face limitations in strength and flexibility. This research aimed to: (1) develop banana pseudostem fiber-reinforced natural rubber-based faux leather for creative community product design; (2) investigate the mechanical properties of the developed material to determine its suitability for product development; and (3) design and develop consumer-oriented products using banana pseudostem-based faux leather. Banana pseudostem fibers sourced from farming communities in Phetchabun Province were processed and blended with natural rubber at ratios of 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 phr (parts per hundred rubber) to form composite faux leather sheets for material characterization and prototype development. The results demonstrated that the developed material possessed a smooth surface, appropriate flexibility, and sufficient strength while being producible from local agricultural waste, thereby adding value and generating supplementary income for local farmers. Mechanical property testing revealed that the 10 phr formulation exhibited optimal performance, increasing hardness from 36.30 to 70.20 Shore A and achieving maximum tear resistance of 38.90 N/mm, while maintaining desirable flexibility and aesthetic quality. These findings confirm that banana pseudostem fiber can effectively function as a natural reinforcing agent in natural rubber and has potential as a viable substitute for other natural fibers. Three bag prototypes were developed from the optimized material: Shopping Bag, Trapeze Bag, and Semicircle Clutch Bag. Consumer satisfaction evaluation revealed very high levels across all aspects, with the Shopping Bag receiving the highest overall mean score of 4.51 (p < 0.05), demonstrating statistically significant superiority. These results highlight the potential of banana pseudostem-based faux leather as an eco-friendly creative material that responds to the demands of younger consumers while adding value to local agricultural residues and supporting sustainable community-based economic development.

PROCESS IMPROVEMENT USING THE 5W1H TECHNIQUE COMBINED WITH ECRS PRINCIPLES: A CASE STUDY OF CHILI SORTING AND PACKING

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aimed to study the chili sorting and packing process at the Ban Sri Thong Safe Vegetable Community Enterprise and to improve its efficiency by applying the 5W1H technique combined with ECRS principles. The study commenced with problem analysis using fishbone diagrams and flow process charts, followed by data analysis to identify process improvement approaches. Process improvements included simplifying the chili stem removal step, eliminating the inspection step, combining bagging and weighing operations, and rearranging the work sequence. These improvements reduced the number of process steps from 13 to 9 (a 30.77% reduction), decreased working time from 9,493 to 7,906 seconds (a 16.72% reduction), and reduced working distance from 13 to 11 meters (a 15.38% reduction) per 80 kilograms of sorted and packed chilies. Additionally, employee satisfaction evaluation revealed the highest satisfaction level with the improved process, particularly regarding reduced travel distance and waiting time. These findings demonstrate that the improved process effectively addresses operational challenges and is well-suited to the context of community enterprises requiring both flexibility and operational efficiency.

FACTORS INFLUENCING SERVICE QUALITY OF LOGISTICS PROVIDERS IN THAILAND

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This quantitative research aimed to examine the factors influencing the service quality of logistics providers in Thailand by analyzing direct and indirect factors as well as causal relationships affecting customer satisfaction. The study focused on two major logistics service providers: Kerry Express and Flash Express. The research framework integrates the dimensions of service quality (SERVQUAL) and the marketing mix (5Ps). The Research data were collected through online questionnaires and analyzed using IBM SPSS and IBM AMOS 24 through structural equation modeling (SEM). The model indicated limited overall fit (χ²/df = 11.24, RMSEA = 0.143, CFI = 0.354, TLI = 0.272), yet several path coefficients were statistically significant. Service quality demonstrated a strong positive effect on customer satisfaction (β = 0.50), while the marketing mix also showed a moderate positive effect (β = 0.25).

The research results revealed that cost, including both the price and the service fees, was identified as the most important factors driving customers to select a logistics provider. Consumers need the good value, timeliness and safety of goods during transit. In addition, trust, customer assurance, and tangibility were found to directly influence customer satisfaction, particularly in after-sale service, for instance, handling lost or damaged parcels promptly.

The study concludes that the service quality is an antecedent of customer satisfaction and represents an important area on which logistics services providers should focus to improve their business strategies and to achieve competitive advantage.

DEVELOPING A CHATBOT SYSTEM FOR UNIVERSITY WEBSITE USING LARGE LANGUAGE MODELS AND RETRIEVAL-AUGMENTED GENERATION VIA FLOWISE PLATFORM

Kritpawit Soongswang, Thanaporn Patikorn, Ekachai Naowanich — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aimed to develop a chatbot system for a university website using Large Language Models (LLMs) and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) techniques via the Flowise platform, which simplifies chatbot development through low-code/no-code concepts. The data utilized for development were obtained from the university website and various course catalogs, stored as text files and vector embeddings in a Postgres database with pgvector extension, while conversation histories were recorded in MongoDB. The development process comprised data preparation, embedding model configuration, document store setup, and chatflow design to create a chatbot capable of answering queries related to the university and its academic programs. The system underwent qualitative testing and evaluation, revealing that most responses were accurate and appropriate. However, some incomplete or inaccurate responses were attributed to suboptimal data management and configuration settings.

Overall performance evaluation indicated that the chatbot successfully answered most inquiries, particularly those concerning university history, administrative structure, and contact information. Nevertheless, the system encountered difficulties in providing complete and accurate information for certain queries, such as comprehensive lists of academic programs within faculties. This study demonstrates the potential of the Flowise platform in streamlining chatbot development by reducing both time requirements and technical complexity, while also providing valuable guidance for implementing AI technologies in educational institutions.