Current Science and Technology (CST) is an open access, peer-reviewed journal, published by Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Press. The journal publishes reviews, critical insight, features, commentary, communications and original research articles with the theme to promote science and technology.
Isolation and identification of latex-degrading bacteria
Latex-degrading bacteria have contrasting potential to offer sustainable waste biodegradation solutions while simultaneously threatening manufacturing productivity, product shelf-life, and overall quality. This study aimed to isolate, identify, and characterize latex-degrading bacteria to achieve a deeper understanding of their degradation abilities. Bacterial strains were isolated from raw latex and soil samples from the Bukit Kuantan Research Station of the Malaysia Rubber Board using latex-overlay agar and a three-quadrant streaking method to yield single colonies. Identification was carried out using conventional biochemical methods, including Gram staining, catalase testing, and Indole, Methyl Red, Voges-Proskauer, and Indole, Methyl Red, Voges-Proskauer, and Citrate (IMViC) tests, alongside Sanger DNA sequencing. To characterize degradation activity, liquid natural latex was incubated with the isolated bacteria for seven days at 37 °C. The resulting molecular and physical changes were quantified using (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) FTIR spectroscopy, total solid content (TSC), and DRC analyses. A total of 10 distinct bacterial colonies exhibiting clearing zones on the latex overlay were selected for identification. Morphological and biochemical screening determined that six isolates were Gram-negative and four were Gram-positive, while all 10 isolates uniformly tested catalase-positive and indole-negative. Further identification of two out of ten bacterial isolates by Sanger sequencing identified as Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus and Stenotrophomonas geniculata. FTIR analysis verified successful latex degradation, displaying extra minor peaks of C-C and C-O stretching compared to the untreated negative control. Degradation was further validated by physical measurements, which resulted in reduced post-degradation TSC and DRC values of 20.64% and 16.61%, respectively. The study successfully isolated ten bacterial strains from raw latex and soil, and confirmed the specific latex-degrading capacities through comprehensive biochemical, molecular, and physical characterization.
Copyright (c) 2026 The Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Mechanistic insights into antibacterial and antioxidant bacterial cellulose films functionalized with Vitex negundo extract
As the life sciences embrace sustainability, biocompatible and biodegradable materials with minimal ecological footprints are emerging as key enablers in various applications. Addressing the growing demand for sustainable and functional biomaterials, this study investigated how the incorporation of Vitex negundo (VN) extract influences the structural, chemical, and functional characteristics of alginate–bacterial cellulose (AB) films especially its antibacterial and antioxidant potential. AB films were prepared with varying concentrations of VN extract (0.25% and 0.5%). Physical characterization was performed through thickness measurement and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The antibacterial potential was evaluated through the inhibition zone method, while the antioxidant potential was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The findings contribute to the design of plant-extract-functionalized biopolymer films, underscoring the importance of extract concentration optimization. The results support the potential of VN–BC films as bioactive materials for various applications, while highlighting directions for future studies on mechanical stability, release kinetics, and industrial scalability.
Copyright (c) 2025 The Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
In-silico analysis of associated chitinolytic enzyme structures from aquatic bacteria
Chitin is a naturally occurring polymer composed of two monomeric units and exists in three forms, namely α-, β-, and γ-chitin, which differ in their structural arrangement. Chitinolytic enzymes, known as chitinases, degrade chitin into low-molecular-weight products called chitooligomers. Extremophilic chitinases have attracted considerable interest due to their ability to function under extreme environmental conditions, making them advantageous for various industrial and biotechnological applications. In this study, an in-silico analysis was performed to identify putative extremophilic candidates of GH18 chitinases at various aquatic environmental adaptations, including halophilic, thermophilic, psychrophilic, and piezophilic characteristics, were considered during BLASTp screening. Five putative candidates were selected for further analysis: Colwellia sp. D2M02 (WP_215980056.1), Thalassomonas viridans (WP_084724197.1), Bacillus thuringiensis (WP_09832960.1), Brevibacillus formosus (WP_21966082.1), and Bacillus toyonensis (WP_098644165.1). To investigate the relationships among these candidates, analyses including primary structure characterization, multiple sequence alignment and protein domain prediction, and phylogenetic tree construction were performed. Physicochemical analyses provided insights into their chemical properties. Secondary structure prediction was carried out using RaptorX, while tertiary structure models were generated using SWISS-MODEL, RaptorX, and I-TASSER. The generated 3D models were subsequently validated using PROCHECK and Verify3D to determine the most reliable structural models. Overall, the selected putative candidates are expected to be promising for industrial-scale chitinase production due to their ability to withstand multiple extreme environmental conditions, indicating their potential as polyextremophilic enzymes.
Physicochemical properties, rheological properties and sensory evaluation of bread prepared from different flour formulations
The rise in the price of wheat flour has caused an increase in manufacturing costs. Partial wheat flour substitution in bread formulations with local ingredients like rice flour and glutinous rice flour is one of the methods to cope with wheat shortage, reduce wheat dependency and wheat price increment problems. The objectives of this study are to investigate the physicochemical, rheological properties of dough and consumer acceptance by using different bread formulations. The relationship between the physicochemical properties of breads, rheological properties of bread and consumer acceptances were studied. The bread was from different flour formulations which were F1 (wheat flour), F2 (20% wheat flour substitution with rice flour) and F3 (20% wheat flour substitution with glutinous rice flour). Physicochemical properties involving pH and TTA were done on both dough and bread while colour and baking loss measurement was done on bread only. Proximate analysis was done by using the bread. In addition, rheological properties were also tested by using dough. The breads for all formulations did not show significant difference in the parameter tested such as the dough pH (p=0.952) and bread pH (p=0.859) respectively (p>0.05). For sensory evaluation, consumer acceptance towards all three bread samples were similar for the attributes including colour, aroma, taste, texture and overall acceptance (p>0.05). The physicochemical, rheological properties and consumer acceptances were similar within these breads. Therefore, this research can further study by substituting higher portions of wheat flour with locally produced flours such as rice flour and glutinous rice flour.
Immobilization of Kluyveromyces lactis for xylose production using different lignocellulosic materials as carbon sources
Lignocellulosic biowaste is a renewable and abundant resource with significant potential for the production of value-added products such as xylose which is a major intermediary in the biofuel, bioplastic, and pharmaceutical sectors. However, problems such as inefficient bioconversion and instability of free-cell fermentation systems limit its industrial application. This research investigates the use of immobilized recombinant Kluyveromyces lactis for xylose production using various lignocellulosic biowastes such as sugarcane bagasse, corn stover, rice straw, oil palm fronds, and banana leaves. The biowastes were washed, dried, ground, and pre-treated with 1% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution. K. lactis cells were cultivated in yeast peptone dextrose (YPD) medium and immobilized in 2% sodium alginate beads cross-linked with 0.1 M calcium chloride (CaCl2). Fermentation was carried out at 30 °C and 150 rpm for 24 hours using 1 g of pre-treated biomass and immobilized yeast beads in 100 mL of YPD medium. Reducing sugar concentration was determined using the dinitro salicylic acid (DNS) method, while yeast growth and pH changes were monitored. Results demonstrated that immobilized K. lactis could produce xylose production across all biowaste types, with sugarcane bagasse and corn stover yielding the highest reducing sugar concentrations. However, a further optimization is needed to increase the enzyme production from the immobilized cell systems. The findings highlight a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach for improving industrial xylose production through K. lactis immobilization on lignocellulosic biowastes.
Whole genome sequencing of Bacillus paranthracis isolated from commercial white bread dough
Bread is a widely consumed staple food, and ensuring its microbiological safety is essential due to its high consumption across diverse population groups. Although commercial bread production relies primarily on yeast fermentation, other microorganisms may be introduced unintentionally through raw materials, handling practices, or processing environments. In this study, Bacillus species associated with bread dough were isolated and characterized to evaluate their potential food safety relevance using whole-genome sequencing. The bacterial isolates were cultured, and genomic DNA was extracted, followed by the library and sequencing using the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform. Whole-genome analysis identified the isolate as Bacillus paranthracis, a member of the Bacillus cereus group previously associated with foodborne illness. The draft genome assembly had a total size of 10.3 Mb with a GC content of 49.1%. Functional annotation revealed genes associated with metabolism, stress response, and cellular processes, as well as genomic features linked to virulence and antimicrobial resistance. The detection of B. paranthracis in bread dough highlights the importance of monitoring microbial communities within dough matrices, as certain members of the B. cereus group may pose potential food safety concerns. These findings demonstrate the value of whole-genome sequencing as a powerful tool for assessing the safety relevance of bacterial contaminants in food systems and provide insights that may support improved hygiene practices and risk assessment in bread production.
Synthesis and characterization of bauxite-derived alum and banana peel composite coagulant for water treatment
Aluminium sulphate (alum) is an inorganic coagulant widely used in wastewater treatment due to its good performance and broad availability. However, the use of alum at high dosages can negatively impact human health and aquatic organisms, in addition to generating large quantities of sludge. Therefore, an alternative approach was explored to reduce alum usage by combining it with a natural coagulant derived from banana peel. This study aims to synthesise an inorganic–organic composite coagulant from bauxite-derived alum and banana peel for wastewater treatment, and to evaluate its physicochemical properties and treatment performance under optimum conditions. Alum, banana peel, and alum–banana peel composites at ratios of 10:90, 50:50, and 90:10 (banana peel: alum) were tested using a jar test containing 500 mL of wastewater. Final turbidity and pH values were measured for performance evaluation. Samples were characterised using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction. The results show that the 50:50 banana peel to alum composite achieved the best performance, with a turbidity of 12.20 NTU, a pH of 6.13, and a total turbidity removal efficiency of 82.82%.
GIS-based mapping of air pollution exposure and health effects in industrial area of Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia: A pilot study
Serious health concerns in developing regions are largely driven by air pollution. The Malaysian Department of Environment has measured that air pollution in industrial areas is much greater than in other areas of the country. This pilot study intends to evaluate outdoor air quality and human health effects in the industrial area of Kuantan. Two Continuous Air Quality Monitoring Stations situated in Balok and Indera Mahkota were chosen to explore how air quality varies across different areas of Kuantan. A structured questionnaire was distributed to residents living nearby, aiming to collect information on any health issues they may be experiencing. The spatial distribution of air pollution was mapped using Geographic Information System (GIS), allowing for a clearer understanding of how these pollutants relate to the health symptoms reported by the local population. The findings revealed that concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, and SO₂ were significantly higher in Balok compared to Indera Mahkota, while NO₂ levels were an exception to this trend. These differences are likely tied to variations in land use between the two areas, which appear to have a strong influence on local air pollution levels. The findings support targeted health actions and better urban planning to protect public well-being.
Isolation and screening of pectinase producers from fruit wastes
This study aimed to identify, screen and characterize pectinase-producing bacteria from fruit waste for potential use in the biotechnology sector. Three isolated bacterial strains were tested for their pectinase production using both commercial pectin and fruit waste substrates, specifically pineapple and banana peels, alongside an assessment of their growth characteristics. Among the three isolates, strain M1 exhibited the best performance in terms of growth and enzyme activity. When commercial citrus pectin was used as the substrate, M1 achieved the highest pectinase activity (8.15 U/mL), followed by B1 (7.423 U/mL) and P2 (7.035 U/mL). When fruit waste was used as the substrate, M1 again produced the highest amount of pectinase. Notably, pineapple peel yielded slightly higher pectinase activity for M1 (7.38 U/mL) compared to banana peel (7.032 U/mL), indicating that pineapple peel is a better inducer of pectinase enzyme production. In terms of growth dynamics, M1 also recorded the highest specific growth rate and the shortest doubling time across all substrates, reinforcing its potential as the most efficient pectinase producer. These findings suggest that strain M1, especially when cultivated on pineapple peel waste, holds significant promise for cost-effective and sustainable industrial pectinase production, contributing to the development of environmentally friendly bioprocesses.
Copyright (c) 2025 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Work stress and risk factors in the nursing profession at two hospitals in Kuantan
This study aims to determine the risk factors that influence work stress among nurses at two hospitals in Kuantan, Pahang, using a validated questionnaire. The findings of this research would serve as a guideline to propose a better strategy to help nurses cope with stress at the workplace. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the hospitals to examine work stress and its associated risk factors among nurses, using a convenience sampling method. Data collection involved distributing questionnaires consisting of socio-demographics, the risk factors of work stress, and work stress. The results indicate that shift work is perceived as the primary risk factor for occupational stress among nurses, with the highest mean score (4.09), followed by workload (3.75) and the work environment (3.23). Correlation analysis shows that only the relationship between shift work and work environment is statistically significant (r = -0.411, p < 0.01), indicating that higher shift demands correlate with a low perception of the environment. On the other hand, workload (r = -0.208), work environment (r = 0.206), and shift work (r = 0.123) show non-significant, low correlations with perceived work stress in this study. This study recommends that hospital management take proactive steps to address the stress issues that currently exist by offering a variety of suitable supports that would include techniques of handling stress at work.
Lemongrass oil-infused biodegradable film: Natural antioxidant for food packaging enhancement
The growing environmental impact of plastic packaging has accelerated interest in biodegradable alternatives such as edible films. This study investigates the incorporation of lemongrass essential oil into chitosan–alginate films to enhance their antioxidant properties. Lemongrass, widely available in Malaysia, contains bioactive compounds including citral, geraniol, and phenolics with strong radical-scavenging activity. Essential oil was extracted using hydrodistillation and microwave-assisted hydrodistillation, with the latter yielding a higher recovery (0.04%). Structural characterization using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated hydrogen bonding and possible Schiff base formation between the oil and film matrix. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by the DPPH assay, showing strong radical scavenging capacity (108.06%), suggesting retention of active compounds and improved stability. The findings demonstrate that lemongrass essential oil effectively enhances the functional properties of chitosan–alginate films, providing an eco-friendly packaging solution that may reduce reliance on synthetic preservatives while extending food shelf life.
Inhalation risk assessment of airborne alcohol vapour among university laboratory workers
This study investigates the inhalation risks of occupational exposure to alcohol vapours among workers in university laboratories. The study focused on 3 types of alcohol which are ethanol, methanol, and isopropyl alcohol present in the university laboratories, and subsequently, the associated health risks. The research aims to assess exposure levels and potential health risks to inhaling alcohol vapour during routine laboratory activities such as disinfection and solvent preparation. The samples were collected from the breathing zones of the workers using the NIOSH 1400 method and were analysed using a gas chromatography-flame ionisation detector. Key factors influencing exposure, such as air velocity, relative humidity, and temperature were evaluated. Results showed that ethanol had the highest individual concentration at 2604.65 mm/m3. This value has exceeded the permissible exposure limit of 1880 mg/m3 according to USECCH Regulations 2000. The non-carcinogenic risk of ethanol also surpassed the reference value of 1 indicating that there are potential health risks due to the exposure to ethanol. Considering the high exposure concentrations and their associated non- carcinogenic risks, the use of personal protective equipment and the installation of ventilation systems are needed to reduce the exposure concentration of alcohol among the workers.
Effect of lighting conditions on administrative staff in a higher learning institution
Lighting conditions play a critical role in influencing employee comfort, health, and productivity in office environments. This study aims to evaluate the adequacy of lighting in administrative offices at a higher learning institution and to examine the relationship between lighting conditions and employees’ physical and well-being. A quantitative approach was adopted, involving field measurements using a lux meter and a questionnaire survey. One-sample t-tests were conducted to compare measured illuminance levels against the recommended standard of 500 lux, while Spearman correlation analysis was used to examine relationships between variables. Results indicated that four out of five offices met the recommended lighting standards, while one office showed significantly inadequate lighting. No statistically significant relationship was found between lighting conditions and employees’ physical and well-being. The findings highlight the importance of maintaining adequate lighting standards while suggesting that additional factors may influence employee well-being.
Studies on the effect of COVID-19 on the construction industry in the Kuantan district
The whole world is plagued with infectious diseases that are more dangerous than the common fever that can cause death if not treated early. Therefore, many countries have implemented movement control orders that are just sitting at home. It indirectly has a devastating impact on employment sectors, especially construction companies around the world. Construction delays are one of the biggest problems faced by the construction industry; they will directly affect the parties involved in the contract, contribute to costs and overtime, litigation, and late transfer of projects to owners. Therefore, an online questionnaire survey was conducted to study the main cause of the project timeline disruption, which led to the Extension of Time (EOT) requirement in ongoing construction projects and the financial loss of the construction industry due to COVID-19 in Kuantan District. Survey questionnaires were distributed to Consultants, Contractors and Public Authorities in the Kuantan District. The main objectives of this research have been achieved. In this research, the data analysis shows the main cause of the project timeline is the Movement Control Order (MCO) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPEOT) set by the government. The factor for the shortage of labour is the closure of the national border. The company manages the delayed project by complying with SOPs that have been set in the workplace. The cause of material shortage delays in terms of delivery of materials. Much of the financial loss is more than RM 100 001. Therefore, rising building material prices impact financial losses, and using credit loans is the best way to manage financial problems.
Assessment of metal concentrations and associated health risks in indoor dust from Baling, Kedah, Malaysia
Household dust exposes people to a wide range of chemicals from everyday products and has been linked to respiratory symptoms. This study was conducted to determine the levels of selected metals (Al, Cr, Mn, Ni, Zn, Cu, Cd, Ba, Pb, Mg, and Fe) in household dust samples from seven households in Baling, Kedah, Malaysia. Dust samples collected using vacuum cleaners were acid-digested and analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results showed that the mean concentrations of Al, Cr, Mn, Ni, Zn, Cu, Ba, Pb, Mg, and Fe in the dust samples were 6930, 6.85, 116, 19.2, 553, 77.6, 914, 11.5, 1780, and 5730 mg/kg, respectively. Cd levels were below the detection limit in all samples. Statistical analysis revealed that the use of air conditioners, the age of the house, smoking, and pet ownership contributed to higher metal levels in household dust. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) was used to assess the risk of metal exposure through dust ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption. The HQ and Hazard Index (HI) values for both adults and children were found to be less than one, indicating a low risk of exposure to these metals.
Binding studies of ruthenium (II) complexes with DNA isolated from pea (Pisumsativum) extract
The increasing impact of group 8–10 metal organometallic complexes academically and industrially over the years demonstrates remarkable progress in harvesting useful reagents, catalysts, and chemotherapeutic agents. Recently, these complexes have been widely analyzed for their photophysical properties and medical applications as they efficiently treat different types of cancer through photodynamic therapy (PDT). Understanding the interaction of bipyridyl complexes with specific pea(Pisumsativum)genes could show how these metal complexes influence plant traits. Peas, mainly through their genetic modifications, show promise in cancer treatment by serving as bioreactors for producing therapeutic antibodies. The pea genome contains a large number of genes involved in various biological processes, including those responsible for plant growth, development, and stress responses. Ru (II) polypyridyl complexes have shown excellent DNA binding results. These complexes bind to DNA through the intercalative mode. The binding of Ru(II) polypyridyl complex [RuL3]2+ (where L= bpy, dmbpy) with DNA of pea extracts has been studied in an aqueous medium through absorption and emission spectral techniques. The binding constant (Kb) for these reactions is determined from the Benesi-Hildebrand equation using both the absorption intensity data and emission studies.
Determination of the prioritised factors influencing equipment failure in the process industry by applying the Delphi technique
This study addresses the pervasive issue of equipment failure in industrial settings, acknowledging its potential impact on production, service delivery, cost of repairs, and, critically, employee health and safety. Accidents resulting from equipment failures, especially in the processing industry dealing with hazardous materials, can lead to catastrophic events such as explosions and fires. The root causes of equipment failure, as identified by previous research, encompass factors like improper operation, insufficient design, improper welding, and inappropriate materials. A significant portion (35.2%) of recorded accidents is attributed to equipment failure, while the remainder is linked to human or operational errors. Despite numerous studies identifying influencing factors, there exists a lack of prioritization, hindering effective resource allocation and action planning. The study sets out clear objectives: to identify, validate, and prioritize factors influencing equipment failure in the process industry. Utilizing the Delphi Technique, the research obtains expert opinions to rank these factors in three categories: human, mechanical, and external. Maintenance errors emerge as the most critical human factor, emphasizing their importance in preventing equipment failure. The rankings also underscore the pivotal roles of training, leadership, and top management in mitigating human-related risks. In the mechanical category, internal factors like shortages of material, corrosion, and degradation receive moderate rankings, while power problems are comparatively lower. External factors, such as external flammable sources, natural hazards, and contamination, are ranked lower, suggesting a relatively lower impact on equipment failure. The study concludes with the importance of adopting a multifaceted approach to reduce equipment failure, emphasizing strategies to minimize maintenance errors, enhance training, strengthen leadership, and address mechanical issues. The findings provide valuable insights for developing comprehensive risk management plans that consider both internal and external factors, serving as a guide for industry professionals and policymakers in proactively improving equipment reliability and reducing failures in the process industry.
A comparative study on the degradation of organic pollutants using green-synthesised CuO nanoparticles from clove extract and investigation of antimicrobial properties
Nanoparticles exhibit distinct properties than their bulk materials and they find many uses in diverse sectors of science. The use of green synthetic nanoparticles has gained a lot of interest. The current study uses green generated copper oxide nanoparticles from clove extract to photocatalytically degrade organic dyes, specifically Congo Red Dye and Amido Black 10B dye. Techniques such as FT-IR, UV-visible spectroscopy, energy dispersive x-ray (EDAX), SEM, and XRD were used to characterize the produced nanoparticles. The formula developed by Debye Scherer was used to determine the crystallite size. EDAX was used to confirm the presence of metal. SEM analysis was used for morphological investigations. A number of factors, including catalyst dosage, dye concentration, and pH, were thoroughly examined for their effects on dye degradation. Studies on antifungal and antibacterial agents were conducted. The results revealed that metal oxide nanocatalyst is an efficient catalyst to carry out the degradation of organic dyes. Amido Black 10B dye degrades effectively in presence of cupric oxide nanoparticle synthesized from clove extract.
Behavioural factors of safety culture in oil and gas industry: A systematic literature review
Oil and gas industry is one of the most emerging sectors in the world, however it is exposed to various risk and challenges. Due to its complicated operations and high-risk environment, it remains one of the most dangerous industries. However, there is a limited amount of literature addressing the factors that contribute to safety culture in the oil and gas industry. This study systematically reviews behavioural factors influencing safety culture in the oil and gas industry. A strong safety culture is critical for minimizing workplace hazards and enhancing operational efficiency. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, this review identifies six key factors such as safety training, communication, management commitment, reporting, safety investment, and competency. The study highlights the importance of these behavioural dimensions in fostering a sustainable safety culture and suggests future directions for improving safety performance in the industry.
Prevalence of Heavy Metals and Antibiotic Resistance of Solid Waste in a Landfill
Antibiotics, heavy metals, and related antibiotic resistance bacteria (ARB) in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills have aroused more attention due to their potential risk to the ecosystems and public healthcare. However, their contents and relationships have yet to be systematically understood in a landfill setting in Malaysia. Therefore, the prevalence of heavy metals and antibiotic resistance were observed in this study. This study selected solid waste samples of fresh or aged MSW from two representative garbage hills from Jabor-Jerangau landfills, Kuantan, Pahang. The samples were tested for ICP-MS for the concentration of heavy metals and diffusion discs for antibiotic resistance. The total content of measured heavy metals between new and aged garbage hills ranged from 0.2 mg/kg (Ni) to 108.19 mg/kg (Fe) and 0.01 mg/kg (Cu) to 31.92 mg/kg (Fe), respectively. No significant difference (p>0.05) between the new and aged MSW indicated time, and any treatments available for MSW did not affect its concentration. Fe was observed as the most concentrated heavy metal in these landfills. All isolates (100%) in fresh MSW were resistant to erythromycin, penicillins G, tetracyclines and sulfamethoxazole. However, 50% of the isolates in aged MSW were resistant to the tested antibiotics, whereas all isolates in aged MSW have susceptibility to sulfamethoxazole p<0.05. The data gained from this study can be used to plan appropriate treatment for both contaminants. This baseline information is critical for guiding future research, waste management policies, and public health interventions to address the growing concern of antibiotic resistance.
Copyright (c) 2024 The Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Core Gut Microbiome in Patients with Staghorn Calculi in Malaysia
Globally, staghorn calculi stone prevalence is 3–5% annually, with a lifetime prevalence of up to 25%. Recurrence rates are 10% within the first year, 50% within 5–10 years, and 75% over 20 years, despite improvements in treatment. This study aimed to profile the gut microbiota in 77 participants, including 37 staghorn calculi patients and 40 healthy individuals, to identify biomarkers linked to staghorn calculi formation. At the phylum level, Firmicutes A and Proteobacteria were more abundant in the staghorn group, comprising 52.86% and 13.65%, respectively. At the species level, staghorn patients had lower levels of Bifidobacterium adolescentis and higher Escherichia and Megamonas funifomis abundances compared to controls. Core microbiome analysis identified Blautia A as the most abundant species in healthy individuals, whereas Megamonas funiformis was exclusive to staghorn patients, suggesting its potential as a disease biomarker. LEfSe analysis confirmed Megamonas funiformis as significantly enriched in staghorn patients (LDA score: -4.46). These findings highlight critical gut microbiome differences that may contribute to staghorn calculi development.
Whole Genome Sequencing of Enterococcus faecalis Isolated from Stool Sample of a Postmenopausal Women with Breast Cancer Patient in Malaysia
Breast cancer stands as a formidable and prevalent cause of mortality among women in Malaysia, prompting rigorous research into potential contributors to its development. Given the well-established association between gut microbiota and various forms of cancer, a particular focus has been placed on exploring the role of Enterococcus in breast cancer pathogenesis. Several studies have identified Enterococcus as a significant component of the estrobolome, the collection of gut microbiota involved in the metabolism of estrogens. This association has garnered attention due to its potential link to breast cancer. The estrobolome's role in modulating estrogen levels in the body suggests that Enterococcus could influence breast cancer risk by affecting estrogen homeostasis. Thus, this study endeavours to unravel the potential implications of Enterococcus faecalis in breast cancer by delving into its genome and decoding gene functions through bioinformatics analysis. Whole genome sequencing emerged as the methodological linchpin, revealing a distinctive gene expression profile within Enterococcus faecalis. The size of draft genome sequenced was found to be 2.8Mb, with a GC content of 37.7%, and 4430 protein coding sequences were detected within the genome. Notably, the bacterium sequence subjected to gene annotation exhibited an expression of β-glucosidase, an enzyme intricately involved in the deconjugation of estrogen. While these findings underscore the plausible contribution of Enterococcus faecalis to breast cancer, a considerable knowledge gap persists regarding the genetic variations within specific strains of this bacterium. As such, a more nuanced and comprehensive exploration is warranted to bridge this existing gap in our understanding.
Whole-Genome Sequencing of Penicillium georgiense, a Member of the Family Trichocomaceae Isolated from Harumanis Mango (Mangifera Indica L.)
Microbial communities are present in various environments, influencing their hosts through both advantageous and pathogenic interactions. The advent of next-generation sequencing technologies has enabled more comprehensive exploration of these complex communities. Penicillium georgiense (P. georgiense), a known pathogenic fungus, has been shown to cause significant spoilage through rapid colonization enabled by spore production, particularly affecting long-term storage. Contamination by Penicillium species poses risks to crops health, emphasizing the need for effective post-harvest management. In this study, Harumanis mango, widely consumed in Asia, especially in Malaysia, was selected as the model host. A single colony of P. georgiense was isolated, and their genomic DNA was extracted. The genome of the P. georgiense H_A strain was sequenced using the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform with short-read technology, revealing a genome size of 18,324,307 base pairs and a GC content of 46.2%. BUSCO analysis indicated 98% genome completeness, with high similarity to the P. georgiense SRG7 isolate. The annotated genome has been deposited in the NCBI GenBank database for accessibility. This study provides important genomic insights into P. georgiense, advancing our understanding of its pathogenic mechanisms and offering valuable data for improved post-harvest management of Harumanis mango.
Copyright (c) 2023 The Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Modified Biochar from Waste Biomass for the Efficient Removal of Heavy Metals in Industrial Wastewater: A Review
Due to advancements in society and industry, the problem of heavy metal contamination in water is becoming increasingly severe. Despite being a cost-effective and eco-friendly adsorbent for heavy metal ions, biochar's efficiency in adsorption and immobilisation needs further enhancement. Modified biochar, an enhanced iteration of biochar, has garnered significant interest among the scientific community. This article provides a concise overview of the latest advancements in treating heavy metal pollution in water through the utilisation of biochar. The discussion focused on the features and benefits of various biochar modification processes, including physical modification and chemical modification of biochar. A summary was made of the process by which modified biochar is used to eliminate heavy metals from water. The study revealed that biochar exhibited enhanced performance following modification, resulting in increased surface areas and a greater number of functional groups. Additionally, it demonstrated sufficient binding sites to effectively bind heavy metal ions. Biochar has great potential as a viable solution for the remediation of heavy metals in the environment. Nonetheless, the emphasis continues to be on the advancement of modified biochar that demonstrates high efficiency and cost-effectiveness, featuring a significant sorption capacity, outstanding photocatalytic performance, and environmentally acceptable characteristics that prevent secondary pollution.
Feasibility of Biodiesel Production from Patty Oil Waste via the Transesterification
Patty oil waste poses significant environmental risks, including land contamination, water pollution, and detrimental effects on plant and animal life if not managed appropriately. To address this issue, the transesterification process offers a sustainable solution for converting patty oil waste into biodiesel, an eco-friendly alternative fuel. This study aims to optimize biodiesel production from patty oil waste using a two-step transesterification process, evaluating its physical and chemical properties. The solid-phase patty oil waste was pretreated and processed using potassium hydroxide (KOH) as a homogeneous catalyst. The initial free fatty acid (FFA) content of the patty oil waste was 6.175%, exceeding the acceptable 5% threshold for direct transesterification. After esterification, the FFA content was reduced to 1.238%, meeting the required specifications. Biodiesel properties were characterized using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), confirming high methyl ester conversion. The optimal reaction conditions were determined as a KOH concentration of 1.5 wt%, a reaction time of 90 minutes, and a methanol-to-oil molar ratio of 6:1, yielding a maximum methyl ester conversion of 88.47%. The produced biodiesel exhibited properties in compliance with ASTM D6571 standards, including a density of 854 kg/m³, iodine value of 81.24 g/100 g, and acid value of 0.0314 mg KOH/g. This study highlights the potential of patty oil waste as a feedstock for biodiesel production and underscores the efficacy of RSM in optimizing the transesterification process for high-quality biodiesel yield.
Catalyst Effect on Steryl Glucosides Concentration in Palm-Based Biodiesel During Transesterification Process
In this study, biodiesel was synthesized from crude palm oil through a double-step transesterification process using a CaO-SiO₂ bi-catalyst. The catalyst was designed to serve dual purposes: facilitating the transesterification reaction and removing steryl glucosides (SGs), a critical impurity in biodiesel. The process optimization was carried out using Central Composite Design to achieve maximum fatty acid methyl ester conversion. The synthesized biodiesel was characterized for density (0.863 g/cm³), viscosity (5 mPa·s), iodine value (19.572 g/100g), acid value (0.437 mg KOH/g), and conversion efficiency (81.71%), confirming its compliance with biodiesel standards. Catalyst characterization through SEM, XRD, BET, and FTIR analyses revealed an amorphous structure, high surface area (86.81 m²/g), and functional groups suitable for SG removal and catalytic activity. UV-visible spectroscopy confirmed an SG removal efficiency of 79.15 %. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the CaO-SiO₂ bi-catalyst in integrating biodiesel synthesis and impurity removal in a single reaction, offering a simplified and efficient approach to biodiesel production.
Development of Cylindrical Cavity Resonator Technique for Magnetic Loss Measurement in Yttrium Iron Garnet
Cavity resonators are essential as high-sensitivity sensors, capable of detecting small changes in electromagnetic fields or material properties, owing to their ability to generate strong fields at resonance. However, due to budget constraints limiting access to advanced technology, developing a custom-built cavity resonator can be a more cost-effective alternative to purchasing commercially available resonators. Building on this motivation, a cylindrical cavity resonator was designed and fabricated specifically for microwave loss measurement, focusing on C-band frequencies. The performance of the fabricated resonator was assessed through COMSOL simulations and experimentally validated by measuring transmission loss with a vector network analyzer connected to the resonator, where a spherical yttrium iron garnet (YIG) sample was employed as a tested material. The simulation result of the magnetic field radiation pattern validates the performance and efficacy of the fabricated cavity resonator. The S21 parameter measurements revealed a transmission loss of -62.2 dB for the empty resonator, while the YIG-filled resonator exhibited a transmission loss of -57.87 dB under 0 kOe and increased to -23.13 dB when a magnetic field of 0.5 kOe was applied. The increase in transmission loss can be attributed to the changes in the magnetic properties of YIG under the influence of the external magnetic field. This resulted in enhanced resonance conditions where coupling between EM waves and the samples leads to improved resonance conditions and reduced losses, as the alignment of magnetic moments improves the coupling between electromagnetic waves and the materials, which is associated with the ferromagnetic resonance of YIG.
Lignin extraction from empty fruit bunch fibre using different types of alpha-hydroxy acid-based deep eutectic solvents via microwave-assisted heating
This study investigates the efficiency of deep eutectic solvent (DESs) synthesized using choline chloride (ChCl) as a hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) as hydrogen bond donors (HBDs) for lignin extraction from oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) via microwave-assisted reaction. DESs with varying molar ratios of ChCl to AHAs, specifically oxalic acid (OA) dihydrate, known as dicarboxylic acid, and lactic acid (LA), a monocarboxylic acid, were prepared at 1:1 and 1:10 ratios, respectively. The presence of hydroxyl (OH) groups in AHAs facilitated DES formation at both ratios. ChCl: LA demonstrated a significantly higher lignin extraction yield, 76.61%, compared to ChCl: OA dihydrate, 29.36%. This is due to the lower viscosity and higher mobility of the DESs, which enhance solvent-solute interactions. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed strong intermolecular bonding in the extracted lignin, with characteristic peaks corresponding to phenolic, aliphatic hydroxyl, and benzene ring vibrations, indicating the preservation of the lignin's aromatic structure. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) showed that lignin extracted with ChCl: OA dihydrate and ChCl: LA exhibited higher thermal stability and char yield than raw EFB, with distinct degradation stages. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) determined the lignin samples' glass transition temperatures (Tg), with ChCl: LA showing the highest Tg at 90 °C, attributed to its higher purity and reduced carbohydrate content. Overall, the study highlights the critical role of HBD functional groups and DES composition in optimizing lignin extraction efficiency and thermal properties, with potential implications for biomass pretreatment processes via microwave-assisted reaction.
From Preparation to Product: Factors Influencing Probiotic Viability in Spray Drying
With growing health awareness, particularly amid the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, consumers increasingly value nutrition, diet, and food safety. Probiotic-based foods and beverages are widely recognized for their health benefits, including improved gut health and immune function. Spray drying is a scalable and efficient method for encapsulating, enhancing the stability and shelf life of probiotics. This review explores strategies to optimize the spray drying process, with a particular focus on factors influencing probiotic viability during and after drying. Key considerations included strain-specific thermal tolerance, feed composition, and critical process parameters such as drying temperature and feed rate. Notably, encapsulating agents play a vital role in maintaining the physicochemical quality of the final product while protecting probiotics from environmental stress. Recent advancements in encapsulation technologies, including biopolymers, hybrid materials, and emerging nanotechnology-based solutions have shown significant potential for enhancing probiotic survival under harsh processing conditions. Future research should integrate molecular-level insights, such as omics-based approaches, to better understand stress responses and optimize encapsulation strategies. Genome-editing tools and high-throughput screening techniques could accelerate the creation of thermotolerant probiotic strains, enabling more robust formulations. In parallel, the development of environmentally sustainable encapsulating agents with superior protective properties is essential to advance both efficiency and scalability. By addressing these challenges, spray drying can be further refined to produce durable, high-quality probiotic formulations that meet the growing demand for functional foods and beverages, while aligning with evolving consumer health priorities.
Prediction of Smoke Temperature in a Warehouse Using Fire Dynamic Simulator
The purpose of this study is to use computational fluid dynamics software, specifically the Fire Dynamics Simulator, to analyze the spread of smoke in high-rack warehouses. The significance of this research is risk that posed to human lives by smoke during fire incidents. High-rack warehouses were chosen as the focus due to their widespread construction globally, particularly in Malaysia where over 200 such warehouses exist. The developed model was modified multiple times to account for different parameter combinations, allowing for the simulation of numerous scenarios. The aim is to propose improvement that can assist designers and engineers in creating safer designs. The research objectives are to examine the relationship between smoke temperature and type of fire source in warehouse fires where the developed model was undergoing a few modifications on parameters and fire scenarios. The findings demonstrate that smoke temperature decreases with increasing building height and the presence of natural ventilation. Type of fire source also influence the smoke temperature. As a result, three recommendations have been derived from the results, intended for utilization by engineers and architects in the design of safer atriums in the future.