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Fulltext Classification of Alzheimer disease using DenseNet-201 based on deep transfer learning technique

Zia-Ur-Rehman, Awang MK, Rashid J, Ali G, Hamid M, Mahmoud SF, et al.

PLoS One, 2024;19(9):e0304995.
PMID: 39240975 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304995

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a brain illness that causes gradual memory loss. AD has no treatment and cannot be cured, so early detection is critical. Various AD diagnosis approaches are used in this regard, but Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides the most helpful neuroimaging tool for detecting AD. In this paper, we employ a DenseNet-201 based transfer learning technique for diagnosing different Alzheimer's stages as Non-Demented (ND), Moderate Demented (MOD), Mild Demented (MD), Very Mild Demented (VMD), and Severe Demented (SD). The suggested method for a dataset of MRI scans for Alzheimer's disease is divided into five classes. Data augmentation methods were used to expand the size of the dataset and increase DenseNet-201's accuracy. It was found that the proposed strategy provides a very high classification accuracy. This practical and reliable model delivers a success rate of 98.24%. The findings of the experiments demonstrate that the suggested deep learning approach is more accurate and performs well compared to existing techniques and state-of-the-art methods.
Temporal Framework and Biological Indicators of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Related Behaviours

Ilyas U, Butt A, Awan K, Asim J, Shakoor MS, Fatima M

Malays J Med Sci, 2024 Aug;31(4):218-222.
PMID: 39247103 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2024.31.4.18

Adolescence is a transitional stage between puberty and maturity. Significant alterations in brain chemistry and hormone activity cause mood swings and other psychological and physical symptoms. On their journey to adolescence, adolescents deal with complex emotions, moral dilemmas, sexual concerns, identity crises and particular societal expectations related to their upbringing. Impulsivity in adolescents is frequent and causes multiple issues. Impulsivity often lead towards non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), which has devastating consequences, which are both physical and mental. Both impulsivity and NSSI have their roots in brain chemistry and its related functions. The aim of this special communication was to delve into brain chemistry through studying the function of neurotransmitters and brain areas in NSSI and impulsivity. Multiple papers were sought on the topic of neurochemistry and neuroanatomy. The results identified serotonin, dopamine and glutamate as the neurotransmitters responsible for NSSI and impulsivity. Dysregulation in these neurotransmitters lead to the presentation of NSSI and impulsivity. Other than the neurotransmitters, the brain areas identified were prefrontal cortex, medial prefrontal cortex and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex. The compiled results of this research would help individuals in understanding the neurotransmitters and the brain areas responsible. This would also help in generating awareness regarding the biological nature of the phenomenon as well, leading to less stigmatisation. The less stigmatisation towards these phenomena can help the affected individuals to seek help without any guilt or shame, along with support from society as well.
Ageing well with tech: Exploring the determinants of e-healthcare services adoption in an emerging economy

Malarvizhi CAN, Al Mamun A, Reza MNH, Masud MM

Digit Health, 2024;10:20552076241272577.
PMID: 39247095 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241272577

The adoption of e-healthcare services is critical for improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency, particularly in regions with diverse populations, such as Malaysia. Although e-healthcare services offer numerous advantages, their adoption is considerably low and requires a thorough understanding of the key factors that influence their use. This study investigated the determinants and dynamics of e-healthcare adoption among adults over 40 years by extending the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. We employed a quantitative research approach, specifically a cross-sectional design. Data were collected from 393 Malaysian respondents through a structured survey questionnaire, using convenience sampling. They were analyzed using partial least-squares-structural equation modeling. The findings revealed that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and perceived product value significantly influenced individuals' intentions to use e-healthcare services. Meanwhile, perceived risk had an insignificant negative effect. Facilitating conditions significantly influenced individuals' intentions and actual usage of e-healthcare services. Furthermore, individuals' intentions to use e-healthcare services significantly affected their actual use of these services. Additionally, the intention to use e-healthcare services mediated the relationship between the factors and usage of e-healthcare services, except for perceived risk. Surprisingly, perceived service accuracy had no significant moderating effect on the relationship between individuals' intention to use and their actual use of e-healthcare services. This study offers valuable insights for educators, practitioners, and policymakers, enriching the scholarly discourse in this field. For education, integrating e-healthcare topics into curricula can enhance digital health literacy. In practice, healthcare providers should focus on improving user experience and addressing barriers to technology adoption. For policy making, developing supportive policies, and infrastructure to facilitate e-healthcare adoption is crucial to enhancing public health outcomes.
Fulltext Silver nanoparticles biogenically synthesised using Maclurodendron porteri extract and their bioactivities

Badrillah N, Susanti D, Kamil TKTM, Swandiny GF, Widyastuti Y, Zaini E, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Feb 29;10(4):e25454.
PMID: 38379964 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25454

Silver nanoparticle is widely used in various field including medical, cosmetic, food and industrial purposes due to their unique properties in electrical conductivity, thermal, and biological activities. In the medical field, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been reported to have strong antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Maclurodendron porteri (MP) extract and to evaluate the antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of the synthesised MP-AgNPs. Green method of Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE) was used to extract the leaves of M. porter. Liquid Chromatography -Mass Spectrometry/Quadrupole time-of-flight (LC-MS/QTOF) was used to identify the compounds in the leaf extract of M. porteri. Characterisation of the synthesised nanoparticles involved ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), scanning electromagnetic microscopy (SEM), Zeta potential Analyzer and Particle Size Analyzer. The cytotoxic assay was conducted on MCF-7 and Caco-2 cell lines by MTT assay. Antimicrobial activity was tested on Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria using the disc diffusion method. Based on LC-MS/QTOF analysis, 430 compounds were found. The identified major compounds consist of amino acids, polyphenols, steroids, terpenoids and heterocyclic compounds which possibly act as reducing agents. 1 mM, 5 mM and 10 mM of silver nitrate solution were mixed with the leaf extract to form silver nanoparticles. 1.2 mg/ml of MP-AgNPs were found to have antibacterial activity against B. subtilis, S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa with inhibitory zones of 8.0 ± 0.36 mm, 8.5 ± 0.45 mm, 7.5 ± 0.36 mm, and 9.0 ± 0.40 mm respectively. MP-AgNPs showed no cytotoxic activity against Caco-2 and MCF-7 cells. In conclusion, the presence of major amine compounds such as 10,11-dihydro-10,11-dihydroxyprotriptyline and harderoporphyrin in the extract facilitated the synthesis of AgNPs and the nanoparticle showed weak bioactivities in the assay conducted.
Fulltext Transforming higher education institutions through EDI leadership: A bibliometric exploration

Zhao X, Wider W, Jiang L, Fauzi MA, Tanucan JCM, Lin J, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Feb 29;10(4):e26241.
PMID: 38390183 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26241

This comprehensive bibliometric study analyzes 1820 journal articles from the Web of Science database to explore Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) leadership in higher education institutions (HEIs). Utilizing co-citation and co-word analysis, the study identifies distinct thematic clusters. The co-citation analysis reveals five key themes: Race, Diversity, and Inclusion (RDI), Diversity, Leadership, and Self-Efficacy (DLSE), Gender Dynamics and Leadership Challenges, Women's Representation in Academic Medicine Leadership, and Transformational Leadership in HEIs. Meanwhile, the co-word analysis highlights three critical areas: Transformative Collaborative Resilience in HEIs, Advancing Gender Equality in Academic Medicine and STEM, and Inclusive Educational Leadership in HEIs. These themes collectively provide a deep understanding of the EDI leadership field's intellectual structure, suggesting significant areas for future research and practical application. The study emphasizes the necessity for HEIs to engage comprehensively in EDI leadership research, shedding light on the importance of transformative collaborative resilience, gender equality in STEM, and inclusive leadership. This research offers valuable insights for developing effective EDI leadership policies and practices, highlighting the interconnectedness of these themes in fostering a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment in higher education and beyond.
Estimating natural frequency of pipe with various geometries: Improvement of frequency factors

Saari NF, Putra A, Irianto, Dan RM, Zeli MA, Ramlan R, et al.

Heliyon, 2024 Feb 29;10(4):e26148.
PMID: 38390043 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26148

Piping system is the main structure in many industrial applications, especially for large industry relating with processing and transporting fluids, such as oil and gas industries. The fluid-induced vibration is often the cause of structural fatigue in pipes and therefore piping vibration need to be closely monitored. In case of high piping vibration, knowledge of the natural frequency of a pipe section is crucial for an engineer to propose the right troubleshoot action, either for a temporary or even for a long-term solution for the piping vibration. Therefore, prediction of the pipe natural frequency using a simple formulae is thus of interest, without dealing with complex numerical simulation using a commercial software which consumes cost and time. In this paper, the vibration mode shapes of various possible geometries of pipes in practice were simulated in ANSYS and the simulated natural frequency is related to a natural frequency of an Euler-Bernoulli beam using a correction factor for each corresponding piping geometry. This paper extends the previous work by allowing the boundary conditions of the pipe ends to be simply supported, in addition to the clamped edges. In this way, the frequency factor charts are presented in the range of possible correction factor values to accommodate the real conditions of pipe arrangement in practical application. An experiment from a case study to verify the proposed method is also presented.
Fulltext First Report of Colletotrichum scovillei Causing Anthracnose on Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) in Malaysia

Goh KS, Balasubramaniam J, Sani SF, Alam MW, Ismail NA, Gleason ML, et al.

Plant Dis, 2022 Mar 06.
PMID: 35253485 DOI: 10.1094/PDIS-10-21-2211-PDN

Production of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) in Malaysia was 150,000 mt in 2020 (Malaysian Department of Agriculture, 2021). In November 2019, nine locally produced watermelon fruit (red flesh, seedless) from five local stores in the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Penang exhibited sunken, circular, brown lesions that enlarged to1.5 to 10 cm in diameter with scattered orange masses of conidia. Lesions coalesced to cover approximately 50% of the fruit surface. Lesions were surface sterilized by spraying 70% alcohol onto the fruit followed by drying with sterilized paper towels. A total of 153 tissue segments (1×1 cm) were excised from the rind, immersed in 1% sodium hypochlorite for 3 min, rinsed twice for 1 min in sterilized distilled water, air-dried, transferred to potato dextrose agar (PDA) plates, and incubated at 25±1°C for 7 days. Single-spore transfers produced pure cultures, resulting in 12 isolates. Colonies on PDA were initially white and turned pale gray with age. Conidia were hyaline, one end round and the other narrowly acute, aseptate, smooth-walled, straight, cylindrical to clavate, 10.5-16.5 µm × 3-4.5 μm (n = 30). Observed morphological characters matched published description of Colletotrichum spp. (Damm et al. 2012). Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and glyceraldehyde-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) genes were amplified using primer sets ITS1/ITS4 and GDF1/GDF2, respectively. All sequences were deposited in GenBank (MW856808 for ITS; MZ219296 for GAPDH). A BLASTn search of both sequences on GenBank showed 99% identity with C. scovillei along with other closely related Colletotrichum species. Phylogenetic analysis of ITS and GAPDH alignments, using maximum likelihood along with reference strains of closely related species from Mycobank, confirmed species identity as C. scovillei. A pathogenicity test was conducted on two healthy watermelon fruit (red flesh, seedless). A 6-mm-diameter mycelial plug of a colony on PDA was positioned on a 0.5-cm-long wound on each fruit; a sterile PDA plug placed on a similar wound on the opposite side served as a control. Fruit were incubated at 25±1°C for 7 days in plastic-wrapped trays above distilled water to maintain high humidity. Small, sunken, circular brown lesions appeared and expanded at inoculation sites within 7 days. Symptoms were identical to those produced by natural infections, and the controls were asymptomatic. Isolates from the lesions at the inoculation sites were confirmed as C. scovillei based on morphological characteristics, fulfilling Koch's postulates. The pathogenicity test was conducted four times with a total of eight fruit. Many species in the C. orbiculare complex cause watermelon anthracnose (Keinath, 2018). To our knowledge, this is the first report of C. scovillei (C. acutatum species complex; Damm et al. 2012) causing anthracnose on watermelon in Malaysia. Anthracnose caused by C. scovillei has been confirmed on other crops such as pepper (Toporek and Keinath, 2021), banana (Zhou et al., 2017), and chili (Oo et al., 2017). This insight will inform efforts to improve management of watermelon anthracnose in Malaysia.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of HBV, HCV and HIV among hemodialysis patients: a multicenter cross-sectional study from Damascus Syria

Altinawe J, Akkawi ME, Kharrat Helu N, Hassan Q, Nattouf AH

BMC Infect Dis, 2024 Mar 06;24(1):289.
PMID: 38448805 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09177-4

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence rates of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections among hemodialysis (HD) patients as well as to identify associated risk factors.
METHODOLOGY: A multicenter cross-sectional study involved patients who had been on HD for at least three months. The study was conducted at five HD centers in Damascus, Syria from August 2019 to September 2021. HBsAg, HCV-Ab and HIV (antibody/antigen) seropositivity were identified using the third generation ELISA technique. Patients' information was extracted from their records and by face-to-face interview. Multiple logistic regression models were applied to identify risk factors associated with HBV or HCV seropositivity. The significance level was set at 5%.
RESULTS: A total of 637 patients were included in the study with a mean age (SD) of 50.5 (15.6) years and 56.7% of them were men. The dialytic age ranged from one to thirty years with a mean (SD) of 6.10 (5.6) years. The prevalence of positive hepatitis B surface antigen, anti-HCV, co-infection of HBV and HCV, and anti-HIV (antibody/antigen) were 3.2%, 22.1%, 0.7%, and 0%, respectively. After controlling for co-variables, hepatitis B vaccine was the only predictor of seropositivity of HBV (OR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.057-0.393, P
Fulltext A renewable approach to electric vehicle charging through solar energy storage

Umair M, Hidayat NM, Sukri Ahmad A, Nik Ali NH, Mawardi MIM, Abdullah E

PLoS One, 2024;19(2):e0297376.
PMID: 38422065 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297376

Developing novel EV chargers is crucial for accelerating Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption, mitigating range anxiety, and fostering technological advancements that enhance charging efficiency and grid integration. These advancements address current challenges and contribute to a more sustainable and convenient future of electric mobility. This paper explores the performance dynamics of a solar-integrated charging system. It outlines a simulation study on harnessing solar energy as the primary Direct Current (DC) EV charging source. The approach incorporates an Energy Storage System (ESS) to address solar intermittencies and mitigate photovoltaic (PV) mismatch losses. Executed through MATLAB, the system integrates key components, including solar PV panels, the ESS, a DC charger, and an EV battery. The study finds that a change in solar irradiance from 400 W/m2 to 1000 W/m2 resulted in a substantial 47% increase in the output power of the solar PV system. Simultaneously, the ESS shows a 38% boost in output power under similar conditions, with the assessments conducted at a room temperature of 25°C. The results emphasize that optimal solar panel placement with higher irradiance levels is essential to leverage integrated solar energy EV chargers. The research also illuminates the positive correlation between elevated irradiance levels and the EV battery's State of Charge (SOC). This correlation underscores the efficiency gains achievable through enhanced solar power absorption, facilitating more effective and expedited EV charging.
Fulltext Geochemical dispersion of gold-bearing quartz veins in the Wadi Abu Khusheiba area in Southern Jordan

Mosleh M, Aziz JHA, Roselee MH, Al-Shorman A, Al Tamimi M, Alsoudi A

Geochem Trans, 2024 Mar 02;25(1):2.
PMID: 38429600 DOI: 10.1186/s12932-024-00085-9

This study delves into the geochemical dispersion of gold-bearing quartz veins in the Wadi Abu Khusheiba area, southern Jordan, with a focus on uncovering the complex patterns of mineralization and their geological significance. Employing an in-depth geochemical analysis of 24 rock samples from the region, we identified that these samples are predominantly hosted by oversaturated rhyolitic rocks, characterized by high SiO2 content and abundant free Quartz and orthoclase minerals. The mineralized zone of the quartz veins is particularly notable for its gold and silver concentrations, with maximum values reaching up to 5 ppm for gold and 18 ppm for silver. Our investigation into the elemental correlations revealed nuanced relationships, dependent on the 21 sample and analyzed at confidence level of (85%). Contrary to initial assumptions, we did not find a significant positive correlation between gold (Au) and arsenic (As), nor significant negative correlations between gold and other trace elements. These insights are critical for understanding the geochemical behavior of gold in the area and offer a nuanced view of elemental associations. The results of this study are significant for both academic research and practical exploration. They enhance our comprehension of the geological history and mineralization processes in Wadi Abu Khusheiba, providing valuable data that can inform future exploration strategies and deepen our understanding of mineral deposition in similar geological settings. This research not only contributes to the scientific community's knowledge of the area's geochemistry but also has potential implications for the mining and exploration industries.
Fulltext Production of hydrogen using plastic waste via Aspen Hysys simulation

Yi CQ, Bojeng MNBHBH, Kamis SKBH, Mubarak NM, Karri RR, Azri H

Sci Rep, 2024 Feb 28;14(1):4934.
PMID: 38418697 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55079-5

Plastic waste is being manufactured for the production of hydrogen. The amount of plastic waste collected annually is 189,953 tonnes from adjacent nations like Indonesia and Malaysia. Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and Polystyrene (PS) are the five most prevalent forms of plastic found in most waste. Pyrolysis, water gas shift and steam reforming reaction, and pressure swing adsorption are the three main phases utilized and studied. In this research, authors examines the energy consumption on every stage. The plastic waste can be utilized to manufacture many hydrocarbons using the pyrolysis reaction. For this process, fast pyrolysis is being used at a temperature of 500 °C. A neutralization process is also needed due to the presence of Hydrochloric acid from the pyrolysis reaction, with the addition of sodium hydroxide. This is being carried to prevent any damage to the reactor during the process. Secondly, the steam reforming process continues after the water gas shift reaction has produced steam and carbon monoxide, followed by carbon dioxide and hydrogen formation. Lastly, pressure swing adsorption is designed to extract H2S and CO2 from the water gas shift and steam reforming reaction for greater purity of hydrogen. From the simulation study, it is observed that using various types of plastic waste procured (total input of 20,000 kg per hour of plastics) from, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia and Indonesia, can produce about 340,000 tons of Hydrogen per year. Additionally, the annual profit of the Hydrogen production is estimated to be between $ 271,158,100 and $ 358,480,200. As per the economic analysis, it can be said that its a good to start hydrogen production plant in these regions.
Development of sperm cryopreservation protocol for patin buah, Pangasius nasutus

Idris N, Abduh MY, Mat Noordin N, Abol-Munafi AB, Koh ICC

Cryobiology, 2024 Feb 29.
PMID: 38431183 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2024.104878

The development of sperm cryopreservation for Pangasius nasutus is necessary in order to serve the growing demand of this species through artificial fertilization and the preservation of valuable strains of male broodstocks. In the present study, the basic protocol of sperm cryopreservation for P. nasutus was established by identifying the optimal conditions for optimum cryoprotectant, toxicity of cryoprotectants, extenders, freezing condition and dilution ratio. Methanol (MeOH) at 10% concentration had the best post-thaw motility (26.3 ± 0.9%) and curvilinear velocity (VCL) compared to dimethyl acetamide and dimethyl sulfoxide. MeOH was the least toxic cryoprotectant; sperm suspended in 5 and 10% MeOH maintained motility up to 50 min. No significant differences were detected between the three types of extenders tested (0.9% sodium chloride, Calcium-free Hanks' Balance salt solution and ringer solution. P. nasutus sperm had a narrow range of optimal cooling rate. Significantly higher post-thaw motility was identified when cooling at 9.23 °C min-1, obtained by freezing at height of 14 cm above liquid nitrogen vapor for 7 min, showing lower cooling rate is suitable for this species. However, when cooling below and above the optimal cooling rate, post-thaw motility dropped drastically. There were no significant differences among the dilution ratios investigated, indicating the volume of cryodiluent at all tested ratios (1:9, 1:19 and 1:49) was sufficient for the protection of cells during the cryopreservation process. The development of the protocol for cryopreserved P. nasutus sperm will assist artificial seed production and provide an important tool for genetic and breeding research.
Prevalence of Escherichia Coli O157:H7 and Enterobacteriaceae on Hands of Workers in Halal Cattle Abattoirs in Peninsular Malaysia

Shamsul BM, Adamu MT, Mohd Desa MN, Khairani-Bejo S

Malays J Med Sci, 2016 Sep;23(5):65-71.
PMID: 27904427

BACKGROUND: Several occupational diseases of multiple origins are encountered among abattoir workers. Presence of indicator microorganisms (coliforms) on hands of workers can be used a gauge for hygienic practices.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed to assess the prevalence of E.coli and enterobacteriaceae among Halal abattoir workers in some government halal abattoirs of Malaysia. A total of one hundred and sixty-five hand swab samples were collected from workers of Halal abattoirs in Malaysia. The samples were subjected to microbiological analysis for characterisation and serotyping.
RESULTS: The results have shown that no Escherichia coli O157:H7 was isolated on the hands of abattoir workers before and after work. However, a total prevalence of 9.7% was recorded for all samples during work. For non-O157:H7, total prevalence of 33.3% during work and 13% after work were obtained. High prevalence was recorded in sample taken during work from Tampin, Jasin and Kemaman (100% each) while low prevalence where observed in Shah Alam, Banting and Ipoh (20% each).
CONCLUSIONS: Based on the findings the hygienic practices of hand washing among the workers in few locations was found to be low especially after work.
Fulltext Triggering Chinese lecturers' intrinsic work motivation by value-based leadership and growth mindset: Generation difference by using multigroup analysis

Zhao X, Wider W, Zhang X, Fauzi MA, Wong CH, Jiang L, et al.

PLoS One, 2024;19(3):e0297791.
PMID: 38536845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297791

This cross-sectional study investigated the effects of value-based leadership and growth mindset on the intrinsic work motivation of Chinese lecturers. In addition, this study used age as a categorical moderator to investigate generational differences between the effects of Millennials and their predecessors. A sample of 518 lecturers from various Chinese universities was used to collect data, and SEM-PLS was used to analyse the data. The results showed that value-based leadership and growth mindset had a significant positive impact on both younger and older lecturers' intrinsic work motivation, with the effect of value-based leadership on younger lecturers' intrinsic motivation being significantly stronger than on older lecturers' intrinsic motivation, whereas the effect of growth mindset on intrinsic work motivation did not differ significantly between the younger and older groups. This study contributes to the existing research literature by contrasting the value-based leadership and growth mindset in relation to lecturers' intrinsic work motivation across younger and older groups in Chinese higher education settings, where greater heterogeneity between age groups was identified. The findings also provided university administrators with recommendations for boosting the intrinsic work motivation of lecturers, influencing future education policy.
UV-blocking and photocatalytic properties of Ag-coated cotton fabrics with Si binders for photo-degradation of recalcitrant dyes in aqueous solutions under sunlight

Amjad M, Mohyuddin A, Ulfat W, Goh HH, Dzarfan Othman MH, Kurniawan TA

J Environ Manage, 2024 Feb 27;353:120287.
PMID: 38335595 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120287

Textile wastewater laden with dyes has emerged as a source of water pollution. This possesses a challenge in its effective treatment using a single functional material. In respond to this technological constraint, this work presents multifunctional cotton fabrics (CFs) within a single, streamlined preparation process. This approach utilizes the adherence of Ag NPs (nanoparticles) using Si binder on the surface of CFs, resulting in Ag-coated CFs through a pad dry method. The prepared samples were characterized using scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive X-ray electroscopy (SEM-EDS), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transformation infrared (FT-IR). It was found that the FT-IR spectra of Ag NPs-coated CFs had peaks appear at 3400, 2900, and 1200 cm-1, implying the stretching vibrations of O-H, C-H, and C-O, respectively. Based on the EDX analysis, the presence of C, O, and Ag related to the coated CFs were detected. After coating the CFs with varying concentrations of Ag NPs (1%, 2% and 3% (w/w)), they were used to remove dyes. Under the same concentration of 10 mg/L and optimized pH 7.5 and 2 h of reaction time, 3% (w/w) Ag-coated CFs exhibited a substantial MB degradation of 98 %, while removing 95% of methyl orange, 85% of rhodamine B, and 96% of Congo red, respectively, following 2 h of Vis exposure. Ag NPs had a strong absorption at 420 nm with 2.51 eV of energy band gap. Under UV irradiation, electrons excited and produced free radicals that promoted dyes photodegradation. The oxidation by-products included p-dihydroxybenzene and succinic acid. Spent Ag-coated CFs attained 98% of regeneration efficiency. The utilization of Ag-coated CFs as a photocatalyst facilitated treated effluents to meet the required discharge standard of lower than 1 mg/L mandated by national legislation. The integration of multifunctional CFs in the treatment system presents a new option for tackling water pollution due to dyes.
Fulltext Fabrication of Bilayer Nanofibrous-Hydrogel Scaffold from Bacterial Cellulose, PVA, and Gelatin as Advanced Dressing for Wound Healing and Soft Tissue Engineering

Khan R, Aslam Khan MU, Stojanović GM, Javed A, Haider S, Abd Razak SI

ACS Omega, 2024 Feb 13;9(6):6527-6536.
PMID: 38371763 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c06613

Tissue engineering is currently one of the fastest-growing areas of engineering, requiring the fabrication of advanced and multifunctional materials that can be used as scaffolds or dressings for tissue regeneration. In this work, we report a bilayer material prepared by electrospinning a hybrid material of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and bacterial cellulose (BC NFs) (top layer) over a highly interconnected porous 3D gelatin-PVA hydrogel obtained by a freeze-drying process (bottom layer). The techniques were combined to produce an advanced material with synergistic effects on the physical and biological properties of the two materials. The bilayer material was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and a water contact measurement system (WCMS). Studies on swelling, degradability, porosity, drug release, cellular and antibacterial activities were performed using standardized procedures and assays. FTIR confirmed cross-linking of both the top and bottom layers, and SEM showed porous structure for the bottom layer, random deposition of NFs on the surface, and aligned NFs in the cross section. The water contact angle (WCA) showed a hydrophilic surface for the bilayer material. Swelling analysis showed high swelling, and degradation analysis showed good stability. The bilayer material released Ag-sulfadiazine in a sustained and controlled manner and showed good antibacterial activities against severe disease-causing gram + ive and -ive (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacterial strains. In vitro biological studies were performed on fibroblasts (3T3) and human embryonic kidneys (HEK-293), which showed desirable cell viability, proliferation, and adhesion to the bilayer. Thus, the synergistic effect of NFs and the hydrogel resulted in a potential wound dressing material for wound healing and soft tissue engineering.
Fulltext Unearthing the role of septins in viral infections

Khairat JE, Hatta MNA, Abdullah N, Azman AS, Calvin SYM, Syed Hassan S

Biosci Rep, 2024 Mar 29;44(3).
PMID: 38372298 DOI: 10.1042/BSR20231827

Septin proteins are a subfamily of closely related GTP-binding proteins conserved in all species except for higher plants and perform essential biological processes. Septins self-assemble into heptameric or octameric complexes and form higher-order structures such as filaments, rings, or gauzes by end-to-end binding. Their close association with cell membrane components makes them central in regulating critical cellular processes. Due to their organisation and properties, septins function as diffusion barriers and are integral in providing scaffolding to support the membrane's curvature and stability of its components. Septins are also involved in vesicle transport and exocytosis through the plasma membrane by co-localising with exocyst protein complexes. Recently, there have been emerging reports of several human and animal diseases linked to septins and abnormalities in their functions. Most of our understanding of the significance of septins during microbial diseases mainly pertains to their roles in bacterial infections but not viruses. This present review focuses on the known roles of septins in host-viral interactions as detailed by various studies.
Biotransformation of curcumin by Streptomyces sp. K1-18 isolated from mangrove soil

Aminudin NI, Wan Jaafar WMS, Mohd Amin NMS, Kamarul Baharin R, Zainal Abidin ZA

Nat Prod Res, 2024 Feb 19.
PMID: 38372293 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2318786

Biotransformation is recognised as a green chemistry tool to synthesise diverse natural product analogues for valorisation of their chemistry and bioactivities. It offers significant benefits compared to chemical synthesis, given its cost-effectiveness and greater selectivity. In this work, a curcumin analogue, namely gingerenone A, was yielded from the biotransformation process catalysed by Streptomyces sp. K1-18. The structure of the compound was established by using mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry chemical profiling assisted with in silico fragmentation by MetFrag tool. This biotransformation successfully afforded a reduction reaction on curcumin. This is the first report on utilisation of Streptomyces sp. K1-18 as a biocatalyst for biotransformation of curcumin.
An 8-Week Vitamin D3-Fortified Fruit Drink Supplementation Increases Serum Ferritin Concentration: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Malaysian Women With Low Iron Stores

Suhaimi NA, Loh SP, Ab Manan N, Zalbahar N, Mohamad Alwi MN, Ahmad Fuzi SF

J Acad Nutr Diet, 2024 Nov;124(11):1440-1450.e1.
PMID: 38408566 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2024.02.013

BACKGROUND: There is limited randomized controlled trial evidence to support the association between vitamin D deficiency and anemia risk, highlighting the necessity for further investigations into the role of vitamin D in influencing iron status.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin D3-fortified fruit drink consumption (4,000 IU) on vitamin D and iron status biomarkers among iron-deficient women (serum ferritin of <20 μg/L [to convert μg/L ferritin to ng/mL, multiply by 1]).
DESIGN: An 8-week double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted.
SUBJECTS/SETTING: A total of 45 healthy, nonpregnant, nonlactating subjects aged 18 through 40 years (mean [SD] 25.3 [4.6] years) were included in the study, excluding those who donated blood 6 months prior, regularly consumed nutritional supplements, or had gastrointestinal or iron metabolic disorders.
INTERVENTION: Subjects were randomly assigned to receive either vitamin D3-fortified fruit drink or a placebo.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Measurements of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), serum ferritin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and full blood count concentrations were obtained at baseline, interim, and post intervention.
STATISTICAL ANALYSES: A mixed model, repeated measures analysis of variance was used to analyze the intervention effect.
RESULTS: Attrition rate for the study was 13%, with 6 dropouts, and 39 subjects completed the study. Daily consumption of vitamin D3-fortified fruit drink in the intervention group resulted in significant increases in 25(OH)D and serum ferritin concentrations compared with the placebo group. The intervention group showed significantly higher mean (SD) changes (Δ) in both 25(OH)D (Δ 76.4 [30.2] nmol/L [to convert nmol/L 25(OH)D to ng/mL, multiply by .4] vs Δ -1.3 [10.7] nmol/L; P = .001) and serum ferritin concentrations (Δ 2.2 [4.2] μg/L vs Δ -0.3 [3.4] μg/L; P = .048) between baseline and post intervention. The other iron status biomarkers were not affected by the intervention.
CONCLUSIONS: Our study found that daily vitamin D3-fortified fruit drink supplementation for 8 weeks effectively improved 25(OH)D and iron stores, indicated by increased serum ferritin concentrations, in iron-deficient women. Further research is needed to evaluate its safety, efficacy, feasibility, and optimal food fortification in diverse populations.
Fulltext Psychological capital research in HEIs: Bibliometric analysis of current and future trends

Zhang L, Wider W, Fauzi MA, Jiang L, Tanucan JCM, Naces Udang L

Heliyon, 2024 Feb 29;10(4):e26607.
PMID: 38404889 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26607

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the literature on psychological capital (PsyCap) within higher education institutions (HEIs). Its main objective is to offer an encompassing perspective on this field's current state and potential developments. To achieve this, the study examines present research trends and predicts future directions using a bibliometric approach. A total of 412 journal articles were gathered from the Web of Science database. The analysis identifies influential publications, outlines the knowledge structure, and forecasts future trends through bibliographic coupling and co-word analyses. The bibliographic coupling revealed five distinct clusters, while the co-word analysis identified four clusters. Despite the growing significance of PsyCap research in HEIs, there remains a need for greater academic efforts to comprehend the research landscape fully. This paper provides valuable insights into the expanding area of PsyCap research within HEIs. In conclusion, the study sheds light on the extensive research conducted on PsyCap in the context of HEIs and offers insights into its potential for further growth.

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