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This study investigates the effects of powerful Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) on earnings quality in a setting where CEOs have strong dominance over other top executives and occasionally attempt to exert their influence over corporate regulatory bodies. Using 10-year longitudinal data for the period from 2010 to 2019 and 1,395 firm-year observations from listed non-financial firms in Bangladesh, we found that CEOs' political power and CEOs with high structural and expert power have a significant detrimental effect on earnings quality. Ownership and prestige power have an insignificant impact on earnings quality. These powerful CEOs use accrual and real activity manipulation techniques together to manage the earnings. This study uses the system-generalized method of moment estimates for estimation purposes, and the results remain robust when alternative earnings quality proxies are used. Taken together, our results suggest that CEOs' political duality (i.e., serving simultaneously as a member of parliament and a CEO) should be restricted and that a CEO's tenure should be limited to a reasonable period. This research adds to the existing body of knowledge by offering empirical support for CEO power dynamics on earnings quality, specifically political and prestige power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grounded on the Neo-institutional theory, this paper investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) decoupling and tax avoidance in three CSR dimensions, particularly community, employee, and environment. A sample of 52 Malaysian listed companies for the financial years of 2009 to 2019 provides evidence that overall, CSR and tax are unrelated except for community CSR. The finding implies that companies do not view avoiding tax as immoral, lending credence to the belief that the relationship between CSR and tax is complex subject than mere ethical issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commonly referred to as 'daun rerama', Christia vespertilionis has increased in popularity in traditional and modern medicine. This review aims to report the relevance of this plant in terms of its traditional uses, pharmacological actions, phytoconstituents, extractions methods, and identify the research gaps and future potentials. The review is conducted as per PRISMA guidelines; a database search was conducted in Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus and Google Scholar from 1996 to 2021. Results show that to date, phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, quinones, and others have been identified, corresponding to its range of pharmacological activities that include anti-cancer, anti-malaria, and antioxidant. There have also been claims of antidiabetic activity but not supported by enough scientific evidence. Study on molecular and gene expression was still lacking. There is a good future in the research of this plant with many potential aspects to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tailored blanks of aluminum and steel have increasing applications in recent years. In less critical section of a parts where it is not necessary to use high strength steel but requires lightweight, aluminum provides a reliable substitute. As a promising alternative to join aluminum and steel, friction stir welding has been studied extensively. This review paper emphasizes on the evaluation of pre- and post-forming of friction stir welded blanks and manufacturability issues during metal forming. Upon selection of appropriate parameters to obtain a successful weld, quality and performance are reviewed. The necessity and effect of post-welding heat treatment on heat treatable and non-heat treatable weld joint are discussed. Following, evaluations of pre and post-forming are presented, including mechanical and microstructure characterization as well as formability of the joint using limiting dome height test and springback via v-bending and twist forming. This article concludes important aspects in heat treatment and forming of friction stir welded aluminum and steel blanks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), a major oral cancer, significantly challenges treatments and impacts patient quality of life; current therapies often cause severe side effects, highlighting the urgent need for gentler alternatives. Rice stands as one of the primary cereal grains providing the daily caloric intake for more than half of the global population. Extensive research has demonstrated the significant health benefits derived from rice, attributed to its abundance of bioactive compounds. This study endeavours to explore the potential cytotoxic effects of Bajong LN rice, a pigmented purple rice indigenous to Sarawak, on human squamous cell carcinoma, ORL-48 cells. Cells were cultured in complete DMEM/F-12 media and incubated under standard culture conditions. Upon reaching 80% confluency, the cells were treated to varied concentrations (ranging from 0 µg/ml to 2000 µg/ml) of Bajong LN rice methanol extract (BLN-ME) and cisplatin. Subsequently, the cells were incubated for 48 and 72 hours, and their cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTS assay. Results demonstrated that cisplatin inhibited ORL-48 cells with an IC50 of 7.483 µg/ml and 3.877 µg/ml; and an IC80 of 40.649 µg/ml; and 17.543 pg/ml for 48 and 72 hours, respectively. Correspondingly, BLN-ME exhibited a notable cytotoxic effect against ORL-48 cells at 48- and 72-hour intervals, with an IC50 of 354.4 µg/ml and 342.0 µg/ml; and an IC80 of 450.3 µg/ml and 423.63 µg/ml, respectively. The cytotoxic activity of BLN-ME against ORL-48 cells was observed in both a time and dose-dependent manner. Morphological analysis and the Trypan blue exclusion assay corroborated the MTS assay's findings. Our preliminary findings provide the first scientific evidence of the cytotoxic effect of BLN-ME specifically against human squamous cell carcinoma, ORL-48 cells. This study suggests the potential of BLN-ME as a promising anti-cancer agent, presenting opportunities for further investigation into its underlying cytotoxic mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A traditional approach of heart rate measurement has always meant that people must go to hospitals to examine the patient disease at Cardiologist and medical officer. Most people have difficult such as no transport and lazy to go to the hospital for the check-ups of their conditions heart rate. This is because, before have a treatment or medical check-up, they should do an appointment. Besides that, demands of works very high nowadays. People busy with their works until forget to do medical check-ups. Additionally, the available portable heart rate monitoring machine is costly to buy for all. In this research, we develop a system which can be accommodate for all while everyone can do their check up at home and do not waste their time by waiting for their turn in the hospital to do the medical check-ups. The prototype is built using low cost electronics components. The prototype can do a self-check-up before seeing a medical practitioner may reduce mortality rate due to the silent killer that is heart attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli has approximately 4300 open reading frames and about 178 of them are annotated as pseudogenes. The existence of the pseudogenes in E. coli had raised the question of whether they contribute to any cell function. Recently, several pseudogenes have been studied; however, these genes are still considered rare and tend to be ignored as so-called junk. Our recent study has shown several pseudogenes in E. coli are essential in hydrogen metabolism. ydfW is one of the pseudogenes associated with hydrogen metabolism. Here, we found carbon dioxide and nitrate in the fermentation medium of mutant ydfW suggesting that this strain may induce nitrate pathways. The Fdh-N complex is comprised of FdnG, FdnH, and FdnI subunits which correspond to the nitrate-nitrite pathway. This finding is supported by transcription analysis that shows formate dehydrogenase (fdnG) and nitrate reductase (narG) are significantly induced (25- and 18-fold, respectively). FdnG and NarG play a significant role in the reduction of nitrate into nitrite; hence, their genes are induced by the build-up of nitrate. Based on in silico docking analysis, we predict that YdfW is covalently bound to the Fdh-N complex in the cytoplasm. Hence, deletion of ydfW is expected has influenced the nitrate-nitrite pathway. Subsequently, the situation will affect the hydrogen production in E. coli. • Escherichia coli pseudogene protein YdfW has been identified as essential in hydrogen metabolism. • Mutant ydfW ceased hydrogen production from glucose and formate. • ydfW mutation causes induction of respiratory nitrate reductase (NarG). • YdfW is predicted to play a role in nitrate respiration pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blindness happens from the visual impairments of a person either naturally or accidentally. Usually, blind people used to move along with a white cane. Visually impaired people completely depend on it where they move with the cane in front of them to check obstacle during their mobilization. However, one of the most common problems found these people usually fall or drop off in the front hole or drain. Moreover, blindness makes people veering during their movement thus they could not detect the narrow hole or drain beside them which results in they simply turn to the hole and fall down. In this case, the white cane is unable to detect the side hole. In this paper, we are designed and fabricated a novel concept of a walking stick for blind people which able to detect hole to avoid falling in the hole. A laser sensor is attached with the blind stick and continuously detects the hole which we calibrated through a set of experimentations. Other two sensors are attached with the cane are also used to detect the front obstacle. Finally, the experiments are conducted to verify the function of the blind stick prototype. The proposed walking stick prototype is able to classify the height of obstacles and detect the front hole will be very helpful to the blind user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both honeybees (Apis spp.) and stingless bees (Trigona spp.) produce honeys with high nutritional and therapeutics value. Until recently, the information regarding potential health benefits of stingless bee honey (SBH) in medical databases is still scarce as compared to the common European bee honey (EBH) which is well known for their properties as therapeutic agents. Although there have been very few reports on SBH, empirically these products would have similar therapeutic quality as the EBH. In addition, due to the structure of the nest, few studies reported that the antimicrobial activity of SBH is a little bit stronger than EBH. Therefore, the composition of both the types of honey as well as the traditional uses and clinical applications were compared. The results of various studies on EBH and SBH from tissue culture research to randomised control clinical trials were collated in this review. Interestingly, there are many therapeutic properties that are unique to SBH. Therefore, SBH has a great potential to be developed for modern medicinal uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of free and total cholesterol nanobiosensors based on a single step electrochemical integration of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), cholesterol oxidase (COx), cholesterol esterase (CE) and a mediator with polypyrrole (PPy) films is described. The incorporation of the various components in the PPy films was confirmed by chronopotentiometry, cyclic voltammetry (CV), scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), and Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The free cholesterol, PPy-NO 3 - -Fe(CN) 6 4- -AuNPs-COx, nanobiosensor achieved a minimum detectable concentration of 5 μM, a linear concentration range of 5–25 μM and a sensitivity of 1.6 µA cm −2 µM −1 in 0.05 M phosphate buffer (pH 7.00). For the total cholesterol, PPy-NO 3 - -Fe(CN) 6 4- -AuNPs-COx-CE, nanobiosensor which also involved the co-incorporation of cholesterol esterase (CE) with the other components, the achieved performances include a minimum detectable total cholesterol concentration of 25 μM, a broader linear concentration range of 25–170 μM and a lower sensitivity of 0.1 µA µM −1 cm −2 . Owing to its high selectivity, the presence of common interferants did not affect the total cholesterol measurement with the PPy-NO 3 - -Fe(CN) 6 4- -AuNPs-COx-CE nanobiosensor. Both nanobiosensors were successfully used for direct and indirect determination of total cholesterol in human blood serum samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An easy method to fabricate microfiber-knot resonator (MKR) is designed and its application as a temperature sensor and multi-wavelength fiber laser (MWFL) is demonstrated. The MKR has a temperature sensitivity of 14.5 pm/°C over a temperature range of 27–95 °C, and experimental results show good linearity between the temperature and resonant wavelength shifts. As an MWFL on the other hand, up to four lasing lines with a channel spacing of 4.29 nm are obtained. These results confirm that the MKR could be employed as a high performance comb filter to realize compact optical sensor and MWFL designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses the applicability of quantitative wildlife value orientation scales in Muslim students in Malaysia. As Malaysian culture is deeply influenced by Islam ideology, this article presents a case for addressing the cross-cultural applicability of the scales. The current wildlife value orientation scales were reliable—all Cronbach’s alphas ≥ .65—and had predictive validity—8 to 14% of variance of acceptability of lethal control was explained. Yet, both reliability and predictive validity were of lesser magnitude than figures in previous Western studies. Especially the hunting beliefs scale did not reflect basic thinking about wildlife in our sample, and our data suggest two different hunting dimensions—consequences of hunting for wildlife and human opportunities for hunting. For future cross-cultural comparisons of wildlife value orientations, amendment of the scales to better reflect salient beliefs in non-Western nations is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) and hepatobiliary disorders are the most common complaints in patients with HIV/AIDS disease. These fundamental problems have not yet been addressed and remains a rewarding area for research. Data about the problems are scarce, especially in Indonesia. This study was aimed to identify gastrointestinal problems in HIV/AIDS patients who were hospitalized in Adam Malik Hospital, Medan. Method: A descriptive study was conducted based on medical records data from non-ambulatory HIV/AIDS patients who had GI problems and who were hospitalized in Internal Medicine wards of Adam Malik Hospital, Medan from 2010-2012. Spearman rank test was used to evaluate the correlation between CD4 level and GI problems among 68 patients with CD4 data. Results: We found 647 HIV/AIDS patients, i.e. 524 (80.9%) male and 123 (19.1%) female patients. Gastrointestinal problems were found in 315 (48.7%) patient among them. Oral candidiasis was the most common case found in 306 (97.1%), which was followed by chronic diarrhea 73 (23.2%), oral candidiasis with chronic diarrhea 64 (20.3%), dyspepsia 22 (6.9%), non-cirrhotic ascites 20 (6.3%), acute diarrhea 8 (2.5%), hepatomegaly 8 (2.5%), dysphagia 6 (1.9%), chronic hepatitis C virus 6 (1.9%), chronic hepatitis B virus 4 (1.3%), GI bleeding 3 (0.9%), and acute hepatitis A virus 1 (0.3%). Unfortunately, we found that there was only 68 data of CD4. Results of statistical tests showed a significant correlation between CD4 level and gastrointestinal problems (p = 0.04). Conclusion: Oral candidiasis is the most common gastrointestinal problems in HIV/AIDS patients hospitalized in Internal Medicine Wards of Adam Malik Hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Escherichia coli pseudogenes ydfW, ylcE, ypdJ and yqiG have been discovered to play an important role in hydrogen metabolism. [•] Knockouts of ydfW and ypdJ show a hydrogen deficient phenotype with glucose and formate. [•] The knockout of yqiG shows a hydrogen deficient phenotype from glucose but not from formate. [•] Pseudogene ylcE is associated with growth development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Microwave treated sludge had significant improvement in MFC electricity production. [•] Higher total COD removal was observed in the MFC fed with microwave treated sludge. [•] 16S rRNA gene-based pyrosequencing revealed difference in microbial communities. [•] Bacteroidetes were dominant in anodes of higher efficiency MFCs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Since the actual role of Escherichia coli hydrogenases on fermentation from glycerol has not been clear, we evaluated the effect of inactivation of each E. coli hydrogenase on cell growth, hydrogen production, organic acids production, and ethanol production. Inactivation of hydrogenase 2 and hydrogenase 3 reduced cell growth, hydrogen and succinate production as well as glycerol utilization while acetate increased. Inactivation of hydrogenase 2 in minimal medium at pH 7.5 impaired hydrogen production, but no significant effect occurred at pH 6.5 or in complex medium. Inactivation of hydrogenase 3 impaired hydrogen production in minimal and rich medium, pH 6.5 and pH 7.5 accumulating formate in all conditions. Therefore during fermentation from glycerol, hydrogenase 3 is the main hydrogenase with hydrogen synthesis activity through the formate hydrogen lyase complex. Hydrogenase 2 seems mainly required for optimum glycerol metabolism rather than hydrogen synthesis. There were no significant impacts by inactivating hydrogenase 1 and hydrogenase 4. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood glucose level is above the normal but below the diagnostic value of diabetes mellitus. Hyperglycaemia can upregulate markers of chronic inflammation and contribute to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which ultimately causes increased oxidative stress. This leads to beta-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance, which are involved in the pathogenesis of prediabetes status. Proper treatment of hyperglycaemia, inhibition of ROS overproduction, and suppression of inflammation are crucial for delaying the onset of diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to determine and understand the mechanisms involved in prediabetes. This review discusses the relationship between oxidative stress and prediabetes, along with the inflammation's role in prediabetes. Additionally, the effects of some biomarkers of oxidative stress in prediabetes, inflammatory markers, and their influence on chronic inflammation are also briefly reviewed. Finally, the role of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory markers are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Biohydrogen has gained importance as an alternative energy source, and advances in molecular biology and biotechnology have raised the quality and efficiency of biohydrogen production from various microorganisms and substrates. Here, Escherichia coli proteins YdjA and YhjY have been identified as essential in biohydrogen production from glucose. The mutations ydjA and yhjY reduced biohydrogen productivity compared to the parent strain from 40 to 4 and 29 μmol/mg protein, respectively. Through transcription analysis, it was determined that YdjA and YhjY are positive effectors of the FHL complex since their inactivation repressed fhlA. In addition, the FHL expression of the repressor gene, hycA, increased for the ydjA mutant, so YdjA reduces transcription of the HycA repressor. Hence, two new proteins have been identified that are important for biohydrogen production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

ABSTRACT The effect of Tinospora crispa stem aqueous extract in hypercholesterolemic-induced rabbit was investigated. Results from this study showed that the plasma lipid profiles improved with T. crispa supplementation as indicated by reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein levels and increased high density lipoprotein level significantly in T. crispa -treated groups relative to the hypercholesterolemic control group. T. crispa extract was also found to have strong antioxidative properties as evident from low plasma malondialdehyde level in all T. crispa -treated groups when compared with the control. The value of atherosclerotic index was decreased in T. crispa -treated groups in comparison with the hypercholesterolemic control group . At the same time, T. crispa markedly reduced the atherosclerotic lesion formation after 10 weeks of treatment in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. Hence, T. crispa can be incorporated as part of the therapeutic regiment together with other hypocholesterolemic drugs in the prevention of atherosclerosis. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS The analytical findings of this study provide an additional database for Tinospora crispa, which has not been explored so far. This study suggests that T. crispa extract could be used as part of a therapeutic regimen or combined with other lipid-lowering drugs to positively influence atherosclerosis via its lipid-lowering properties and as a natural source of antioxidant. Hence, the data obtained from this experiment can be useful to both producers and consumers as functional ingredients for processing into health foods in food and nutraceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: There is accumulating data demonstrated hypercholesterolemia and oxidative stress play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. In the present study, a protective activity of alpha-lipoic acid; a metabolic antioxidant in hypercholesterolemic-induced animals was investigated. Eighteen adult male New Zealand White (NZW) rabbit were segregated into three groups labelled as group K, AT and ALA (n =6). While group K was fed with normal chow and acted as a control, the rest fed with 100g/head/day with 1% high cholesterol diet to induce hypercholesterolemia. 4.2mg/body weight of alpha lipoic acid was supplemented daily to the ALA group. Drinking water was given ad-libitum. The study was designed for 10weeks. Blood sampling was taken from the ear lobe vein at the beginning of the study, week 5 and week 10 and plasma was prepared for lipid profile estimation and microsomal lipid peroxidation index indicated with malondialdehyde (MDA) formation. Animals were sacrificed at the end of the study and the aortas were excised for intimal lesion analysis. The results showed a significant reduction of lipid peroxidation index indicated with low MDA level (p <0.05) in ALA group compared to that of the AT group. The blood total cholesterol (TCHOL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were found to be significantly low in ALA group compared to that of the AT group (p <0.05). Histomorphometric intimal lesion analysis of the aorta showing less of atheromatous plaque formation in alpha lipoic acid supplemented group (p <0.05) compared to that of AT group. These findings suggested that apart from its antioxidant activity, alpha lipoic acid may also posses a lipid lowering effect indicated with low plasma TCHOL and LDL levels and reduced the athero-lesion formation in rabbits fed a high cholesterol diet. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background Results Conclusion Kenaf seeds are a rich source of protein; however, finding the best extraction method is crucial to obtaining high‐quality protein from these underutilized seeds. This research devised an optimized extraction process for best recovery of kenaf seeds protein using response surface methodology. The key parameters affecting the yield and protein content were optimized, including extraction pH (2–11), seed:water ratio (5:1–50:1), temperature (30–90 °C), and duration (20–360 min). The physicochemical and techno‐functional properties of kenaf seed protein isolates (KSPIs) were examined.A maximum protein yield of 12.05 g/100 g with purity level 91.94 g/100 g was obtained using an optimized extraction with pH 11.0, seed:water ratio 50:1, 360 min duration, and temperature 50 °C. The oil and water retention capacities of KSPI were 1.14 mL g−1 and 1.37 mL g−1 respectively. After 30 min at pH 7, KSPIs demonstrated remarkable emulsion capacity (83.12%) and stability (75.63%), along with high foaming capacity (106%) and stability (18.3%). As per high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis, arginine, glutamic acid, leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine were the most abundant amino acids detected in KPSIs. The KSPIs’ globular protein structure was successfully verified using analytical approaches, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, protein fraction ratios, and differential scanning calorimetry. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis revealed that KPSI has a molecular weight distribution ranging from 10 kDa to 50 kDa.The results of this study support the application of the proposed response‐surface‐methodology‐optimized extraction method for efficient recovery of high‐quality kenaf seed proteins that meet the necessary physicochemical and techno‐functional requirements. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractContamination of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a major environmental issue since it has the ability to cause cancer and genetic mutations. Bioremediation techniques using Pseudomonas aeruginosa have emerged as potential methods to tackle this problem. This study offers a thorough examination of the underlying mechanisms and potential future paths in the process of P. aeruginosa-mediated Cr(VI) remediation. Herein, the strategies used by P. aeruginosa were examined for the removal of Cr(VI) via processes such as biosorption, intracellular reduction, and extracellular metabolism. In addition, the function of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in capturing and isolating Cr(VI) was studied and the possibility of using genetic engineering techniques to improve P. aeruginosa’s ability to remove Cr(VI) from the environment was explored. In addition, we investigate the difficulties related to the use of P. aeruginosa for Cr(VI) bioremediation, such as environmental conditions and the presence of other microorganisms, and suggest potential areas for further study. These include the development of bioremediation strategies using consortia of microorganisms and the incorporation of nanomaterials to improve the removal of Cr(VI). This study seeks to enhance the development of sustainable solutions for remediating Cr(VI) by integrating existing information and identifying future research directions, with a focus on employing P. aeruginosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is globally recognized as the most prevalent and aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While conventional treatments are effective initially, the disease can become resistant or relapse over time. This study aimed to examine the differentially expressed genes at the transcriptome level and molecular pathways in DLBCL patients. Methods: This investigation utilized RNA sequencing analysis to compare differentially expressed gene samples from five diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients with two healthy volunteers. These participants were admitted to UKM Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur between 2019 and 2020. The differentially expressed genes were identified using the DESeq2 R package (version 1.10.1) using a negative binomial distribution model. The obtained P values were corrected with the Benjamin and Hochberg method and identified using a False Discovery Rate threshold of <0.05, with log2 fold change (FC) of ≥2 or ≤-2. Results: Results showed 73 differentially expressed genes between the two groups, among which 70 genes were downregulated, and three genes were upregulated. The differentially expressed genes analyzed with the Reactome pathway were significantly associated with the downregulation of antimicrobial humoral response (P<0.001), neutrophil degranulation (P<0.001), chemokine receptors bind chemokines (P=0.028), defensins (P=0.028) and metabolism of angiotensinogen (P=0.040). Conclusion: These findings suggest that the identified pathways may contribute to cancer progression and weaken the immune response in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients. This study offers fresh insights into previously undiscovered downstream targets and pathways modulated by diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection of brain abnormalities is vital for enhancing patient outcomes and survival rates. However, accurately identifying and segmenting these abnormalities from MRI images remains a persistent challenge. This study assesses the efficacy of the Selective Local Image Fitting (SLIF) model in segmenting brain abnormalities from colour MRI images and compares its performance with converted greyscale counterparts. The rationale behind this comparison stems from standard practice in image segmentation, where colour images are often converted to greyscale before the segmentation task. Converting the image might degrade data by diminishing its dimensions, potentially affecting segmentation computations. This study intends to evaluate the influence of colour information on segmentation accuracy and efficiency by directly assessing the SLIF model on both colour and converted greyscale images. Segmentation accuracy was evaluated using metrics such as the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC), and Intersection-over-Union (IoU). Efficiency was determined by measuring the average elapsed processing time. Experimental results demonstrate that colour MRI brain images outperform their converted greyscale counterparts in segmentation accuracy, as colour providing essential supplementary information for precise abnormality delineation. Despite a slight increase in average elapsed processing time for colour images, the enhanced accuracy justifies this trade-off. These findings emphasize the importance of colour MRI in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, especially in detecting brain abnormalities. This study can be extended in future work to evaluate the segmentation accuracy and efficiency of brain abnormalities in 3D colour and greyscale MRI images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This research paper is a cross-sectional study that aims to estimate the prevalence of oral health problems among adult patients in palliative care, as well as to investigate the oral hygiene practices of palliative care patients in Brunei Darussalam. Patients and methods: In this study, the Oral Palliative Care and Assessment and Referral tool (OPCAR) along with a 15-item questionnaire were utilized as reliable tools for measurements. All palliative care patients who had been assessed in this study were invited to participate. A total of 90 palliative care patients were invited to participate and 73 patient data were used for the subsequent data analysis. Results: The three most common problems among palliative care patients were saliva, lips, and teeth category. Fisher's exact test identified there were significantly higher teeth-related problems (teeth caries, fracture, broken root stumps) in non-denture wearing patients as compared with denture wearing patients. However, other associations between denture wearing to oral hygiene was of little significance. Conclusions: Using the normal approximation sample method, it was revealed that almost all the participants were eligible to be referred to the dental clinic for at least one oral problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) has been identified as a significant contributor to the cancer burden. This study investigates the incidence, mortality, and survival trends of NHL cancer in Brunei Darussalam from 2011 to 2020. Methods: This is a registry-based retrospective study using de-identified data from the Brunei Darussalam Cancer Registry on patients diagnosed with NHL from 2011 to 2020 based on the ICD-10 codes C82-86. Statistical methods include descriptive statistics, age-specific and age-standardised incidence (ASIR) and mortality rates (ASMR), and joinpoint regression for trend analysis. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier plots, log-rank test, and Cox Proportional Hazards regression. Results: From 2011 to 2020, 330 patients were diagnosed with NHL. The majority of patients were males (51.8%) and of Malay descent (82.7%). The age group most diagnosed was 55–74 years (42.3%), with a mean age at diagnosis being 55.1 years. The ASIRs were 12.12 for males and 10.39 per 100,000 for females; ASMRs were 6.11 for males and 4.76 per 100,000 for females. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the most prevalent subtype, accounting for 39.1% of cases. The overall 5-year survival rate was 61.2%, with lower rates observed in older patients and those diagnosed at distant metastasis stage. Furthermore, older age and advanced stage diagnosis significantly increased mortality risk. NHL incidence and mortality rates in Brunei Darussalam remain stable over the period of 10 years, but highlights significant disparities in gender and age. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the importance of early detection and tailored treatments, especially for high-risk groups, in managing NHL's burden. These insights underline the need for focused healthcare strategies and continued research to address NHL's challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) contributes to environmental problems due to its inability to decompose in nature within a short period. In addition, petroleum as a core source for EPS is now depleting and new biological and environmentally friendly approaches are encouraged. As an alternative to EPS, mycelium-based biofoam (MBF) is a new foam technology formed of agricultural biomass and mycelium as a binding matrix is introduced. However, based on previous literature, the fungal strains used are mainly highlighted as one of the main factors which affect the final properties of MBF. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the most potential fungus used for MBF application using OPEFB, biomass from the palm oil industry as novel substrate using rapid screening. Twelve local fungi isolated from a local forest in Selangor, Malaysia were cultivated on Potato Dextrose Agar and OPEFB plate before being screened on agar containing four different types of dye indicators, which are methylene blue, guaiacol, Remazol Brilliant Blue R and azure B. As a result, Phanerochaete concrescens isolate LYN-UPM S1 and Perenniporia subtephropora isolate LYN-UPM S9 have shown the ability to produce ligninolytic enzymes and high content of chitin, which will be useful for the fabrication of mycelium-based biofoam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudogenes in the Escherichia coli genome are assumed to be non-functional. In this study, Keio collection BW25113∆yqiG and YqiG-producing strain (BW25113/pCA24N-YqiG) were used to evaluate the importance of pseudogene yqiG in hydrogen metabolism. Our results show pseudogene protein YqiG was identified as an essential protein in the production of biohydrogen from glucose. The mutant yqiG decreased biohydrogen production from 37 µmol mg−1 protein to 6 µmol mg−1 protein compared to the wild-type strain, and glucose consumption was reduced by 80%. Through transcriptional analysis, we found that the yqiG mutation represses pflB transcription tenfold; pflB encodes pyruvate-formate lyase, one of the key enzymes in the anaerobic metabolism of E. coli. Moreover, production of YqiG stimulated glycolysis and increased biohydrogen productivity 1.5-fold compared to that of the wild-type strain. Thus, YqiG is important for the central glycolysis reaction and is able to influence hydrogen metabolism activity in E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A lignin-degrading bacterium, Burkholderia sp. CCA53, was previously isolated from leaf soil. The purpose of this study was to determine phenotypic and biochemical features of Burkholderia sp. CCA53. Results: Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis based on fragments of the atpD, gltD, gyrB, lepA, recA and trpB gene sequences was performed to identify Burkholderia sp. CCA53. The MLST analysis revealed that Burkholderia sp. CCA53 was tightly clustered with B. multivorans ATCC BAA-247T. The quinone and cellular fatty acid profiles, carbon source utilization, growth temperature and pH were consistent with the characteristics of B. multivorans species. Burkholderia sp. CCA53 was therefore identified as B. multivorans CCA53. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aims to elucidate substrate utilization from palm oil mill effluent (POME) for biohydrogen production. The experiment was performed in 150 mL serum bottles and the cultures were supplemented with autoclaved-pretreated POME or 0.05 M individual technical grade substrates to investigate the potential use of POME and substrates in preference towards biohydrogen production. The cultures were incubated at 37 °C for 24 h with mild agitation. The maximum hydrogen yield (MHY) obtained was 0.66 mol H 2 /mol total monomeric sugars and productivity of 3551 μmol/10 10 cfu were obtained from engineered Escherichia coli . The POME oligomeric sugars were not metabolized further, which render insignificant conversion of carbohydrates into hydrogen from POME. The yield of hydrogen production increased by 3.5 folds by engineered E . co li BW25113 compared to wild type E . coli BW25113. The preference of the substrates for biohydrogen production is in the following order; glucose > fructose > formic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: High level of cholesterol is one risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction and heart attack. The influence of Tinospora crispa on atherosclerotic plaque formation was investigated in rabbits fed with high fat diet (HFD) Methodology: The duration of this study was 10 weeks. Male New Zealand White rabbits were divided into 6 groups. Group NC and PC was used as a negative and positive (0.5% cholesterol) control. Group SC was given HFD with 5mg/kg simvastatin. Group 150CTC, 300CTC and 450CTC act as treatment groups receiving HFD with supplementation of 150, 300 and 450mg/kg of T.crispa extract respectively. Blood was collected from ear vein at weeks 0, 5 , 10 and the serum used for biochemical analysis. The aortas were excised and examined microscopically by H&E staining for foam cell-rich lesion assessment. Results: Comparison within groups showed that PC, 300CTC and 450CTC have significantly increased (p<0.05) total cholesterol level from week 0 to 10. Meanwhile, in week 10, groups 150CTC, 300CTC and 450CTC showed significantly lower (p<0.05) LDL-C level at 74%, 59% and 49% respectively against PC group. In this study, all treatments groups showed significant increase (p<0.05) in HDL-cholesterol level through 10 weeks of experimental period. A significant increase (p<0.05) of total antioxidant status activity was observed in all treatment groups compared to the positive group. At week 10, group 450CTC has significantly higher (p<0.05) glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase level compared to PC group. The atheromatous plaque formation in group given with HFD is significantly higher than treatment groups. In group 450CTC, which is the highest dose, as well as negative group and group given with simvastatin, no atheromatous plaque formation was found. Conclusion: This study suggested that supplementation of Tinospora crispa extract would be able to reduce or retard the progression of atherosclerotic plaque development induced by dietary cholesterol. The enhanced serum HDL cholesterol and the increased antioxidant status may be the possible underlying the mechanisms antiatherogenic effect of Tinospora crispa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewerage blockages due to oil and grease deposition discharged from food premises remain a persistent issue globally. This study evaluates the degree of compliance of food premises in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia with grease trap guideline, and investigates the factors affecting restaurants' compliance performance. Data were collected from 36 restaurants through a questionnaire-based interview consisting of questions about grease trap installation, operation, maintenance and waste disposal, followed by a walkthrough of the kitchen. Results show that 72.22% of food premises' compliance levels were good, 5.56% were excellent, 13.89% were moderate and 8.83% were poor. Food premises equipped with appropriate facilities and financial resources execute grease trap practices more diligently. A significant association was observed between location with compliance level (p < 0.05) determined via Fisher's Exact Test. This study revealed the grease trap practice gaps and provided a basis for improving regulations and enforcement. • The degree of food premises complying with grease trap practices was assessed. • The overall grease trap practice compliance was found achieving a good level. • However, location showed a positive association with compliance score. • Franchise restaurants practised more meticulous due to their business operations. • These are important to develop a sustainable and technically robust compliance system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic waste, particularly from young coconut husks, comprises over 60 % of landfill material, presenting significant environmental challenges. This study presents a biochar production method that integrates Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to optimize the carbonization process. The optimization framework uncovers non-linear interactions between carbonization temperature, duration, and KOH concentration, improving prediction accuracy. Carbonization temperature emerged as the most influential factor, with the optimal conditions, 400°C, 165.8 min, and 4.07 M KOH, yielding biochar with an iodine number of 1398.2 mg/g and an MB adsorption efficiency of 93.9 %. The enhanced model achieved an attractiveness index of 90.2 %, a significant improvement compared to conventional methods (84.5 %). Validation experiments confirmed the model's precision, with actual results closely matching predictions: a biochar yield of 25.7 %, an iodine number of 1395.7 mg/g, and MB adsorption of 94.3 %, all within a variance of less than 2 %. This represents a nearly identical iodine number, with only a 0.2 % difference, and a 6.3 % improvement in MB adsorption capacity compared to commercial biochar. This approach significantly advances biochar production from young coconut waste and expands its applications in sustainable waste management. • Young coconut husks make up over 60 % of landfill waste, requiring management. • RSM identified optimal biochar production conditions via non-linear interactions. • Produced biochar had an iodine number of 1398.2 mg/g and 93.9 % MB adsorption. • Achieved a 90.2 % attractiveness index, outperforming conventional methods. • Results matched predictions closely, confirming the model's accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discharge of leachate poses a serious risk to both surface water and groundwater from landfills. As rainwater and moisture seep through waste in landfills, it will release leachate which is high in concentration of organic matter and ammonium nitrogen. Adsorption process using activated carbon was used as one of the tertiary treatment processes in the landfill. This paper presents the utilization of biomass-based adsorbents to substitute the current activated carbon in the landfills. The carbonization process was employed using a 3-tonne self-sustained pool-type reactor, to produce micropores biochar as bio-adsorbent. The carbonization proceeds for 48 h using feedstocks with different initial moisture content of 20% and 40%. The biochar produced had microporosity ranging from 1.8 to 15.4 nm and a surface area of 192.9–231 m2/g. The use of biochar for landfill leachate treatment has shown satisfactory results, with COD, ammoniacal nitrogen, and total Kjeldahl nitrogen removal at 73%, 70%, and 97%, respectively, and heavy metals content value below the Malaysian discharge limits. This exemplifies the potential of biochar as a bio-adsorbent for treating landfill leachate and the feasibility of up-scaling biochar production from wood waste. [Display omitted] • Self-sustained pool reactor carbonization achieves the quality of bio-adsorbent. • At 40% moisture content, BET surface area of biochar increased to 232.1 m2/g. • The microporous structure of the biochar was developed during the process. • The performance of bio-adsorbent complies with Malaysia Discharge Standards (2009). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] In vivo and in vitro antioxidant activities of different rice grain were studied. [•] Effect of rice on vitamin E, lipid peroxidation, ALT and AST level were observed. [•] All rice grain increase GPx and SOD activity in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. [•] Only BR and GBR diet increase vitamin E level. [•] GBR has the greatest impact to reduce MDA, ALT and AST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nasal High Flow (NHF) therapy delivers flows of heated humidified gases up to 60 LPM (litres per minute) via a nasal cannula. Particles of oral/nasal fluid released by patients undergoing NHF therapy may pose a cross-infection risk, which is a potential concern for treating COVID-19 patients. Methods: Liquid particles within the exhaled breath of healthy participants were measured with two protocols: (1) high speed camera imaging and counting exhaled particles under high magnification (6 participants) and (2) measuring the deposition of a chemical marker (riboflavin-5-monophosphate) at a distance of 100 and 500 mm on filter papers through which air was drawn (10 participants). The filter papers were assayed with HPLC. Breathing conditions tested included quiet (resting) breathing and vigorous breathing (which here means nasal snorting, voluntary coughing and voluntary sneezing). Unsupported (natural) breathing and NHF at 30 and 60 LPM were compared. Results: Imaging: During quiet breathing, no particles were recorded with unsupported breathing or 30 LPM NHF (detection limit for single particles 33 μm). Particles were detected from 2 of 6 participants at 60 LPM quiet breathing at approximately 10% of the rate caused by unsupported vigorous breathing. Unsupported vigorous breathing released the greatest numbers of particles. Vigorous breathing with NHF at 60 LPM, released half the number of particles compared to vigorous breathing without NHF. Chemical marker tests: No oral/nasal fluid was detected in quiet breathing without NHF (detection limit 0.28 μL/m3). In quiet breathing with NHF at 60 LPM, small quantities were detected in 4 out of 29 quiet breathing tests, not exceeding 17 μL/m3. Vigorous breathing released 200–1000 times more fluid than the quiet breathing with NHF. The quantities detected in vigorous breathing were similar whether using NHF or not. Conclusion: During quiet breathing, 60 LPM NHF therapy may cause oral/nasal fluid to be released as particles, at levels of tens of μL per cubic metre of air. Vigorous breathing (snort, cough or sneeze) releases 200 to 1000 times more oral/nasal fluid than quiet breathing (p < 0.001 with both imaging and chemical marker methods). During vigorous breathing, 60 LPM NHF therapy caused no statistically significant difference in the quantity of oral/nasal fluid released compared to unsupported breathing. NHF use does not increase the risk of dispersing infectious aerosols above the risk of unsupported vigorous breathing. Standard infection prevention and control measures should apply when dealing with a patient who has an acute respiratory infection, independent of which, if any, respiratory support is being used. Clinical trial registration: ACTRN12614000924651 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Motion capture system (MoCap) has been used in measuring the human body segments in several applications including film special effects, health care, outer-space and under-water navigation systems, sea-water exploration pursuits, human machine interaction and learning software to help teachers of sign language. The purpose of this paper is to help the researchers to select specific MoCap system for various applications and the development of new algorithms related to upper limb motion. Design/methodology/approach: This paper provides an overview of different sensors used in MoCap and techniques used for estimating human upper limb motion. Findings: The existing MoCaps suffer from several issues depending on the type of MoCap used. These issues include drifting and placement of Inertial sensors, occlusion and jitters in Kinect, noise in electromyography signals and the requirement of a well-structured, calibrated environment and time-consuming task of placing markers in multiple camera systems. Originality/value: This paper outlines the issues and challenges in MoCaps for measuring human upper limb motion and provides an overview on the techniques to overcome these issues and challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]