Sustainable energy generation from plastic waste: An in-depth review of diesel engine application

Plastic consumption has increased significantly over the previous few decades and it is one of the most significant sources of waste in many countries. Recycling and energy recovery methods are just two methods for dealing with plastic waste. As a result, the process of converting waste plastic into energy and its application in the diesel engine was reviewed in the present study. The pyrolysis process could be utilized to use plastic waste efficiently. The waste plastic is converted to liquid oil, gas, and solid by using this process. This article reviewed the application of plastic pyrolysis oil (PPO) in diesel engines regarding its properties and effects on the fuel's performance, combustion, and emission parameters. PPO typically has a lower sulfur concentration than standard diesel fuel. Plastic pyrolysis oil (PPO) improves cylinder pressure, brake power, and brake thermal efficiency while lowering fuel consumption when blended with diesel. Emissions can also vary depending on combustion characteristics, fuel quality, and engine technology. The literature on emission assessments yields conflicting results regarding nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbon emissions from PPO. However, because of the higher oxygen concentration, carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter (PM) often decrease. Finally, the study recommended a 10%− 90% mix of PPO-diesel as an alternative fuel for the engine with no modifications; this concentration may be increased by adding additives/nanoparticles in the fuel or modifying the engine

Assessing the efficacy of machine learning algorithms for syncope classification: A systematic review

Syncope is a transient loss of consciousness with rapid onset. The aims of the study were to systematically evaluate available machine learning (ML) algorithm for supporting syncope diagnosis to determine their performance compared to existing point scoring protocols. We systematically searched IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and Elsevier for English articles (Jan 2011 - Sep 2021) on individuals aged five and above, employing ML algorithms in syncope detection with Head-up titl table test (HUTT)-monitored hemodynamic parameters and reported metrics. Extracted data encompassed subject count, age range, syncope protocols, ML type, hemodynamic parameters, and performance metrics. Of the 6301 studies initially identified, 10 studies, involving 1205 participants aged 5 to 82 years, met the inclusion criteria, and formed the basis for it. Selected studies must use ML algorithms in syncope detection with hemodynamic parameters recorded throughout HUTT. The overall ML algorithm performance achieved a sensitivity of 88.8% (95% CI: 79.4–96.1%), specificity of 81.5% (95% CI: 69.8–92.8%) and accuracy of 85.8% (95% CI: 78.6–92.8%). Machine learning improves syncope diagnosis compared to traditional scoring, requiring fewer parameters. Future enhancements with larger databases are anticipated. Integrating ML can curb needless admissions, refine diagnostics, and enhance the quality of life for syncope patients

Advancing Malaysia’s Green Growth through Circular Economy

In recent months, several countries in Asia experienced massive typhoon, flash flood, and extreme weather changes. As part of the mitigation of global environmental challenges, country leaders are seeking innovative strategies to balance economic growth with sustainability. Malaysia is among those making significant strides, particularly through its recent adoption of a Circular Economy Policy Framework. This initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), marks a pivotal step in transitioning the country away from resource-intensive, fossil fuel-based economic models towards a more sustainable, circular economy

Hope for arthritis patients

Feb 2 is observed annually as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Awareness Day. According to the Arthritis Foundation Malaysia, RA affects five out of every 1000 people in Malaysia regardless of age or gender. RA is characterised by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking its own joint lining, resulting in stiffness, pain and swelling. If not treated early, it may lead to joint damage and deformities over time. This year's theme. "Living Well With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Diagnosis, Effective Management, and a Brighter Future", underlines the importance of early diagnosis and proper management in mitigating disease progression and improving the quality of life for individuals with RA

Neuroprotective potential of Polygonum minus (daun kesum) extracts against glutamate-induced toxicity

Glutamate-induced neurotoxicity, stemming from dysregulation of the glutamate neurotransmitter within the central nervous system, is implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases. Given the limited efficacy of current treatments, researchers are exploring natural products with neuroprotective properties as potential preventive or therapeutic options. Natural antioxidants, recognized for their ability to counter neurodegenerative conditions, have been extensively studied. Polygonum minus, a commonly used herb and culinary ingredient in Southeast Asia, has shown promise in vitro and in vivo for its antioxidant-related neuroprotective effects. However, its specific potential against glutamate-induced toxicity remains poorly understood. This study aimed to assess the neuroprotective effects of P. minus leaves extracts, both ethanolic and essential oil, against glutamate-induced toxicity in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells. Glu-induced toxicity was evaluated across various concentrations (1mM to 10 mM) using cell viability and apoptotic assays. Glu displayed a dose-dependent cytotoxicity on HT22. Specifically, 4 mM and 5 mM reduced viability and induced apoptosis in HT22 cells. To assess the neuroprotective effects of P. minus extracts, co-treatment of P. minus EtOH (0.1 to 25 µg/mL) and P. minus EO (0.1 to 50 µg/mL) with Glu (4 and 5 mM) for 24 hours was conducted via cell viability assays. Co-treatment of P. minus EtOH with Glu did not exhibit a protective effect on HT22 cell viability, whereas co-treatment of P. minus EO (50 µg/mL) with Glu (4 mM and 5mM) prevented the decrease in the viability of HT22 cells induced by Glu toxicity. Therefore, we focused on the neuroprotective effects of P. minus EO (50 µg/mL) against Glu treatment for our subsequent work. To understand the neuroprotective actions of P. minus EO, calcium (Ca2+) influx, mitochondrial function, and apoptotic analyses were performed using biochemical assays and Hoechst 33342 staining. Co-treatment of P. minus EO at 50 µg/mL with 4 mM Glu reduced the intracellular Ca2+ influx, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and potentially increased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) levels in HT22 cells compared to the 4 mM Glu alone group. In apoptotic assays, P. minus EO at 50 µg/mL with Glu (4 and 5 mM) reduced the activated caspases levels as compared to the Glu-treated cells. The percentage of apoptotic cells was also reduced compared to the 4 mM Glu alone group. Additionally, P. minus EO exhibited modulatory effects in Glu-induced apoptotic cell death mechanisms in HT22 cells. Co-treatment of P. minus EO at 50 µg/mL with 4 mM Glu significantly reduced the activation of p44/42 MAPK proteins, while potentially decreasing Bax and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio compared to the Glu-treated cells. These results suggest that P. minus EO may provide antioxidant-associated neuroprotection against glutamate-induced apoptosis in HT22 cells. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the precise neuroprotective mechanisms of P. minus extracts against glutamate-induced toxicity

Challenges in strengthening Malaysia’s SDGs: insights from the all-party parliamentary group Malaysia (APPGM) impact evaluation.

Establishing the All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia (APPGM) on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) signals a robust national commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Aligned with the comprehensive principle of “Leaving No One Behind” (LNOB), this initiative follows a structured, four-phased approach of issue identification, project design, implementation, and rigorous monitoring and impact assessment. Through a multi-stage evaluation process encompassing domains such as Deep, Clear, Wide, and High, the impact of these projects was assessed, with considerations for SDG understanding and gender aspects. To ensure effective SDG implementation at the grassroots level, APPGM-SDG appoints evaluation groups to impartially evaluate the effectiveness of solution project implementations across Malaysian parliamentary constituencies. In 2023, the Central One team evaluated solution projects in Kuala Lumpur, Negeri Sembilan, and Melaka. This paper examines the challenges encountered by beneficiaries, solution providers, and evaluation teams during the Impact Evaluation (IE) of 18 projects in the Central One region. Beneficiaries faced hurdles in accessing follow-up learning opportunities and managing marketing and resources. Solution providers struggled with managing human interactions, while evaluators dealt with issues in communication and navigation. Improving the evaluation process and incorporating Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is imperative to address the needs of all involved parties, which will lead to more effective and sustainable development outcomes in the Central One region

Lab-grown insect meat - Chemical and biological insights - A comprehensive review

Lab-grown insect meat is a promising alternative to traditional livestock for sustainable food production. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding lab-grown insect meat, emphasizing key aspects such as life cycle assessment, insect cell culture history, technological advancements, and bio-robotics in insect cell culture. Comparisons and challenges between insect and mammalian/avian cell culture methodologies are presented. The nutritional content of edible insects (proximate, amino acid, mineral, and vitamin content) and the potential health benefits of consuming insect meat are discussed. The paper also explores embryonic and adult myogenesis processes in insect cells, as well as the significance of insect body fat and muscle cells in culture. Applications of insect cell culture in various fields, such as food production and pharmaceutical development, are presented. Moreover, the potential occurrence of mutations in lab-grown insect cells is examined. Lastly, the review addresses the drawbacks and limitations of insect labriculture, discussing factors such as scalability, cost-efficiency, and public acceptance. Overall, this comprehensive review provides essential insights into the chemical and biological aspects of lab-grown insect meat, paving the way for further research and development in this emerging field. This article is the first review article reporting the chemical and biological insights of lab-grown insect meat

Transferable data exclusivity vouchers are not the solution to the antimicrobial drug development crisis: A commentary on the proposed EU pharma regulation

Access to pharmaceutical products worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic when key developers of active pharmaceutical ingredients and medicinal products prioritised their national markets. These challenges led to a stronger commitment by the European Union (EU) to become more autonomous in developing and providing access to pharmaceutical products for its population.1 In April 2023, the European Commission (EC) proposed a reform of the EU pharma regulation to improve patient-centredness, strengthen the European pharmaceutical industry and incentivise pharmaceutical innovation.1 This reform needs to be approved by the European Parliament. In its present form, it includes the introduction of Transferable Data Exclusivity Vouchers (TDEVs) to address the crisis in antimicrobial innovation. In this commentary, we assess the use of TDEVs as an important element of the EC’s proposed pharma strategy on antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

Honouring the Maradika: from Kaili kingdoms to a decentralised neo-royal provincial government

Music, dance and ceremonies associated with Kaili royalty depict the presence of ethnic-specific genres and the exchange of tangible and intangible heirlooms (pusaka) with neighbouring kingdoms. Located in Central Sulawesi, Kaili lands (ngata Kaili) experienced the formation of distinct kingdoms at the periphery of four historical centres, namely South Sulawesi, East Kalimantan, the Sulu Zone and Maluku. With shared practices as an ethnicity (Kaili) and idiosyncrasies with distinct courts, dialects and lineages, Kaili kingdoms maintained a legacy of traditions serving as status signifiers in honour of nobility circles (maradika), and a heritage signifying local customs of each court and links to other kingdoms. The Kaili heritage experienced changes together with the transformations of the Indonesian political climate after independence in 1945, particularly during the national process of centralisation and standardisation of the performing arts during the New Order (Orde Baru) era (1967– 1998), and once again during the process of decentralisation of government operations that gave a greater autonomy to the performing arts after 1998. In view of the dynamic, evolving and adapting role of Kaili performance traditions associated with the nobility, this chapter analyses the forms in three diachronic eras: the Kaili kingdoms before 1945; the centralised national Indonesian government after 1945; and the decentralised neo-royal provincial government in Central Sulawesi after 1998. The chapter considers the following as examples of performing arts development for each era: the Kaili vaino mourning song in remembrance of deceased royalty and the balia healing ritual forms performed for royalty; royal links of the kakula gong-row heritage; and the pajoge maradika royal dance form

Curb children's social media usage

In Malaysia, it is common to see parents relying on smartphones to pacify toddlers, particularly during meal times at restaurants. As researchers in the field and mothers of toddlers, we are writing this letter out of concern for our young susceptible to physical harm or legal consequences