Potential Utilization Research Articles

Carbohydrates and carbohydrate degradation gene abundance and transcription in Atlantic waters of the Arctic

Carbohydrates are chemically and structurally diverse, represent a substantial fraction of marine organic matter and are key substrates for heterotrophic microbes. Studies on carbohydrate utilisation by marine microbes have been centred on phytoplankton blooms in temperate regions, while far less is known from high-latitude waters and during later seasonal stages. Here, we combine glycan microarrays and analytical chromatography with metagenomics and metatranscriptomics to show the spatial heterogeneity in glycan distribution and potential carbohydrate utilisation by microbes in Atlantic waters of the Arctic. The composition and abundance of monomers and glycan structures in POM varied with location and depth. Complex fucose-containing sulfated polysaccharides, known to accumulate in the ocean, were consistently detected, while the more labile β-1,3-glucan exhibited a patchy distribution. Through ‘omics analysis, we identify variations in the abundance and transcription of carbohydrate degradation-related genes across samples at the community and population level. The populations contributing the most to transcription were taxonomically related to those known as primary responders and key carbohydrate degraders in temperate ecosystems, such as NS4 Marine Group and Formosa. The unique transcription profiles for these populations suggest distinct substrate utilisation potentials, with predicted glycan targets corresponding to those structurally identified in POM from the same sampling sites. By combining cutting-edge technologies and protocols, we provide insights into the carbohydrate component of the carbon cycle in the Arctic during late summer and present a high-quality dataset that will be of great value for future comparative analyses.

Latest development of approved COVID-19 drugs and COVID-19 drugs undergoing late stage clinical trials

As the world adapts to living with SARS-CoV-2, the continuous emergence of new variants has become a primary focus of current studies. In this review, we examined a range of available COVID-19 drugs, including FDA-regulated drugs and those undergoing late-stage clinical trials. Some FDA-regulated drugs, such as Veklury (remdesivir), Olumiant (baricitinib), and Actemra (tocilizumab), have garnered primary clinical status in treatment guidelines, supported by sufficient clinical evidence. Conversely, EUA-authorized therapies, such as some antiviral agents, have demonstrated lower efficacy due to the virus’s constant mutation. We also focused on COVID-19 drugs undergoing late-stage clinical trials, some of which have raised controversy in their administration, such as colchicine and corticosteroids, while others are worth exploring regarding their timing. Several ongoing multi-drug clinical trials are of particular interest, including the “MEDIC-LAUMC” trial that explores drug co-administration, and “ACTIV-2” and “ACTIV-3” trials that compare the effects of different drugs for non-hospitalized and hospitalized patients, respectively. These ongoing clinical trials at a late stage provide essential clinical evidence for future drug authorization and have the potential to provide better drug administration strategies for COVID-19 variants. We look forward to the continued exploration of drug co-administration, comprehensive clinical evidence for treatment, and the investigation of different potential drug utilization.

Potential System Utilization and Cost Savings of Advanced Microbial Testing for Urinary Tract Infections

Potential System Utilization and Cost Savings of Advanced Microbial Testing for Urinary Tract Infections

Profile of fisheries capture in Cikidang Fish Landing Base (PPI), Pangandaran, West Java Study 2017-2021 and its potential utilization for fisheries product processing industry

Fishing activities in Pangandaran Regency are centered in Cikidang Fish Landing Base (PPI), Babakan Village, Pangandaran Sub-district, Pangandaran Regency, West Java Province. The research objective is to identify the fishing profile in Panagandaran Sub-district during 2017-2021 and identify its potential utilization for the fishery product processing industry. The research method is descriptive data collection. The research location is in Pangandaran sub-district. Data taken are secondary and primary data from 2017-2022. Respondents are Joint Business Groups (KUB) based on Cikidang PPI, Pangandaran Regency Marine Fisheries and Food Security Office, Head of Cikidang PPI, and Pangandaran District village leaders. The results of the study identified the age profile of respondents aged 55-59 years (55%), basic education level (75%), 31-35 years of fishing experience (25%), no side job (85%), monthly income of 1-2 million (60%). The types of fishing gear used by fishermen are Vessel Seine, Drift Net, Liong Bun, Hand Line and seser. The dominant types of fish catches in a row from the highest in 2017 to 2021 are Rebon Shrimp, Yellowfin Layur, Krosok Shrimp, Dogol Shrimp, White Bawal and fish bycatch. By-catch fish are in the top 4 most abundant fish caught using vessel seine and drift net gear. Most of the by-caught fish from middlemen are made into salted fish. Fishing activity decreased in 2020-2021, but the value of fishing production increased. The utilization of caught fish is mostly salted fish, yet to be utilized for the fishery products industry.

Steam boiler sustainable fuel supply chain: the case of solid biomass in the Indonesian industrial sector

This paper explores the potential utilization of solid biomass as fuel for steam boilers in the industrial sector, contributing to the achievement of sustainable and low-carbon industries in the future. Solid biomass is derived from natural resources such as rice husk, bagasse, palm waste (shells, empty fruit bunches, palm stems), forest/agricultural waste, and industrial waste, which can be processed into fuel forms like pellets, briquettes or charcoal. This dense biomass serves as an alternative fuel to replace coal, particularly for industrial steam boilers. This research aims to identify the challenges faced by the biomass boiler fuel supply chain for the textile industry in West Java. Ensuring a consistent and reliable biomass fuel supply poses a significant challenge for the textile industry in this region. This study assesses the root causes of the current challenges and proposes solutions related to sourcing biomass as a raw material for low-carbon steam boilers to support industrial sustainability. The research methodology encompasses desk research, qualitative and quantitative data collection, and data processing and analysis. The results reveal various strategies that can be explored to address these challenges, including diversification of biomass sources, development of supply chain infrastructure, and improvement of biomass quality.

Consumption of Mollusks and Potential Utilization of Resulting Shell Wastes for Shellcraft within a Pacific Islands Context

Consumption of Mollusks and Potential Utilization of Resulting Shell Wastes for Shellcraft within a Pacific Islands Context

Irradiated animal bedding material derived from cattail leaves and rice straw with orthophosphoric acid activation for amplified ammonia absorption

This scientific study investigates the suitability of cattail leaves and rice straw as biomass materials for animal bedding. Cattail, an invasive plant species known for its ability to thrive in nutrient-rich environments, offers high cellulose content for absorption. In combination with rice straw, which is readily available and cost-effective, the aim is to achieve optimal carbon-to-nitrogen ratios that suppress the growth of microorganisms. To resist bacterial growth, the mixed cattail leaves and rice straw samples undergo treatment with orthophosphoric acid at concentration of 25%, 30%, and 35% v/v, followed by gamma irradiation at 25 kGy. A comprehensive evaluation of the materials, focusing on surface morphology, water absorption, ammonia absorption, and bacterial resistance was conducted. SEM images provide evidence of dramatic surface restructuring. Samples treated with 30% v/v orthophosphoric acid exhibit enhanced water absorption capacities, and can absorb water equivalent to 2.2 times their own weight. Also, samples containing a 1:1 ratio of cattail leaves and rice straw demonstrate superior ammonia absorptions as evidenced by gas chromatography (GC) measurements compared to other samples. After sample irradiation, less bacterial growth was observed by optical density measurements. These findings support the potential utilization of a 1:1 ratio of cattail leaves and rice straw, treated with orthophosphoric acid of 30% v/v and irradiated with gamma radiation, as an effective animal bedding material. This combination offers advantages in terms of waste absorption and microbial control, making it a promising option for use in animal husbandry and laboratory settings.

Oligopeptide uptake improves oxidative stress resistance and nodulation competitiveness in soybean rhizobia

We here explored the mechanisms associated with oxidative stress resistance and root colonization by soybean rhizobia. Genomic and physiological analyses supported the fact that the mutation of a highly conserved valine at position 263 to alanine in an aspartate kinase-like protein associated with oligopeptide uptake (LysC) enhances the oxidative stress resistance of the commercial inoculant Bradyrhizobium japonicum E109. Integrated genetic and physiological studies suggest that LysC is part of a conserved substrate transport system in Bradyrhizobium, and that the LysC-V263A mutation in strain E109 significantly increased its oligopeptide uptake, survival during periods of starvation and nodulation competitiveness. Finally, the potential utilization of the CRISPR system to promptly propagate this gain-of-function mutation in soybean production worldwide is discussed.

Study of the Characterization of Tin Iron From Slag and Its Potential Applications

An analysis and study of the potential utilization of tin-iron tailings resulting from processing and refining tin in Bangka Belitung has been carried out. Prior to characterizing the iron tin from the sampling results, it was grinded to make it smooth. Then characterized using XRF and XRD. From the results of the XRF analysis, it was found many mineral content but the dominant metal content was Fe with 64.5%. This is also supported by the results of XRD analysis.

University Land Used Potential to Generate Income

Public universities currently struggle with reduced budget allocations from the Federal Government. Therefore, universities need to diversify revenue sources to sustain operational costs. One initiative that could be taken is to effectively manage the university assets, in which land is one of the essential components. If strategically managed and developed, universities typically possess substantial land holdings that could offer significant financial benefits. Therefore, this study aims to provide an overview of the potential utilization of university land to generate revenue. In order to achieve this, twelve universities in Peninsular Malaysia were interviewed on behalf of their respective land management organizations. Interviews were undertaken to explore the university’s current land use practices. Thematic and quasi analysis techniques will be used in this study. As a result, this research discovered several potential university land use to generate income that categorise into residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial. Leveraging this land’s potential can assist universities in innovating land use for generating income.

An Assistance in Preparing the TPQ Curriculum Based on Religious Moderation at Nurul Iman Mosque

Religious moderation is an attitude that must be instilled in young people from an early age. One way that can be used to instill the value of religious moderation from an early age is through the curriculum in formal and non-formal education. In this mentoring activity, the inculcation of the value of religious moderation is injected into the curriculum at TPQ (Taman Pendidikan Al-Quran) which is one of the non-formal religious institutions. The purpose of this mentoring activity is to provide an understanding of the importance of the religious moderation curriculum. In addition, this activity also aims to provide assistance in making the TPQ curriculum based on religious moderation at TPA Nurul Iman Tejoagung. The method used ABCD (Asset Based Community Development), which prioritizes the utilization of assets and potentials that are around and owned by the TPA Nurul Iman. All stages of this mentoring activity have been running well and have received support from related parties.

Inhibition of Citrus Huanglongbing Disease by Paenibacillus polymyx KN-03 and Analysis with Transcriptome and Microflora

Soil drench treatment using Paenibacillus polymyxa strain KN-03 was applied to citrus plants infected with Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas). The infection status was assessed using PCR and a real-time quantitative PCR detection system (qPCR). The application of KN-03 resulted in a notable reduction in CLas levels in citrus plants. Specifically, by the 257th day post treatment commencement, following 24 KN-03 applications, the negative rates of CLas in the vein, root tip, and shoot tip were 50%, 0%, and 50%, respectively. After 24 cycles, KN-03 application significantly enhanced plant growth and stimulated reactive oxygen production in citrus leaves compared to control plants. Transcriptome analysis identified specific upregulated pathways. Furthermore, flora analysis revealed an increased abundance of microorganisms possessing potential utilization value, including Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia, uncultured_bacterium_o_Acidobacteriales, uncultured_bacterium_f_Gemmatimonadaceae, and Rhodanobacter, in the root zone. Moreover, the BugBase analysis indicated that KN-03 treatment increased the abundance of beneficial rhizosphere bacteria associated with biofilm formation, element mobilization, and stress tolerance. These findings support the utility of Paenibacillus polymyxa KN-03 as an effective plant-growth-promoting bacterium for CLas management, with additional benefits for plant growth and soil health, specifically offering detoxification resources for shoot tip grafting.

QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF COMPOSITE FLOUR MADE FROM WHEAT AND PLANTAIN PEEL

The need to find potential food uses of plantain peel, which is a major waste product of plantain fruits necessitated the development of flour blends using wheat flour and plantain peel. The plantain peel flour (PPF) was blended with wheat flour (WF) in the ratio of 100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30 and 0:100 of PPF and WF. The flour blends were analysed for proximate composition, functional properties, mineral composition and colour parameters. The results of the proximate composition ranged between 6.68 to 6.86%, 3.00 to 3.16%, 0.88 to 1.21%, 3.40 to 9.25%, 1.00 to 1.13% and 78.7 to 84.7% for moisture, ash, fat, protein, fibre and carbohydrates respectively. The Mineral composition of the samples ranged between 0.75 to 7.30 mg/g for Iron, 2.60 to 7.77 mg/g for Sodium, 1020.90 to 1044.10 mg/g for Potassium, 188.50 to 1917.80 mg/g for Magnesium, and 14.65 to 137.95 mg/g for Calcium. The results of the bulk density ranged from 0.57 to 0.76 g/ml, water absorption capacity ranged from 1.23 to 3.43 g/ml and the swelling capacity ranged from 1.25 to 2.16 g/ml. There was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in ‘L*’ (lightness), ‘a*’ (redness) and ‘b*’ (yellowness) with increase in the PPF. In conclusion, the results obtained showed a detectable amount of nutrients, significantly higher amount of minerals and functional properties that could favour industrial utilization. The excellent contribution of the plantain peel to the overall nutritional properties of the flour blends suggests the potential utilization of the peel as ingredients in food.

THE RESISTANCE OF OOCYTES AND IN VITRO PRODUCED CATTLE EMBRYOS TO CRYOPRESERVATION

In vitro fertilization and production of bovine embryos in vitro is method, which improves utilization of animal reproduction potential. In connection with cryopreservation methods and ability of long-term cryostorage of embryos offers suitable tool for positive influence of endangered species or breeds. In vitro embryo production with subsequent embryo transfer contributes to the improvement of reproduction rates and bypassing some reproduction failure in high productive animal breeding. The method is generally used for in vitro production of transferable bovine embryos. Worldwide about 411 000 of IVP bovine embryos are annually transferred to recipients (IETS, 2013). Most of them were transferred immediately after producing, which is difficult for organization and synchronization of animals. In contrast to this possibility the storage of embryos for later using brings undisputable advantages. In order to protect animal genetic resources and to preserve the gene pool of rare and endangered animals, it is necessary to establish gene banks containing stocks of gametes and embryos of these animals. Optimization of the methods of in vitro production of bovine embryos and increasing their resistance to cryopreservation process is an actual challenge to ensure long-term storage in the gene bank of animal resources. The main goal of this mini-review is to provide general insight into the task of oocyte and embryo resistance to cryopreservation.

Edukasi pembuatan kripik dari sukun dalam memanfaatkan potensi alam pada masyarakat kelurahan tanjung kasuari

Tanjung Kasuari Village is one of the areas located in Southwest Papua. This sub-district is one of the places in Southwest Papua that has a lot of natural and tourist potential which can be utilized by the local community to meet their living needs. However, most people only take advantage of the tourism potential, namely the beauty of the beach as a tourist attraction. This can be seen from the large number of visitors to Tanjung Kasuari beach, especially on holidays. The community focuses more on serving tourists who visit the beach. For this reason, the PkM team conducted serveys and interviews regarding the obstacles faced related to the lack of utilization of natural potential. Based on the results of interviews with several sample residents, the community does not yet have ideas about utilizing natural potential. The team provided solution in the form of education, namely how to make and package chips from breadfruit which could become will be more creative and innovative in developing other natural potentials.

Effect of rare earth La2O3 on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of CoCrFeNiMoSi high entropy alloys

This study systematically investigated the effect of incorporating trace amounts of La2O3 into the CoCrFeNiMoSi high-entropy alloy (HEA) system on its corrosion resistance in neutral chloride ionic salt solutions. The CoCrFeNiMoSi HEA coatings and CoCrFeNiMoSi-0.5 % La2O3 HEA coatings were prepared using the laser melting technique. The microstructure, phase composition, and electrochemical corrosion performance were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical workstation, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The experimental results revealed that the microstructure primarily comprised face-centered cubic structure (FCC), body-centered cubic structure (BCC), and Si-rich intermetallic compounds. Notably, the addition of La2O3 facilitated the formation of the FCC phase. Electrochemical tests demonstrated that the CoCrFeNiMoSi-0.5 % La2O3 HEA coating exhibited an elevated corrosion potential and a reduced self-corrosion current density when compared to the CoCrFeNiMoSi HEA coating. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data revealed a notable increase in the Cr content and oxide content of the passive film when La2O3 was present in the HEA. This resulted in the formation of a more protective passivated film. Consequently, the potential utilization of rare earth lanthanum oxide to enhance the corrosion resistance of HEA coatings is promising.

Potential Utilization of Phenolic Acid Compounds as Anti-Inflammatory Agents through TNF-α Convertase Inhibition Mechanisms: A Network Pharmacology, Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Approach.

Inflammation is a dysregulated immune response characterized by an excessive release of proinflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and prostanoids, leading to tissue damage and various pathological conditions. Natural compounds, notably phenolic acid phytocompounds from plants, have recently garnered substantial interest as potential therapeutic agents to bolster well-being and combat inflammation recently. Based on previous research, the precise molecular mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory activity of phenolic acids remains elusive. Therefore, this study aimed to predict the molecular mechanisms underpinning the anti-inflammatory properties of selected phenolic acid phytocompounds through comprehensive network pharmacology, molecular docking, and dynamic simulations. Network pharmacology analysis successfully identified TNF-α convertase as a potential target for anti-inflammatory purposes. Among tested compounds, chlorogenic acid (-6.90 kcal/mol), rosmarinic acid (-6.82 kcal/mol), and ellagic acid (-5.46 kcal/mol) exhibited the strongest binding affinity toward TNF-α convertase. Furthermore, phenolic acid compounds demonstrated molecular binding poses similar to those of the native ligand, indicating their potential as inhibitors of TNF-α convertase. This study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms that drive the anti-inflammatory effects of phenolic compounds, particularly through the suppression of TNF-α production via TNF-α convertase inhibition, thus reinforcing their anti-inflammatory attributes.

Utilisation of the Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon - An illustrative series.

Dual-lumen balloon microcatheters can aid in the safety and efficacy of endovascular embolisation of cerebrospinal vascular malformations. The Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon is a novel device with a smaller profile than previous balloon microcatheters, opening up new indications not only in the treatment of cerebrospinal malformations but in various other neurovascular therapeutic and diagnostic scenarios. Following institutional ethics review board approval, a retrospective review of our prospectively maintained database of cases employing the Scepter Mini dual-lumen microballoon catheter was conducted. Five cases in particular were highlighted, demonstrating utilisation of this device, which may be of interest to the Neurointerventionalist. Patient demographics, procedure details, complications and clinical outcome data were reviewed. Five cases employing the Scepter Mini dual-lumen microballoon catheter are presented; trans-arterial embolisation of cerebral AVM, pre-operative tumour embolisation, diagnostic angiography, trans-venous embolisation of cerebral AVM and trans-arterial embolisation of DAVF. No intraprocedural complications were recorded, one patient had a delayed haemorrhage. Potential utilisation of the Scepter Mini lies not only in the trans-arterial embolisation of cerebrospinal vascular malformations, but in a range of other diagnostic and therapeutic indications as demonstrated.

Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) as a Promising Dietary Feed Ingredient for Monogastric Farm Animals

In recent years, there has been significant attention toward the incorporation of alternative functional feed ingredients in monogastric diets. The objective is to improve sustainability and optimize animal performance both under normal conditions and in heat stress situations. Among these alternatives, Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) has emerged as a promising candidate due to its nutritional composition and potential health benefits. This review aims to investigate the potential utilization of Jerusalem artichoke in monogastric diets and the impact on productive performance parameters. Moreover, the potential prebiotic effects of Jerusalem artichoke on the composition and activity of monogastric gut microbiota are revealed, showing its implications for gut health and reduction in pathogenic bacteria. The incorporation of Jerusalem artichoke in monogastric diets poses several challenges, such as limitation of the dietary inclusion rate. However, there are also future perspectives to consider, such as optimizing processing techniques, evaluating the effects of different cultivars, and exploring potential synergies with other dietary feed ingredients. In summary, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the key findings and unique perspectives on the utilization of Jerusalem artichoke in monogastric diets, highlighting its potential as a valuable feed ingredient.

From waste to eco-friendly biofilms: Harnessing cottonseed hull proanthocyanidins for sustainable solutions

A circular sustainable bioeconomy model, utilizing renewable resources like agricultural waste biomass, can address environmental issues caused by the massive utilization of fossil resources. The study aims at exploring the potential utilization of underutilized cottonseed hulls (CSHs) as a source of bioactive proanthocyanidins (PAs), and investigate their applicability in the production of biodegradable films. FT-IR, HPLC-QTOF/MS, MALDI-TOF/MS analyses served for characterizing the structure of PAs extracted from CSHs, and thiolysis reaction revealed that they primarily consisted of (epi)catechins with a few (epi)gallocatechins and (epi)afzelechin units, forming oligomeric proanthocyanidins of which the mean degree of polymerization (mDP) was 2.99. Three monomers, ten dimers, one tetramer, one pentamer, and one hexamer were theoretically identified in CSHs for the first time. The unique structure of CSHs sets them apart from most plants. The extracts displayed high in vitro antioxidant activity with IC50 value of 0.074 in DPPH assay and 0.018 mg/mL in ABTS assay. Additionally, the CSH extracts were incorporated as antioxidants into chitosan (CS)-based biodegradable films. The addition of 0.25% CSH extracts significantly improved film thickness and water vapor resistance, and also reduced the water solubility and visible light transmission. Furthermore, the films enhanced the blueberry quality and extended the shelf-life. This comprehensive study not only addresses waste management issues but also offers avenues for innovative applications in sustainable agriculture and packaging.