Journal of Bioprocessing and Biomass Technology
Bioprocessing and Biomass Technology covering a wide range of bioprocessing and biomass technology scopes in applied sciences such as: Biochemical and Biocatalysis Bioconversion and Biotransformation Bioprocess and Biosystem Cell Culture Technology Food and Agriculture Technology Bioseparation Bioremediation Environmental Biotechnology Bioenergy dan Biorefinery Metabolics Engineering Applied Molecular Biopharmaceutical Engineering Nanobiotechnology Biomass Technology Fermentation Technology Now BBT is indexed in MyJurnal
Fungi as Agents of Hydrocarbon Biodegradation: A Review
Despite the widespread reliance of petroleum-derived products in various industries, there is a significant environmental pollution issue arising from the improper disposal of oil products into the ecosystem. The toxicity, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of petroleum hydrocarbons (PHs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) lead to threatening effects when they are introduced into the soil and aquatic ecosystems. As these hydrocarbon compounds resist natural degradation processes and will accumulate in biological systems, hence a sustainable and cost-effective solution needs to be approached. Recently, microbial bioremediation has gained recognition as an environmentally sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional remediation techniques such as incineration, excavation and chemical oxidation, which are often costly and ecologically disruptive. Microorganisms, particularly bacteria and fungi, have proven their degradation capability through their metabolic capacity to degrade PHs and PAHs into less harmful compounds. However, bacterial degradation systems are well explored, while fungal degradation remains underexplored in bioremediation research and field practice. This review discussed the fungi which are capable of degrading hydrocarbons related pollutants and recent research carried out related to the oil degradation fungi.
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Bioprocessing and Biomass Technology
Glucose Purification and Cellulase Recycling Using Enzyme Membrane Reactor
The finding of a sustainable energy source leads to cellulosic ethanol as a potential alternative. Membrane filtration holds promise for purifying glucose, an important raw material, while saving production cost through enzyme recycling. This research focuses on the use of a cross-flow enzyme membrane reactor (EMR) to purify glucose from hydrolysed sodium carboxymethylcellulose solution while reusing cellulase for the next cycle through an ultrafiltration-dilution approach. The 30kDa polyethersulfone (PES) membrane would be used to separate the medium, and the EMR’s efficiency was tested by the glucose yield, flux, enzyme rejection and glucose permeability. Although a high 26-fold initial dilution during retentate transfer caused an 84.60% ± 6.36% glucose yield decline in the second retentate cycle, the 6.93% ± 2.04% glucose yield in the second cycle indicates that EMR could recover and recycle cellulase without total denaturation if the volumetric dilution factor was optimised. The first cycle experienced stronger membrane fouling, with lower flux, higher enzyme rejection and lower glucose permeability, while the second retentate cycle had a lower separation stability due to membrane reuse. The result can provide useful insights for future commercialisation of EMR in upstream cellulosic ethanol production.
A Review: Bacillus velezensis as Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria for a Sustainable Biocontrol Agent
Bacillus velezensis has gained increasing attention as a sustainable biocontrol agent due to its multifaceted mechanisms against phytopathogens and its capacity to endure harsh environmental conditions through endospore formation. This review critically examines the biological attributes and functional mechanisms that position B. velezensis as a viable alternative to chemical fungicides in modern agriculture. Central to its efficacy is the development of the functional endospore, a highly specialized dormant structure that serves as a critical delivery vehicle, ensuring the bacterium's survival during industrial processing and environmental stress. Particular emphasis is placed on its dual-action strategy: direct mechanisms involving the production of diverse antifungal secondary metabolites such as cyclic lipopeptides, polyketides, and volatile organic compounds (VCOs) which physically disrupt pathogenic fungi, and indirect mechanisms that activate plant immune responses through Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR). The bacterium’s capacity to colonize the rhizosphere through chemotaxis, biofilm formation, and root adhesion further enhances its competitiveness and persistence. Additionally, the structural and biochemical resilience of its endospores enables high shelf stability and consistent efficacy in field applications. Collectively, this synthesis underscores B. velezensis as a biologically robust, environmentally safe, and agronomically promising solution for sustainable crop protection.
Optimization of Carboxymethyl Cellulose from Ozonated Empty Fruit Bunch for Biofilm Fabrication
Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) derived from lignocellulosic biomass has gained interest in biodegradable film fabrication. In this study, CMC was synthesized from ozonated empty fruit bunches (EFB). The parameters for synthesizing the CMC were screened and optimized focusing on the degree of substitution (DS) of CMC. The CMC was then used for biofilm fabrication. The parameters for CMC production and its effect on DS were evaluated by using response surface methodology (RSM). All parameters significantly influenced the DS of CMC, and the optimal DS achieved is 0.69 at 15% NaOH, cellulose: sodium monochloroacetate (SMCA) of 1:2, reaction temperature of 55 °C and a reaction time of 1.5 hrs. The characterization of CMC at different DS by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows high resistance to thermal degradation 500 °C with a more irregular surface for DS 0.69 as compared to lower DS. Using the CMC with DS 0.69 for biofilm fabrication, the biofilm achieved tensile strength up to 34.43 MPa, elongation break at 45% with solubility less than 10% both at room and high temperatures the formulation of biofilm consisted of CMC (4.99 wt.%), citric acid (2.49 wt.%), glycerol (1.26 wt.%), and water (91.26 wt.%). Overall, the optimized CMC can be used as a polymer matrix in biofilm fabrication, producing biofilm with high tensile strength, elongation, and low solubility.
Adsorption Isotherms and Kinetic Studies of Methylene Blue Removal by Jatropha curcas Seeds
This study investigates the potential of Jatropha curcas seed as a low-cost biosorbent for the removal of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solutions. The biosorbent was prepared through drying, grinding, and sieving processes, followed by characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of initial dye concentration, pH, adsorbent dosage, and contact time. The optimum conditions were identified at pH 11, initial concentration of 50 mg/L, and adsorbent dosage of 1.0 g, achieving a maximum removal efficiency of 77.15% and adsorption capacity of 6.17 mg/g. The adsorption process was best described by the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic model, indicating monolayer adsorption and chemisorption mechanism. The findings demonstrate that Jatropha curcas seeds are a promising sustainable biosorbent for wastewater treatment applications.
In silico Evaluation of Cross-linkers for Immobilizing Laccase in Scalable Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Biodegradation
The rapid accumulation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in the environment has intensified the need for sustainable and efficient strategies for plastic degradation. Laccase, a flexible oxidoreductase able to attack and cleave the ester linkage for potential PET hydrolysis, is hindered in practical applications by limited stability, restricted reusability, and susceptibility to industrial conditions. This study employed in silico approaches, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, to evaluate the interactions and stability of laccase immobilized with a diverse set of cross-linkers: micromolecular (ethylene glycol, glutaraldehyde, and benzoquinone), macromolecular (chitosan, and dextran), and polysaccharide-based (amylopectin, dextran, and glucosamine). Among these, glucosamine exhibited the strong binding affinity, with ΔG values of –7.0 kcal/mol (AutoDock) and –7.98 kcal/mol (SwissDock), forming 4–7 persistent hydrogen bonds at a safe distance of 15–21 Å from the T1 copper catalytic centre. MD simulations over 10 ns confirmed enhanced structural stability of the laccase + glucosamine complex, evidenced by low RMSD values (~0.20–0.28 nm), reduced RMSF at catalytic loops (0.02–0.07 nm), consistent Rg (1.68–1.74 nm), and decreased SASA (175–185 nm²). According to these findings, glucosamine offers excellent structural stability, compactness, and preservation of active site integrity, highlighting its potential use as a biocompatible cross-linker. The study establishes an appropriate in silico framework for developing reliable immobilized laccase systems for industrial and environmental PET degradation applications.
Heavy Metal Adsorption (As, Zn, Pb, and Fe) using Indigenous Gram-Positive Bacteria from ASGM Wastewater in Lampung
Small-scale gold mining (ASGM) produces toxic wastewater containing high concentration of heavy metals such as arsenic (As), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) which threaten the environment and human health in the surrounding area. A biotechnological approach using metal-tolerant bacteria is an environmentally friendly alternative to physical and chemical methods. This study aims to test the ability of gram-positive bacteria, namely Micrococcus, isolated from ASGM tailings to absorb heavy metals As, Pb, Zn, and Fe. Isolation was carried out using Nutrient Agar (NA) and Nutrient Broth (NB) media, while tolerance tests were carried out at a concentration of 100 ppm for each metal. The results showed that Micrococcus bacteria could survive and resist exposure to contamination from the four heavy metals up to the highest concentration tested. These findings suggest that gram positive bacteria have significant potential for use as bioremediation agents in managing heavy metal pollution. In conclusion, Micrococcus can be used as an alternative in the remediation of As, Pb, Zn, and Fe metals, although further studies are still needed to evaluate their absorption capacity in more detail and their application in real environmental conditions.
Comparative Analysis of Phytochemical Composition in Ethanolic Extracts of Acalypha Indica Between Ultrasound-Assisted and Maceration Extraction Methods
Acalypha indica (AI) is one of the edible traditional medicinal herbs used worldwide. Previously, conventional maceration extraction was often used to extract phytochemicals from AI plant material with limitations of prolonged extraction time and high solvent consumption. This study investigates the extraction methods, namely maceration extraction (ME) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), which were utilised to extract and compare the phytochemical content and antioxidant activity of the AI sample derived from the whole plant. The extraction involved the use of water solvent and ethanolic solvent (20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%). Each extract was subjected to chemical-assay guidance by testing for Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. The study reveals UAE extract gained a low EC50 (84.5 μg/ml) at 40% ethanolic solvent, the highest TPC (555.952 ± 41.938 mg GAE/g) using water solvent, and 60% obtained the highest TFC (887.9048 ± 46.085 mg RE/g). As for maceration, 60% obtained a low value of EC50 (115.1 μg/ml) and the highest TPC (567.061 ± 16.432 mg GAE/g). Meanwhile, 80% ethanol solvent obtained the highest TFC (577.619 ± 43.008 mg RE/g). Ultimately, maceration achieved higher polyphenolic content while having the better antioxidant outcome. However, the UAE extracted polyphenolic content in a shorter period of time and with lower solvent consumption.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Bioprocessing and Biomass Technology
The Effect of Sieve Size on Pollen Viability of Several Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Varieties
High pollen viability plays an essential role in increasing fruit set, achieving optimal yield, and ensuring successful pollination in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.). Pollen size varies among species and even among varieties within the same species, which may influence its viability level. This study aimed to determine the most suitable sieve size for pollen viability, the best-performing oil palm variety, and the interaction between sieve size and variety on pollen viability. The experiment was arranged in a factorial Randomised Complete Block Design with two factors: sieve size (8, 10, 12, and 14 mesh) and variety (FR 1, Topaz 3, and PPKS 540), each replicated three times. The observed parameters included germination rate, maximum growth potential, growth rate, and pollen tube length, which were analysed using ANOVA in SPSS software. The results showed that sieve size had no significant effect on all pollen viability parameters, whereas the Topaz 3 variety exhibited the highest germination rate, maximum growth potential, and growth speed. No significant interaction was observed between sieve size and variety on pollen viability.
Effect of Microbial-Based Plant Biostimulants on the Growth of Brassica Chinensis in Acidic Clay Soil
Acidic clay soil is common in Malaysia and is often perceived as problematic soil as its acidic nature and high clay content are not ideal for plant growth. Plant biostimulants are defined as substances or microorganisms applied to plants to enhance nutrition efficiency, abiotic stress tolerance, crop quality, regardless of their nutrient content. This study assessed whether commercial plant biostimulants containing effective microorganism could enhance plant growth in acidic clay soil. A field trial was conducted using Brassica chinensis var. parachinensis (Choy Sum), a major vegetable crop in Malaysia. The plants were treated twice a week with T1 (control with distilled water), T2 (Midori Enviro Magic Active Solution) and T3 (Midori Active Organic Solution), with five replicates each (n=5). Plant growth data (leaf length and number, height, stem circumference) were collected weekly, while plant weight and root length were measured at the end of experiment. Soil pH, soil carbon, soil moisture, soil organic matter, microbial count, and contents of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, K, Na, and S contents were analysed. Both T2 and T3 (P<0.01) produced plants with larger diameter (32.71±12.43 cm and 59.43±26.05 cm, respectively) compared to the control. Soil treated with T3 exhibited higher pH (4.81± 0.06) and organic matter content (5.94 ± 0.31%) than T2 (pH: 4.51± 0.04, organic matters: 3.51 ± 0.28%) and non-treated soil (pH: 4.53 ± 0.06, organic matters: 4.49 ± 0.25%). The findings demonstrated the microbial-based biostimulants have the potential to improve plant tolerance to acidic clay soil conditions.
Prediction of Artificial Sweetener Adulteration in Commercial Stevia Using FTIR-Based Chemometrics
Stevia is widely used as a natural sweetener, yet its high cost has led to increasing cases of adulteration with cheaper artificial sweeteners. Rapid and reliable detection methods are therefore essential for quality control. This study evaluates the use of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy combined with chemometric modelling to predict the adulteration level of artificial sweeteners in commercial stevia products. FTIR spectra of pure stevia, three artificial sweeteners (aspartame, sodium saccharin, sodium cyclamate), and their mixtures were analysed. Principal component analysis (PCA) successfully distinguished pure stevia from adulterated samples based on characteristic wavenumbers. Partial least squares (PLS) regression models were developed to predict adulterant levels, yielding R² values of 0.88–0.95 which indicate a strong correlation between FTIR spectral features and adulterant concentration, and RMSEP values of 33.72–43.28% that reflect moderate prediction errors that are acceptable for screening purposes. Application of the models to three commercial stevia products revealed varying levels of adulteration, particularly with sodium saccharin and sodium cyclamate. Although some predictions exceeded 100%, indicating model extrapolation, the overall results demonstrate that FTIR coupled with chemometrics provides a rapid, non-destructive approach for screening stevia authenticity. This method shows strong potential for routine detection of sweetener adulteration in commercial products.
Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Elucidate Key Targets and Multi-Pathway Modulation in the Antidiabetic Action of Momordica charantia L.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterised by hyperglycaemia resulting from insulin resistance, diminished tissue sensitivity to insulin, impaired beta-cell function, or dysregulated glucagon secretion. It is a major public health concern in Malaysia, affecting nearly one in five adults. As there is currently no definitive cure, the disease management of T2DM relies on sustained lifestyle and pharmacological intervention. Momordica charantia L. (bitter gourd) is traditionally recognised for its antidiabetic properties, yet its key therapeutic targets and mechanisms of action remain incompletely understood. Therefore, this study employed an in silico approach to investigate the pharmacokinetic properties and antidiabetic activity of six key bioactive compounds in M. charantia, including stigmasterol glucoside (SG), beta-sitosterol glucoside (BSG), diosgenin, oleanolic acid, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol. The present results showed that all six compounds satisfied Lipinski’s Rule of Five, indicating good oral bioavailability. In addition, SG, BSG, and diosgenin were found to be non-toxic with a predicted LD50 of 8000 mg/kg, while oleanolic acid, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol showed moderate toxicity (LD50 between 890-2000 mg/kg). Network pharmacology analysis identified 97 potential compound targets associated with T2DM. KEGG and gene ontology enrichment analysis linked these targets to critical pathways including insulin signalling, insulin resistance, and endocrine resistance. In addition, molecular docking analysis further demonstrated strong binding affinities of the metabolites with key targets including alpha-amylase, MAPK8, CES1, PPARG, and GSK3B. Collectively, these findings indicated that M. charantia metabolites exert antidiabetic effects through multi‑target and multi‑pathway modulation. This work may provide a systems‑level mechanistic foundation for the traditional use of M. charantia and supporting its potential as a source for novel T2DM therapeutics.
Influence of Hydrodynamic Factors on the Biofilm Deformation in Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor (MABR) using Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI)
Membrane aerated biofilm reactors (MABR) have emerged as a promising alternative for wastewater treatment, yet their performance is often limited by an incomplete understanding of the fluid structure interactions (FSI) that influence biofilm behaviour and mass transfer. This knowledge gap hampers the optimisation of MABR design for efficient pollutant and nitrogen removal. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of the hydrodynamic factors on the biofilm deformation to achieve better performance of the MABR during the wastewater treatment process. The experimental setup has a limitation towards the investigation of the hydrodynamics factors, by applying the FSI of COMSOL® Multiphysics 5.3 software for data analysis, focusing on the hydrodynamic factors. It was found that at a lower inlet velocity (8.33 /s), the formation of biofilm thickness was greater (32 μm) in the rough surface as compared to the flat surface, which was 22. This study also found that the shear stress generated was proportional to the inlet velocity and had an opposite effect on biofilm formations. The COMSOL simulations indicated that a decrease in Young’s modulus (70 Pa) had increased the rate of biofilm deformation to 6 μm for the rough surface and 2 μm for the flat surface. This work has successfully justified the hydrodynamic factors pose a significant impact on the formation and deformation of the biofilm.
Computational Analysis of Crosslinker Binding Affinity and Site Interactions with Fungal and Bacterial Laccases to Guide CLEA Development
Efficient cross-linked enzyme aggregate (CLEA) formation requires not only strong interactions between enzymes and crosslinkers but also proper binding orientation to prevent active site obstruction. In this study, molecular docking was employed to investigate the interactions between fungal (Trametes versicolor) and bacterial (Bacillus subtilis) laccases and various crosslinkers, including glutaraldehyde, ethylene glycol, dialdehyde starch, pectin, and chitosan. Docking simulations revealed that chitosan exhibited the strongest binding affinity with both enzymes (-7.1 and -7.0 kcal/mol), primarily due to extensive hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Binding site analysis further demonstrated that chitosan binds at sites distant from the active sites of the enzymes, which are 32.0 Å from the catalytic center within domain 2 of the bacterial laccase and 34.6 Å from the catalytic center within domain 3 of the fungal laccase, minimizing the risk of active site obstruction and preserving catalytic accessibility. In contrast, glutaraldehyde and ethylene glycol were found near the fungal laccase active site, potentially influencing substrate access. This study suggests that molecular docking can serve as a valuable preliminary approach to explore crosslinker–enzyme interactions and support the rational design of CLEAs before experimental validation.
Biodegradation of Oxytetracycline by Using Laccase Entrapped in Mesoporous Silica Microparticles
This study evaluates the catalytic efficiency of free laccase and laccase entrapped in mesoporous silica microparticles (LSM) for the degradation of oxytetracycline (OTC) in aqueous media. The LSM system demonstrated a degradation efficiency of up to 82% within 24 hours, outperforming the free enzyme in terms of pH tolerance and operational stability. Temperature-dependent experiments revealed that degradation at elevated temperatures was primarily due to OTC thermal instability rather than enzymatic activity. Furthermore, LSM retained approximately 90% of its degradation capacity after seven reuse cycles, indicating strong potential for repeated application. These findings underscore the applicability of LSM as a robust biocatalyst for antibiotic remediation in water treatment systems.
Optimization of Crude Biodiesel Production from Zophobas morio Larvae using Response Surface Methodology
Biodiesel is a renewable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly alternative fuel that plays a critical role in the automotive and transportation sectors. It is commonly produced through a transesterification process. The growing interest in biodiesel production is driven by the depletion of fossil fuel reserves and the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel combustion. In this study, Zophobas morio larvae (supermealworms) were investigated as a novel feedstock for biodiesel production due to their high lipid content. Key process parameters affecting biodiesel yield including the temperature, reaction time and oil-to-methanol volume ratio were initially evaluated using a one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach. Significant variables identified through OFAT were optimized using RSM, yielding a maximum biodiesel output of 0.5719 g at 54.77 °C, 92.05 minutes, and an oil to methanol volume ratio of 1:0.76. This study highlights the potential of insect-based fat as a sustainable alternative to conventional vegetable oils such as corn or sunflower oil, which are edible and economically valuable. The development of biodiesel from non-edible, lipid-rich biomass such as insect larvae represents a promising step toward sustainable biofuel production in anticipation of fossil fuel scarcity.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Properties of Zingiber officinale and Kaempferia parviflora Against Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogenic bacterium whose biofilm-forming ability contributes to resistance against antibacterial treatments, highlighting the need for alternative strategies using plant extracts. This study evaluated the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of Zingiber officinale (normal ginger) and Kaempferia parviflora (black ginger) ethanolic extracts against S. aureus, focusing on extraction yield, total phenolic content (TPC), functional group characterization (ATR-FTIR) and their efficacy in inhibiting S. aureus growth (disc diffusion assay) and biofilm formation (biofilm assay). K. parviflora yielded 3.05% extract compared to 0.57% for Z. officinale but Z. officinale had a slightly higher TPC (43.03 mg GAE/100 g) compared to K. parviflora (39.83 mg GAE/100 g). ATR-FTIR analysis predicted the presence of phenols, alkane and aromatic functional group in both extracts. Antibacterial assay showed that only K. parviflora extract inhibited S. aureus, with an 8.33 mm zone of inhibition at the tested concentrations. For biofilm assay, K. parviflora extract effectively inhibited S. aureus biofilm formation after seven days, with the highest inhibition of 59.92%. Overall, K. parviflora demonstrated promising potential as a plant-based antibacterial and antibiofilm agent against S. aureus.
In Vitro Digestibility and Kinetic Modelling of Pea and Brown Rice Protein Powder Blends at Different Mixing Ratios
Global trend suggests a dietary shift from animal-based to plant-based diets, indicating a growing demand in related markets. As such, plant-based protein sources have raised scientific interest for their health benefits and sustainability. Plant-based protein powders are nutritional supplements derived from protein-rich plants and serve as an alternative of protein source for vegan, athletes and consumers with dietary restrictions. However, plant-based proteins often lack one or more essential amino acids and exhibit lower digestibility, thus requiring combination with other proteins to ensure nutritional adequacy. This study investigates the digestibility aspect of commercialized plant-based protein isolates. To overcome the imbalanced amino acid profile and low digestibility of plant-based protein powder, a blend of pea and brown rice protein isolate was formulated. The effects of mixing different blending ratios on digestibility were studied using in vitro digestibility test and FTIR spectroscopy. Protein release kinetics of digested protein samples were modelled using zero order, first order, Higuchi and Hixson-Crowell models. The results show that blending pea with brown rice protein isolate improved digestibility compared to pure protein isolates. Pea to brown rice ratio of 4:1 recorded the highest digestibility (75.14%), justified by the FTIR analysis result that indicated fewer functional groups and bonds. The optimal ratio was determined to be 7:3 pea to brown rice protein isolate. Majority of samples can best be described by Higuchi model suggesting a diffusion-controlled release mechanism.
Optimization of Temperature, Cellulase Concentration and pH value of Enzymatic Saccharification for Producing Sugar from Ozone Pre-treated Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch
Enzymatic saccharification is a crucial step in biomass conversion, where cellulase enzymes break down cellulose into fermentable sugars. This study focuses on optimizing the enzymatic saccharification process for total reducing sugar (TRS) production from ozone pre-treated oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB). A Face-Centred Central Composite Design (FCCD) was employed to evaluate the effects of three key process parameters: temperature (30 °C to 60 °C), cellulase concentration (0.5 mg/mL to 1.5 mg/mL), and pH (3 to 7). A total of 20 experimental runs were conducted. The response variable measured was the concentration of total reducing sugar (TRS) produced. The highest TRS yield achieved was 3.598 mg/mL under the optimized conditions of 39.157 °C, 1.177 mg/mL cellulase concentration, and pH 6.824. These findings demonstrate that ozone pre-treatment significantly enhances the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency of OPEFB. The optimized conditions suggest a promising pathway for the efficient production of TRS, supporting future upscaling and potential commercialization of bio-based products.
Three-dimensional Culture System of Fibroblast Cells in the Fabricated Mini Bioreactor
Optimizing 3D culture is vital for developing in vitro models that mimic in vivo environments. This study evaluated static and dynamic 3D cultures of fibroblast cells encapsulated in alginate beads and examined the performance of a fabricated mini bioreactor system. Among three types of fabricated mini bioreactors – airlift, magnetic stirrer, and stirred tank mini bioreactors – the stirred tank mini bioreactor with a Rushton blade at 250 rpm and a CO2 flow of 8 mL/min showed the best conditions for cell viability (81.14%) compared to static culture (71%). These findings, supported by both trypan blue and MTT assays, highlight the benefits of dynamic agitation in enhancing nutrient distribution while preserving cell integrity. Despite promising outcomes, contamination due to inadequate sterilization of the bioreactor lid calls for design improvements. Still, this study supports the potential of optimized fabricated mini bioreactors as practical solutions for scalable and efficient 3D cell culture.
Recent Understanding on Biodegradation and Abiotic Degradation of Plastics: A Review
The global plastic litter has turned into an environmental problem of grave concern founded on its persistence and adverse impacts on the ecosystem. Addressing this issue requires effective degradation strategies that can complement or replace current waste management practices. This review presents an update of the current advances on biodegradation of plastics with an overview of the various plastics, their properties, and typical applications. This review also describes conventional abiotic degradation mechanisms (thermal, photodegradation, hydrolytic, and mechanical) and their advantages and limitations. The role of microbes as effective biodegradation agents with emphasis on individual strains and specific plastic types is explored. The bioprocess of plastic biodegradation is outlined to indicate how microbial action breaks down synthetic polymers into harmless products in the environment. A comparison of biodegradation with other non-biological degradation processes is also included, their impact on the environment, operational feasibility, and potential for future application. In conclusion, microbial biodegradation has been proved to be a viable, eco-friendly option that can be an integral part of the solution for the global plastics pollution issue.
Simulation on Heat Distribution in Oil Palm Fruit Mesocarp during Thermal Hydrolysis of Triacylglycerols
The palm oil industry is a major contributor to Malaysia’s economy. Crude palm oil (CPO) extraction involves the digestion of the palm fruit mesocarp where thermal hydrolysis of triacylglycerols (TAGs) is crucial for the oil yield and quality. This study aimed to develop a comprehensive 2D-asymmetric time-dependent model using COMSOL Multiphysics to simulate heat distribution during this process and investigate its impact on CPO extraction under varying steam temperatures within a time frame of 90 minutes. The temperatures of the steam applied are in the range of 90°C to 100°C. The model is validated against existing literature to ensure accuracy. Simulation results demonstrate a strong correlation between heat distribution and oil yield, providing valuable insights for process optimization. This research demonstrates the potential of advanced modelling techniques to drive sustainable efficient palm oil production practices.
Total Phenolic, Total Flavonoid and Antioxidant Activity of Capsicum annuum Seed and Pericarp Extracts
Capsicum annuum, a type of chilli, is a species that is extensively grown, a good source of bioactive chemicals, and an important component of diets that promotes health. Waste seeds from chilli processing have the potential to be used as an alternative source for antioxidants due to their chemical compositions, however, C. annuum seeds are still poorly studied. Thus, this study was carried out to evaluate the differences between C. annuum pericarp and seed extracts in terms of total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Antioxidant activity was measured using DPPH free radical scavenging assay. The pericarp extract exhibited a higher level of total phenolics (31.26 ± 6.71 μg GAE/mg dry weight) compared to the seeds (26.76 ± 2.08 μg GAE/mg dry weight) albeit not statistically significant. Similarly, a higher total flavonoid content was observed in the pericarp compared with the seed extract (21.65 ± 1.13 vs. 16.43 ± 0.37 μg QE/mg dry weight, p < 0.05). As a result, in comparison to the seed extract, the pericarp extract likewise demonstrated a greater DPPH radical scavenging activity. Despite having lower levels of total phenolics, total flavonoids, and DPPH scavenging activity than the pericarp, the seed extract is nevertheless significant and may be used as a substitute source of phenolics or other compounds rather than being thrown away as waste. This study promotes sustainability and the conversion of waste product into valuable resources of that may be used in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and food industry.
Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Bioprocessing and Biomass Technology
Effects of Incubation Time and Laccase Concentration on Immobilization of Laccase on Magnetic Spent Tea
This study explores the impact of incubation time and laccase concentration on the immobilization efficiency and activity of laccase, employing magnetic spent tea as a sustainable carrier. The results indicate that the highest immobilization yield occurred at an incubation time of 24 hours, achieving 96.51%, while the optimal enzyme activity of 4.31 U was recorded at a shorter incubation duration of 6 hours. This finding suggests that extended incubation times may enhance covalent bonding between the enzyme and the carrier but can also lead to reduced enzymatic activity due to potential over-binding. The ideal laccase concentration was identified as 1.0 mg/ml, which resulted in a notable immobilization yield of 74.16% while preserving significant enzyme activity. Higher concentrations caused steric hindrance, adversely affecting performance. Furthermore, reusability assessments revealed that the immobilized laccase's relative activity increased from 23% in the first cycle to 100% by the fifth cycle, likely facilitated by ABTS as a mediator. Utilizing magnetic spent tea not only serves as an effective and economical method for enzyme immobilization but also aids in waste reduction by transforming tea byproducts into valuable resources. This dual approach underscores the potential for enhancing enzymatic processes while advancing environmentally responsible waste management practices in biotechnological applications.
Optimisation of Flour Composition Ratio, Baking Temperature and Time on Papaya Biscuit Production and Evaluation of Biscuit Stability during Storage
The underutilized papaya from agroindustry can cause adverse impact towards economy and environment. Papaya is a highly nutritious fruit however it is prone to decay and injury during storage. Thus, it is important to find solutions for this underutilised papaya. One of the solutions is to convert fresh papaya into papaya powder, and used as functional ingredient in food and beverage. The objectives of this study were to optimize the flour composition ratio, baking temperature and time for biscuit production, and evaluate the stability of physicochemical properties of optimized papaya biscuit during storage. The optimized condition with desirability of 0.537 produced biscuits with moisture content of 3.83 ± 0.08%, antioxidant activity of 85.95 ± 0.86%, hardness of 1256.33 ± 93.11 N, 43.52 ± 0.57 of L* value, 19.91 ± 0.27 of a* value, and 21.47 ± 0.63 of b* value. Flour composition ratio, baking temperature and time have significant impacts on the properties studied. Kinetic studies show that the optimized papaya biscuit was more stable during storage since the kinetic rate constants of the antioxidant, moisture content, hardness and color were lower than the control biscuit.
Carbohydrate Extraction from Brown Algae using Green Technology Approach - Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction (UAE)
Over the past decade, conventional methods have been widely employed for extracting carbohydrate from brown algae, involving significant quantities of acid and alkaline chemicals, lengthy processing times, and high energy requirements. However, in line with the current global emphasis on environmental friendliness, the focus has shifted towards green technologies in the extraction process. Green technologies usually refer to non-conventional methods, with Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction (UAE) being one of the most commonly utilized techniques. This research paper focuses on the extraction of carbohydrates from brown algae using a green technology approach, specifically UAE. Central composite design (CCD) was used in this study with different combinations of parameters such as temperature (30-60 °C), time (15-45 min) and material to solvent ratio (1:15-1:35). The best operating parameters that obtained the highest carbohydrate yield are the material-to-solvent ratio of 1:35 g/mL, extraction time of 30 min, and extraction temperature of 45 °C. The highest yield of carbohydrate obtained was 7.73 mg/g. These findings will contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient methods for carbohydrate extraction from brown algae using green technology approaches.
Harnessing the Potentialities of Probiotics, Prebiotics and Synbiotics Application for Agriculture Industry: A Mini Review
The agricultural industry significantly drives global economic growth. However, the undeniable impacts of intensive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and intensified farming practices contribute to soil erosion. Synbiotics, a combination of prebiotic and probiotic offer an alternative approach to preserve and improve the quality of soil. The main objective of this review is to provide comprehensive overview of the application of the synbiotic approach to the productivity of the agriculture. The review covers soil fertility factors, as well as the roles of synbiotic, prebiotic and probiotic in enhancing the growth of plant in agriculture. Biofertilizers, consisting of organic matter and beneficial microbes, establish a symbiotic relationship with plants, enhancing both soil health and plant growth. The combination of probiotic and prebiotic can generate high production of agriculture yield.
Phytochemical Compounds, Therapeutic Effects and Antimicrobial Properties of Gac Fruit (Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng.)
Gac fruit, a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, has been traditionally used in Asian cuisines as a red coloring agent and to maintain health. It is particularly rich in carotenoids, such as lycopene and β-carotene, and phenolics and flavonoids, which contribute to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit's versatility is evident in its diverse processing options, transforming its aril, pulp, seed, and peel into powders or encapsulated oil products. Despite its nutritional potential, Gac fruit remains underutilized, with limited research on its therapeutic and antimicrobial properties, though preliminary studies show significant promise. This review synthesizes current scientific literature on the phytochemical composition, therapeutic effects of Gac fruit, and processing methods. Recent studies also have highlighted Gac fruit's potential antimicrobial activities, largely due to its rich polyphenol content. The findings highlight a clear relationship between the high polyphenols content of Gac fruit and its antimicrobial properties. This review integrates traditional knowledge with modern scientific insights, positioning Gac fruit as a valuable functional food and a promising tool for antimicrobial food ingredients. In the future, further research is needed to establish the mechanisms of the Gac fruit as a therapeutic and antimicrobial agent, as this area is currently underexplored.
Comparison of Compressive Strength and Water Absorption Characteristics of Cement stabilized Earth Blocks Reinforced with Banana and Jute fibers
This paper discusses the influence of textile fiber reinforcement with concrete materials for evaluating the mechanical property and water absorption of banana and jute fiber reinforced conventional sand block for calculating the suitability in affordable and environment friendly construction material production. The experimental design was completely randomized with three categories like treated earth block, untreated earth block and clay brick. The treated blocks were representing 47.4 MPa Compressive strength whereas an untreated block was represented as on average 14.2 MPa. Meanwhile, the untreated earth block result is 15.5% and clay brick result is 19.2% which is maximum for the water absorption test. It was identified from the study that the water absorption rate must remain below 22% to guarantee the material's longevity. This experimental work study was found that the comparison between blocks with no fiber reinforcement and blocks with banana and jute reinforcement which can include extra compressive strength and water absorbency as per Bangladesh Standards & Testing Institute (BSTI). It was found that the difference in properties of a block by adding banana and jute fibers in the conventional sand blocks. These efforts were necessary to ensure the environment friendly technology of textile reinforced concrete gets widely accepted for building affordable and durable constructions.
Application of Membrane Filtration for Microalgae Harvesting and Protein Separation
The seek for sustainable protein sources has led to the exploration of microalgae as an alternative. Membrane filtration, known for its environmental friendliness, holds promise for purifying protein from microalgae. This research focuses on the protein purification from Chlorella vulgaris microalgae using polyethersulfone (PES) membrane. This research aims to investigate the effect of membrane composition for enhanced microalgae harvesting and protein purification, as well as evaluating the effects of membrane pore sizes and porosity on the performance. Three membrane compositions were evaluated, which are 18% PES, 15% PES, and 12% PES. The membranes were tested for efficiency in microalgae harvesting and protein filtration through dead-end filtration. SEM analysis, contact angle analysis, and theoretical calculations were used to assess membrane characteristics. In terms of algae harvesting, both 18% PES and 15% PES were better than 12% PES in terms of retention of algae. Lowest protein rejection or high protein recovery in the permeate was achieved using 18% PES while 12% PES gave the highest rejection or low protein recovery. Our result can provide valuable guidance for optimizing PES membrane compositions to enhance microalgae-based processes.