The Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia (RRIM; Malay: Institut Penyelidikan Getah Malaysia) is a research center for problems and matters pertaining to rubber and its industry in Malaysia..
Multifunctional flexible sensing technology has emerged as a pivotal research hotspot. However, most existing flexible sensors are constrained by single-functionality limitations and thus fail to meet the increasingly urgent demand for integrated multiparameter sensing in complex real-world scenarios. In this study, we propose a multifunctional flexible sensor based on an rGO@MXene/PDMS nanocomposite, which integrates three functionalities: high gauge factor (GF) strain sensing, precise resistive temperature sensing, and efficient photothermal conversion. These capabilities enable reliable monitoring of physiological signals, health monitoring, and localized thermal therapy. The as-fabricated flexible strain sensor exhibits exceptional performance, exhibiting a low detection limit of 0.5%, high gauge factor (GF) of 1000, broad dynamic range of 0%-400%, and excellent cycling stability over 20,000 cycles. Notably, the sensor achieves a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of -1.01% degrees C-1, enabling sustained real-time physiological temperature monitoring for up to 1800 min. Furthermore, the sensor exhibits efficient photothermal conversion capability, achieving a rapid temperature rise (Delta T > 40 degrees C under 1 kW m(-2)) and stable heat retention, making it highly promising for localized thermal therapy. This work provides great potential to advance the development of next-generation wearable devices, smart healthcare systems, and human-machine interaction technologies.
Zirconium-based metal–organic frameworks (Zr-MOFs) have emerged as advanced nanomaterials for next-generation nanofiltration (NF) membranes, offering significant advantages due to their outstanding chemical stability, high surface area, and tunable pore structures. These properties enable enhanced membrane performance in terms of selectivity, permeability, and resistance to fouling. This review presents a comprehensive review of recent progress in the integration of Zr-MOFs into NF membranes, exploring various synthesis approaches, fabrication techniques, and the physicochemical characteristics that govern their filtration behaviour. The functional roles of Zr-MOFs in applications such as water purification, dye removal, and organic solvent nanofiltration are examined in detail. Furthermore, the review critically discusses key challenges, including interfacial compatibility with polymer matrices, scalability of production, and long-term operational stability. The novelty of this review lies in its exclusive focus on Zr-MOF-based NF membranes, distinguishing it from prior reviews that have broadly examined MOFs or nanomaterial-modified membranes. By systematically consolidating insights on the unique stability, versatility, and application potential of Zr-MOFs, this chapter provides a dedicated perspective that advances understanding of their role as transformative building blocks for high-performance NF technologies. Future perspectives highlight research directions aimed at translating these materials from laboratory research to practical, real-world applications.
This study investigated the potential of the continuous anaerobic co-digestion (AcoD) of Hura crepitans leaves and cow dung for biogas production under mesophilic conditions in a vertical plug-flow digester. The substrates were combined in ratio 1:1, mixed with water and allowed to acclimatize for 14 days before weekly feeding at organic loading rate (OLR) of 3.79 gVS/L d. AcoD was performed for a retention time of 7 weeks (49 days). Physicochemical analysis revealed Hura crepitans leaves had a high total solid (TS) content of 96
The natural rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) is a sustainable agroforestry species and play a vital role in supporting the global rubber industry. In addition to its latex production, Hevea has emerged as a biofactory for its potential in pharmaceutical protein expression. Latex can be collected through non-destructive tapping, allowing continuous harvesting over long periods of time. It enables production of recombinant proteins at a relatively low cost. These characteristics highlight its potential for molecular pharming in addition to its established role in rubber production. Since the initial confined field trials carried out in Malaysia, research on the genetic transformation of Hevea has progressed steadily. The Malaysian Rubber Board has developed the production of pharmaceutical proteins of human atrial natriuretic factor and human protamine. In parallel, studies conducted by various research groups have contributed to improvements in transformation efficiency, promoter characterisation, and somatic embryogenesis protocols. Gene-editing tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 have been introduced and being considered for future application improving transgene stability and protein yield. Collaborative research efforts have also improved the understanding of latex-specific expression and regeneration constraints. Despite these advances, several challenges remain in the development of latex-based molecular farming. Recombinant protein yields are often low, protein instability and concerns related to allergenicity and biosafety regulation remain significant. Continued improvement in genetic engineering strategies, protein recovery methods, and regulatory assessment will be necessary. This review summarises progress in transgenic rubber research, discusses current challenges and biosafety considerations, and highlights future opportunities for developing Hevea latex as a sustainable platform for pharmaceutical protein production.
Platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) offer significant promise in cancer therapy by enhancing the therapeutic effects of platinum-based chemotherapies like cisplatin. These nanoparticles improve tumor targeting, reduce off-target effects, and help overcome drug resistance. PtNPs exert their anti-cancer effects primarily through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induce oxidative stress and apoptosis in cancer cells. Additionally, PtNPs interact with cellular signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT and MAPK, sensitizing cancer cells to chemotherapy. Advances in PtNP synthesis focus on optimizing size, shape, and surface modifications to enhance biocompatibility and targeting. Functionalization with biomolecules allows selective tumor delivery, while smart release systems enable controlled drug release. In vivo studies have shown that PtNPs significantly inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating their safety and efficacy. This review explores PtNPs' mechanisms of action, nanotechnology advancements, and challenges in biocompatibility, with a focus on their potential integration into cancer treatments.
