Malaysian Journal of Applied Sciences (Journal of UniSZA - Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin)
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Quantitative Analysis of Phosphate in Laundry Detergents for Environmental Impact Assessment Using the Molybdenum Blue Method
No full textPhosphates are commonly used in laundry detergents as water softening agents, but their excessive discharge into aquatic environments has been linked to eutrophication and the deterioration of water quality. Despite international efforts to regulate phosphate use, phosphate-based detergents remain prevalent in regions like Malaysia, where regulatory oversight is limited. This study aimed to quantify phosphate concentrations in selected commercial liquid laundry detergents available in the Malaysian market and evaluate their potential environmental impact using the molybdenum blue method. Five detergent brands (A to E) were analyzed following a 1:500 dilution protocol. Phosphate levels were determined based on a calibration curve constructed from standard solutions (0–5 mg/L as PO₄³⁻), with absorbance measured at 650 nm. The method showed excellent linearity (R² = 0.9885) and good precision, with relative standard deviations (RSD) below 10% for both standard and sample measurements. Phosphate concentrations in the detergent samples ranged from 0.411 mg/L to 1.390 mg/L, with Brand E showing the highest level. When translated to estimated phosphate discharge per laundry cycle, values ranged from 20.6 mg to 69.5 mg per 50-liter wash—well below the European Union’s threshold of 500 mg per standard dose. However, the cumulative environmental impact of frequent detergent use, particularly from products with higher phosphate content, remains a concern. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness, stronger regulatory measures, and reformulation of detergent products to minimize phosphate pollution in aquatic ecosystems
Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Properties of Ficus Carica L. Leaves
Full text linkFicus carica L. are well known to possess a number of bioactive substances such as flavonoids and phenolic acids which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. This study aimed to screen phytochemicals in the leaf and evaluate the antioxidant activities with different polarity extracts. The leaves of Ficus carica L. were obtained from Taman Herba in UniSZA Besut Campus, Terengganu. The leaves collected were dried under room temperature before grinded into powder. The leaf powder was then soaked in methanol at a ratio of 1:10 to obtain the crude extract and further extracted with solvent partitioning method to get hexane (HEX), dichloromethane (DCM) and methanol fractions. Total amount of phenolic and flavonoid were determined by total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) test. Antioxidant activities of the leaves extract from different fractions were determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) assay. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) was performed to screen the chemical profile of fig leaves using mobile phase of hexane: ethyl acetate: acetic acid at ratio 7.8: 1.8: 0.4. In determination of TPC, the highest value of phenolic content obtained from MeOH crude (79.72 mg GAE/g) followed by DCM fraction (67.06 mg GAE/g), MeOH fraction (51.67 mg GAE/g) and Hexane fraction (48.27 mg GAE/g). For determination of flavonoid content, MeOH crude also possesses the highest value (77.13 mg QE/g) followed by Hexane fraction (70.33 mg QE/g), DCM fraction (52.13 mg QE/g) and MeOH fraction (31.81 mg QE/g). For all antioxidant test, MeOH fraction followed by MeOH crude obtained the highest percentage of inhibition (antioxidant activity) and possess lowest IC50 value as the percentage of inhibition exceed 50%. The evaluation of antioxidant properties using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), and ferric ion-reducing assays indicates that Ficus carica Linn. leaves methanol crude and fraction extract possess significant antioxidant properties due to its ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce ferric ions. Screening of bioactive compounds in TLC profiling indicated presence of coumarin, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins and phenols in the Ficus carica Linn. leaves extract in which methanol crude and methanol fraction reveal a diverse array of compounds. Screening of bioactive compounds and the assessment of antioxidant activities determined the polarity strength of solvent for extraction as well as enhancing the understanding of the therapeutic potential of Ficus carica leaves
Valorizing Durian Fruit Waste: A Path Towards Functional Materials
Full text linkDurian (Durio zibethinus), known as the "King of Fruits," is widely consumed in Southeast Asia. Durian exports and imports become a high-value industry. However, durian production generates a significant amount of waste, including husks, seeds, and unconsumed pulp, which poses environmental and economic challenges. This review highlights recent advancements in utilizing durian waste as functional materials in various industries, including biopolymers, biosorbent, biochar, activated carbon production, and as a catalyst in biodiesel production. It highlights the extraction processes, material synthesis techniques, and multifunctional properties of durian-derived materials, emphasizing their environmental and economic benefits. The valorization of durian waste not only addresses waste management concerns but also adds value through sustainable material development. By addressing the challenges of large-scale implementation and exploring innovative valorization strategies, durian fruit waste has the potential to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable development and promoting a circular bioeconomy
The Diversity of Freshwater Fish at Three Selected Lakes in Jengka, Pahang
Full text linkFreshwater fishes in Malaysia are relatively diverse with species of primary freshwater fishes. The total species richness of freshwater fishes of Malaysia remains unknown, this is due to many inland water bodies that have not been sampled. This study was conducted to ascertain the abundance of the freshwater fish at selected lakes in Maran, Pahang. The aim of this study to determine freshwater fish diversity and the relationship with water characteristics. All captured fish were measured, weighed and identified. Sample of water were collected from each lake. Water was analysed for pH, temperature, turbidity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen and biological oxygen demand. A total of 107 individuals of fish compromising 8 species and 7 families were recorded. Trichopodus trichopterus was the most abundant species with total of 44 individuals which belonging to Order Anabantiformes and the least species with total of one individual captured which belonging to Order Cypriniformes, which is Puntigrus partipentazona. The highest diversity of fish was recorded at Lake 3 with Shannon Wiener Diversity Index H’= 1.428 and the lowest was at Lake 1 with H’= 0.968. The highest evenness index of fish species was detected at Lake 3 with Pielou’s Evenness J’= 0.797 and the lowest was at Lake 1 with J’= 0.698. Meanwhile, the most diverse species was found at Lake 3. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) ordination diagram of fish communities and selected water properties showed that Notopterus notopterus, Pristolepis fasciata and Puntigrus partipentazona were associated with the environment variables such as total dissolved solids (TDS) and turbidity while Oreochromis mossambicus and Oxyeleotris marmorata were not associated with any of the variables.and water salinity.  
Carcass Characteristics, Visceral Organs and Economics of Production of Finisher Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Containing Graded Levels of Decorticated Raw Sandbox Seeds (Hura crepitans) as Source of Methionine
No full textA feeding trial was conducted to investigate the response of broiler chickens to graded dietary inclusion of decorticated raw sandbox seeds (SBS) as a source of methionine. Four dietary treatments were formulated to include sandbox seeds at 0%, 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3% and labelled as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively in a completely randomized design using one hundred and twenty four week-old broilers. Data were collected on final weight, carcass characteristics, weights of internal organs and economics of production. All data collected were subjected to one way ANOVA and treatments means were separated.
There were no significant differences in the effects of the treatments on dressing percentage, relative weights of back, drumsticks and thighs but breast muscle was significantly highest (P<0.05) for treatment T3 (0.2% SBS). Treatment T4 (0.3% SBS) was significantly lowest in its effect on live weight (1513.00g) and dressed weight (1054.50g). Relative values for the internal organs fall within the normal range and were not affected by the inclusion of the SBS. There was no significant difference in the cost of feed per kilogram but treatment T4 (0.3% SBS) gave the significantly lowest (P<0.05) profit of ₦1033.07 per bird.
It was concluded that dietary inclusion of decorticated sandbox seeds up to 0.3% without synthetic methionine has no detrimental effect on carcass characteristics and internal organs of broiler chickens. Sandbox seeds can serve as a good source of methionine in broiler production
Porcine DNA Authentication in Gelatin-Based Food Products
No full textHalal certification is vital for confirming the halal status of food products, particularly for Muslim consumers. Instances of halal fraud, including the use of counterfeit halal logos and the incorporation of non-halal ingredients in food products, negatively impact Muslim consumers. Gelatine, widely used in the food industry, varies in acceptability depending on its source, with porcine-derived gelatine strictly prohibited in Islam. Therefore, this research aims to identify the presence of porcine DNA in gelatine-containing food products by targeting mitochondrial cytochrome b (cytb) via a real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay and to compare the qPCR findings with the sources of gelatine and the presence of a halal logo. Nine food products without a recognised JAKIM halal logo or bearing a foreign halal logo not recognised by JAKIM were purchased from a local supermarket in Sibu, Sarawak. DNA was extracted from the food products using the DNeasy Mericon Food kit, analysed with a spectrophotometer, and used as template DNA in the qPCR assay. Positive qPCR findings were validated through DNA sequencing and BLAST analysis. Of the nine products tested, eight contained detectable porcine DNA, including one product labelled with a halal logo. Sequencing data confirmed Sus scrofa as the predominant species, with BLAST identities ranging from 86.52% to 100% against the NCBI database. In summary, these results highlight the risks posed by mislabelling and fraudulent halal logos, and emphasise the importance of rigorous certification, transparent labelling, and routine molecular verification to protect Muslim consumers and maintain trust in halal markets
A Comprehensive Review of Peperomia pellucida: Chemical Composition, Traditional and Pharmacological Uses, and Potential in Dermatitis Management
Full text linkPeperomia pellucida has been used widely in ethnomedicine and many studies have been conducted on this plant. Locals have been using this plant in traditional medicine and consumed as food. This review summarized previous studies conducted on this plant, focusing on plant’s chemical composition, pharmaceutical and traditional uses, pharmacological activities and dermatitis management. P. pellucida contains phytochemical groups, namely alkaloids, tannins, resins, flavonoids, steroids, phenols and carbohydrates, while the nutritional and mineral profile revealed that the plant is rich in crude protein, carbohydrate and total ash content. Traditionally, this plant has been used to treat different medicinal conditions such as conjunctivitis, convulsions, fatigue, fever, headache, gout, rheumatic pains, skin diseases that include dermatitis, acnes and eczema, breast cancer and diabetic. Studies reported that the plant possesses antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, and antioxidant activities. The natural pharmacological activities and active compounds in P. pellucida, namely tannins, saponins and flavonoids have been shown to help in managing dermatitis. This review concludes that P. pellucida can be utilized as a promising candidate for developing new therapeutic drug for the treatment of various diseases including dermatitis
Unripe Jackfruit (Artocarpus Heterophyllus Lam) as a Promising Meat Alternative Ingredient: A Review
Full text linkThe demand for meat consumption is skyrocketing, hence, the adaption of plant-based meat to fulfil this global demand that requires sustainable and healthier diet is a must. As such, jackfruit mainly the young and unripe one is considered a promising meat alternative ingredient owing to their texture that mimic meat. In addition, unripe jackfruit possesses high nutritional values, especially fibre content and beneficial in environment and sustainability standpoint. However, jackfruit is still considered an underutilised fruit. This review will focus on young and unripe jackfruit in meat products and meat analogues primarily in term of physicochemical, nutritional and sensorial properties, aligned with recent trends and preferences
Characteristics Analysis of Type II Solar Radio Bursts Detected by CALLISTO Spectrometer at The Space Technology Complex (STC), Banting, Malaysia During Ascending Phase of Solar Cycle 25
Full text linkWithin the meter wavelength region, Type II Solar Radio Bursts (SRBs) have been determined to be some of the most significant solar radio emission events. They are produced by magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) shocks generated by solar flares or Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). This paper presents an analysis of the characteristics of Type II SRBs detected by the CALLISTO (Compound Astronomical Low-cost Low-frequency Instrument for Spectroscopy and Transportable Observatory) station at the Space Technology Complex (STC), Banting, managed by the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA). In this paper, a total of 21 type II SRBs were observed at the station, during the period of 1 October 2021 to 29 February 2024, based on data from the e-CALLISTO website. The characteristics of these SRBs were thoroughly analysed to gain insights into their properties. The analysis focused on their association with flare event classes and CME parameters categorized by linear speed and angular width. Additionally, the study examined the occurrence of Herringbone or harmonic structures and drift rates during the solar cycle 25’s ascending phase. Data on solar flares were obtained from the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES), while CMEs were obtained from the Large Angle Spectroscopy Coronagraph Observatory (LASCO). Based on the present study, it is found that 20 out of 21 type II SRBs are connected with both solar flares and CMEs. Among these, 18 out of 21 type II SRBs were connected with intense GOES X-rays flares. Furthermore, 45% of the type II SRBs were related to fast and wide CMEs, whereas only 20% of the type II SRBs were linked with slow and narrow CMEs. Additionally, partial and full halo CMEs were observed in conjunction with half of the detected type II SRBs. The study also identified the drift rate and duration of type II SRBs, varying between 0.08 to 1.56 MHzs−1 and ~ 1 to 5 minutes, respectively. Among them, 62% exhibited harmonic structures, and the rest, 38% showed herringbone structures
Laboratory Assessment of Cadmium, Copper, and Zinc Phytoaccumulation by Ipomoea aquatica, Peltandra virginica, and Salvinia molesta for Phytoremediation Potential
Full text linkHeavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems poses significant risks to biodiversity and human health. Conventional remediation methods, while effective, are often expensive and inefficient. This study explores phytoremediation—a sustainable and cost-effective alternative that uses plants to remove pollutants—as a potential solution. We assessed the accumulation capacities of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) by three aquatic plant species: Ipomoea aquatica (water spinach), Peltandra virginica (arrow arum), and Salvinia molesta (giant salvinia). Plants were acclimatized for seven days before exposure to metal solutions at concentrations of 5 mg/L, 10 mg/L, and 15 mg/L over a 20-day period under controlled laboratory conditions. Sampling was performed every four days, and metal accumulation was quantified using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to determine statistically significant differences in uptake among species. I. aquatica exhibited the highest Cd accumulation (13.77 mg/L) at 15 mg/L concentration, with a removal efficiency of 89.7%. S. molesta showed the greatest Cu (57.3%) and Zn (92.6%) removal efficiencies at 15 mg/L and 10 mg/L, respectively. Statistically significant differences in metal uptake were observed at higher concentrations. These findings suggest that I. aquatica and S. molesta are potential plant for phytoremediation applications in contaminated aquatic environments. Further research is recommended to enhance their uptake mechanisms and evaluate scalability under field conditions