Center Leader: AP Dr. Sheri-Ann Tan Shu Wei

Secretary        : Ms. Wong Jia Ing

1. Bioscience Research Group (Biosc@TAR)

Research Group Members

AP Dr. Tan Hui Yin, Dr. Ong Yien Yien, Ms. Selvi A/P Chellappan, Dr. Lim Lee Chang, AP Dr. Tang Pei Ling, AP Dr. Koo Hui Chin, AP Dr. Loh Khye Er, Dr. Ng Siou Pei, Ms. Chia Meow Lin, Dr. Thed Swee Tee, Dr. Chong Cheong Yew, Dr. Tiang Choon Lin, Dr. Hew Hoi Chin, Dr. Low Ying Chiang, Dr. Won Hui Loo, Dr. Tan Phui Yee, Dr. Kek Siok Peng, Dr. Zunura’in Binti Zahali, Dr Alvin Dickson Anak Paul Joko.

This list is non-exhaustive, FOAS and TAR UMT researchers are welcome to join the (Biosc@TAR)  should their area of interest align to the Centre’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: FOAS Bioscience and Chemistry laboratories at West and East campuses

Objectives:

The Bioscience Research Group (Biosc@TAR) brings together researchers working in different fields of Bioscience such as Biotechnology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and the Environmental Science with the following aims:

1. Beyond Education -To promote undergraduate research and postgraduate training through industrial and demand-driven approach
2. Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team's expertise in the area of Bioscience
3. Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
4. Pre-commercialization - To create and encourage an entrepreneurial culture in commercializing research outputs

Vision

An industrial-focused group for research, collaboration, consultancy, training and knowledge exchange in Bioscience between researchers, academicians and stakeholders.

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to strengthen collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects in terms of leveraging on the team expertise and facility availability.
3. c) Consultancy - to work with small medium-sized enterprises and industrial players in Bioscience research.
4. d) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to organize conferences, seminars and road shows for upskilling and reskilling of researchers to adapt in the ever dynamic scientific environment.

    2. Innovative Food Science and Nutrition Research Group  (Food@TAR)

Research Group Members
Dr. Ong Yien Yien, Dr. Lim Lee Chang, AP Dr. Tang Pei Ling, AP Dr. Koo Hui Chin, Dr. Ng Siou Pei, Dr. Thed Swee Tee, Dr. Chong Cheong Yew, Dr. Won Hui Loo, Dr. Tan Phui Yee, Dr. Kek Siok Peng, Dr. Zunura’in Binti Zahali.

This list is non-exhaustive, FOAS and TAR UMT researchers are welcome to join the Innovative Food Science and Nutrition Research Group should their area of interest align to the Group’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: FOAS Food Science laboratories at West and East campuses

Objectives:

The Innovative Food Science and Nutrition Research Group (Food@TAR) brings together food scientists working in the fields of Food Science and its sub-disciplines addressing issues related to food sustainability, functional food, fats and oils, nutrition, environmental protection, etc. with the following aims:

1. Beyond Education -To promote undergraduate research and postgraduate training through industrial and demand-driven approach
2. Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team's expertise in the area of Food Science and Nutrition
3. Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
4. Pre-commercialization - To create and encourage an entrepreneurial culture in commercializing research outputs

Vision

An industrial-focused group for research, collaboration, consultancy, training and knowledge exchange in Food Science and Nutrition between researchers, academicians and stakeholders.

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to strengthen collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects in terms of leveraging on the team’s expertise and facility availability.
3. c) Consultancy - to work with the small medium-sized enterprises and industrial players in Food Science and Nutrition.
4. d) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to organize conferences, seminars and road shows for upskilling and reskilling of researchers to adapt in the ever dynamic scientific environment.

    3. Innovative Food Science and Nutrition Research Group  (Food@TAR)

Research Group Members
Dr. Ong Yien Yien, Dr. Lim Lee Chang, AP Dr. Tang Pei Ling, AP Dr. Koo Hui Chin, Dr. Ng Siou Pei, Dr. Thed Swee Tee, Dr. Chong Cheong Yew, Dr. Won Hui Loo, Dr. Tan Phui Yee, Dr. Kek Siok Peng, Dr. Zunura’in Binti Zahali.

This list is non-exhaustive, FOAS and TAR UMT researchers are welcome to join the Innovative Food Science and Nutrition Research Group should their area of interest align to the Group’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: FOAS Food Science laboratories at West and East campuses

Objectives:

The Innovative Food Science and Nutrition Research Group (Food@TAR) brings together food scientists working in the fields of Food Science and its sub-disciplines addressing issues related to food sustainability, functional food, fats and oils, nutrition, environmental protection, etc. with the following aims:

1. Beyond Education -To promote undergraduate research and postgraduate training through industrial and demand-driven approach
2. Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team's expertise in the area of Food Science and Nutrition
3. Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
4. Pre-commercialization - To create and encourage an entrepreneurial culture in commercializing research outputs

Vision

An industrial-focused group for research, collaboration, consultancy, training and knowledge exchange in Food Science and Nutrition between researchers, academicians and stakeholders.

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to strengthen collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects in terms of leveraging on the team’s expertise and facility availability.
3. c) Consultancy - to work with the small medium-sized enterprises and industrial players in Food Science and Nutrition.

d) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to organize conferences, seminars and road shows for upskilling and reskilling of researchers to adapt in the ever dynamic scientific environment.

Environmental Sustainability Projects

1. Pretreatment of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Fiber (OPEFBF) by Using Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME)
2. The Effect of Light Intensity and Photoperiod on Growth and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Mesembryanthemum crystallinum and Stevia rebaudiana in Plant Box
3. Optimization of Liquid Nutrient Formulation for Ginger Cultivation in Soilless Medium
4. Vermiculture and Vermicomposting Production in Earthworm House
5. Characterisation and application of cowpea protein isolate (CPI) as a potential emulsifier in rice bran oil-in-water emulsion
6. Production of Quality Vermicompost and Vermicompost Tea for Agriculture Crops

      Environmental Sustainability Publications

1. Ng, T.L.; Loh, K.E.; Tan, S.-A.; Tan, H.Y.; Yue, C.S.; Wee, S.P.; Tey, Z.T. (2022) Anti-Hyperuricemic Effect of Ethyl Acetate Sub-Fractions from Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. Dried Flowers on Potassium Oxonate-Induced Hyperuricemic Rats. Appl. Sci. 12, 3487. https://doi.org/10.3390/app12073487

Xanthine oxidase (XO) plays an important role in purine degradation in humans. The study aimed to determine the XO inhibitory potential of Chrysanthemum morifolium dried flower ethyl acetate sub-fractions and its anti-hyperuricemic effect in rat models. Bioassay-guided fractionation based on XO inhibitory assay was employed to obtain bioactive fractions and sub-fractions. In vitro cytotoxicity and cellular antioxidant capacity of the sub-fraction and its mode of XO inhibition were also investigated. The anti-hyperuricemic effect of the bioactive sub-fraction was investigated using rat models via oral consumption, and followed by an XO mRNA gene expression study. The compounds in the bioactive sub-fractions were identified putatively using HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fraction exhibited the highest XO inhibition among the fractions. It was further fractionated into 15 sub-fractions. F10 exhibited high XO inhibitory activity, cellular pro-proliferative effect, and intracellular antioxidant activity among the sub-fractions tested. This sub-fraction was non-cytotoxic at 0.1–10 µg/mL, and very effective in lowering serum and urine uric acid level in rat models upon oral consumption. A total of 26 known compounds were identified and seven unknown compounds were detected via HPLC-Q-TOF–MS/MS analysis. The possible mechanisms contributing to the anti-hyperuricemic effect were suggested to be the non-competitive inhibition of XO enzyme, XO gene expression down-regulation, and the enhancement of uric acid excretion.

2.  Wong, K. K., Chiew F.J., Ong, G. H., Wong, R. R., & Loh, K. E. (2022). Safeness and effectiveness of entomopathogenic fungi for use as bioinsecticide: A mini review. Journal of Biological Control, 36(1).

Usage of conventional synthetic insecticide to control insect pests has increased to improve crops yield and production to meet the global food demands of a growing population. However, it should not be neglected that synthetic insecticide causes negative impacts on humans, livestock as well as the environment. This review aims to provide data on entomopathogenic fungi species that can be developed into bioinsecticide to control insect pests, in order to reduce the usage of synthetic insecticide. The fungi are discussed based on two criteria, its effectiveness in controlling the targeted pests, and its safety level to humans, non-targeted organisms, and the environment. Relevant data and information on entomopathogenic fungi from various research tools including Google Scholar, NCBI, Science Direct and Researchgate were compiled into tables for comparison and analysed. Six entomopathogenic fungi namely Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Verticillium lecanii, Metarhizium (Nomuraea) rileyi, Paecilomyces fumosoroseus and Hirsutella thompsonii are proposed as having the required criteria having potential to control targeted insects by means of producing various toxins or metabolites with insecticidal properties. Five out of the six species, B. bassiana, M. anisopliae, V. lecanii and N. rileyi are safe to humans, non-targeted organisms, and the environment. Furthermore, all these fungi can be mass produced to ensure their availability to be used as a biocontrol agents. However, future studies are required for further justification for harmful metabolites produced and their impact on environment.

3. Quah, Y., Tong, S. R., Tan, S.-A., Chow, Y. L. and Chai, T. T. (2022). ‘Phytochemicals and biological activities of Stenochlaena palustris’, in Murthy, H. N. (ed.) Reference series in phytochemistry. Bioactive compounds in bryophytes and pteridophytes. Switzerland: Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-97415-2_26-1

Stenochlaena palustris (family Blechnaceae) is a fern species that occurs in the tropics and subtropics. They have been used as edible wild vegetables and folk medicine by the indigenous people in the Asian region. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, saponins, gums, steroids, glycosides, terpenoids, and alkaloids in S. palustris. Nonetheless, the main secondary metabolites identified from the fern are kaempferol glycosides, fatty acids and phytosterols. Phytocompounds and solvent extracts derived from the fern were demonstrated to have antioxidant, antiglucosidase, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, anti-butyrylcholinesterase, anti-metalotoxic, antipyretic, and termiticidal activities. In nursing mothers, the juice of the fern stimulated breast milk production. The antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials of the fern also contributed to their applications in food, cosmetics, and food packaging material. Thus, current literature indicates that S. palustris is a promising source of phytochemicals with potential applications in health promotion, food, and cosmetics, which deserves future research attention. This review presents an overview of the current knowledge pertaining to the biological activities of phytocompounds and extracts of S. palustris.

4. Agarwal, T., Tan, S.-A., Nie, L., Zahmatkesh, E., Ansari, A., Rad, N. K., Zarkesh, I., Maiti, T. K. and Vosough, M. (2022). ‘Electroconductive nanofibrillar biocomposite platforms for cardiac tissue engineering’, in Jegatheesan, V., Bandara, N., Sarkar, P., Sarkar, A., Pal., K. (eds.) Food, medical, and environmental applications of nanomaterials. Cambridge: Elsevier, pp. 305-330. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-822858-6.00010-8

Over the last decade, cardiac tissue engineering has witnessed enormous developments. Integration of nano-topological features and electrical stimulation (via conductive materials/polymers) has been shown to promote cardiac tissue repair and regeneration. This chapter highlights the fabrication strategies and different electroconductive materials for developing electroconductive nanofibrillar biocomposite platforms. The discussion is further extended toward ascertaining cardiac cells’ response on these biocomposite platforms both in vitro and in vivo. On a concluding note, various challenges have also been discussed.

Leader:           AP Dr Lim Teck Hock

Secretary:      Ms Tong Shi Ruo

1. Analysis, Testing and Materials Research Group (Analysis@TAR)

Members: AP Dr Liew Chiam Wen, Dr Teo Li Ping, Dr Chong Kian Wei, AP Dr Yue Chen Son, Dr Tan Siew San, Dr Ng Kim Hooi, Dr Tan Thiam Seng, Mr Chong Nyok Kian, Dr Loo Pak Kwan

This list is non-exhaustive, FOAS and TAR UMT researchers are welcome to join the (Analysis@TAR) should their area of interest align to the Centre’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: FOAS labs- D312, D313

Objectives

The Analysis, Testing and Materials Research Group (Analysis@TAR) brings together analytical chemists working in the fields of Chemistry and its sub-disciplines, with the following aims:

1. Beyond Education -To promote undergraduate research and postgraduate training through industrial and demand-driven approach
2. Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team expertise in the area of Analysis, Testing and Materials Research
3. Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
4. Pre-commercialization - To create and encourage an entrepreneurial culture in the pre-commercialization development of  research and technology outputs from Analysis, Testing and Materials Research

Vision

The Analysis, Testing and Materials Research Group (Analysis@TAR) aspires towards becoming an all-round analytical services provider to assist companies and enterprises to achieve their goals successfully.

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek for potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to strengthen collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects in terms of leveraging on the team’s expertise and facility availability.
3. c) Consultancy - to work with small medium-sized enterprises, and industrial players in Analysis, Testing and Materials Research.
4. d) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to provide the platform for conferences, seminars, road shows, and presentations for upskilling and reskilling to resilience in the dynamic environment.
   

    2. Nutraceutical Chemistry Research Group (NutraChem@TAR)

Members         : AP Dr Tan Ming Yueh, Dr Tan Siow Ping

This list is non-exhaustive, FOAS and TAR UMT researchers are welcome to join the NutraChem@TARC should their area of interest align to the Centre’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: FOAS Chemistry lab - D313

Objectives

The NutraChem@TAR,brings together researchers working in the fields of food chemistry, natural products, drug discovery and organic synthesis, with the following aims:

• Beyond Education -To promote undergraduate research and postgraduate training through industrial and demand-driven approach
• Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team expertise in the area of Molecular Discovery and Synthesis Research
• Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
• Pre-commercialization - To create and encourage an entrepreneurial culture in the pre-commercialization development of research and technology outputs from Molecular Discovery and Synthesis Research

Vision

Nutraceutical Chemistry Research Group (NutraChem@TAR) focuses on discovering, designing and synthesizing natural and novel synthetic molecules, inspired by biological molecules derived from food and nature. Research activities are mainly focused on the structural exploration of natural molecules, and the design and development of new synthetic methods for novel molecules, which will lead to the discovery of new or potential bioactive precursors, as well as advanced molecules for industrial applications.

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to strengthen collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects in terms of leveraging on the team’s expertise and facility availability.
3. c) Consultancy - to work with small medium-sized enterprises and industrial players in Molecular Discovery and Synthesis Research.
4. d) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to provide the platform for conferences, seminars, road shows, and presentations for upskilling and reskilling to resilience in the dynamic environment.

    3. Environment and Green Chemistry Research Group (GreenChem@TAR)

Members: Dr Chong Kian Wei, AP Yue Chen Son, Dr Ng Kim Hooi, Dr Ho Mui Yen (FOET), Dr Tan Siew San, Dr Teo Li Peng

This list is non-exhaustive, FOAS and TAR UMT researchers are welcome to join the NanoTech should their area of interest align to the Centre’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: SD001 and SD002, East Campus, TAR UMT

Objectives

The Environment and Green Chemistry Research Group (GreenChem@TAR) brings together researchers working in the field of nanotechnology and its sub-disciplines, with the following aims:

• Beyond Education -To promote undergraduate research and postgraduate training through industrial and demand-driven approach
• Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team expertise in the area of Nanotechnology Research
• Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
• Pre-commercialization - To create and encourage an entrepreneurial culture in the pre-commercialization development of research and technology outputs from Nanotechnology Research

Vision

The Environment and Green Chemistry Research Group (GreenChem@TAR) integrates interdisciplinary research and it aims to apply nanomaterials and nanotechnology in industrial, medicinal, and energy with an overall aim to assist institutions and companie sachive its SDGs and ESG goals. The NanoTech core sectors of expertise are in these areas:

• Nanomaterials Synthesis
• Characterization
• Integrating nanomaterials into nanotechnology capable of providing greener chemicals testing and Analysis

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek for potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to strengthen collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects in terms of leveraging with the team expertise and facility availability.
3. c) Consultancy - to work with small medium-sized enterprises, and industrial players in Nanotechnology Research.

        d) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to provide the platform for conferences, seminars, road shows, and presentations for upskilling and reskilling to resilience in the dynamic environment.

Environmental Sustainability Projects

1. Method Development and Validation of an Optical Sensor for Ammonia Detection
2. Development of ion-exchange properties on oil palm empty fruit bunches charcoal with physical oxidation for the removal of heavy metal ions in water
3. Synthesis and Application for Nanocomposite of Polyaniline/Activated Carbon Derived from Palm Oil Waste for Heavy Metal Removal
4. Synthesis and Characterization of Environmental-Friendly Polyurenthance Nanocomposites for Coating
5. Synthesis, Characterization and Formation Mechanism of Biocompatible Sulfur/Silver Sulfide Core-Shell Nanoparticles with Potential to Function as Cost-Effective Photothermal Therapy Agent for Melanoma Cancers
6. Development of New Conducting Polymer Nanocomposites for Photodegradation of Toxic Organic Pollutants
7. Fundamental Studies of Highly Conducting Environmentally-Benign in situ Polymerized Poly (vinyl alcohol)- Based Electrolytes for Electrical Double Layer Capacitor Application
8. Superparamagnetic-Fe3O4-Decorated-In(OH)3-Nanorods as Photocatalyst for Dyes and Microbes Treatment under UVC

      Environmental Sustainability Publications

1. Yap, A.Y., Liew, CW. (2022). Structural, thermal, and electrochemical studies on PVA-LiTf-TiO2 nanocomposite polymer electrolyte and the performance on electric double layer capacitor application. Ionics 28, 4111–4128. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11581-022-04659-4

Polymer electrolyte systems composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiTf, also known as LiCF₃SO₃) at 60:40 weight ratios with varying weight percentages (wt.%) of titanium (IV) oxide (TiO₂) nanofiller were prepared by solution casting technique. The most conductive nanocomposite polymer electrolyte which was added with 10 wt.% of TiO₂ nanofiller has an ionic conductivity of (1.08 ± 0.002) × 10⁻⁴ S cm⁻¹ at room temperature. The ionic transport mechanism in the nanocomposite polymer electrolyte was found to obey Arrhenius relationship which is related to thermally activated principle. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) study confirmed complexation between the PVA, LiTf, and TiO₂. TGA thermogram of the most conductive polymer electrolyte shows good thermal stability which can withstand high temperature. The increase in glass transition temperature (T_g) of PVA upon addition of 10 wt.% TiO₂ nanofiller is attributed to the interaction between TiO₂ nanofiller and polymer matrix that causes the polymeric backbone to become more rigid. Linear sweep voltammogram of the sample shows a wide potential window of 4.95 V. The ionic transference number was found to be close to unity which suggests that the charge carriers are mostly ionic species. A simple electrical double layer capacitor (EDLC) was fabricated using nanocomposite polymer electrolyte with 10 wt.% of TiO₂ nanofiller and its performance was evaluated. The EDLC was found to have specific capacitance of 444.06 mF g⁻¹ (or 3.87 mF cm⁻²) with good electrochemical stability.

2. Yue, C.S., You, K.Y., Tan, C.W. et al. (2022) Method development and determination of potassium and phosphorus in oil palm organic fertilizers by microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry (MP-AES). J IRAN CHEM SOC 19, 4435–4443. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13738-022-02612-w

In this study, the suitability of the external and standard addition methods was evaluated by the determination of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in oil palm organic fertilizers produced in Kelang Valley, Malaysia. A Comparison of the calibration methods for the P and K analyses was conducted by microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry. In the external method, deviation from linearity was significantly observed for the element effect, acid effect and fertilizer matrix effect on the P and K analyses. A stronger deviation was encountered for P compared to K for the parameters studied. On the other hand, the determination of both the concentrations of P and K was successfully carried out using the standard addition method. The matrix effect caused by the presence of polyatomic ions and other elements was found to be almost negligible.

3. Ong, W., Yen, H. M., Kiew, P. L., Lim, T. H., Leong, K. L., Tan, S. Y., & Lim, J. X. (2022). In2O3/MoS2/ Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanostructure as Composite Electrodes for Supercapacitors. In Key Engineering Materials (Vol. 936, pp. 63–71). Trans Tech Publications, Ltd. https://doi.org/10.4028/p-bb4r2i

In this study, a novel reduced graphene oxide, indium (III) oxide, and molybdenum disulfide (rGO/In₂O₃/MoS₂) ternary composite for supercapacitor electrode application was developed via green hydrothermal synthesis. The topography, surface morphology, crystalline structure, phase identification and molecular structure of the composites were examined by applying Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray Diffraction Spectroscopy (XRD), X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman Spectroscopy. SEM and TEM reveal the uniform dispersion of In₂O₃ nanoparticles on the rGO and MoS₂ sheets. EDX, XRD, and XPS analysis confirm the coexistences of rGO, In₂O₃, and MoS₂, and hence the composite formation. The electrochemical performances of rGO/In₂O₃/MoS₂ ternary composite were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) in two-electrode configuration in 1 M sodium sulfite (Na₂SO₃) aqueous electrolyte. The electrochemical results show that the rGO/In₂O₃/MoS₂ composite electrodes possess improved specific capacitance of 77 F/g at a scan rate of 25 mV/s, a modest 29% enhancement over pure In₂O₃ and In₂O₃/MoS₂ binary composite.

4. Chia, M.-R.; Ahmad, I.; Phang, S.-W. (2022) Starch/Polyaniline Biopolymer Film as Potential Intelligent Food Packaging with Colourimetric Ammonia Sensor. Polymers, 14, 1122. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14061122

The use of petroleum-based plastics in food packaging leads to various environmental impacts, while spoilage of food and misinterpretation of food-date labelling account for food insecurity; therefore, a biopolymer capable of indicating food edibility is prepared to resolve these issues. In this research, starch/polyaniline (starch/PANI) biopolymer film was synthesised and investigated as an ammonia sensor for potential application as intelligent food packaging. FT-IR and XRD were used to confirm the composition of the biopolymer films, while UV-Vis spectrometry was applied to identify the oxidation state of PANI in emeraldine form. PANI was successfully incorporated into the starch matrix, leading to better thermal stability (TGA) but decreasing the crystallinity of the matrix (DSC). The performance of the polymer-film sensor was determined through ammonia-vapour sensitivity analysis. An obvious colour change from green to blue of starch/PANI films was observed upon exposure to the ammonia vapour. Starch/PANI 0.4% is the optimum composition, having the best sensor performance with good linearity (R² = 0.9459) and precision (RSD = 8.72%), and exhibiting excellent LOD (245 ppm). Furthermore, the starch/PANI films are only selective to ammonia. Therefore, the starch/PANI films can be potentially applied as colourimetric ammonia sensors for intelligent food packaging.

5. Chia, M.-R.; Phang, S.-W.; Ahmad, I. (2022) Emerging Applications of Versatile Polyaniline-Based Polymers in the Food Industry. Polymers, 14, 5168. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14235168

Intrinsically conducting polymers (ICPs) have been widely studied in various applications, such as sensors, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and semiconductors. Specifically, polyaniline (PANI) stands out in food industry applications due to its advantageous reversible redox properties, electrical conductivity, and simple modification. The rising concerns about food safety and security have encouraged the development of PANI as an antioxidant, antimicrobial agent, food freshness indicator, and electronic nose. At the same time, it plays an important role in food safety control to ensure the quality of food. This study reviews the emerging applications of PANI in the food industry. It has been found that the versatile applications of PANI allow the advancement of modern active and intelligent food packaging and better food quality monitoring systems.

6. Yue, C.S., Teh, G.B., Wong, P.Y. et al. Removal of Cu(II) from aqueous solution using a sol–gel derived strontium ferrite nanoparticle. (2022)  Int. J. Environ. Sci. Technol. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13762-022-04656-0

Strontium ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by sol–gel method at carbonization temperature of 800 °C for 96 h and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis. Adsorption of Cu(II) by the nanoparticles was conducted at aqueous medium under the optimum conditions in terms of pH, adsorbent dosage and contact time. Characterization results indicated that complete formation of the nanoparticles happened at temperature above 600 °C and it exists predominately as M-type SrFe₁₂O₁₉ nanoparticles. The adsorption results showed that Cu(II) adsorption onto the nanoparticles followed well the Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second-order. The adsorption, FTIR and XRD results indicated the adsorption mechanism may involve both the chemical and physical adsorptions at different stages. This was further confirmed by the presence of three different adsorption stages in the intraparticle model.

Leader: Dr Chan Kai Quin

Secretary: Mr Phua Xin Hung

Members: AP Kok Lian Yee, AP Dr Ler Hui Yin, AP Dr Kee Kang Mea, Dr Angelina Tan, Mr Ling Sen Kian, Ms Juliana Johan John, Cynthia Anne Cornelius, Tiew Kee Aun, Ms Puah Hoay Way

This list is non-exhaustive, FOAS and TARUC researchers are welcome to join the Sports@TARC should their area of interest align to the Centre’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: FOAS Sport Science Labs - S2, C106i, C105g

Objectives

The Sports and Exercise Science Research Centre (Sports@TAR) is a dedicated centre that focuses on conducting Sports and Exercise related research activities, provides scientific instrumentation services and consultancy to other education or research institutions as well as for the industry and conducts training and workshops. It also serves as an incubator to explore new ideas and research, and to nurture new researchers, with the following aims:

1. Beyond Education -To promote undergraduate research and postgraduate training through industrial and demand-driven approach
2. Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team's expertise in the area of Sports and Exercise Science Research
3. Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
4. Pre-commercialization - To create and encourage an entrepreneurial culture in the pre-commercialization development of  research and technology outputs from Sports and Exercise Science Research
5. Nurturing new ideas and researchers - to serve as  nurturing ground for new ideas and researchers which encourages and supports aspiring researchers in exploring innovative concepts and fostering their growth in the field of sports and exercise science.

Vision

This centre strives to combine, structure and integrate the elements of sport and exercise science into its activities and services to enhance the well-being of the general public, children and athletes. Through the activities and services rendered, research activities will be undertaken on a coordinated, interdisciplinary and specialized basis, to publish research results.

To provide the services to the sports organizations, communities and industries, hence enhancing the collaboration between the University and the external institutions and further strengthening the expertise building within the existing faculty members.

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek for potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to strengthen collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects in terms of leveraging on the team’s expertise and facility availability.
3. c) Consultancy/Services – to provide services on physical fitness testing and training using the existing facilities in the laboratories for external clients from the educational institutions, sports associations and industry.

d) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to provide the platform for conferences, seminars, road shows, and presentations for upskilling and reskilling to resilience in the dynamic environment.

Leader: Dr. Chen @ Chong Sheau Huey

Secreatry: Ms Shim Siang Yian

Members: Ms Wong Pei Yin, Dr Ng Kim Hooi, Dr Choong Shiau Huai, Dr Tan Thiam Seng, Mr Chong Nyok Kian

This list is non exhaustive, FOAS and TAR UMT researchers are welcome to join the STEM+ Research Center should their area of interest align to the Centre’s objectives, vision and rationale.

Location: FOAS D209 and D210

Objectives:

The STEM+ (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and additional disciplines) Research Centre aims to connect and join the missing connections to crosscutting concepts and real-world applications to overcome the issue of students disinterested in science discipline. This involves conducting original research, exploring new concepts, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

1. Beyond Education -To promote science education through industrial and demand-driven approach
2. Research and Development - To undertake strategic research in key areas aligned to our team expertise in the area of Science Education. STEM+ research centers often bring together researchers from different disciplines to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration. By integrating multiple fields of study, these centers promote innovation and tackle complex problems that require a multidimensional approach.
3. Collaboration - To serve as a science hub for industrial partners and to contribute to Malaysia’s scientific industry
4. Promoting STEM education and outreach: STEM+ research centers often have an educational component. They may engage in outreach programs to inspire and educate students, teachers, and the general public about STEM disciplines.

Vision

The STEM+ Reseach Center strives to promote science education in the authentic contexts that demand a new generation of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics experts.

Rationale and Research Plan

1. a) Research and Development - to explore funding opportunities and to seek for potential research and development opportunities from the industrial and external organizations.
2. b) Collaboration - to work with the Secondary Education, professional bodies, societies and stakeholders in promoting Science Education
3. c) Training and Knowledge Exchange - to provide the platform for conferences, seminars, road shows, presentations for upskilling and reskilling to resilience in the dynamic environment.