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Cancer is a complex disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, leading to the formation of tumours. STK17B, a member of the DAPK family, has been implicated in various cancers and is considered a potential therapeutic target. However, no drug in the market has been approved for the treatment of STK17 B-associated cancer disease. This research aimed to identify direct inhibitors of STK17B using computational techniques. Ligand-based virtual screening and molecular docking were performed, resulting in the selection of three lead compounds (CID_135698391, CID_135453100, CID_136599608) with superior binding affinities compared to the reference compound dovitinib. While molecular docking simulation revealed specific interactions between the lead compounds and key amino acid residues at the binding pocket of STK17B, molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that CID_135453100 and CID_136599608 exhibit stable conformations and comparable flexibility to dovitinib. However, CID_135698391 did not perform well using this metric as it displayed poor stability. Overall, small-molecule compounds CID_135453100 and CID_136599608 showed promising binding interactions and stability, suggesting their potential as direct inhibitors of STK17B. These findings could contribute to the exploration of novel therapeutic options targeting STK17B in cancer treatment.

Biochar production from unconventional biomass, specifically onion peel (OP) and chicken feathers (CF), was investigated in this study. Two distinct biochars were produced by doping each biomass with the other, with the aim of exploring the synergistic effects of different feedstock combinations on biochar properties. The biochar production process was conducted using a retort heating method and characterized using several techniques. A yield of 36 % was obtained for OP-doped biochar (OP92CF8-BC) and 23 % for CF-doped biochar (F92OP8-BC). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis revealed characteristic functional groups from cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin in OP92CF8-BC, while CF92OP8-BC displayed keratin-related peaks. Scanning Electron Microscopy imaging showed surface morphology differences, with OP92CF8-BC exhibiting a rougher and more porous structure compared to CF92OP8-BC. Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy analysis confirmed the elemental composition, with OP92CF8-BC having higher carbon, calcium, and sulfur contents and CF92OP8-BC having higher nitrogen and oxygen contents. The biochar had specific surface areas of 342.4 and 200.80 m 2 /g for OP92CF8-BC and CF92OP8-BC, respectively. According to the results, using biochar treatments-more especially, CF92OP8-BC-can significantly enhance cob weight. This could be good for agricultural productivity. These findings highlight the influence of feedstock composition on the properties of biochar and provide insights for its potential applications in soil amendment and pollutant removal., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Sugar dust poses significant risks in the sugar industry, threatening workers' safety and health as well as the potential for explosions and fires. The combustibility of sugar dust arises from its small, lightweight particles that disperse easily and ignite readily. Effective management strategies are essential to ensuring a safe work environment and preventing accidents. This perspective article provides an overview of sugar dust management in the global sugar industry. Various methods are employed to collect and manage sugar dust, including dust collectors, air handling systems, and proper housekeeping procedures. Advancements like electrostatic precipitators, high-efficiency particulate air filters, and self-cleaning dust collection systems show promise for future management. Utilizing both artificial intelligence and nanotechnology can also contribute to minimizing the concentrations of sugar dust in facilities. Stringent regulations and guidelines exist to control dust explosions in the industry. Implementation of robust safety measures and training programs significantly curbs the economic and environmental toll of sugar dust explosions. The paper concludes with recommendations to address sugar dust challenges, including enhanced regulation, investment in technology and research, and improved collaboration among industry stakeholders. These measures will mitigate hazards, ensure worker well-being, and safeguard the sugar industry's operations., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Author(s).)

Microplastics, measuring less than 5 mm in diameter, are now found in various environmental media, including soil, water, and air, and have infiltrated the food chain, ultimately becoming a part of the human diet. This study offers a comprehensive examination of the intricate nexus between microplastics and human health, thereby contributing to the existing knowledge on the subject. Sources of microplastics, including microfibers from textiles, personal care products, and wastewater treatment plants, among others, were assessed. The study meticulously examined the diverse routes of microplastic exposure-ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact-offering insights into the associated health risks. Notably, ingestion of microplastics has been linked to gastrointestinal disturbances, endocrine disruption, and the potential transmission of pathogenic bacteria. Inhalation of airborne microplastics emerges as a critical concern, with possible implications for respiratory and cardiovascular health. Dermal contact, although less explored, raises the prospect of skin irritation and allergic reactions. The impacts of COVID-19 on microplastic pollution were also highlighted. Throughout the manuscript, the need for a deeper mechanistic understanding of microplastic interactions with human systems is emphasized, underscoring the urgency for further research and public awareness., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Sugarcane bagasse is an abundant and renewable agricultural waste material generated by the sugar industry worldwide. The use of sugarcane bagasse as a bio-coagulant precursor in water treatment is an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach that has shown great potential. This article reviewed the prospects and challenges of utilizing sugarcane bagasse as a bio-coagulant precursor for water treatment. The article reviewed past studies and explored the properties and chemical composition of sugarcane bagasse and the bioactive compounds that can be extracted from it, as well as their potential coagulation performance in water treatment. It was observed that there are few studies that have been published on the subject. The effectiveness of sugarcane bagasse-based coagulants varies depending on several factors, such as pH, temperature, and water quality parameters. However, the lack of standardization in the production of sugarcane bagasse-based coagulants is a challenge that needs to be addressed. Additionally, the optimization of extraction and processing methods to enhance the effectiveness of sugarcane bagasse-based coagulants needs to be investigated further. In conclusion, the use of sugarcane bagasse as a bio-coagulant precursor holds great promise for the future of sustainable water treatment. The potential for sugarcane bagasse to be used as a bio-coagulant precursor highlights the importance of exploring alternative and sustainable materials for water treatment., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest., (© 2023 The Author(s).)