Sheri-Ann Tan

Bio: Sheri-Ann Tan is an academic researcher from Tunku Abdul Rahman University College. The author has contributed to research in topics: Antioxidant & Coffea. The author has an hindex of 3, co-authored 8 publications receiving 27 citations. Previous affiliations of Sheri-Ann Tan include Universiti Sains Malaysia.

Engineered herbal scaffolds for tissue repair and regeneration: Recent trends and technologies

Abstract: Engineering constructs with adequate bioactive properties that could support effective repair/ regeneration of damaged tissues is still a persisting challenge. An effective and sustainable approach involving a combination of tissue engineering principles and herbal medicines could address this challenge. This particular domain has witnessed tremendous growth over the past decade. In this review, we provide an overview of engineered herbal constructs for tissue engineering applications. We have highlighted various properties of herbal medicines that are relevant to tissue repair and regeneration. Further, a discussion of different biomaterials, fabrication methods, and current progress made with herbal constructs has been provided. On a concluding note, challenges and outlook for further development and clinical translation of these herbal constructs have also been presented.

A progressive review on paper-based bacterial colorimetric detection and antimicrobial susceptibility testing

Abstract: Currently, antimicrobial drug resistance is of utmost importance across the globe as it is narrowing down the patients’ treatment paradigm. These challenges are even worst in the developing countries where the decentralized healthcare system is far away from reality. Thus there is an increasing surge of developing bedside point-of-care testing for inclusive community development. In this chapter, we provide a concise summary of paper-based microfluidic platforms utilized for bacterial detections that could potentially be applied in point-of-care settings. Furthermore, we summarize the attempts undertaken toward easy, convenient paper-based bacterial susceptibility, which could facilitate alternative testing strategies.

Identification and quantification of flavonoids in Carica papaya leaf and peroxynitrite-scavenging activity

Abstract: Objective To characterize the types, contents, and peroxynitrite-scavenging activities of flavonoids in the leaf of Carica papaya (C. papaya). Methods Chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques along with high performance liquid chromatography quantitative analysis and peroxynitrite-scavenging assay were performed to isolate and quantify flavonoid compounds in the flavonoid-rich fraction (BuOH fraction) derived from MeOH extract of C. papaya leaves and evaluate their peroxynitrite-scavenging activities. Results Seven flavonoids were isolated from the leaves of C. papaya, including quercetin 3-(2G-rhamnosylrutinoside), kaempferol 3-(2G-rhamnosylrutinoside), quercetin 3-rutinoside, myricetin 3-rhamnoside, kaempferol 3-rutinoside, quercetin, and kaempferol. All of the substances exhibited potent activities on peroxynitrite scavenging (IC50 ≤ 4.15 μmol/L), which were stronger than the positive control, l -penicillamine (6.90 μmol/L). The content of kaempferol 3-(2G-rhamnosylrutinoside) was significantly higher than other identified compounds (123.18 mg/g BuOH fraction and 7.23 mg/g MeOH extract). Conclusions The results of the present study demonstrate the potent antioxidant flavonoids of C. papaya leaf, with kaempferol 3-(2G-rhamnosylrutinoside) as the major one.

A critical analysis of the review on antimicrobial resistance report and the infectious disease financing facility

Abstract: Over the past year, two major policy initiatives have been introduced focusing on stimulating antibiotic development for human consumption. The European Investment Bank has announced the development of the Infectious Disease Financing Facility (IDFF) and the British government commissioned the Review on Antimicrobial Resistance, led by Jim O’Neill. Each constitutes a major effort by the European community to address the evolving crisis of antimicrobial resistance. Though both have similar goals, the approaches are unique and worthy of consideration. This manuscript utilizes a previously published framework for evaluation of antibiotic incentive plans to clearly identify the strengths and weaknesses of each proposal. The merits of each proposal are evaluated in how they satisfy four key objectives: 1) Improve the overall net present value (NPV) for new antibiotic projects; 2) Enable greater participation of Small to Medium Sized Enterprises (SME); 3) Encourage participation by large pharmaceutical companies; 4) Facilitate cooperation and synergy across the antibiotic market. The IDFF seeks to make forgivable loans to corporations with promising compounds, while the O’Neill group proposes a more comprehensive framework of early stage funding, along with the creation of a stable global market. Ultimately, the proposals may prove complementary and if implemented together may form a more comprehensive plan to address an impending global crisis. Substantial progress will only be made on these efforts if action is taken at an international level, therefore we recommend consideration of these efforts at the upcoming G20 summit.

Four‐Dimensional (4D) Printing: Technological and Manufacturing Renaissance

Abstract: Shape-memory materials (SMMs) combined with 3D printing to develop dynamic and adaptive products which are responsive to physical, chemical, or biological stimuli. These structures are categorized into 4D-printed (4DPed) products which change their shape and properties over time dimension. 4D printing, a novel, multidisciplinary, and futuristic technology is expanding its utilization in different applications including healthcare, space, textile, soft robotics, defence, sports, aerospace, and automotive sectors. This review article focuses on the recent and insightful developments in the 4DP technology of SMMs especially shape-memory polymers. This review also integrates printing technologies, the programming of materials for specific actuating mechanisms, and the most recent applications of 4DPed structures/products. Future perspectives and countless opportunities of this 4DP technology are outlined to address the current challenges which will help evolve and promote this novel technology as the mainstream manufacturing approach for developing real-world products in a myriad of engineering sectors. 4DP technology progresses beyond imagination, since its inception and will promote technological and manufacturing renaissance in the material science field. This technology will profoundly impact manufacturing and daily human life in the future.

Recent advancements in microfluidic chip biosensor detection of foodborne pathogenic bacteria: a review

Abstract: Foodborne diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria pose a serious threat to human health. Early and rapid detection of foodborne pathogens is an urgent task for preventing disease outbreaks. Microfluidic devices are simple, automatic, and portable miniaturized systems. Compared with traditional techniques, microfluidic devices have attracted much attention because of their high efficiency and convenience in the concentration and detection of foodborne pathogens. This article firstly reviews the bio-recognition elements integrated on microfluidic chips in recent years and the progress of microfluidic chip development for pathogen pretreatment. Furthermore, the research progress of microfluidic technology based on optical and electrochemical sensors for the detection of foodborne pathogenic bacteria is summarized and discussed. Finally, the future prospects for the application and challenges of microfluidic chips based on biosensors are presented.