7 Everyday Uses of Biotechnology
Biotechnology is one of the most promising industries globally, making Biotechnology graduates highly sought after in the job market. In fact, graduates with a Bachelor of Biotechnology degree are able to address the issues that we face today, such as feeding the growing population and providing an alternative to scarce natural resources. The concept of biotechnology is not new to our world. It has existed for hundreds of years. The commercial application of biotechnology can be seen in everyday products like bread, beer, cheese, wine, and yogurt. In addition, biotechnology helps to produce medical diagnostic tests that are able to detect diseases early for a successful treatment. Even home pregnancy test kits are biotechnological products. One way or another, all of us make use of biotechnological products in our everyday lives. Below are the uses of biotechnology in our everyday lives.
1. Safer and Healthier Food
Today, as obesity is rising, biotechnology helps to create healthier oils from soybeans, canola, and sunflowers. The oils made from these products are free from the trans-fat responsible for increased cholesterol levels and heart diseases. Biotechnology has also helped to make the meat we eat every day safer through improvements in animal health and monitoring of the food supply chain. Biotechnological products can help ensure safe and sustainable food, from farm to the fork.2. Pharmaceuticals
Biotechnology has made a significant impact on the medical industry over the past years. Biotechnology has been used to develop new pharmaceutical products that are safer, more effective and cost-effective. Some popular biotech pharmaceuticals include Remicade, Rituxan, Prevarn, and Avastin.3. Fabrics
Only a handful of people give fabrics a second thought, except to check how the material would rub against the skin. Interestingly, most fabrics are now dyed through a fermentation vat process. Biochemicals are used in the production of dyes, polyester, and nylon. Biotechnology is involved in every piece of clothing we wear every day.
4. Biodiesel
Although biodiesel is not so popular yet, some industries are using it. Also, it offers many benefits for the future. Biodiesel reduces carbon impact, which is crucial to a cleaner and greener future. Biodiesels are produced from plant-derived sugars that are fermented using biotechnology to create ethanol.5. Alcohol
Most of us don't know how alcohol (beer) is produced. In fact, the production process of alcohol is purely industrial biotechnology in action. The process involves converting the starch in the barley to sugar and yeast fermentation. Both parts of the process are biotechnological processes.6. Detergents
For over 30 years, enzymes have been used in many detergents since Novozymes introduced them. The traditional use of enzymes in laundry detergents usually involved those that degrade proteins, causing stains like those found in grass stain, red wine, and soil. Lipases are also enzymes useful in dissolving fat stains and cleaning grease traps.
7. Leather
The processing of leather usually involved the use of harmful chemicals in the past. Today, enzyme technology has advanced so much that these toxic chemicals have been replaced to increase the speed and efficiency of the process. Bio enzymes are now applied in the first step, where fat and hair are removed from the hides. These enzymes are also used in cleaning as well as keratin and pigment removal. The enzymes also help to enhance the softness of the hide. With the use of certain enzymes, the leather is stabilized during the tanning process to prevent it from rotting.In a Nutshell
The aforementioned shows the enormous benefits that biotechnology offers in our everyday lives. Directly or indirectly, biotechnology is changing the world as we know it. There is no denying that biotechnology is one of the most promising technologies in the future. The world needs more biotech professionals to progress. For further information on getting a Bachelor of Biotechnology in Malaysia, please feel free to get in touch with our friendly and helpful counsellors.7 Types of Engineering Courses to Study
Engineering is a broad discipline that covers a wide range of applications and industries. With various types of engineering disciplines and courses to choose from, it can be hard for students to make up their mind. In this blog post, we are pleased to present to you the most popular engineering disciplines and courses to help you decide. Read on to find out.
1. Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering involves the use of chemical and biological processes to make various materials and substances useful to everyday life. The course consists of natural and experimental sciences such as chemistry and physics as well as life sciences like biology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Chemical engineering also involves the design of products and manufacture of food, fuels, and materials from a raw state to finished products. Chemical engineers are also responsible for creating the systems and equipment used in chemical processing.2. Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Electrical and electronic engineering is the study of design and application of equipment, systems, and devices that function using electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Electrical and electronic engineering covers power, electronics, control systems, signal processing, telecommunications, micro-electronics, wired and optical communications, generation, transmission, conversion and conservation of electric power and more. Most engineering jobs in Malaysia will require at least a diploma in electrical and electronic engineering. AIMST University, one of the most prestigious universities in Malaysia offers different engineering programs that prepare students to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering fundamentals to well-defined engineering procedures and practices. As industrial training and project work is a compulsory part of the courses, graduates are well equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in the job market.3. Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is broad and covers other fields of engineering, such as marine engineering, aeronautic engineering and etc. Mechanical engineering students are trained to deal with the design, manufacture, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Students who choose this discipline will study statics and dynamics, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, stress analysis, mechanical design and technical drawing.
4. Telecommunication Engineering
Telecom engineering combines the study of electrical engineering and computer science. The job descriptions of a telecommunications engineer are broad, ranging from basic circuit design to strategic mass developments. When you study telecommunication engineering, you will be trained to design and oversee the installation of telecom equipment and facilities like complex electronic switching systems, copper wire telephone facilities and fibre optics. Engineers in this field are also responsible for providing high-speed internet data services.5. Civil Engineering
Civil engineering deals with the design and development of infrastructural projects. It can be a large-scale project such as creating a nationwide transport system or water supply network, or a small scale project such as building a single road or building. Civil engineers also work as part of a team comprising engineers from other fields.6. Petroleum Engineering
Petroleum engineering involves producing naturally-occurring compounds such as Hydrocarbons, which are either crude oil or natural gas. Petroleum engineers work to apply basic science to solve the challenges associated with oil and gas exploration, drilling, and production. Petroleum engineering also deals with locating and extracting various energy resources such as natural gas and oil. Exploration and refining of petroleum products fall in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry.
7. Marine Engineering
This discipline teaches students how to design, develop, and test vehicles and structures that are water-borne such as ships, boats, military vessels, submarines, oil rigs and etc. Engineers in this field are also equipped with electrical and mechanical knowledge. Marine engineers are responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repairs of the mechanical components and equipment onboard a ship.In a Nutshell
The above engineering disciplines have one common goal: to provide solutions to the challenges faced by the world. As the world becomes more technologically advanced, more engineers are needed to fulfil the job market demand. In view of this, AIMST Electrical and Electronic Engineering program is equipped with INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION 4.0 (IR 4.0) related courses such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Cyber Security, Internet of Things (IoT) for industrial application, 5G communication, Smart Grid and Big Data Analysis. Furthermore, the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Technology (FECT) takes additional responsibility to source and nurture strong engagement with industry partners and most recently with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) for better industrial bonding and job availability for students upon their graduation. Accreditation by EAC as well as Sydney and Washington accord allows students to pursue their further engineering carrier internationally. We are looking forward to meeting you in the preview session. For further information on AIMST University’s Diploma and degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, please feel free to get in touch with our friendly and helpful counsellors.What Does Cosmetic Dental Surgery Include?
As we go through life we don’t always treat our teeth well; we eat and drink foods that stain or damage our teeth. Teeth can become misshapen, broken by accident, or develop gaps. Some people naturally just have a bad set of dentitions. Thankfully, cosmetic dental surgery can correct all these issues, giving you a better smile. Cosmetic surgery is aimed at improving the appearance of your smile through one or a series of procedures. Cosmetic dentists work with a patient to develop a plan that helps them to achieve their personal goal. People interested in practising cosmetic dental surgery will need to undertake a course in dental technology and will require a Bachelor's degree in dental surgery in order to qualify. Keep reading to learn what cosmetic dental surgery is about.
Teeth Whitening
A teeth whitening procedure is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to improve your smile. There are several ways teeth can be whitened. Patients can have their teeth bleached in the dentist's office or buy a mold and gels from their dentist to bleach their teeth at home. Some teeth whitening products are also available at retail stores. Some products can be bought over the counter; these include whitening toothpaste, rinses, and white strips.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are custom-made shells of tooth-coloured porcelain or resin that cover the front surface of the teeth. The procedure involves removing about half a millimetre of enamel from the tooth's surface. The custom-made shells are then bonded to the front of the teeth, changing their colour, shape, and size.Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a treatment developed to repair decayed, chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth. The procedure is also a suitable replacement for, or alternative to, amalgam or silver fillings. In dental bonding, a tooth-coloured resin is applied to the tooth and strengthened with an ultraviolet laser or lamp to help bond the material to the tooth.Dental Crown
A dental crown is also called a cap; it is designed to replace the entire decayed or damaged tooth above the gum line. The goal is to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of the original tooth. A dental crown prevents a weak tooth from breaking and it is used cosmetically to cover misshapen or discoloured teeth. Dental crowns can be made using metal, porcelain, resin, or ceramics.Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are also known as indirect fillings. They can be made from gold, silver, porcelain, or composite materials to fill up decayed or damaged teeth. The Inlays and Onlays are created in a lab and bonded into place by the dentist. Inlays are fillings that are bonded within the centre of a tooth. They are referred to as Onlays when the filling includes one or more points of the tooth or covers the biting surface.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium replacement teeth that are inserted into the bone socket of the missing tooth. As the jawbone begins to heal, it grows around the implanted metal post, thereby anchoring it securely in the jaw and providing a foundation for the replacement tooth.Other Cosmetic Dental Procedures
There are other cosmetic dental procedures available such as bridges, dentures, and dental braces. Bridges are made of crowns for the teeth on either side of a gap with a false tooth in between. A denture is a simple, removable replacement for missing teeth, while dental braces are designed to straighten crooked or disordered teeth by applying pressure over the time to move teeth slowly into the correct position.In a Nutshell
These common dental procedures are now done every day, making cosmetic dental surgery a lucrative market for dentists. Students who want to study a course in dental technology can be sure that there are many opportunities available in this field. For further information, please feel free to get in touch with our friendly and helpful counsellors.Shaping Successful Career Future with AIMST University’s Engineering Programme
Greetings from AIMST University! The Faculty of Engineering and Computer Technology (FECT) is organizing an alumni webinar series titled ‘Shaping Successful Career Future with AIMST University's Engineering Programmes’ at 10 am on Saturday, 21st November 2020. This webinar will feature two distinguished alumni and a year four student who will share their experiences and testimonials about the faculty and its programmes. Come join us to learn more about the engineering programmes offered at AIMST University. Please view the brochure for more details and you can view us live on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/aimst2u Click the following link to register: Shaping Successful Career Future with FECT AIMST
A RECAP: What is the R0 and why is it down when Malaysia’s Covid-19 cases are up? Community medicine expert explains
Let’s read what Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saraswathi Bina Rai has to say about the basic reproduction number (R0) of Covid-19 in Malaysia. Dr. Bina is a member of AIMST University’s Faculty of Medicine (Community Medicine Unit) and was formerly the Head of Penang Epidemiology Intelligence Programme Unit, Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). The article titled ‘What is the R0 and why is it down when Malaysia’s Covid-19 cases are up? Community medicine expert explains’ was published in the Malay Mail on 11th November 2020. Click What is the R0 and why is it down when Malaysia’s Covid-19 cases are up? to read and learn more about AIMST University.
Chance for Better Health Awareness – Prof. Dr. PK Rajesh
AIMST University’s Faculty of Medicine Deputy Dean (Academic & International Affairs) and Professor of Microbiology, Dr. PK Rajesh has shared his knowledge and opinion in The Star newspaper under the ‘Letters to the Editor’ column.
The letter titled ‘Chance for better health awareness’ was published on 10th November 2020.
Click below to read more.
Source from The Star: Chance for better health awareness
Congratulations to Our 2nd Year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Students
Congratulations to our 2nd year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students, Ms. Keshavani Tanabalan, Ms. Durga Devi Nadesen, Ms. Abbhinaya M. Kannan, and Ms. Patmeni Kumarasan for winning the bronze medal in the International Invention & Innovation in Dentistry Exhibition 2020 (IIIDENTEX2020) organized by Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA on 20th October 2020.
Despite the challenges, the students coped and managed well as a group in coming up with the winning project titled ‘Dental Portable Unit’ which is to enable access to dental treatment in rural areas. This project was guided by Dr. Priyadarshini Karthikeyan, Dr. Ramesh Kumaresan, and Mr. Ravi Kumar Balakrishnan from the Faculty of Dentistry (FOD).
Kudos to the winning team and the supporting FOD members.
Please view this video for more details.
IIIDENTEX2020-GOLD MEDAL WINNER – OUR FINAL YEAR BDS STUDENTS
Silver Medal Winner – International Invention & Innovation in Dentistry Exhibition 2020 (IIIDENTEX2020)
Congratulations to Dr. Durga Prasad Mudrakola and Dr. Neeraja Turagam from the Faculty of Dentistry for winning the silver medal in the International Invention & Innovation in Dentistry Exhibition 2020 (IIIDENTEX2020) organized by Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA on 20th October 2020.
The winning project was ‘DIY in Dentistry' and it was initiated on the fact that time-restricted curriculum and demanding surgical and operative techniques are adding pressure for educators to assist students to achieve the requisite high psychomotor skill levels in a short time frame.
This problem leads to the thought of material for simulation of tissues that replicate gums which are easily available, reusable, and reversible by ‘Doing it Yourself!, a concept that is first of its kind in dentistry.
Please view this video for more details.
CONDITIONAL MOVEMENT CONTROL ORDER (CMCO) 9 NOV TILL 6 DEC 2020
To contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country, the Government has imposed the CONDITIONAL MOVEMENT CONTROL ORDER (CMCO) for four weeks from 9th November to 6th December 2020 throughout the states in Peninsula except for Perlis, Pahang, and Kelantan.
Reference to the announcement by the Malaysian government on the CMCO, AIMST University shall remain closed from 9.11.2020 till 6.12.2020. Hence, all teaching and learning will go online until 6 December 2020.
Congratulations to FRGS 2020 Grant Recipients
We are delighted to announce that our researchers have received a total of RM319,100 in Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) 2020 Phase 1 from the Ministry of Education (MOE). The project leaders/recipients of the grants are Snr. Prof. Dr. M. Ravichandran (Dean-Faculty of Applied Sciences), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shivkanya Fuloria (Faculty of Pharmacy), and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Theingi Maung Maung (Faculty of Medicine).
The researchers' endeavor in improving research standards of AIMST University are highly appreciated as it also contributes to the University’s MyRA & SETARA rating and QS World ranking.
Keep up the good work and congratulations to the grant recipients!!
