This study employed response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize alcalase-enzymatic hydrolysis conditions for the production of an angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptide from Shortfin scad (Decapterus Macrosoma) skin gelatin (SSGH). Using Central Composite Design (CCD) with four factors and three levels, a statistical modeling equation was developed to predict effects from the following variables:(i) temperature (40, 50, 60°C); pH (7, 8, 9);(ii) enzyme/substrate (E/S) concentration (1, 2, 3%); and (iii) hydrolysis time (60, 120, 180 min) with respect to yield, degree of hydrolysis (DH) and ACE-inhibitory activity. Optimum hydrolysis conditions obtained were 60°C, pH 9, 2.92% and 114.56 minutes. Experimental yield for SSGH was higher (90.05%) than the predicted value of 54.38%. The degree of SSGH hydrolysis (DH = 90.48%) was also higher than the RSM predicted value of 72.04%. Experimental SSGH ACE inhibitory activity (79.61%) was lower than predicted (89.19%).This study demonstrates the viability of using RSM to optimize conditions for the enzymatic hydrolysis of SSGH to yield gelatin with high ACE inhibitory peptide activity.
Processing of soybeans to other products and consumption of soy products is increasing worldwide mainly due to acclaimed health benefits. Processing can alter soybean sensory appeal, nutritive value and potentially affect consumer health. Rhizopus oligosporus was used to ferment soybean for 3 days. The tempeh flour (TF) was produced form tempeh while defatted tempeh flour (DTF) was then produced from TF by immersing in hexane solvent while soy protein isolate (SPI) was prepared from DTF by using alkali and acid followed by neutralization treatment. In this study, nutritional properties and amino acid content of tempeh, TF, DTF and SPI were determined. Therefore, the objective of this study is was to evaluate the effect of each treatment on the chemical composition and amino acid content for all the samples. The results showed that the nutritional properties (total ash, moisture, crude fat, total carbohydrate and crude fibre) were reduced significantly (p < 0.05) except for protein content. Protein content was significantly (p < 0.05) increased by 50.5% in SPI. For amino acid content, the results obtained showed that SPI contain highest amount of essential and non-essential amino acid followed by DTF, Tempeh and TF. Glutamic acid was found to be the highest amino acid component in all samples. The evaluation from the results showed that SPI can be considered as potential functional food ingredients.
Kenaf seed oil contains high amount of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and bioactive compounds, such as tocopherol and phytosterol. In order to prevent bioactive compounds from oxidation, kenaf seed oil (KSO) was encapsulated by coextrusion technology. KSO and microencapsulated kenaf seed oil (MKSO) were then subjected to accelerated storage to investigate the effect of microencapsulation on the storage stability of kenaf seed oil. The changes of fatty acids profiles and bioactive compounds in oils were evaluated. Result showed that there was significant decreased (p
The increasing and widespread use of synthetic food dyes raises health concerns and earlier reports suggest that certain food dyes might be harmful for human health. In this study, we have investigated the effect of three commonly used food dyes on human liver cell line, HepG2. Our findings suggest that these experimental food dyes significantly affect cell viability and this effect can be worsen in hyperglycemic condition. Accumulation of cellular fat was significantly higher in presence of these dyes. Expression pattern of the gene involved in regulating apoptosis suggests that that the observed cell death could be attributed to the activation of apoptotic pathway. These findings suggest that these experimental dyes might exert synergistic toxicity in hyperglycemia that need to be confirmed using suitable in vivo models.
This work aimed to evaluate the effect of Atmospheric Cold Plasma (ACP) on the quality of mango flour noodles (NMF). ACP treatment of 5 minutes duration on the surface of the noodles strands were performed and evaluated during three days of storage by monitoring parameters related to colour, water activity, antioxidant activity and total phenolic content. The lightness value (L*) was higher for untreated samples (NMF (U)) than for treated samples (NMF (T)), while a greater increased in the redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) values were observed for the NMF (T). The changes in aw, antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC) were negligible. However the NMF (T) showed significant different (p
Antioxidant activities were evaluated in steaming, hot water, and microwave blanching’s at different temperature, time and microwave power level on frozen green capsicum. Results showed frozen green capsicum blanched using microwave at high level/90 seconds (sample J) contain higher level of Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Potential (FRAP) compared to fresh green capsicum. Sample J and fresh green capsicum were significantly higher (p≤0.05) compared to other treatments for Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Radical Scavenging Activity (DPPH), and FRAP from 0 to 3rd month frozen storage. Overall, the sequences from highest to lowest in blanching treatments for TPC, DPPH, and FRAP were J (microwave high level/90 seconds)>A (Fresh)>H (Microwave Medium Level/120 seconds)>D (Hot Water 80°C/150 seconds)>K (Microwave High Level/120 seconds)>I (Microwave Medium Level/150 seconds)>F (Microwave Low Level/150 seconds)>B (Steam 100°C/150 seconds)>E (Boiling Water 100°C/120 seconds)>G (Microwave Low Level/180 seconds)>C (Steam 100°C/180 seconds). Frozen storage for 0 and 3rd months showed no significant difference (p>0.05) which indicated no changes on antioxidant activity during frozen storage at -18°C.
Rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is a rare clinical entity that has been associated with the use of injectable anticoagulant therapy. Although low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) was proven to have a better safety profile than its predecessor, it is not without its own risk of bleeding. The increase in use of self-injectable LMWH in both in-patient as well as out-patient basis warrants greater awareness among health care providers, patients and caregivers regarding the potential risks and identification of possible complications. We present a fatal case of rectus sheath hematoma in an elderly man that occurred following erroneous technique of Dalteparin injection.
Osteomyelitis refers to an infection of the bone characterized by progressive inflammatory destruction caused by infecting microorganism. Open fracture carries the risk of developing osteomyelitis from 3 to 50% with a high amputation rate. Salvage of the limb is always a challenge and needs perseverance. We report the case of a 44-year-old male with chronic osteomyelitis with successful multiple limb salvage surgeries. The curative approach to chronic osteomyelitis has the following goals including arrest of infection, pain reduction and salvage of limb and function. With regard to survival and function, the result obtained in this case is more promising compared to above knee amputation.
Brachymetatarsia is a conditioned which has been described as abnormal short metatarsal bone due to premature closure of the epiphyseal growth plate. It usually involves a single metatarsal bone with the fourth metatarsal being the most common. It may be congenital or acquired. We here report a case in a 53-yearold lady who presented with foot pain and shoe wearing problem. Examination revealed shortening of the bilateral fourth toe and the toes were tilted dorsally. She was diagnosed with bilateral brachymetatarsia and operation was done mainly for cosmetic reasons. Gradual lengthening with distraction osteogenesis was performed using a MiniRail external fixator (Orthofix) and K-wiring of the right fourth metatarsophalangeal joint. Adequate length of fourth metatarsal and good bony union were achieved at the end of treatment.
Diagnosis of ocular leptospirosis is challenging and requires a high index of suspicion of previous leptospiral infection and good laboratory support. This case series focuses on two young females with unilateral conjunctiva granuloma. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first two cases of ocular leptospirosis with conjunctiva granuloma. The definitive diagnosis of ocular leptospirosis was based on laboratory studies in which conjunctival biopsies in these two cases showed positive leptospira DNA. Retrospectively, the history was suggestive as both patients had exposure to leptospira organism. In conclusion, a diagnosis of ocular leptospirosis requires a high clinical suspicion index supported by mandatory laboratory investigations.
Fish bone is the commonest cause of foreign body disease in Asian population. Esophageal perforation following fish bone foreign body accounts for 1-4% of the total reported cases. A 60-year-old lady presented with progressively worsening dysphagia and odynophagia over five days period following a fish meal. She sought treatment at two general practitioner clinic and a private hospital before being referred to Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. Repeated neck X-ray revealed a significant increase in prevertebral soft tissue thickness with large air-pocket tracking, small opacity at the prevertebral C3 level and subcutaneous emphysema anterior to the neck suggestive of retropharyngeal hematoma or abscess. A CT neck and thorax showed a 2.1 cm linear dense structure at the level of C7/T1 that appeared to protrude outside the esophagus in between the tracheoesophageal space. Direct laryngoscopy and repeat emergency esophagoscopy revealed a perforation at the right side of esophagus distal to cricopharyngeus with pus discharge upon milking of posterior lateral wall and a fish bone measuring 3.0 x 0.5 cm was removed from posterior wall of esophagus 17 cm from incisor. Gastrograffin study on day 10 was normal and was discharged on day 11 with Ryle’s tube feeding and to complete oral antibiotic. Fiber optic endoscopic evaluations of swallowing at two weeks follow up was normal. Subsequent review in the clinic showed full recovery without sequelae. Migrating fish bone can lead to esophagus penetration with serious complications. Mortality and morbidity from fish bone foreign body can be minimized with early diagnosis, referral and removal.
Superior vena cava syndrome is a medical emergency. The morbidity and mortality of superior vena cava syndrome can be decreased by early recognition, early establishment of primary cause, early supportive and definitive treatment. We illustrate a case of 53-year-old male with underlying advanced Parkinsonism and ischemic stroke who presented with superior vena cava syndrome over 4 days period. Diagnostic challenge in this patient lies in the fact that patient had aphasia and his daily living activity was dependent. Most of the information was based on caretaker’s observations. A strong clinical suspicion based on clinical history is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment of superior vena cava syndrome.
Damage control resuscitation, characterized by hemostatic resuscitation with blood products, rapid arrest of bleeding and when possible, permissive hypotension with restricted fluid load form a structured approach in managing a polytrauma patient. When complicated with traumatic rhabdomyolysis however, permissive hypotension strategy may cause more harm resulting in subsequent ischaemicreperfusion injury and acute kidney injury. We present a case involving a 20-yearold man who was rolled over by a lorry and sustained an open unstable pelvic fracture with vascular injury and left lower limb ischaemia. Permissive hypotension strategy was pursued for 4 hours prior to bleeding control in OT. This was followed by protracted surgery of 6 hours. Coagulopathy, acute kidney injury and rhabdomyolysis ensued in the post-operative period and patient succumbed to his injury on Day 3 post-trauma. Challenges and pitfalls in managing a complex polytrauma patient and recent evidences on damage control resuscitation is discussed.
Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is uncommon among young patients. Among the young adults, CRVO tends to be more benign with good visual prognosis. Macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusion is a relatively common complication that is currently being treated with intravitreal anti vascular endothelial growth factor with good outcomes. Other complications include lamellar hole, vitreous hemorrhage and neovascular glaucoma. We report a case of central retinal vein occlusion in a young female who presented to us with the complaint of blurring of vision in the left eye for four months. Fundus examination showed hyperemic optic disc, dilated tortuous vein, extensive retinal hemorrhages with macular oedema and an inferior shallow exudative retinal detachment. One month later, intravitreal ranibizumab injection for her macular oedema, a full thickness macular hole developed with reduction of macular oedema. Four months later, the hole spontaneously closed but her macular oedema persisted. The possibility of rare complications like exudative retinal detachment and full thickness macular hole must be kept in mind to ensure early detection and effective management is provided to preserve vision.
Hemichorea-hemiballismus (HC-HB) is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary movements involving limbs on one side of the body. Many etiological factors were identified and these included stroke, infection, and neoplasm. However, acute hyperglycemia-induced HC-HB is less well known. We present two cases of non-ketotic hyperglycemia-induced HC-HB. The cases depicted here Illustrate that HC-HB can be the sole presentation from among a variety of neurological manifestations of poorly controlled diabetes which can be easily reversed when hyperglycemia is corrected.
Spontaneous closure of idiopathic full thickness macular hole is a rare case as it occurs in only 3.5% while awaiting vitrectomy surgery. There are few pathologies associated with it such as vitreomacular traction (VMT) and posterior vitreous detachment. We report a case in a 74-year-old man who presented with right eye painless, progressive blurring of vision with idiopathic stage 4 full thickness macular hole which was confirmed on optical coherence tomography. It closed spontaneously after sometimes while waiting for surgery. It is important to monitor closely for the possibility of spontaneous closure based on the optical coherence tomography findings.
Acupuncture is a form of complementary medicine that has been practiced in China for thousands of years. Adverse effect of acupuncture is rarely reported in local literature. This is a case of a patient who developed bilateral pneumothorax following an acupuncture session. A 63-year-old lady with no significant medical illness presented with sudden onset of shortness of breath half an hour following acupuncture and massage session by traditional medicine practitioner. On examination, she was tachypnoiec and there was reduced air entry bilaterally on lung auscultation. Urgent portable chest X-ray was done and it showed bilateral pneumothorax. Bilateral chest tubes were inserted. Patient was discharged well following five days of hospitalization. As acupuncture is gaining popularity among Malaysian population, medical practitioners need to increase their awareness and knowledge regarding the adverse effect of such alternative practice.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a clonal histiocytic disorder. The variable clinical manifestations from isolated bone lesion to multisystem disease can cause difficulties and delay in diagnosis. We report a 2 years and 8 months-old girl who presented with a 2 weeks history of persistent fever and weight loss associated with progressive abdominal distension. Physical examination revealed pallor, bilateral proptosis, seaborrheic dermatitis over the scalp and hepatosplenomegaly. Skull X-ray demonstrated multiple lytic lesions at the base and the skull vault. Bone marrow morphology showed numerous abnormal Langerhans cells (LCs) and foamy macrophages. The trephine immunohistochemistry (IHC) stains for CD1a, S-100 and CD68 were inconclusive. The diagnosis of multisystem Langerhans cell histiocytosis (MS-LCH) in this patient was based on the clinical presentation, radiological and morphological analysis. She subsequently received chemotherapy and currently she is on maintenance therapy with a good clinical response. LCH is a rare disease and although the IHC was inconclusive, the correlation of clinical, radiological and morphological data are essential for the diagnosis.
In the present study, we have developed a green approach for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (DSAgNPs) using aqueous extract of Durio zibethinus seed and determined its antibacterial, photocatalytic and cytotoxic effects. Surface plasmon resonance confirmed the formation of DSAgNPs with a maximum absorbance (λmax) of 420 nm. SEM and TEM images revealed DSAgNPs were spherical and rod shaped, with a size range of 20 nm and 75 nm. The zeta potential was found to be -15.41 mV. XRD and EDX analyses confirmed the nature and presence of Ag and AgCl. DSAgNPs showed considerable antibacterial activity, exhibited better cytotoxicity against brine shrimp, and shown better photocatalytic activity against methylene blue. Based on the present research work, it can be concluded that DSAgNPs could be used in the field of water treatment, pharmaceuticals, biomedicine, biosensor and nanotechnology in near future.
MeSH terms: Animals; Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology*; Artemia/drug effects; Catalysis; Light*; Microbial Sensitivity Tests; Plant Extracts/chemistry*; Seeds/chemistry*; Silver/chemistry*; Cell Death/drug effects; Bombacaceae/chemistry*; Metal Nanoparticles/ultrastructure; Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry*; Green Chemistry Technology/methods*
Inadequately treated or untreated wastewater greatly contribute to the release of unwanted toxic contaminants into water bodies. Some of these contaminants are persistent and bioaccumulative, becoming a great concern as they are released into the environment. Despite the abundance of wastewater treatment technologies, the adsorption method overall has proven to be an excellent way to treat wastewater from multiple industry sources. Because of its significant benefits, i.e., easy availability, handling, and higher efficiency with a low cost relative to other treatments, adsorption is opted as the best method to be used. However, biosorption using naturally found seaweeds has been proven to have promising results in removing pollutants, such as dyes from textile, paper, and the printing industry, nitrogen, and phosphorous and phenolic compounds, as well as heavy metals from various sources. Due to its ecofriendly nature together with the availability and inexpensiveness of raw materials, biosorption via seaweed has become an alternative to the existing technologies in removing these pollutants from wastewater effectively. In this article, the use of low-cost adsorbent (seaweed) for the removal of pollutants from wastewater has been reviewed. An extensive table summarises the applicability of seaweed in treating wastewater. Literature reported that the majority of research used simulated wastewater and minor attention has been given to biosorption using seaweed in the treatment of real wastewater.
MeSH terms: Adsorption; Biodegradation, Environmental; Industrial Waste/analysis; Seaweed/metabolism*; Water Pollutants, Chemical/isolation & purification*; Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism*