Browse publications by year: 2020

Fulltext Chitosan Epoxidized Natural Rubber Biocomposites for Sorption and Biodegradability Studies

Raju G, Mas Haris MRH, Azura AR, Ahmed Mohamed Eid AM

ACS Omega, 2020 Nov 10;5(44):28760-28766.
PMID: 33195929 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c04081

The slow-release mechanism of copper into soil followed by soil biodegradation was studied using the chitosan (CTS)/epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) biocomposite. The biocomposite was prepared by homogenizing CTS in ENR50 (ENR with about 50% epoxy content) latex in the presence of curing agents and acetic acid. It was found that the adsorption property of the biocomposite was very much influenced by chitosan loading, where 20phrCTS-t-ENR biocomposite can absorb 76.31% of Cu(II) ions. The desorption study indicates that the copper (II) ion can be released at a very slow and control phase as proven by the kinetic study using zero-order, first-order, Higuchi, and Korsmeyer Peppas equations. The slow-release studies comply with the Higuchi square-root equation, indicating that the release process is diffusion-controlled. Results of desorption and biodegradation process suggest that this biocomposite has the potential use of being a slow-release matrix in the field of agriculture.

MeSH terms: Adsorption; Agriculture; Biodegradation, Environmental; Copper; Diffusion; Ions; Latex; Rubber; Soil; Acetic Acid; Chitosan
Fulltext Dignify the understanding process in visual art: islamic perspective

Wan Samiati Andriana W. Mohamad Daud, Mumtaz Mokhtar, Nor Azlin Hamidon

Borneo International Journal, 2020;3(1):1-7.
MyJurnal

Art is a subject area that blends philosophy, aesthetic, cultural, scientific discipline, psychology, propagation,
anthropology, comparative study, and historical art. The multi-racial and multi-cultural elements in Malaysia have
influenced the artist in creating their artworks. Through artistic talents, Muslim artists can use various techniques
and arts as a thorough force to call in and praise the greatness of Allah S.W.T. Thus, it is the duty of the artist to
translate Islamic ideas into artistic language. Agreeing to the Islamic view, artistic creativity is the urge or force
given by Allah S.W.T., which runs up the importance of Allah S.W.T. In addition, art also enhances the union or
unity. Islamic art does not revolve around individual humans, but it applies to social orientation based on the
requirements of fellow human beings. Muslim art could include the contextual conditions, an artist’s intention,
and expressly because not all artworks have the same instruction with the ultimate destination of art actions that is
the Unity of God or Tawhid. So, with local (Muslim / Malay) shifting of identity, demonstrate the changing of the
Malaysian cultural identity. The objectives of this paper are to dignify the Understanding Process in Visual Art
that have similar philosophies, knowledge of Islam and Malay civilization. This model can contribute to the
development of a guideline that has been improved as compared to the existing one. This theoretical framework
has been designed for understanding with the chronicle of contemporary art, which keeps to the aim of the Islamic
art concepts, especially in lifting up the concept of Tawhid is the ultimate expiration of Muslim art.
Fulltext Amino acid compounds released by the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii during ecdysis: a factor attracting cannibalistic behaviour?

Juneta-Nor AS, Noordin NM, Azra MN, Ma HY, Husin NM, Ikhwanuddin M

J Zhejiang Univ Sci B, 2020 10 13;21(10):823-834.
PMID: 33043647 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.B2000126

Ecdysis is a common phenomenon that happens throughout the life phase of the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii. It is vital to better understand the correlation between cannibalism and biochemical compound that exists during the moulting process. The objective of the present study was to determine the amino acid profile released by M. rosenbergii during the ecdysis process that promotes cannibalism. To accomplish this, changes in amino acid levels (total amino acid (TAA) and free amino acid (FAA)) of tissue muscle, exoskeleton, and sample water of culture medium from the moulting (E-stage) and non-moulting (C-stage) prawns were analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Comparison study revealed that among the TAA compounds, proline and sarcosine of tissues from moulting prawn were found at the highest levels. The level of FAA from water that contains moulting prawns (E-stage) was dominated by tryptophan and proline. Significant values obtained in the present study suggested that these amino acid compounds act as a chemical cue to promote cannibalism in M. rosenbergii during ecdysis. The knowledge of compositions and compounds that were released during the moulting process should be helpful for better understanding of the mechanism and chemical cues that play roles on triggering cannibalism, and also for future dietary manipulation to improve feeding efficiencies and feeding management, which indirectly impacts productivity and profitability.

MeSH terms: Amino Acids/chemistry*; Animals; Cannibalism*; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Feeding Behavior*; Fresh Water; Malaysia; Proline/chemistry; Tryptophan/chemistry; Aquaculture; Molting; Palaemonidae/physiology*
Fulltext Low genetic diversity indicating the threatened status of Rhizophora apiculata (Rhizophoraceae) in Malaysia: declined evolution meets habitat destruction

Azman A, Ng KK, Ng CH, Lee CT, Tnah LH, Zakaria NF, et al.

Sci Rep, 2020 11 05;10(1):19112.
PMID: 33154411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76092-4

Worldwide, many mangrove species are experiencing significant population declines, including Rhizophora apiculata, which is one of the most widespread and economically important species in tropical Asia. In Malaysia, there has been an alarming decline in R. apiculata populations driven primarily by anthropogenic activities. However, the lack of genetic and demographic information on this species has hampered local efforts to conserve it. To address these gaps, we generated novel genetic information for R. apiculata, based on 1,120 samples collected from 39 natural populations in Peninsular Malaysia. We investigated its genetic diversity and genetic structure with 19 transcriptome and three nuclear microsatellite markers. Our analyses revealed a low genetic diversity (mean He: 0.352) with significant genetic differentiation (FST: 0.315) among populations of R. apiculata. Approximately two-third of the populations showed significant excess of homozygotes, indicating persistent inbreeding which might be due to the decrease in population size or fragmentation. From the cluster analyses, the populations investigated were divided into two distinct clusters, comprising the west and east coasts of Peninsular Malaysia. The western cluster was further divided into two sub-clusters with one of the sub-clusters showing strong admixture pattern that harbours high levels of genetic diversity, thus deserving high priority for conservation.

MeSH terms: Biological Evolution*; Malaysia; Genetic Variation*; Ecosystem*; Microsatellite Repeats; Genetic Drift; Rhizophoraceae/genetics*; Endangered Species*
Fulltext Evening home lighting adversely impacts the circadian system and sleep

Cain SW, McGlashan EM, Vidafar P, Mustafovska J, Curran SPN, Wang X, et al.

Sci Rep, 2020 11 05;10(1):19110.
PMID: 33154450 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-75622-4

The regular rise and fall of the sun resulted in the development of 24-h rhythms in virtually all organisms. In an evolutionary heartbeat, humans have taken control of their light environment with electric light. Humans are highly sensitive to light, yet most people now use light until bedtime. We evaluated the impact of modern home lighting environments in relation to sleep and individual-level light sensitivity using a new wearable spectrophotometer. We found that nearly half of homes had bright enough light to suppress melatonin by 50%, but with a wide range of individual responses (0-87% suppression for the average home). Greater evening light relative to an individual's average was associated with increased wakefulness after bedtime. Homes with energy-efficient lights had nearly double the melanopic illuminance of homes with incandescent lighting. These findings demonstrate that home lighting significantly affects sleep and the circadian system, but the impact of lighting for a specific individual in their home is highly unpredictable.

MeSH terms: Adolescent; Circadian Rhythm/physiology*; Female; Humans; Lighting*; Male; Sleep/physiology*; Wakefulness/physiology*; Young Adult
Fulltext Author Correction: Artocarpus altilis extracts as a food-borne pathogen and oxidation inhibitors: RSM, COSMO RS, and molecular docking approaches

Ahmad MN, Karim NU, Normaya E, Piah BM, Iqbal A, Bulat KHK

Sci Rep, 2020 Nov 05;10(1):19573.
PMID: 33154550 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76567-4

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Fulltext Strategies in Forward Osmosis Membrane Substrate Fabrication and Modification: A Review

Suzaimi ND, Goh PS, Ismail AF, Mamah SC, Malek NANN, Lim JW, et al.

Membranes (Basel), 2020 Nov 07;10(11).
PMID: 33171847 DOI: 10.3390/membranes10110332

Forward osmosis (FO) has been recognized as the preferred alternative membrane-based separation technology for conventional water treatment technologies due to its high energy efficiency and promising separation performances. FO has been widely explored in the fields of wastewater treatment, desalination, food industry and bio-products, and energy generation. The substrate of the typically used FO thin film composite membranes serves as a support for selective layer formation and can significantly affect the structural and physicochemical properties of the resultant selective layer. This signifies the importance of substrate exploration to fine-tune proper fabrication and modification in obtaining optimized substrate structure with regards to thickness, tortuosity, and porosity on the two sides. The ultimate goal of substrate modification is to obtain a thin and highly selective membrane with enhanced hydrophilicity, antifouling propensity, as well as long duration stability. This review focuses on the various strategies used for FO membrane substrate fabrication and modification. An overview of FO membranes is first presented. The extant strategies applied in FO membrane substrate fabrications and modifications in addition to efforts made to mitigate membrane fouling are extensively reviewed. Lastly, the future perspective regarding the strategies on different FO substrate layers in water treatment are highlighted.
The Study of Structural, Impedance and Energy Storage Behavior of Plasticized PVA:MC Based Proton Conducting Polymer Blend Electrolytes

Aziz SB, Brevik I, Brza MA, Asnawi ASFM, Dannoun EMA, Yusof YM, et al.

Materials (Basel), 2020 Nov 07;13(21).
PMID: 33171877 DOI: 10.3390/ma13215030

In this study, structural characterization, electrical properties and energy storage performance of plasticized polymer electrolytes based on polyvinyl alcohol/methylcellulose/ammonium thiocyanate (PVA/MC-NH4SCN) were carried out. An X-ray diffraction (XRD) study displayed that the plasticized electrolyte system with the uppermost value of direct current (DC) ionic conductivity was the most amorphous system. The electrolyte in the present work realized an ionic conductivity of 2.903 × 10-3 Scm-1 at room temperature. The main charge carrier in the electrolyte was found to be the ions with the ionic transference number (tion) of 0.912, compared to only 0.088 for the electronic transference number (telec). The electrochemical stability potential window of the electrolyte is 2.1 V. The specific capacitance was found to reduce from 102.88 F/g to 28.58 F/g as the scan rate increased in cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis. The fabricated electrochemical double layer capacitor (EDLC) was stable up to 200 cycles with high efficiency. The specific capacitance obtained for the EDLC by using charge-discharge analysis was 132.7 F/g at the first cycle, which is slightly higher compared to the CV plot. The equivalent series resistance (ESR) increased from 58 to 171 Ω throughout the cycles, which indicates a good electrolyte/electrode contact. Ions in the electrolyte were considered to have almost the same amount of energy during the conduction process as the energy density is approximately at 14.0 Wh/kg throughout the 200 cycles. The power density is stabilized at the range of 1444.3 to 467.6 W/kg as the EDLC completed the cycles.
Fulltext Thermal and Structural Analysis of Epoxidized Jatropha Oil and Alkaline Treated Kenaf Fiber Reinforced Poly(Lactic Acid) Biocomposites

Kamarudin SH, Abdullah LC, Aung MM, Ratnam CT

Polymers (Basel), 2020 Nov 06;12(11).
PMID: 33171889 DOI: 10.3390/polym12112604

New environmentally friendly plasticized poly(lactic acid) (PLA) kenaf biocomposites were obtained through a melt blending process from a combination of epoxidized jatropha oil, a type of nonedible vegetable oil material, and renewable plasticizer. The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of the incorporation of epoxidized jatropha oil (EJO) as a plasticizer and alkaline treatment of kenaf fiber on the thermal properties of PLA/Kenaf/EJO biocomposites. Kenaf fiber was treated with 6% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution for 4 h. The thermal properties of the biocomposites were analyzed using a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). It must be highlighted that the addition of EJO resulted in a decrease of glass transition temperature which aided PLA chain mobility in the blend as predicted. TGA demonstrated that the presence of treated kenaf fiber together with EJO in the blends reduced the rate of decomposition of PLA and enhanced the thermal stability of the blend. The treatment showed a rougher surface fiber in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs and had a greater mechanical locking with matrix, and this was further supported with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Overall, the increasing content of EJO as a plasticizer has improved the thermal properties of PLA/Kenaf/EJO biocomposites.

MeSH terms: Calorimetry, Differential Scanning; Glass; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Plant Oils; Plasticizers; Polyesters; Sodium Hydroxide; Temperature; Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared; Jatropha; Hibiscus; Transition Temperature
Fulltext A Host-Vector System for the Expression of a Thermostable Bacterial Lipase in a Locally Isolated Meyerozyma guilliermondii SMB

Salleh AB, Baharuddin SM, Rahman RNZRA, Leow TC, Basri M, Oslan SN

Microorganisms, 2020 Nov 06;8(11).
PMID: 33171893 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111738

Screening for a new yeast as an alternative host is expected to solve the limitations in the present yeast expression system. A yeast sample which was isolated from the traditional food starter 'ragi' from Malaysia was identified to contain Meyerozyma guilliermondii strain SMB. This yeast-like fungus strain SMB was characterized to assess its suitability as an expression host. Lipase activity was absent in this host (when assayed at 30 °C and 70 °C) and Hygromycin B (50 μg/mL) was found to be its best selection marker. Then, the hyg gene (Hygromycin B) was used to replace the sh ble gene (Zeocin) expression cassette in a Komagataella phaffii expression vector (designated as pFLDhα). A gene encoding the mature thermostable lipase from Bacillus sp. L2 was cloned into pFLDhα, followed by transformation into strain SMB. The optimal expression of L2 lipase was achieved using YPTM (Yeast Extract-Peptone-Tryptic-Methanol) medium after 48 h with 0.5% (v/v) methanol induction, which was 3 times faster than another K. phaffii expression system. In conclusion, a new host-vector system was established as a platform to express L2 lipase under the regulation of PFLD1. It could also be promising to express other recombinant proteins without inducers.

MeSH terms: Methanol; Bacillus; Bacterial Proteins; Bleomycin; Saccharomycetales; Fungi; Hygromycin B; Lipase; Malaysia; Peptones; Recombinant Proteins
Fulltext Environmental Impact of Food Packaging Materials: A Review of Contemporary Development from Conventional Plastics to Polylactic Acid Based Materials

Ncube LK, Ude AU, Ogunmuyiwa EN, Zulkifli R, Beas IN

Materials (Basel), 2020 Nov 06;13(21).
PMID: 33171895 DOI: 10.3390/ma13214994

Plastics have remained the material of choice, and after serving their intended purpose, a large proportion ends up in the environment where they persist for centuries. The packaging industry is the largest and growing consumer of synthetic plastics derived from fossil fuels. Food packaging plastics account for the bulk of plastic waste that are polluting the environment. Additionally, given the fact that petroleum reserves are finite and facing depletion, there is a need for the development of alternative materials that can serve the same purpose as conventional plastics. This paper reviews the function of packaging materials and highlights the future potential of the adoption of green materials. Biopolymers have emerged as promising green materials although they still have very low market uptake. Polylactic acid (PLA) has emerged as the most favoured bioplastic. However, it is limited by its high cost and some performance drawbacks. Blending with agricultural waste and natural fillers can result in green composites at low cost, low greenhouse gas emissions, and with improved performance for food packaging applications. The continent of Africa is proposed as a rich source of fibres and fillers that can be sustainably exploited to fabricate green composites in a bid to achieve a circular economy.
Fulltext Rapid Quantification and Validation of Biomarker Scopoletin in Paederia foetida by qNMR and UV-Vis for Herbal Preparation

Tan DC, Quek A, Kassim NK, Ismail IS, Lee JJ

Molecules, 2020 Nov 06;25(21).
PMID: 33171900 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25215162

Scopoletin has previously been reported as a biomarker for the standardization of Paederia foetida twigs. This study is the first report on the determination and quantification of scopoletin using quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance (qNMR) in the different extracts of Paederia foetida twigs. The validated qNMR method showed a good linearity (r2 = 0.9999), limit of detection (LOD) (0.009 mg/mL), and quantification (LOQ) (0.029 mg/mL), together with high stability (relative standard deviation (RSD) = 0.022%), high precision (RSD < 1%), and good recovery (94.08-108.45%). The quantification results of scopoletin concentration in chloroform extract using qNMR and microplate ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectrophotometer was almost comparable. Therefore, the qNMR method is deemed accurate and reliable for quality control of Paederia foetida and other medicinal plants without extensive sample preparation.

MeSH terms: Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy/methods*; Plant Extracts/analysis; Plant Extracts/chemistry; Plants, Medicinal/chemistry; Scopoletin/analysis*; Sensitivity and Specificity; Solvents/chemistry; Spectrophotometry, Ultraviolet/methods*; Rubiaceae/chemistry*; Plant Preparations/analysis; Biomarkers, Pharmacological/analysis*; Limit of Detection
Fulltext The Effects of Silver Nanoparticles Compositions on the Mechanical, Physiochemical, Antibacterial, and Morphology Properties of Sugar Palm Starch Biocomposites for Antibacterial Coating

Rozilah A, Jaafar CNA, Sapuan SM, Zainol I, Ilyas RA

Polymers (Basel), 2020 Nov 06;12(11).
PMID: 33171913 DOI: 10.3390/polym12112605

Antibacterial sugar palm starch biopolymer composite films were developed and derived from renewable sources and inorganic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as main ingredients for antibacterial coatings. The composite films were produced by solution casting method and the mechanical and physicochemical properties were determined by tensile test, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), antibacterial screening test and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images. It was found that mechanical and antibacterial properties of biocomposite films were improved after the addition of AgNPs compared with the film without active metals. The weakness of neat biocomposite films was improved by incorporating inorganic AgNPs as a nanofiller in the films' matrix to avoid bacterial growth. The results showed that the tensile strength ranged between 8 kPa and 408 kPa and the elasticity modulus was between 5.72 kPa and 9.86 kPa. The addition of AgNPs in FTIR analysis decreased the transmittance value, caused small changes in the chemical structure, caused small differences in the intensity peaks, and produced longer wavelengths. These active films increased the degradation weight and decomposition temperature due to the more heat-stable AgNPs. Meanwhile, the average inhibited areas measured were between 7.66 and 7.83 mm (Escherichia coli), 7.5 and 8.0 mm (Salmonella cholerasuis), and 0.1 and 0.5 mm for Staphylococcus aureus. From the microscopic analysis, it was observed that the average size of all microbes for 1 wt% and 4 wt% AgNPs ranged from 0.57 to 2.90 mm. Overall, 3 wt% AgNP nanofiller was found to be the best composition that fulfilled all the mechanical properties and had better antimicrobial properties. Thus, the development of an organic-inorganic hybrid of antibacterial biopolymer composite films is suitable for antibacterial coatings.
Investigation of Kenaf Paper in the Presence of PVA for Transformers Application

Umair M, Azis N, Halis R, Jasni J

Materials (Basel), 2020 Nov 06;13(21).
PMID: 33171971 DOI: 10.3390/ma13215002

This paper presents an investigation on the physio-mechanical properties and AC breakdown voltage of the Kenaf paper in the presence of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) for transformers application. Kenaf bast fibers were used in order to produce the paper through the soda pulping process. The pulps were subjected to beating up to 12,000 revolutions, whereby the PVA was added to the pulps at a different weight percentage concentration up to 12%. Morphological study was carried out on the Kenaf paper based on Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The apparent density, Tensile Index (TI), Burst Index (BI), Tear Index (TeI), and AC breakdown voltage of the Kenaf paper were measured. It is found that the TI and BI of Kenaf paper can be slightly improved through the introduction of PVA. On other hand, the TeI of the Kenaf paper decreases with the increment of the PVA. The AC breakdown voltage of the Kenaf paper slightly increases with the increment of PVA weight percentage concentration.
Fulltext Global Prevalence of Macroprolactinemia among Patients with Hyperprolactinemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Che Soh NAA, Yaacob NM, Omar J, Mohammed Jelani A, Shafii N, Tuan Ismail TS, et al.

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2020 11 06;17(21).
PMID: 33171973 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218199

Hyperprolactinemia (hPRL) often poses a diagnostic dilemma due to the presence of macroprolactin. Understanding the prevalence of macroprolactinemia (mPRL) has an important implication in managing patients with hPRL. The primary aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of mPRL globally and to explore selected factors influencing the prevalence estimate. Studies with original data related to the prevalence of mPRL among patients with hPRL from inception to March 2020 were identified, and a random effects meta-analysis was performed. Of the 3770 records identified, 67 eligible studies from 27 countries were included. The overall global prevalence estimate was 18.9% (95% CI: 15.8%, 22.1%) with a substantial statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 95.7%). The highest random effects pooled prevalence was observed in the African region (30.3%), followed by Region of the Americas (29.1%), European (17.5%), Eastern Mediterranean (13.9%), South-East Asian (12.7%), and Western Pacific Region (12.6%). Lower prevalence was observed in studies involving both sexes as compared to studies involving only female participants (17.1% vs. 25.4%) and in more recent studies (16.4%, 20.4%, and 26.5% in studies conducted after 2009, between 2000 and 2009, and before 2000, respectively). The prevalence estimate does not vary according to the age group of study participants, sample size, and types of polyethylene glycol (PEG) used for detection of macroprolactin (PEG 6000 or PEG 8000). With macroprolactin causing nearly one-fifth of hPRL cases, screening for mPRL should be made a routine before an investigation of other causes of hPRL.

MeSH terms: Adolescent; Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Female; Humans; Hyperprolactinemia/epidemiology*; Male; Prolactin/metabolism*; Retrospective Studies; Global Health; Prevalence
Fulltext Elucidating the Efficacy of Vaccination against Vibriosis in Lates calcarifer Using Two Recombinant Protein Vaccines Containing the Outer Membrane Protein K (r-OmpK) of Vibrio alginolyticus and the DNA Chaperone J (r-DnaJ) of Vibrio harveyi

Silvaraj S, Md Yasin IS, A Karim MM, Saad MZ

Vaccines (Basel), 2020 Nov 06;8(4).
PMID: 33171991 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040660

Recombinant cell vaccines expressing the OmpK and DnaJ of Vibrio were developed and subsequently, a vaccination efficacy trial was carried out on juvenile seabass (~5 cm; ~20 g). The fish were divided into 5 groups of 50 fish per group, kept in triplicate. Groups 1 and 2 were injected with 107 CFU/mL of the inactivated recombinant cells vaccines, the pET-32/LIC-OmpK and pET-32/LIC-DnaJ, respectively. Group 3 was similarly injected with 107 CFU/mL of inactivated E. coli BL21 (DE3), Group 4 with 107 CFU/mL of formalin killed whole cells V. harveyi, and Group 5 with PBS solution. Serum, mucus, and gut lavage were used to determine the antibody levels before all fish were challenged with V. harveyi, V. alginolyticus, and V. parahemolyticus, respectively on day 15 post-vaccination. There was significant increase in the serum and gut lavage antibody titers in the juvenile seabass vaccinated with r-OmpK vaccine. In addition, there was an up-regulation for TLR2, MyD88, and MHCI genes in the kidney and intestinal tissues of r-OmpK vaccinated fish. At the same time, r-OmpK triggered higher expression level of interleukin IL-10, IL-8, IL-1ß in the spleen, intestine, and kidney compared to r-DnaJ. Overall, r-OmpK and r-DnaJ triggered protection by curbing inflammation and strengthening the adaptive immune response. Vaccinated fish also demonstrated strong cross protection against heterologous of Vibrio isolates, the V. harveyi, V. alginolyticus, and V. parahaemolyticus. The fish vaccinated with r-OmpK protein were completely protected with a relative per cent of survival (RPS) of 90 percent against V. harveyi and 100 percent against V. alginolyticus and V. parahaemolyticus. A semi-quantitative PCR detection of Vibrio spp. from the seawater containing the seabass also revealed that vaccination resulted in reduction of pathogen shedding. In conclusion, our results suggest r-OmpK as a candidate vaccine molecule against multiple Vibrio strain to prevent vibriosis in marine fish.

MeSH terms: Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Animals; Bass; Escherichia coli; Formaldehyde; Therapeutic Irrigation; Spleen; Vibrio Infections; Vaccines, Inactivated; Up-Regulation; Interleukin-8; Interleukin-10; Toll-Like Receptor 2; Myeloid Differentiation Factor 88; Cross Protection
Fulltext The Roles of Non-Coding RNAs in Tumor-Associated Lymphangiogenesis

Md Yusof K, Rosli R, Abdullah M, A Avery-Kiejda K

Cancers (Basel), 2020 Nov 06;12(11).
PMID: 33172072 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113290

Lymphatic vessels are regarded as the "forgotten" circulation. Despite this, growing evidence has shown significant roles for the lymphatic circulation in normal and pathological conditions in humans, including cancers. The dissemination of tumor cells to other organs is often mediated by lymphatic vessels that serve as a conduit and is often referred to as tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis. Some of the most well-studied lymphangiogenic factors that govern tumor lymphangiogenesis are the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-C/D and VEGFR-2/3), neuroplilin-2 (NRP2), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), to name a few. However, recent findings have illustrated that non-coding RNAs are significantly involved in regulating gene expression in most biological processes, including lymphangiogenesis. In this review, we focus on the regulation of growth factors and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the lymphatic development in normal and cancer physiology. Then, we discuss the lymphangiogenic factors that necessitate tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis, with regards to ncRNAs in various types of cancer. Understanding the different roles of ncRNAs in regulating lymphatic vasculature in normal and cancer conditions may pave the way towards the development of ncRNA-based anti-lymphangiogenic therapy.

MeSH terms: Biological Phenomena; Fibroblast Growth Factors; Humans; Neoplasms; Hepatocyte Growth Factor; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-3; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C; Lymphangiogenesis; Lymphatic Vessels; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor D
Fulltext Effects of Accelerated Weathering on Degradation Behavior of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposites

Hashim UR, Jumahat A, Jawaid M, Dungani R, Alamery S

Polymers (Basel), 2020 Nov 06;12(11).
PMID: 33172162 DOI: 10.3390/polym12112621

This work aims to give insight on the effect of accelerated weathering, i.e., the combination of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and water spraying, on the visual and mechanical properties of basalt fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP) composites. The solvent exchange method, sonication and high shear milling technique were used to prepare the nanocomposite laminates. Three types of laminates were fabricated, i.e., unmodified BFRP, nanosilica modified BFRP and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) modified BFRP composites with the total fiber loading of 45 wt.%. Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminate was also prepared for performance comparison purposes between the natural and synthetic fibers. The laminates were exposed to UV with a total weathering condition of 504 h using a Quantum-UV accelerated weathering tester. The weathering condition cycle was set at 8 h 60 °C UV exposure and 4 h 50 °C condensation. The discoloration visual inspection on the tested specimen was observed under the optical microscope. The obtained results showed that the UV exposure and water absorption caused severe discoloration of the laminates due to photo-oxidation reaction. The effect of weathering conditions on tensile and flexural properties of unmodified BFRP composites indicated that the UV exposure and water absorption caused reduction by 12% in tensile strength and by 7% in flexural strength. It is also found that the reduction in tensile and flexural properties of nanomodified BFRP composites was smaller than the unmodified system. It concluded from this work, that the mineral based composites (i.e., BFRP) has high potential for structural applications owing to its better properties than synthetic based composites (i.e., GFRP).

MeSH terms: Glass; Graphite; Minerals; Polymers; Solvents; Sonication; Tensile Strength; Water; Silicates; Nanocomposites
Fulltext A confirmatory factor analysis of the knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire towards prevention of respiratory tract infections during Hajj and Umrah

Goni MD, Naing NN, Hasan H, Wan-Arfah N, Deris ZZ, Arifin WN, et al.

BMC Public Health, 2020 Nov 10;20(1):1684.
PMID: 33172429 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09756-5

BACKGROUND: Respiratory tract infections are one of the common infection associated with Hajj pilgrimage that is of great public health and global concern. This study is aimed at determining the factor structure of the knowledge, attitude, and practice questionnaire for the prevention of respiratory tract infections during Hajj by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).
METHODS: A multistage cluster sampling method was conducted on Malaysian Umrah pilgrims during the weekly Umrah orientation course. A total of 200 Umrah pilgrims participated in the study. The knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) questionnaire was distributed to pilgrims at the beginning of the orientation and retrieved immediately at the end of the orientation. Data analysis was done using R version 3.5.0 after data entry into SPSS 24. The robust maximum likelihood was used for the estimation due to the multivariate normality assumption violation. A two-factor model was tested for measurement model validity and construct validity for each of the attitude and practice domains.
RESULTS: CFA of a 25-item in total, the two-factor model yielded adequate goodness-of-fit values. The measurement model also showed good convergent and discriminant validity after model re-specification. A two-factor model was tested for measurement model validity and construct validity for each of the attitude and practice domains. The result also showed a statistically significant value (p

MeSH terms: Factor Analysis, Statistical; Humans; Islam; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*; Surveys and Questionnaires; Saudi Arabia; Travel
Fulltext Understanding the neuroprotective effect of tranexamic acid: an exploratory analysis of the CRASH-3 randomised trial

Brenner A, Belli A, Chaudhri R, Coats T, Frimley L, Jamaluddin SF, et al.

Crit Care, 2020 11 11;24(1):560.
PMID: 33172504 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-020-03243-4

BACKGROUND: The CRASH-3 trial hypothesised that timely tranexamic acid (TXA) treatment might reduce deaths from intracranial bleeding after traumatic brain injury (TBI). To explore the mechanism of action of TXA in TBI, we examined the timing of its effect on death.
METHODS: The CRASH-3 trial randomised 9202 patients within 3 h of injury with a GCS score ≤ 12 or intracranial bleeding on CT scan and no significant extracranial bleeding to receive TXA or placebo. We conducted an exploratory analysis of the effects of TXA on all-cause mortality within 24 h of injury and within 28 days, excluding patients with a GCS score of 3 or bilateral unreactive pupils, stratified by severity and country income. We pool data from the CRASH-2 and CRASH-3 trials in a one-step fixed effects individual patient data meta-analysis.
RESULTS: There were 7637 patients for analysis after excluding patients with a GCS score of 3 or bilateral unreactive pupils. Of 1112 deaths, 23.3% were within 24 h of injury (early deaths). The risk of early death was reduced with TXA (112 (2.9%) TXA group vs 147 (3.9%) placebo group; risk ratio [RR] RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.58-0.94). There was no evidence of heterogeneity by severity (p = 0.64) or country income (p = 0.68). The risk of death beyond 24 h of injury was similar in the TXA and placebo groups (432 (11.5%) TXA group vs 421 (11.7%) placebo group; RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.69-1.12). The risk of death at 28 days was 14.0% in the TXA group versus 15.1% in the placebo group (544 vs 568 events; RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.83-1.03). When the CRASH-2 and CRASH-3 trial data were pooled, TXA reduced early death (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.70-0.87) and death within 28 days (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.82-0.94).
CONCLUSIONS: Tranexamic acid reduces early deaths in non-moribund TBI patients regardless of TBI severity or country income. The effect of tranexamic acid in patients with isolated TBI is similar to that in polytrauma. Treatment is safe and even severely injured patients appear to benefit when treated soon after injury.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN15088122 , registered on 19 July 2011; NCT01402882 , registered on 26 July 2011.

MeSH terms: Antifibrinolytic Agents/adverse effects; Antifibrinolytic Agents/pharmacology; Antifibrinolytic Agents/therapeutic use; Brain Injuries/drug therapy; Brain Injuries/prevention & control*; Humans; Multiple Trauma/complications; Multiple Trauma/drug therapy; Tranexamic Acid/adverse effects; Tranexamic Acid/pharmacology*; Tranexamic Acid/therapeutic use; Neuroprotective Agents/adverse effects; Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology; Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use; Protective Factors*

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