Browse publications by year: 2021

Fulltext Survival and Characteristics of Bladder Cancer: Analysis of the Malaysian National Cancer Registry

Nik Ab Kadir MN, Mohd Hairon S, Yaacob NM, Ab Manan A, Ali N

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2021 05 14;18(10).
PMID: 34069096 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105237

BACKGROUND: Bladder cancer ranked ninth of principal male cancer in Malaysia. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics and survival of bladder cancer patients in Malaysia.
METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted by obtaining records in the Malaysian National Cancer Registry. Patients aged 15 years old and above with diagnosis date between 2007 and 2011 were included. Death was updated until 31 December 2016. Five-year observed survival and median survival time were determined by the life table method and Kaplan-Meier estimate method.
RESULTS: Among 1828 cases, the mean (SD) age of diagnosis was 64.9 (12.5) years. The patients were predominantly men (78.7%), Malay ethnicity (49.4%) and transitional cell carcinoma (78.2%). Only 14.8% of patients were at stage I. The overall five-year observed survival and median survival time was 36.9% (95% CI: 34.6, 39.1) and 27.3 months (95% CI: 23.6, 31.0). The highest five-year observed survival recorded at stage I (67.6%, 95% CI: 62.0, 73.3) and markedly worsen at stage II (34.3%, 95% CI: 27.9, 40.8), III (25.7%, 95% CI: 18.7, 32.6) and IV (12.2%, 95% CI: 8.1, 16.3).
CONCLUSIONS: Survival of bladder cancer patients in Malaysia was lower with advancing stage. The cancer control programme should be enhanced to improve survival.

MeSH terms: Adolescent; Aged; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Male; Middle Aged; Neoplasm Staging; Registries; Retrospective Studies; Survival Rate
Fulltext Application of Computational Method in Designing a Unit Cell of Bone Tissue Engineering Scaffold: A Review

Mustafa NS, Akhmal NH, Izman S, Ab Talib MH, Shaiful AIM, Omar MNB, et al.

Polymers (Basel), 2021 May 14;13(10).
PMID: 34069101 DOI: 10.3390/polym13101584

The design of a scaffold of bone tissue engineering plays an important role in ensuring cell viability and cell growth. Therefore, it is a necessity to produce an ideal scaffold by predicting and simulating the properties of the scaffold. Hence, the computational method should be adopted since it has a huge potential to be used in the implementation of the scaffold of bone tissue engineering. To explore the field of computational method in the area of bone tissue engineering, this paper provides an overview of the usage of a computational method in designing a unit cell of bone tissue engineering scaffold. In order to design a unit cell of the scaffold, we discussed two categories of unit cells that can be used to design a feasible scaffold, which are non-parametric and parametric designs. These designs were later described and being categorised into multiple types according to their characteristics, such as circular structures and Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) structures. The advantages and disadvantages of these designs were discussed. Moreover, this paper also represents some software that was used in simulating and designing the bone tissue scaffold. The challenges and future work recommendations had also been included in this paper.

MeSH terms: Bone and Bones; Cell Cycle; Cell Survival; Software; Tissue Engineering; Cell Proliferation; Tissue Scaffolds
Fulltext Gene-Environment Interactions Relevant to Estrogen and Risk of Breast Cancer: Can Gene-Environment Interactions Be Detected Only among Candidate SNPs from Genome-Wide Association Studies?

Park J, Choi JY, Choi J, Chung S, Song N, Park SK, et al.

Cancers (Basel), 2021 May 14;13(10).
PMID: 34069208 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102370

In this study we aim to examine gene-environment interactions (GxEs) between genes involved with estrogen metabolism and environmental factors related to estrogen exposure. GxE analyses were conducted with 1970 Korean breast cancer cases and 2052 controls in the case-control study, the Seoul Breast Cancer Study (SEBCS). A total of 11,555 SNPs from the 137 candidate genes were included in the GxE analyses with eight established environmental factors. A replication test was conducted by using an independent population from the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC), with 62,485 Europeans and 9047 Asians. The GxE tests were performed by using two-step methods in GxEScan software. Two interactions were found in the SEBCS. The first interaction was shown between rs13035764 of NCOA1 and age at menarche in the GE|2df model (p-2df = 1.2 × 10-3). The age at menarche before 14 years old was associated with the high risk of breast cancer, and the risk was higher when subjects had homozygous minor allele G. The second GxE was shown between rs851998 near ESR1 and height in the GE|2df model (p-2df = 1.1 × 10-4). Height taller than 160 cm was associated with a high risk of breast cancer, and the risk increased when the minor allele was added. The findings were not replicated in the BCAC. These results would suggest specificity in Koreans for breast cancer risk.
Fulltext Novel Mangosteen-Leaves-Based Marker Ink: Color Lightness, Viscosity, Optimized Composition, and Microstructural Analysis

Mohd Basri MS, Liew Min Ren B, A Talib R, Zakaria R, Kamarudin SH

Polymers (Basel), 2021 May 14;13(10).
PMID: 34069259 DOI: 10.3390/polym13101581

Dry mangosteen leaves are one of the raw materials used to produce marker ink. However, research using this free and abundant resource is rather limited. The less efficient one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach was mostly used in past studies on plant-based marker ink. The use of statistical analysis and the regression coefficient model (mathematical model) was considered essential in predicting the best combination of factors in formulating mangosteen leaf-based marker ink. Ideally, ink should have maximum color lightness, minimum viscosity, and fast-drying speed. The objective of this study to study the effect of glycerol and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) on the color lightness and viscosity of mangosteen-leaves-based marker ink. The viscosity, color lightness, and drying properties of the ink were tested, the significant effect of glycerol and CMC (responses) on ink properties was identified and the prediction model on the optimum value of the responses was developed by using response surface methodology (RSM). The microstructure of mangosteen leaves was analyzed to study the surface morphology and cell structure during dye extraction. A low amount of glycerol used was found to increase the value of color lightness. A decrease in CMC amounts resulted in low viscosity of marker ink. The optimum formulation for the ink can be achieved when the weight percents of glycerol, benzalkonium chloride, ferrous sulphate, and CMC are set at 5, 5, 1, and 3, respectively. SEM micrographs showed the greatest amount of cell wall structure collapse on samples boiled with the lowest amount of glycerol.

MeSH terms: Benzalkonium Compounds; Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium; Cell Wall; Ferrous Compounds; Glycerol; Goals; Ink; Microscopy; Models, Theoretical; Viscosity; Plant Leaves; Garcinia mangostana; Structure Collapse
Fulltext Stroke Patients' Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes: A Pre-Post COVID-19 Comparison Study

Loh HC, Neoh KK, Tang ASN, Chin CJ, Suppiah PD, Looi I, et al.

Medicina (Kaunas), 2021 May 19;57(5).
PMID: 34069433 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57050507

Background and Objectives: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused significant disruption to established medical care systems globally. Thus, this study was aimed to compare the admission and outcome variables such as number of patient and its severity, acute recanalisation therapy given pre-post COVID-19 at a primary stroke centre located in Malaysia. Methods: This cross-sectional hospital-based study included adult ischaemic stroke patients. Variables of the study included the number of ischaemic stroke patients, the proportions of recanalisation therapies, stroke severity during admission based on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, functional outcome at discharge based on the modified Rankin Scale, and relevant workflow metrics. We compared the outcome between two six-month periods, namely the pre-COVID-19 period (March 2019 to September 2019) and the COVID-19 period (March 2020 to September 2020). Results: There were 131 and 156 patients, respectively, from the pre-COVID-19 period and the COVID-19 period. The median door-to-scan time and the median door-to-reperfusion time were both significantly shorter in the COVID-19 period (24.5 min versus 12.0 min, p = 0.047) and (93.5 min versus 60.0 min, p = 0.015), respectively. There were also significantly more patients who received intravenous thrombolysis (7.6% versus 17.3%, p = 0.015) and mechanical thrombectomy (0.8% versus 6.4%, p = 0.013) in the COVID-19 period, respectively. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic may not have caused disruptions of acute stroke care in our primary stroke centre. Our data indicated that the number of ischaemic stroke events remained stable, with a significant increase of recanalisation therapies and better in-hospital workflow metrics during the COVID-19 pandemic period. However, we would like to highlight that the burden of COVID-19 cases in the study area was very low. Therefore, the study may not have captured the true burden (and relevant delays in stroke patient management) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The effect of the pandemic crisis is ongoing and both pre-hospital and in-hospital care systems must continue to provide optimal, highly time-dependent stroke care services.

MeSH terms: Adult; Brain Ischemia*; Cross-Sectional Studies; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Thrombolytic Therapy; Treatment Outcome; Thrombectomy; Pandemics; Time-to-Treatment
Fulltext Meat Quality, Fatty Acid Content and NMR Metabolic Profile of Dorper Sheep Supplemented with Bypass Fats

Behan AA, Akhtar MT, Loh TC, Fakurazi S, Kaka U, Muhamad A, et al.

Foods, 2021 May 19;10(5).
PMID: 34069633 DOI: 10.3390/foods10051133

The supplementation of rumen bypass fat (RBF) has remained one of the preferred approaches used to decrease undesirable saturated fatty acids (FA) and increase beneficial unsaturated FA in the meat. This study was planned to evaluate the influences of rumen bypass fats on meat quality, fatty acid and metabolic profiles in male Dorper sheep (n = 36) with 24.66 ± 0.76 kg (mean ± standard error) initial body weight. Treatment comprised a basal diet (30:70 rice straw to concentrate) with no added RBF as a control (CON), basal diet with prilled fat (PF), basal diet with prilled fat plus lecithin (PFL) and basal diet with calcium soap of palm fatty acids (CaS). The findings revealed that cooking loss, drip loss and shear force in longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle were not affected by RBF supplementation, while meat pH was significantly higher in the CaS on aging day 1. However, the diet supplemented with prilled fat and lecithin modified the meat's fatty acid profile significantly by increasing unsaturated fatty acids and decreasing saturated fats. The relative quantification of the major differentiating metabolites found in LD muscle of sheep showed that total cholesterol, esterified cholesterol, choline, glycerophosphocholine and glycerophospholipids were significantly lower in CaS and PFL diets, while glycerol and sphingomyelin were significantly higher in CaS and PFL diets. Most of the metabolites in the liver did not show any significant difference. Based on our results, the supplementation of protected fats did not have a negative influence on meat quality and the meat from Dorper sheep fed prilled fat with lecithin contained more healthy fatty acids compared to other diets.
Fulltext [EMIM][Tf2N]-Modified Silica as Filler in Mixed Matrix Membrane for Carbon Dioxide Separation

Shafie SNA, Md Nordin NAH, Bilad MR, Misdan N, Sazali N, Putra ZA, et al.

Membranes (Basel), 2021 May 19;11(5).
PMID: 34069683 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11050371

This study focuses on the effect of modified silica fillers by [EMIN][Tf2N] via physical adsorption on the CO2 separation performance of a mixed matrix membrane (MMM). The IL-modified silica was successfully synthesized as the presence of fluorine element was observed in both Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) analyses. The prepared MMMs with different loadings of the IL-modified silica were then compared with an unmodified silica counterpart and neat membrane. The morphology of IL-modified MMMs was observed to have insignificant changes, while polymer chains of were found to be slightly more flexible compared to their counterpart. At 2 bar of operating pressure, a significant increase in performance was observed with the incorporation of 3 wt% Sil-IL fillers compared to that of pure polycarbonate (PC). The permeability increased from 353 to 1151 Barrer while the CO2/CH4 selectivity increased from 20 to 76. The aforementioned increment also exceeded the Robeson upper bound. This indicates that the incorporation of fillers surface-modified with ionic liquid in an organic membrane is worth exploring for CO2 separation.
Fulltext Taste Sensitivity and Taste Preference among Malay Children Aged 7 to 12 Years in Kuala Lumpur-A Pilot Study

Lim LS, Tang XH, Yang WY, Ong SH, Naumovski N, Jani R

Pediatr Rep, 2021 May 18;13(2):245-256.
PMID: 34069893 DOI: 10.3390/pediatric13020034

The taste and food preferences in children can affect their food intake and body weight. Bitter and sweet taste sensitivities were identified as primary taste contributors to children's preference for consuming various foods. This pilot study aimed to determine the taste sensitivity and preference for bitter and sweet tastes in a sample of Malaysian children. A case-control study was conducted among 15 pairs of Malay children aged 7 to 12 years. Seven solutions at different concentrations of 6-n-propylthiouracil and sucrose were prepared for testing bitterness and sweet sensitivity, respectively. The intensity of both bitter and sweet sensitivity was measured using a 100 mm Labelled Magnitude Scale (LMS), while the taste preference was rated using a 5-point Likert scale. The participants were better at identifying bitter than sweet taste (median score 6/7 vs. 4/7). No significant differences were detected for both tastes between normal-weight and overweight groups (bitter: 350 vs. 413, p = 0.273; sweet: 154 vs. 263, p = 0.068), as well as in Likert readings (bitter 9 vs. 8: p = 0.490; sweet 22 vs. 22: p = 0.677). In this sample of Malay children, the participants were more sensitive to bitterness than sweetness, yet presented similar taste sensitivity and preference irrespective of their weight status. Future studies using whole food samples are warranted to better characterize potential taste sensitivity and preference in children.

MeSH terms: Aged; Body Weight; Candy; Child; Dysgeusia; Eating; Food Preferences; Humans; Malaysia; Pilot Projects; Propylthiouracil; Sucrose; Taste; Case-Control Studies; Overweight; Taste Perception
Fulltext Traditional Chinese Medicine Body Constitutions and Psychological Determinants of Depression among University Students in Malaysia: A Pilot Study

Yap SY, Foo CN, Lim YM, Ng FL, Mohd-Sidik S, Tang PY, et al.

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2021 May 18;18(10).
PMID: 34069915 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105366

Depression is commonly observed in university students, who are a high risk group for developing psychiatric disorders during adulthood. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and its traditional Chinese medicine body constitutions and psychological determinants among university students in Malaysia. A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted between 9 and 28 September 2020 among 80 university students in Malaysia. Participants completed online survey questionnaires, including the validated Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire (CMCQ), Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) stress subscale, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), which assess depression, body constitution, dysfunctional attitude, stress, perceived stress, and self-esteem. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the associated risk factors for depression. The overall prevalence of depression among university students was 33.8%. The multiple regression analysis showed a significant relationship between depression and qi-stagnation constitution (B = 0.089, p = 0.011), balanced constitution (B = -0.077, p = 0.049), and self-esteem (B = -0.325, p = 0.001). Our findings suggest that some traditional Chinese medicine body constitutions and self-esteem are significant risk factors affecting depression among university students. Identifying risk factors of depression is vital to aid in the early detection of depression among university students.

MeSH terms: Adult; Body Constitution; Cross-Sectional Studies; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Medicine, Chinese Traditional*; Pilot Projects; Surveys and Questionnaires; Stress, Psychological; Students; Universities
Fulltext Impacts of a School-Based Intervention That Incorporates Nutrition Education and a Supportive Healthy School Canteen Environment among Primary School Children in Malaysia

Teo CH, Chin YS, Lim PY, Masrom SAH, Shariff ZM

Nutrients, 2021 May 18;13(5).
PMID: 34070053 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051712

In this study, a school nutrition program (SNP) that incorporates nutrition education and a healthy school canteen environment was developed to improve nutrition knowledge among intervention respondents and provide a healthier environment for them to practice healthy eating. In the current study, we evaluated the impacts of the SNP on eating behaviors, physical activity, body mass index-for-age (BAZ), and cognitive performance at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up points between intervention and comparison groups. This intervention study involved 523 primary school children (7-11 years old) from six selected schools in Batu Pahat District, Malaysia. Each respondent completed anthropometric and cognitive performance assessments and a set of standardized questionnaire at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up points. Multiple linear mixed model analysis was performed to determine the impacts of that SNP after being adjusted for covariates. After the program, the intervention group increased their frequency of breakfast, lunch, and dinner consumption and morning tea snacking and showed more frequent physical activity and better cognitive performance as compared to the comparison group overtime (p < 0.05). At 3-month follow-up, the intervention group showed lower BAZ scores than their comparison counterparts (p < 0.05). The SNP showed positive effects on eating behaviors, physical activity, BAZ, and cognitive performance in school children. Hence, the SNP is highly recommended for all primary school children.
Fulltext Determination of Non-Recrystallization Temperature for Niobium Microalloyed Steel

Akhtar MN, Khan M, Khan SA, Afzal A, Subbiah R, Ahmad SN, et al.

Materials (Basel), 2021 May 18;14(10).
PMID: 34070060 DOI: 10.3390/ma14102639

In the present investigation, the non-recrystallization temperature (TNR) of niobium-microalloyed steel is determined to plan rolling schedules for obtaining the desired properties of steel. The value of TNR is based on both alloying elements and deformation parameters. In the literature, TNR equations have been developed and utilized. However, each equation has certain limitations which constrain its applicability. This study was completed using laboratory-grade low-carbon Nb-microalloyed steels designed to meet the API X-70 specification. Nb- microalloyed steel is processed by the melting and casting process, and the composition is found by optical emission spectroscopy (OES). Multiple-hit deformation tests were carried out on a Gleeble® 3500 system in the standard pocket-jaw configuration to determine TNR. Cuboidal specimens (10 (L) × 20 (W) × 20 (T) mm3) were taken for compression test (multiple-hit deformation tests) in gleeble. Microstructure evolutions were carried out by using OM (optical microscopy) and SEM (scanning electron microscopy). The value of TNR determined for 0.1 wt.% niobium bearing microalloyed steel is ~ 951 °C. Nb- microalloyed steel rolled at TNR produce partially recrystallized grain with ferrite nucleation. Hence, to verify the TNR value, a rolling process is applied with the finishing rolling temperature near TNR (~951 °C). The microstructure is also revealed in the pancake shape, which confirms TNR.

MeSH terms: Alloys; Carbon; Edible Grain; Ferric Compounds; Laboratories; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Niobium; Reference Standards; Spectrum Analysis; Steel; Temperature; Plant Structures
Fulltext Baseline Optical Coherence Tomography Parameters That May Influence 6 Months Treatment Outcome of Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy Eyes with Combination Therapy: A Short-Term Pilot Study

Ghoshal R, Sharanjeet-Kaur S, Fadzil NM, Ghosh S, Ngah N, Aziz RAA

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2021 05 18;18(10).
PMID: 34070071 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105378

Although optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters have assisted in the diagnosis of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), its potential to evaluate treatment outcomes has not been established. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate baseline OCT parameters that may influence treatment outcome in PCV eyes with combination therapy. In this single-centered, prospective study, patients were recruited with at least one treatment-naïve PCV eye and treated with combination therapy of intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and photodynamic therapy. Best-corrected distance and near visual acuity (DVA and NVA), and contrast sensitivity (CS) were recorded at baseline and six months after treatment. OCT parameters were determined. Twenty-six eyes of 26 patients aged between 51 to 83 years were evaluated. In eyes that had disrupted external limiting membrane (ELM), photoreceptors inner and outer segment (IS-OS) junction at 1000 micron of fovea at baseline showed low mean visual functions after 6 months of treatment. Eyes with foveal sub-retinal fluid (SRF) and polyp at central 1000 micron of fovea at baseline showed significantly worse DVA and CS after six months. Thus, the presence of foveal SRF, foveal polyp, disrupted ELM, and IS-OS junction at baseline significantly influenced the six months' visual outcome in PCV eyes treated with combination therapy.

MeSH terms: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Fluorescein Angiography; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Middle Aged; Pilot Projects; Prospective Studies; Retrospective Studies; Visual Acuity; Treatment Outcome; Tomography, Optical Coherence*; Intravitreal Injections
Fulltext Process Optimization of In Situ Magnetic-Anisotropy Spark Plasma Sintering of M-Type-Based Barium Hexaferrite BaFe12O19

Mohammed HG, Albarody TMB, Susilawati S, Gohery S, Doyan A, Prayogi S, et al.

Materials (Basel), 2021 May 18;14(10).
PMID: 34070195 DOI: 10.3390/ma14102650

This paper introduces a new spark plasma sintering technique that is able to order crystalline anisotropy by in-series/in situ DC electric coupled magnetic field. The process control parameters have been investigated on the production of anisotropic BaFe12O19 magnets based on resulted remanence (Mr). Sintering holding time (H.T.), cooling rate (C.R.), pressure (P), and sintering temperature (S.T.) are optimized by Taguchi with L9 orthogonal array (OA). The remanent magnetization of nanocrystalline BaFe12O19 in parallel (Mrǁ) and perpendicular (MrꞱ) to the applied magnetic field was regarded as a measure of performance. The Taguchi study calculated optimum process parameters, which significantly improved the sintering process based on the confirmation tests of BaFe12O19 anisotropy. The magnetic properties in terms of Mrǁ and MrꞱ were greatly affected by sintering temperature and pressure according to ANOVA results. In addition, regression models were developed for predicting the Mrǁ as well as MrꞱ respectively.
Fulltext Food Insecurity: Is It a Threat to University Students' Well-Being and Success?

Ahmad NSS, Sulaiman N, Sabri MF

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2021 05 25;18(11).
PMID: 34070321 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115627

Food insecurity is a growing concern among university students. The high prevalence of food insecurity is a threat to students' health and success. Therefore, this study aims to determine an association between food security status, psychosocial factors, and academic performance among university students. A total of 663 undergraduate students in seven randomly selected faculties in Universiti Putra Malaysia participated in this study. An online survey was conducted to obtain demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, food security status (six-item USDA; food security survey module, FSSM), psychosocial factors (depression, anxiety and stress scale, DASS-21) and academic performance. Among the abovementioned participating students, 32.4% are male. About 62.8% reported to have experienced food insecurity. Binary logistic regression revealed that students whose fathers were working (AOR = 6.446, 95% CI: 1.22, 34.01) came from low- (AOR = 14.314, 95% CI: 1.565, 130.954) and middle-income groups (AOR = 15.687, 95% CI: 1.720, 143.092), and those receiving financial aid (AOR = 2.811, 95% CI: 1.602, 4.932) were associated with food insecurity. Additionally, food insecurity students were less-likely reported, with CGPA ≥ 3.7 (AOR = 0.363, 95% CI: 1.22-34.014). Food insecurity respondents had higher odds for stress (AOR = 1.562, 95% CI: 1.111, 2.192), anxiety (AOR = 3.046, 95% CI: 2.090, 4.441), and depression (AOR = 2.935, 95% CI: 2.074, 4.151). The higher institutions should identify students with food insecurity problems and future intervention programs need to be conducted to combat food insecurity among students, thus yielding benefits to their health and success.

MeSH terms: Cross-Sectional Studies; Food Supply; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Male; Socioeconomic Factors; Students; Universities*
Fulltext Flexural Performance of RC Beams Strengthened with Externally-Side Bonded Reinforcement (E-SBR) Technique Using CFRP Composites

Hosen MA, Althoey F, Jumaat MZ, Alengaram UJ, Sulong NHR

Materials (Basel), 2021 May 25;14(11).
PMID: 34070373 DOI: 10.3390/ma14112809

Reinforced concrete (RC) structures necessitate strengthening for various reasons. These include ageing, deterioration of materials due to environmental effects, trivial initial design and construction, deficiency of maintenance, the advancement of design loads, and functional changes. RC structures strengthening with the carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) has been used extensively during the last few decades due to their advantages over steel reinforcement. This paper introduces an experimental approach for flexural strengthening of RC beams with Externally-Side Bonded Reinforcement (E-SBR) using CFRP fabrics. The experimental program comprises eight full-scale RC beams tested under a four-point flexural test up to failure. The parameters investigated include the main tensile steel reinforcing ratio and the width of CFRP fabrics. The experimental outcomes show that an increase in the tensile reinforcement ratio and width of the CFRP laminates enhanced the first cracking and ultimate load-bearing capacities of the strengthened beams up to 141 and 174%, respectively, compared to the control beam. The strengthened RC beams exhibited superior energy absorption capacity, stiffness, and ductile response. The comparison of the experimental and predicted values shows that these two are in good agreement.
Fulltext SA-Mediated Regulation and Control of Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Rice

Nadarajah K, Abdul Hamid NW, Abdul Rahman NSN

Int J Mol Sci, 2021 May 25;22(11).
PMID: 34070465 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115591

Environmental or abiotic stresses are a common threat that remains a constant and common challenge to all plants. These threats whether singular or in combination can have devastating effects on plants. As a semiaquatic plant, rice succumbs to the same threats. Here we systematically look into the involvement of salicylic acid (SA) in the regulation of abiotic stress in rice. Studies have shown that the level of endogenous salicylic acid (SA) is high in rice compared to any other plant species. The reason behind this elevated level and the contribution of this molecule towards abiotic stress management and other underlying mechanisms remains poorly understood in rice. In this review we will address various abiotic stresses that affect the biochemistry and physiology of rice and the role played by SA in its regulation. Further, this review will elucidate the potential mechanisms that control SA-mediated stress tolerance in rice, leading to future prospects and direction for investigation.

MeSH terms: Metals/metabolism; Metals/toxicity; Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism; Oryza/enzymology; Oryza/metabolism*; Stress, Physiological/physiology*; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant/genetics; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant/physiology*; Heat-Shock Response/physiology; Salicylic Acid/metabolism*; MAP Kinase Signaling System/genetics; MAP Kinase Signaling System/physiology; Droughts; Cold-Shock Response/physiology
Fulltext Application of Propolis in Protecting Skeletal and Periodontal Health-A Systematic Review

Ekeuku SO, Chin KY

Molecules, 2021 May 25;26(11).
PMID: 34070497 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113156

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are two major mechanisms leading to the imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation rate, and subsequently, bone loss. Thus, functional foods and dietary compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory could protect skeletal health. This review aims to examine the current evidence on the skeletal protective effects of propolis, a resin produced by bees, known to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. A literature search was performed using Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify studies on the effects of propolis on bone health. The search string used was (i) propolis AND (ii) (bone OR osteoporosis OR osteoblasts OR osteoclasts OR osteocytes). Eighteen studies were included in the current review. The available experimental studies demonstrated that propolis could prevent bone loss due to periodontitis, dental implantitis, and diabetes in animals. Combined with synthetic and natural grafts, it could also promote fracture healing. Propolis protects bone health by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and promoting osteoblastogenesis, partly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Despite the promising preclinical results, the skeletal protective effects of propolis are yet to be proven in human studies. This research gap should be bridged before nutraceuticals based on propolis with specific health claims can be developed.

MeSH terms: Animals; Antioxidants/pharmacology; Bees; Bone and Bones/drug effects*; Bone Resorption; Osteoblasts/drug effects; Osteoclasts/drug effects; Osteogenesis/drug effects; Periodontium/drug effects*; Propolis/pharmacology*
Fulltext Validity and Reliability of the Arabic Version of the Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire for Yemeni Adolescents

Alsanabani AAM, Yusof ZYM, Wan Hassan WN, Aldhorae K, Alyamani HA

Children (Basel), 2021 May 25;8(6).
PMID: 34070552 DOI: 10.3390/children8060448

(1) Objectives: This paper aimed to cross-culturally adapt the Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) into an Arabic language version (PIDAQ(A)) for measuring the oral health related quality of life related to dental aesthetics among 12-17-year-old Yemeni adolescents. (2) Material and methods: The study comprised three parts, which were linguistic validation and qualitative interview, comprehensibility assessment, and psychometric validations. Psychometric properties were examined for validity (exploratory factor analysis (EFA), partial confirmatory factor analysis (PCFA), construct, criterion, and discriminant validity) and reliability (internal consistency and reproducibility). (3) Results: The PIDAQ(A) contained a new item. EFA extracted three factors (item factor loading 0.375 to 0.918) comprising dental self-confidence, aesthetic concern, and psychosocial impact subscales. PCFA showed good fit statistics (comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.928, root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.071). In addition, invariance across age groups was tested. Cronbach's α values ranged from 0.90 to 0.93 (intraclass correlations = 0.89-0.96). A criterion validity test showed that the PIDAQ(A) had a significant association with oral impacts on daily performance scores. A construct validity test showed significant associations between PIDAQ(A) subscales and self-perceived dental appearance and self-perceived need for orthodontic braces (p < 0.05). Discriminant validity presented significant differences in the mean PIDAQ(A) scores between subjects having severe malocclusion and those with slight malocclusion. No floor or ceiling effects were detected.

MeSH terms: Adolescent; Biometry; Child; Esthetics; Esthetics, Dental; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Humans; Language; Linguistics; Malocclusion; Psychometrics; Quality of Life; Surveys and Questionnaires; Reproducibility of Results; Orthodontic Brackets
Fulltext Degradation Monitoring of HDPE Material in CO2-Saturated NaCl Environment through Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Technique

Khalid HU, Ismail MC, Nosbi N

Materials (Basel), 2021 May 25;14(11).
PMID: 34070568 DOI: 10.3390/ma14112823

Extensive damage due to saturated seawater and CO2 exposure under high temperature and pressure in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) has been studied by Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The degradation of square-shaped HDPE samples having 1 mm thickness was investigated at 70 bars with 60, 75, and 90 °C separately for three weeks in an autoclave chamber. A clear indication of aging was observed in terms of chain scission by the formation of the methyl group (1262 cm-1), and the appearance of degradation products, including the alcohol and hydroxyl groups. The decline in glass transition temperature (Tg), melting point (Tm), and crystallinity (Xc) result from branching and formation of degradation products in the aged samples. TGA results reveal that the degradation shifts the characteristic temperatures (T5% and T10%) to lower values compared to virgin HDPE. FESEM images show clear surface cracks and rough patches after 3 weeks. The Xc value increased due to chain mobility at higher temperatures (90 °C). The impedance is relatively high 1011 ohms.cm-2 for a virgin sample, but it drops down to 109 and 106 after degradation. Impedance and dielectric loss were correlated, and the significance of dielectric loss was observed at lower frequencies. These characterizations will contribute to more efficient and detailed evaluation criteria for degradation monitoring.
Fulltext Algae-Derived Anti-Inflammatory Compounds against Particulate Matters-Induced Respiratory Diseases: A Systematic Review

Tan PX, Thiyagarasaiyar K, Tan CY, Jeon YJ, Nadzir MSM, Wu YJ, et al.

Mar Drugs, 2021 May 30;19(6).
PMID: 34070821 DOI: 10.3390/md19060317

Air pollution has recently become a subject of increasing concern in many parts of the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that nearly 4.2 million early deaths are due to exposure to fine particles in polluted air, which causes multiple respiratory diseases. Algae, as a natural product, can be an alternative treatment due to potential biofunctional properties and advantages. This systematic review aims to summarize and evaluate the evidence of metabolites derived from algae as potential anti-inflammatory agents against respiratory disorders induced by atmospheric particulate matter (PM). Databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed were systematically searched for relevant published full articles from 2016 to 2020. The main key search terms were limited to "algae", "anti-inflammation", and "air pollutant". The search activity resulted in the retrieval of a total of 36 publications. Nine publications are eligible for inclusion in this systematic review. A total of four brown algae (Ecklonia cava, Ishige okamurae, Sargassum binderi and Sargassum horneri) with phytosterol, polysaccharides and polyphenols were reported in the nine studies. The review sheds light on the pathways of particulate matter travelling into respiratory systems and causing inflammation, and on the mechanisms of actions of algae in inhibiting inflammation. Limitations and future directions are also discussed. More research is needed to investigate the potential of algae as anti-inflammatory agents against PM in in vivo and in vitro experimental models, as well as clinically.

MeSH terms: Air Pollutants/adverse effects*; Phaeophyta*; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use*; Humans; Respiratory Tract Diseases/drug therapy*; Particulate Matter/adverse effects*

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