Browse publications by year: 2024

  1. Wang Y, Zhang J, Yuan J, Li Q, Zhang S, Wang C, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2024 Jul 29;14(1):17403.
    PMID: 39075134 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65755-1
    Traumatic cervical spinal cord injury (TCSCI) often causes varying degrees of motor dysfunction, common assessed by the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI), in association with the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale. Accurate prediction of motor function recovery is extremely important for formulating effective diagnosis, therapeutic and rehabilitation programs. The aim of this study is to investigate the validity of a novel nested ensemble algorithm that uses the very early ASIA motor score (AMS) of ISNCSCI examination to predict motor function recovery 6 months after injury in TCSCI patients. This retrospective study included complete data of 315 TCSCI patients. The dataset consisting of the first AMS at ≤ 24 h post-injury and follow-up AMS at 6 months post-injury was divided into a training set (80%) and a test set (20%). The nested ensemble algorithm was established in a two-stage manner. Support Vector Classification (SVC), Adaboost, Weak-learner and Dummy were used in the first stage, and Adaboost was selected as second-stage model. The prediction results of the first stage models were uploaded into second-stage model to obtain the final prediction results. The model performance was evaluated using precision, recall, accuracy, F1 score, and confusion matrix. The nested ensemble algorithm was applied to predict motor function recovery of TCSCI, achieving an accuracy of 80.6%, a F1 score of 80.6%, and balancing sensitivity and specificity. The confusion matrix showed few false-negative rate, which has crucial practical implications for prognostic prediction of TCSCI. This novel nested ensemble algorithm, simply based on very early AMS, provides a useful tool for predicting motor function recovery 6 months after TCSCI, which is graded in gradients that progressively improve the accuracy and reliability of the prediction, demonstrating a strong potential of ensemble learning to personalize and optimize the rehabilitation and care of TCSCI patients.
    MeSH terms: Adult; Aged; Algorithms*; Cervical Vertebrae/injuries; Cervical Vertebrae/physiopathology; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Prognosis; Retrospective Studies; Recovery of Function*; Young Adult; Cervical Cord/injuries; Cervical Cord/physiopathology
  2. Mazlan NF, Sage EE, Mohamad NS, Mackeen MM, Tan LL
    Sci Rep, 2024 Jul 29;14(1):17357.
    PMID: 39075202 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68264-3
    The environmental contamination by extremophile Aspergillus species, i.e., Aflatoxin B1, is hardly controllable in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, which lack handling resources and controlled storage facilities. Acute aflatoxicosis poisoning from aflatoxin-prone dietary staples could cause acute hepatic necrosis, acute liver failure, and death. Here, as the cheaper, more straightforward, and facile on-site diagnostic kit is needed, we report an ultraviolet-excitable optical aptasensor based on a fluorinated ethylene propylene film strip. Molecular dynamics on the aptamer.AFB1 complex revealed that the AFB1 to the aptamer increases the overall structural stability, suggesting that the aptamer design is suitable for the intended application. Under various influencing factors, the proposed label-free strategy offers a fast 20-min on-site fabrication simplicity and 19-day shelf-life. The one-pot incubation provides an alternative to catalytic detection and exhibited 4 times reusability. The recovery of crude brown sugar, processed peanuts, and long-grain rice were 102.74 ± 0.41 (n = 3), 86.90 ± 3.38 (n = 3), and 98.50 ± 0.42 (n = 3), comparable to High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photodiode Array Detector results. This study is novel owing to the peculiar UV-active spectrum fingerprint and the convenient use of hydrophobic film strips that could promote breakthrough innovations and new frontiers for on-site/forensic detection of environmental pollutants.
    MeSH terms: Aspergillus; Ethylenes/chemistry; Fluorocarbon Polymers; Humans; Ultraviolet Rays; Aflatoxin B1/analysis; Aflatoxin B1/chemistry
  3. Lim WTH, Ooi EH, Foo JJ, Ng KH, Wong JHD, Leong SS
    PMID: 39075679 DOI: 10.1002/cnm.3857
    Renal anisotropy is a complex property of the kidney and often poses a challenge in obtaining consistent measurements when using shear wave elastography to detect chronic kidney disease. To circumvent the challenge posed by renal anisotropy in clinical settings, a dimensionless biomarker termed the 'anisotropic ratio' was introduced to establish a correlation between changes in degree of renal anisotropy and progression of chronic kidney disease through an in silico perspective. To achieve this, an efficient model reduction approach was developed to model the anisotropic property of kidneys. Good agreement between the numerical and experimental data were obtained, as percentage errors of less than 5.5% were reported when compared against experimental phantom measurement from the literature. To demonstrate the applicability of the model to clinical measurements, the anisotropic ratio of sheep kidneys was quantified, with both numerical and derived experimental results reporting a value of .667. Analysis of the anisotropic ratio with progression of chronic kidney disease demonstrated that patients with normal kidneys would have a lower anisotropic ratio of .872 as opposed to patients suffering from renal impairment, in which the anisotropic ratio may increase to .904, as determined from this study. The findings demonstrate the potential of the anisotropic ratio in improving the detection of chronic kidney disease using shear wave elastography.
  4. Choong KA
    Med Leg J, 2024 Dec;92(4):201-205.
    PMID: 39075861 DOI: 10.1177/00258172241252223
    The vast majority of GP appointments had to move from in-person to remote consultation during the pandemic. Rather than phasing this out now that the threat of the coronavirus has begun to ebb, the UK government has announced that digital-first primary care will continue for the foreseeable future. While remote consultation can be beneficial on several fronts, it can compromise professional identity, therapeutic alliance, patient safety and access to healthcare. A hasty push towards normalising digitally-enabled care may therefore increase the risk of misdiagnoses, medical negligence, unnecessary referrals and health inequity. To enhance the gains and iron out the challenges associated with IT-led triage and consultations, it is important to reflect on the lessons learned from the pandemic.
    MeSH terms: Great Britain; Humans; Primary Health Care*; Telemedicine*; Remote Consultation; Pandemics
  5. Nurhanisah MH, Sulaiman R, Athirah Diyana MY, Kamarudin KM, Che Me R
    Int J Occup Saf Ergon, 2024 Dec;30(4):1105-1114.
    PMID: 39075988 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2024.2373537
    Objectives. The prevalence rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) globally is notably high. There are a limited number of studies investigating WMSDs and their associated risk factors. However, there are currently no data available for WMSDs among industrial workers in Peninsular Malaysia. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of WMSDs and associated risk factors among industrial workers experiencing WMSDs through their daily working tasks. Methods. A quantitative study using a questionnaire was conducted among industrial workers from rehabilitation centres and factories in Peninsular Malaysia. The analysis of 232 participant narratives aimed to identify the correlation between job tasks and musculoskeletal pain, especially in case of repetitive and heavy handling tasks. Results. The prevalence of WMSDs among industrial workers stands at 93.1%. The results also indicate that the most affected part of the body was the lower back, with 62.1% for 7 days or more in the last year, caused by industrial workers' job tasks. The prominent risk factors associated with body parts include gender, age, working hours and most difficult tasks with MSDs, especially in the lower back. Conclusion. This survey helps us to understand whether the workers are experiencing any discomfort, pain or disability related to workplace activities.
    MeSH terms: Adult; Female; Humans; Industry; Malaysia/epidemiology; Male; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Risk Factors; Prevalence; Musculoskeletal Pain/epidemiology
  6. Law ZK, Menon CS, Woodhouse LJ, Appleton JP, Al-Shahi Salman R, Robinson T, et al.
    Eur Stroke J, 2024 Jul 30.
    PMID: 39076020 DOI: 10.1177/23969873241265939
    INTRODUCTION: The Tranexamic acid for IntraCerebral Haemorrhage-2 (TICH-2) trial reported no significant improvement in death and dependency at day 90 despite reductions in haematoma expansion, early neurological deterioration and early death. However, significant recovery after stroke, particularly intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), may take more than 3 months. Here we report the participant outcomes at 1 year after stroke.

    PATIENTS AND METHODS: TICH-2 was a prospective randomised controlled trial that tested the efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid in spontaneous ICH when given within 8 h of onset. Patients with ICH on anticoagulation were excluded. Centralised blinded telephone follow up was performed for patients from the United Kingdom at 1 year. The primary outcome was modified Rankin Scale at 1 year. Secondary outcomes included Barthel index, Telephone Interview Cognitive Status-modified, EuroQoL-5D and Zung Depression Scale. This was a prespecified secondary analysis of the TICH-2 trial.

    RESULTS: About 2325 patients were recruited into the trial (age 68.9 ± 13.8 years; 1301 male, 56%). About 1910 participants (82.2%) were eligible for day 365 follow up. 57 patients (3.0%) were lost to follow up. Tranexamic acid did not reduce the risk of poor functional outcome at 1 year (adjusted OR 0.91 95% CI 0.77-1.09; p = 0.302). However, Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed significant survival benefit in the tranexamic acid group (adjusted HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.70-0.99; p = 0.038).

    CONCLUSION: There was no difference in functional outcome at 1 year after ICH. Tranexamic acid may reduce mortality at 1 year without an increase in severely dependent survivors. But this should be interpreted with caution as this is a result of secondary analysis in a neutral trial.

  7. Hassanein M, Binte Zainudin S, Shaikh S, Shaltout I, Malek R, Buyukbese MA, et al.
    Curr Med Res Opin, 2024 Sep;40(9):1515-1523.
    PMID: 39076065 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2024.2385057
    BACKGROUND: Managing diabetes during Ramadan fasting is a challenge due lifestyle changes. We described the characteristics and patterns of care for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) during Ramadan 2020 and 2022.

    METHODS: Our study included multinational Muslims with T2DM who were during routine consultation. We collected data on demographics, fasting characteristics, and complications. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and multiple testing were performed.

    RESULTS: 12,529 patients participated. Mean age was 55.2 ± 11.8 years; 52.4% were females. Mean diabetes duration was 9.9 ± 7.4 years; 27.7% were with HbA1c >9% (75 mmol/mol) and 70% had complications. Metformin was the most used medication followed by insulin. 85.1% fasted ≥1 day; fasting mean duration was 27.6 ± 5.6 days. Hypoglycemia occurred in 15.5% of whom 11.7% attended emergency department or were hospitalized; this was significantly associated with age and/or duration of diabetes. Hyperglycemia occurred in 14.9% of whom 6.1% attended emergency department or were hospitalized and was also associated with age or duration of diabetes. 74.2% performed SMBG during fasting. 59.2% were educated on Ramadan fasting, with 89.7% receiving it during routine consultation.

    CONCLUSIONS: Ramadan fasting in T2DM is high. Multidisciplinary approach is required to mitigate complications. Our findings support current recommendations for safe fasting.

    MeSH terms: Adult; Aged; Female; Hemoglobin A, Glycosylated/analysis; Humans; Hypoglycemia/epidemiology; Hypoglycemia/prevention & control; Hypoglycemic Agents/administration & dosage; Hypoglycemic Agents/therapeutic use; Insulin/administration & dosage; Islam*; Male; Metformin/therapeutic use; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires
  8. Junker J, Lange LM, Vollstedt EJ, Roopnarain K, Doquenia MLM, Annuar AA, et al.
    Mov Disord, 2024 Jul 30.
    PMID: 39076159 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29925
    BACKGROUND: Until recently, about three-quarters of all monogenic Parkinson's disease (PD) studies were performed in European/White ancestry, thereby severely limiting our insights into genotype-phenotype relationships at a global scale.

    OBJECTIVE: To identify the multi-ancestry spectrum of monogenic PD.

    METHODS: The first systematic approach to embrace monogenic PD worldwide, The Michael J. Fox Foundation Global Monogenic PD Project, contacted authors of publications reporting individuals carrying pathogenic variants in known PD-causing genes. In contrast, the Global Parkinson's Genetics Program's Monogenic Network took a different approach by targeting PD centers underrepresented or not yet represented in the medical literature.

    RESULTS: In this article, we describe combining both efforts in a merger project resulting in a global monogenic PD cohort with the buildup of a sustainable infrastructure to identify the multi-ancestry spectrum of monogenic PD and enable studies of factors modifying penetrance and expressivity of monogenic PD.

    CONCLUSIONS: This effort demonstrates the value of future research based on team science approaches to generate comprehensive and globally relevant results. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

  9. Alsharhan H, Haider MZ, Qadoura B, Ayed M, Dhaunsi GS, Alkandari H
    Front Pediatr, 2024;12:1376053.
    PMID: 39077064 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1376053
    Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder characterized by deficient or absent α-L-iduronidase (IDUA) enzyme activity due to pathogenic variants in the IDUA gene. Early treatment with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and/or enzyme replacement therapy is associated with improved outcomes in this progressive multisystem disease. The diagnosis is usually delayed due to late presentation and non-specific symptoms, which result in high morbidity and mortality. The incidence of MPS I is unknown in Kuwait. This pilot study was undertaken to screen MPS I in all Kuwaiti neonates born at Farwaniya Hospital (FH), a major center in Kuwait, over 12 months. This study examined the incidence of MPS I for inclusion in the national newborn screening (NBS) to enable its early detection and adequate treatment. All Kuwaiti neonates born at FH between December 2021 and December 2022 were screened for MPS I. The screening consisted of determining IDUA enzyme activity in dried blood spot-derived samples using tandem mass spectrometry. A follow-up genetic analysis of the IDUA gene has been planned to screen the cases with diminished IDUA enzyme activity as second-tier testing. A total of 618 newborns, including 331 (54%) boys and 287 (46%) girls, were screened. Of them, 20 had deficient IDUA enzyme activity but showed negative genetic testing. However, we have diagnosed one additional female infant with MPS I who belonged to FH, but the parents chose to deliver in a private hospital. The molecular genetic study revealed the presence of a previously reported pathogenic nonsense variant in the IDUA c.1882C>T, which is associated with severe phenotype. That being included, MPS I is estimated to be approximately 0.2% of all screened cases in Kuwait. Our study is the first to evaluate the incidence of MPS I in Kuwait. Given the single center, small number of screened infants, and the short study duration thus far, it is premature to calculate the incidence. It is anticipated that as the study continues, we would be able to estimate the incidence in our population correctly. Screening newborns in all maternity hospitals in Kuwait is necessary to calculate the actual incidence of this severe disorder. Still, our preliminary data support the inclusion of MPS I in national NBS program to allow early initiation of treatment and thus improve disease outcome.
  10. Tey SL, Chee WSS, Deerochanawong C, Berde Y, Lim LL, Boonyavarakul A, et al.
    Front Nutr, 2024;11:1400580.
    PMID: 39077157 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1400580
    BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Medical nutrition therapy is important for diabetes management. This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a diabetes-specific formula (DSF) on glycemic control and cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

    METHODS: Participants (n = 235) were randomized to either DSF with standard of care (SOC) (DSF group; n = 117) or SOC only (control group; n = 118). The DSF group consumed one or two DSF servings daily as meal replacement or partial meal replacement. The assessments were done at baseline, on day 45, and on day 90.

    RESULTS: There were significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (-0.44% vs. -0.26%, p = 0.015, at day 45; -0.50% vs. -0.21%, p = 0.002, at day 90) and fasting blood glucose (-0.14 mmol/L vs. +0.32 mmol/L, p = 0.036, at day 90), as well as twofold greater weight loss (-1.30 kg vs. -0.61 kg, p  

  11. Qin Y, Zhang DW
    Front Psychol, 2024;15:1395560.
    PMID: 39077216 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1395560
    While the empathizing-systemizing (E-S) theory provides a valuable framework for explaining gender differences in STEM majors, previous studies suffer from methodological issues (i.e., the arbitrary cut-off criteria and WEIRD sampling) as well as discrepancies in the behavioral correlates of E-S types. To address the gaps, this study utilized a 3-step latent profile analysis to identify naturally occurring E-S profiles in a Chinese sample and explored the predictors and distal outcomes of the identified profiles. The study recruited 785 (aged 18-25 years, 60% female) Chinese undergraduates. Results revealed five E-S profiles: Disengaged, Empathizers, Navigating systemizers, Technological systemizers, and Self-declared allrounders. Controlling for socioeconomic status, being male predicted a higher likelihood of membership into the Technological systemizers. Besides, membership to the Navigating systemizers and Technological systemizers was associated with better intuitive physics performance. However, no significant variation was observed for social sensitivity performance across E-S profiles. Overall, our results partially conformed to previous findings, highlighting the importance of cultural adaptation and methodological considerations when classifying students' cognitive types.
  12. Jiang Y, Long H, Soo SY, Mavani H, Tew IM
    Cureus, 2024 Jun;16(6):e63471.
    PMID: 39077296 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.63471
    INTRODUCTION: The high cost of intraoral scanners (IOS) for complete-arch scans makes them less accessible for many dental practitioners. As a viable alternative, smartphone scanner applications (SMP) provide comparable scanning capabilities at a significantly low cost. However, there is limited data on the accuracy of SMP, especially when used in various smartphone positions. This study aimed to compare the three-dimensional (3D) and linear accuracy of complete-arch scans acquired by an IOS and SMP (KIRI Engine, KIRI Innovations, Guangdong, China) at three shooting angles (0°, 45°, and 90° for SMP_3A) and two shooting angles (30° and 60° for SMP_2A).

    METHODS: A stone dental cast was scanned with a laboratory scanner as a reference, with 11 scans performed by an IOS, SMP_2A, and SMP_3A. In 3D analysis, trueness and precision were evaluated through superimposition with the reference scan and within each group, respectively, using the best-fit algorithm of Geomagic Wrap software (3D Systems, Inc., Rock Hill, SC). Trueness in linear discrepancy was assessed by comparing the occlusal-cervical and mesiodistal dimensions of reference teeth (canine, premolar, and molar), intercanine width, and intermolar width on the digital casts to measurements of the stone cast, while precision was measured using the coefficient of variance. Differences between groups were analyzed using the Friedman test, followed by the Dunn-Bonferroni post hoc test with a significance level set at 0.05.

    RESULTS: IOS exhibited significantly lower trueness than SMP_2A (p = 0.003) with significantly greater width discrepancies on canines (p = 0.001) and molars (p < 0.001). Discrepancy patterns differed among the three scanning methods. The IOS showed greater discrepancies on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth. While SMP_3A demonstrated higher variation on the palatal surfaces and interproximal areas of posterior teeth. For precision, SMP_3A (p = 0.028) and SMP_2A (p = 0.003) showed a significantly lower precision in 3D analysis, but a comparable reproducibility in linear measurement to IOS.

    CONCLUSION: TRIOS IOS (3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark) exhibited lower trueness in 3D and linear accuracy analyses for complete-arch scans. The positions of the smartphone significantly enhanced trueness at the undercut region. SMP_2A and SMP_3A can be a potential alternative for precise linear measurement in complete-arch scans with selective use.

  13. Choong MJ, Dewadas HD, Cheng Lim L, Sukuru SD, Tan CH, Cheong SK, et al.
    Vet World, 2024 Jun;17(6):1370-1384.
    PMID: 39077458 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.1370-1384
    BACKGROUND AND AIM: Edible bird's nest (EBN) is known as the "Caviar of the East" because of its high nutritional and medicinal values. Nevertheless, its effect on human immunity is yet to be explored. This study examined the effects of EBN's aqueous extract (EBNE) on human immunity through the modular immune in vitro construct (MIMIC) model consisting of peripheral tissue equivalent (PTE) and lymphoid tissue equivalent (LTE) modules.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred twenty mL of full blood was obtained from four healthy human volunteers. The human immune system was simulated using an in vitro model, called MIMIC. Under EBNE treatment, monocyte transendothelial migration through reversed endothelial layers was observed. Using PTE and LTE modules, monocytes were differentiated into dendritic cells with lipopolysaccharide, then co-cultured with T- and B-cells for cytokine and immunoglobulin (Ig) production. The human cytokine array G2000 and quantitative human Ig isotyping array were used to identify the cytokine profile and Ig isotypes, respectively.

    RESULTS: IgE, IgA, and IgG3 levels were significantly raised by EBNE. These cytokines, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, ciliary neurotrophic factor, glial cell line-derivative neurotrophic factor, insulin-like growth factor 1, and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 4, were generated.

    CONCLUSION: For the first time, this work uses a MIMIC model to illustrate the impact of EBNE on human immune response. This new understanding of EBN's immunoregulatory effect allows for further exploration of how EBN interacts with the human immune system.

  14. Lin PI, John JR, Masi A, Ong LK, Mathew NE, Moni MA, et al.
    J Psychiatr Res, 2024 Aug;176:68-76.
    PMID: 38850580 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.05.052
    BACKGROUND: Autistic children are prone to experience heightened levels of distress and physiological reactivity to a range of sensory, social, and emotional stimuli. In line with this, multiple studies have demonstrated that autistic children have higher acute cortisol stress responses to adverse or threatening stimuli and altered cortisol awakening responses. However, few studies have examined whether this sensitivity may relate to heightened levels of chronic stress and persistently elevated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity. The measurement of cortisol accumulation in hair is considered a non-invasive biomarker of chronic stress and has been associated with several childhood diseases. Here, we investigated whether hair cortisol concentration in a large sample of autistic children differed from non-autistic children, and after accounting for a range of child, parental and family-level characteristics.

    METHODS: Hair cortisol concentration was measured in 307 autistic children and 282 non-autistic controls aged between 2 and 17 years recruited from four Australian states who participated in providing hair samples and demographic data to the Australian Autism Biobank. Independent samples t-test or one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted to determine significant differences in the mean hair cortisol concentration (pg/mg) between potential covariates. Primary analysis included multivariable regression modelling of the collapsed sample to identify variables that were significantly associated with hair cortisol concentration after controlling for covariates. We also accounted for the potential interaction of multiple biological (e.g., age, sex, BMI) and psychosocial characteristics at the level of the child, the mother and the father, and the family unit.

    RESULTS: Our findings suggest that the diagnosis of autism was not a significant predictor of chronic stress, as measured by hair cortisol concentration. However, findings of the multivariable regression analysis showed that key factors such as area of residence (Queensland vs Victorian state of residence) and decrease in child's age were significantly associated with higher hair cortisol concentration whereas lower family income was significantly associated with higher hair cortisol concentration.

    CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that socioeconomic factors such as family annual income affect hair cortisol status in autistic children, indicating that the psychosocial environment may be a potential mediator for chronic stress in autistic children just as it has been demonstrated in non-autistic children.

    MeSH terms: Adolescent; Australia; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Humans; Male; Stress, Psychological/diagnosis; Stress, Psychological/metabolism; Biomarkers/metabolism
  15. Janani BJ, Syed A, Majeed NA, Shleghm MR, Abdulkhudur Ali Azlze Alkhafaij M, Bahair H, et al.
    Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces, 2024 Sep;241:114015.
    PMID: 38878658 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2024.114015
    The primary emphasis of this study was on the innovative and scientifically valuable hydrothermal synthesis of MIL-101(Co) as a metal-organic framework (MOF) material. Subsequently, the CuFe2O4 was incorporated into the MOF by a reduction-precipitation technique. The SrTiO3/CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co) composite was synthesized by using hydrothermal in situ growth process. The XRD and FESEM investigations of the SrTiO3/CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co) composite definitively verified its crystalline structure and proved its production with exact shape and dimensions. The data indicated that Candida albicans displayed the greatest vulnerability to all three produced materials, with reported Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values of 500 µg mL-1 for MIL-101(Co). The CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co) compound, when produced, exhibits MIC values of 200 µg mL-1. Additionally, the combination of CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co) with SrTiO3, shows MIC values of 50 µg mL-1. The results also indicated that the MIC values for MIL-101(Co), and CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co) against S. aureus were 100 µg mL-1. Ultimately, SrTiO3/CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co) exhibited identical MIC values of 50 µg mL-1 against S. aureus. The concentration of the bacterial protein was increased by adding MIL-101(Co), CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co), and SrTiO3/CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co). The antibacterial capabilities of the SrTiO3/CuFe2O4/MIL-101(Co) were increased after being subjected to gamma doses of 100.0 kGy. This process paves a ways for manufacturing innovation in near future.
    MeSH terms: Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology; Anti-Infective Agents/chemistry; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology; Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry; Antifungal Agents/pharmacology; Antifungal Agents/chemistry; Bacteria/drug effects; Bacteria/growth & development; Ferrous Compounds; Fungi/drug effects; Gamma Rays*; Microbial Sensitivity Tests*; Oxides/pharmacology; Oxides/chemistry
  16. Bäckryd E, Themistocleous A, Larsson A, Gordh T, Rice ASC, Tesfaye S, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2024 Jul 24;14(1):17068.
    PMID: 39048581 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66471-6
    About 20% of patients with diabetes suffer from chronic pain with neuropathic characteristics. We investigated the multivariate associations between 92 neurology-related proteins measured in serum from 190 patients with painful and painless diabetic neuropathy. Participants were recruited from the Pain in Neuropathy Study, an observational cross-sectional multicentre study in which participants underwent deep phenotyping. In the exploration cohort, two groups were defined by hierarchical cluster analyses of protein data. The proportion of painless vs painful neuropathy did not differ between the two groups, but one group had a significantly higher grade of neuropathy as measured by the Toronto Clinical Scoring System (TCSS). This finding was replicated in the replication cohort. Analyzing both groups together, we found that a group of 11 inter-correlated proteins (TNFRSF12A, SCARB2, N2DL-2, SKR3, EFNA4, LAYN, CLM-1, CD38, UNC5C, GFR-alpha-1, and JAM-B) were positively associated with TCSS values. Notably, EFNA4 and UNC5C are known to be part of axon guidance pathways. To conclude, although cluster analysis of 92 neurology-related proteins did not distinguish painful from painless diabetic neuropathy, we identified 11 proteins which positively correlated to neuropathy severity and warrant further investigation as potential biomarkers.
    MeSH terms: Aged; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Severity of Illness Index; Biomarkers/blood; Cluster Analysis
  17. Ang JJ, Shivashekaregowda NKH, Yow HY, Rizwan F, Wong PF, Jantan I, et al.
    Nat Prod Res, 2024 Jul 27.
    PMID: 39066784 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2383272
    Eurycomanone has been identified as the major bioactive compound contributing to Eurycoma longifolia (EL) aphrodisiac activity, however, its mechanism of action remains obscured. Presently, eurycomanone was isolated from EL root extract and its molecular structure was identified. The human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line was differentiated into human dopaminergic neuron-like cells. Exogenous dopamine levels from the differentiated SH-SY5Y cells were quantified following the treatment of 5, 10, 15 μM of eurycomanone and 10 μM clorgyline as positive control. Dopamine secretion was significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner, compared to the vehicle control (p 
  18. Norbäck D, Hashim JH, Hashim Z, Jalaludin J, Ismail R, Wieslander G, et al.
    J Asthma, 2024 Dec;61(12):1772-1780.
    PMID: 39066997 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2024.2383627
    OBJECTIVE: To study associations between fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and asthma, airway symptoms, sensitization to common allergens, outdoor pollution and home environment among 380 students in eight junior high schools in two areas in Indonesia.

    METHODS: Data on health and home were collected by a face-to face interview before measuring FeNO and performing skin prick test against common allergens. Exploratory linear mixed and logistic regression models were employed.

    RESULTS: Geometric mean of FeNO was 17.8 ppb (GSD 2.09) and 139 students (36.6%) had elevated FeNO (>20 ppb). In total, 107 students (28.2%) were sensitized to house dust mite (HDM) (Der p1 or Der f1), 4 (1.1%) to cat and 3 (0.8%) to mold (Cladosporium or Alternaria). Moreover, 20 students (5.3%) had diagnosed asthma, 38 (10.0%) had current wheeze, and 107 (28.2%) had current rhinitis. HDM sensitization, diagnosed asthma, current wheeze, and current rhinitis were associated with FeNO. In total, 281 students (73.9%) had mold or dampness, 232 (61.1%) had environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and 43 (11.3%) had other odor at home. Indoor mold or dampness and other odor at home were associated with FeNO. ETS was negatively associated with FeNO.

    CONCLUSION: HDM sensitization and elevated FeNO can be common among children in this part of Indonesia. The high prevalence of elevated FeNO indicate that undiagnosed childhood asthma is common. Dampness, mold and odor at home can be associated with increased FeNO while ETS can be associated with decreased FeNO.

    MeSH terms: Adolescent; Allergens/immunology; Animals; Breath Tests; Cats; Child; Female; Humans; Indonesia/epidemiology; Male; Respiratory Sounds/immunology; Rhinitis/diagnosis; Rhinitis/immunology; Rhinitis/epidemiology; Skin Tests; Air Pollution, Indoor/adverse effects; Air Pollution, Indoor/analysis; Exhalation
  19. Lu S, Zhao Q, Guan Y, Sun Z, Li W, Guo S, et al.
    Biomed Pharmacother, 2024 Sep;178:117207.
    PMID: 39067168 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117207
    Gut microbiota is involved in intricate and active metabolic processes the host's brain function, especially its role in immune responses, secondary metabolism, and symbiotic connections with the host. Gut microbiota can promote the production of essential metabolites, neurotransmitters, and other neuroactive chemicals that affect the development and treatment of central nervous system diseases. This article introduces the relevant pathways and manners of the communication between the brain and gut, summarizes a comprehensive overview of the current research status of key gut microbiota metabolites that affect the functions of the nervous system, revealing those adverse factors that affect typical communication between the brain-gut axis, and outlining the efforts made by researchers to alleviate these neurological diseases through targeted microbial interventions. The relevant pathways and manners of communication between the brain and gut contribute to the experimental design of new treatment plans and drug development. The factors that may cause changes in gut microbiota and affect metabolites, as well as current intervention methods are summarized, which helps improve gut microbiota brain dialogue, prevent adverse triggering factors from interfering with the gut microbiota system, and minimize neuropathological changes.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Brain/metabolism; Humans
  20. Hisham S, Lai PS, Ibrahim MA, Zainun KA
    Leg Med (Tokyo), 2024 Nov;71:102500.
    PMID: 39067245 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2024.102500
    Forensic practitioners need contemporary anthropological data for the identification of human remains. The clavicle possesses a high degree of variability in its anatomical, biomechanical, and morphological features that are sex-dependent albeit population specific. The aim of this study was to develop sex estimation models for Malaysian individuals using post-mortem computed tomographic images of the clavicle. Sample comprised scans of 2.0 mm resolution of 405 individuals (209 male; 196 female) aged between 19 to 88 years. These scans were reconstructed and visualized using Infinitt. Six clavicular measurements (i.e. maximum length, C1; midshaft circumference, C2; midshaft maximum diameter, C3; midshaft minimum diameter, C4; maximum breadth of the sternal end, C5; and maximum breadth of the acromial articular surface, C6) were obtained from these images. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and discriminant function analysis. Measurements taken from the images were highly precise (ICC = 0.770-0.999). There is a significant difference between all parameters and sex (p 
    MeSH terms: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Autopsy/methods; Female; Humans; Malaysia; Male; Middle Aged; Discriminant Analysis; Young Adult
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