Browse publications by year: 2024

  1. Rani A, Negi S, Fan C, Lam SS, Kim H, Pan SY
    J Hazard Mater, 2024 Jul 05;472:134394.
    PMID: 38703690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134394
    The use of plastics has become deeply ingrained in our society, and there are no indications that its prevalence will decrease in the foreseeable future. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the global plastic waste disposal landscape, examining it through regional perspectives, various management technologies (dumping or landfilling, incineration, and reuse and recycling), and across different sectors including agriculture and food, textile, tourism, and healthcare. Notably, this study compiles the findings on life-cycle carbon footprints associated with various plastic waste management practices as documented in the literature. Employing the bio-circular-green economy model, we advocate for the adoption of streamlined and sustainable approaches to plastic management. Unique management measures are also discussed including the utilization of bioplastics combined with smart and efficient collection processes that facilitate recycling, industrial composting, or anaerobic digestion. Moreover, the integration of advanced recycling methods for conventional plastics with renewable energy, the establishment of plastic tax and credits, and the establishment of extended producer responsibility are reviewed. The success of these initiatives relies on collaboration and support from peers, industries, and consumers, ultimately contributing to informed decision-making and fostering sustainable practices in plastic waste management.
    MeSH terms: Carbon/chemistry; Plastics*; Refuse Disposal/economics; Refuse Disposal/methods; Carbon Footprint; Recycling*
  2. Azka MA, Adam A, Ridzuan SM, Sapuan SM, Habib A
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 May 02.
    PMID: 38704068 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132052
    Researchers are now focusing on using the circular economy model to manufacture nanocellulose composites due to growing environmental issues related to waste management. The circular economy model offers a sustainable solution to the problem by optimizing resource efficiency and waste management by reducing waste, maintaining value over time, minimizing the use of primary resources, and creating closed loops for goods, components, and materials. With the use of the circular economy model, waste, such as industrial, agricultural, and textile waste, is used again to produce new products, which can solve waste management issues and improve resource efficiency. In order to encourage the use of circular economy ideas with a specific focus on nanocellulose composites, this review examines the concept of using circular economy, and explores ways to make nanocellulose composites from different types of waste, such as industrial, agricultural, and textile waste. Furthermore, this review investigates the application of nanocellulose composites across multiple industries. In addition, this review provides researchers useful insights of how circular economics can be applied to the development of nanocellulose composites, which have the goal of creating a flexible and environmentally friendly material that can address waste management issues and optimize resource efficiency.
  3. Foong KW, Chaw SH, Lo YL, Loh PS
    Clin Pharmacokinet, 2024 May 04.
    PMID: 38703307 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-024-01373-4
    BACKGROUND: The establishment of optimal dosing regimens for intravenous (IV) lidocaine in the perioperative setting, aiming to balance effective pain relief with minimisation of potential side effects, is a topic of ongoing debate. This discussion stems from the significant variability in lidocaine's pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters and its relatively narrow safety margin. Population pharmacokinetic (popPK) modelling has emerged as a valuable tool for understanding the factors contributing to this observed variability in drug kinetics.

    OBJECTIVES: This systematic review compiles the existing knowledge on lidocaine's PK properties and published popPK models, with a focus on significant covariates.

    METHODS: A systematic search on Cochrane CENTRAL, Medline, and EMBASE was performed from inception to June 2023. Original clinical studies that administered IV lidocaine to adults and performed PK analyses using a nonlinear mixed effects modelling approach were included. The quality of the included studies was assessed by compliance with the Clinical Pharmacokinetics (ClinPK) statement checklist.

    RESULTS: Seven studies were included, which involved a diverse adult population, including both volunteers and patients with various comorbidities. Lidocaine PK was primarily characterised by a two- or three-compartment model. The volume of distribution at steady state ranged from 66 to 194 L, and the total clearance ranged from 22 to 49 L/h. Despite adjusting for significant covariates like heart failure status, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, duration of lidocaine infusion, and body weight, each study revealed substantial variability in PK parameters. The potential impact of hepatic or renal function biomarkers on these PK parameters calls for further investigation. Incomplete reporting of key aspects of developed models may hinder the models' reliability and clinical application.

    CONCLUSION: The findings emphasise the importance of tailoring drug dosage to ensure the safe and effective use of intravenous lidocaine. Optimal design methodologies may be incorporated for a more efficient identification of important covariates. Utilising contemporary model evaluation methods like visual predictive checks and bootstrapping would enhance the robustness of popPK models and the reliability of their predictions. This comprehensive review advances our understanding of lidocaine's pharmacokinetics and lays the groundwork for further research in this critical area of perioperative pain management. Review protocol registered on 25 August 2023 in PROSPERO (CRD42023441113). This work was supported by the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme, the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia (FRGS/1/2020/SKK01/UM/02/2).

  4. Hashim E, Hong J, Woo YL, Hamdan M, Tan PC
    Obstet Gynecol, 2024 Jul 01;144(1):53-59.
    PMID: 38703361 DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000005597
    OBJECTIVE: To compare insertion failure rates for Pipelle endometrial sampling with a full bladder compared with the standard process (not taking into account bladder status) without cervical manipulation.

    METHODS: A single-masked randomized trial was conducted in a single tertiary care center from July 2021 to January 2022. Two hundred fourteen participants aged 18 years or older who were scheduled for outpatient Pipelle endometrial sampling were randomized: 107 each to having a full bladder (by oral water intake) or standard process (without delayed sampling and bladder status not taken into account). Women with known cervical stenosis, gynecologic malignancy, uterine anomalies, leiomyoma distorting the uterine cavity, acute cervicitis, urge bladder dysfunction, intense anxiety, need for anesthesia or analgesic before the procedure, positive pregnancy test, or previous failed office endometrial sampling were excluded. The primary outcome was the insertion failure rate of endometrial sampling at first attempt. Secondary outcomes were pain during procedure, satisfaction score, analgesia use, procedure duration, and need for cervical manipulation. Factoring in a baseline insertion failure rate of 30.0%, relative risk of 0.45, α of 0.05, 80.0% power, and a dropout rate of 10.0%, we needed 107 participants in each arm.

    RESULTS: The insertion failure rate was significantly lower in the full bladder group compared with standard process: 25 of 107 (23.4%) compared with 45 of 107 (42.1%) (relative risk 0.56, 95% CI, 0.37-0.84; number needed to treat to benefit 6.0, 95% CI, 3.20-15.70). Pain score (median) during the procedure (interquartile range) was 4 (3-6) compared with 5 (3-8) ( P =.004); patient satisfaction score was 8 (7-9) compared with 7 (4-8) ( P

    MeSH terms: Adult; Biopsy/methods; Urinary Bladder; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Single-Blind Method; Patient Satisfaction
  5. Chen L, Fang L, Yang X, Luo X, Qiu T, Zeng Y, et al.
    Environ Int, 2024 Apr 27;187:108708.
    PMID: 38703447 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108708
    Long-term exposure to urban dust containing potentially toxic elements (PTEs) poses detrimental impacts on human health. However, studies estimating human health risks in urban dusts from a global perspective are scarce. We evaluated data for twelve PTEs in urban dusts across 59 countries from 463 published articles, including their concentrations, input sources, and probabilistic risks to human health. We found that 34.1 and 60.3% of those investigated urban dusts have been heavily contaminated with As and Cd, respectively. The input of PTEs was significantly correlated with economic structure due to emissions of industrial activities and traffic emissions being the major sources. Based on the Monte Carlo simulation, we found that the mean hazard index below the safe threshold (1.0) could still cause non-negligible risks to human health. Arsenic and Cr were the major PTEs threatening human health, and relatively high risk levels were observed in cities in China, Korea, Chile, Malaysia, and Australia. Importantly, our analysis suggested that PTEs threaten the health of approximately 92 million adults and 280 million children worldwide. Overall, our study provides important foundational understanding and guidance for policy decision-making to reduce the potential risks associated with PTE exposure and to promote sustainable development of urban economies.
  6. Kang Z, Duan L, Zahmatkesh S
    Sci Total Environ, 2024 May 02.
    PMID: 38703847 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172931
    Chemical and pharmaceutical chemicals found in water sources create substantial risks to human health and the environment. The presence of pharmaceutical contaminants in water can cause antibiotic resistance development, toxicity to aquatic organisms, and endocrine disruption. Hence, the elimination of chemicals and other contaminants from wastewater prior to its release is a burgeoning concern in the domains of engineering and science. The use of treatment technologies in wastewater treatment plants can remove pharmaceutical contaminants through the oxidation process. However, many traditional wastewater treatment plants lack the advanced monitoring tools required to detect low concentrations of pharmaceuticals. Without the ability to detect these compounds, it's challenging to treat them effectively. The goal of this study was to use Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) algorithms to model and improve how Nevirapine and Efavirenz break down in different chlorination conditions. The RSM analysis revealed statistically significant models (F-values: Nevirapine, pH-t: 108.15, T-t: 76.55, ICC-t: 110.84), indicating a strong correlation between operational parameters (pH, temperature, and initial chlorine concentration) and degradation behavior. The ANN model accurately predicted the degradation of both Nevirapine and Efavirenz under various chlorination conditions, as confirmed by analyzing actual-predicted graphs, residual plots, and Mean Squared Error (MSE) values. The ANN model using ICC-t achieved the highest MOD value of 31.31 % for Nevirapine. The ANN model based on ICC-t yielded a maximum MOD value of 16.06 % for Efavirenz. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing chlorination processes for better removal of these pharmaceutical contaminants from water.
  7. Dada AO, Inyinbor AA, Tokula BE, Bayode AA, Obayomi KS, Ajanaku CO, et al.
    Environ Res, 2024 May 03;252(Pt 3):119046.
    PMID: 38704004 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119046
    Reports have shown that malachite green (MG) dye causes various hormonal disruptions and health hazards, hence, its removal from water has become a top priority. In this work, zinc oxide decorated plantain peels activated carbon (ZnO@PPAC) was developed via a hydrothermal approach. Physicochemical characterization of the ZnO@PPAC nanocomposite with a 205.2 m2/g surface area, porosity of 614.68 and dominance of acidic sites from Boehm study established the potency of ZnO@PPAC. Spectroscopic characterization of ZnO@PPAC vis-a-viz thermal gravimetric analyses (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Powdered X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy and High Resolution - Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) depict the thermal stability via phase transition, functional group, crystallinity with interspatial spacing, morphology and spherical and nano-rod-like shape of the ZnO@PPAC heterostructure with electron mapping respectively. Adsorption of malachite green dye onto ZnO@PPAC nanocomposite was influenced by different operational parameters. Equilibrium data across the three temperatures (303, 313, and 323 K) were most favorably described by Freundlich indicating the ZnO@PPAC heterogeneous nature. 77.517 mg/g monolayer capacity of ZnO@PPAC was superior to other adsorbents compared. Pore-diffusion predominated in the mechanism and kinetic data best fit the pseudo-second-order. Thermodynamics studies showed the feasible, endothermic, and spontaneous nature of the sequestration. The ZnO@PPAC was therefore shown to be a sustainable and efficient material for MG dye uptake and hereby endorsed for the treatment of industrial effluent.
  8. Razak MR, Wee SY, Yusoff FM, Yusof ZNB, Aris AZ
    Environ Res, 2024 May 03;252(Pt 3):119045.
    PMID: 38704014 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119045
    Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) pose a significant ecological risk, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. EDCs have become a focal point in ecotoxicology, and their identification and regulation have become a priority. Zooplankton have gained global recognition as bioindicators, benefiting from rigorous standardization and regulatory validation processes. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of zooplankton-based adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) with a focus on EDCs as toxicants and the utilisation of freshwater zooplankton as bioindicators in ecotoxicological assessments. This review presents case studies in which zooplankton have been used in the development of AOPs, emphasizing the identification of molecular initiating events (MIEs) and key events (KEs) specific to zooplankton exposed to EDCs. Zooplankton-based AOPs may become an important resource for understanding the intricate processes by which EDCs impair the endocrine system. Furthermore, the data sources, experimental approaches, advantages, and challenges associated with zooplankton-based AOPs are discussed. Zooplankton-based AOPs framework can provide vital tools for consolidating toxicological knowledge into a structured toxicity pathway of EDCs, offering a transformative platform for facilitating enhanced risk assessment and chemical regulation.
  9. Kaur G, Thomas AR, Samson RS, Varghese E, Ponraj RR, Nagraj SK, et al.
    BMC Oral Health, 2024 May 04;24(1):532.
    PMID: 38704529 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04259-w
    BACKGROUND: Successful endodontic treatment needs accurate determination of working length (WL). Electronic apex locators (EALs) were presented as an alternative to radiographic methods; and since then, they have evolved and gained popularity in the determination of WL. However, there is insufficient evidence on the post-operative pain, adequacy, and accuracy of EALs in determining WL.

    OBJECTIVE: The systematic review and meta-analysis aims to gather evidence regarding the effectiveness of EALs for WL determination when compared to different imaging techniques along with postoperative pain associated with WL determination, the number of radiographs taken during the procedure, the time taken, and the adverse effects.

    METHODS: For the review, clinical studies with cross-over and parallel-arm randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched in seven electronic databases, followed by cross-referencing of the selected studies and related research synthesis. Risk of bias (RoB) assessment was carried out with Cochrane's RoB tool and a random-effects model was used. The meta-analysis was performed with the RevMan software 5.4.1.

    RESULTS: Eleven eligible RCTs were incorporated into the review and eight RCTs into the meta-analysis, of which five had high RoB and the remaining six had unclear RoB. Following meta-analysis, no significant difference in postoperative pain was found among the EAL and radiograph groups (SMD 0.00, CI .29 to .28, 354 participants; P value = 0.98). Radiograph group showed better WL accuracy (SMD 0.55, CI .11 to .99, 254 participants; P value = 0.02), while the EAL group had 10% better WL adequacy (RR 1.10, CI 1.03-1.18, 573 participants; P value = 0.006).

    CONCLUSION: We found very low-certainty evidence to support the efficacy of different types of EAL compared to radiography for the outcomes tested. We were unable to reach any conclusions about the superiority of any type of EAL. Well-planned RCTs need to be conducted by standardizing the outcomes and outcome measurement methods.

    MeSH terms: Dental Pulp Cavity/anatomy & histology; Humans; Odontometry/methods
  10. Abdelrehim A, Salleh NM, Sofian H, Sulaiman E
    J Oral Implantol, 2024 Apr 01;50(2):104-110.
    PMID: 38353347 DOI: 10.1563/aaid-joi-D-23-00063
    Accuracy is a necessity in implant impressions to fabricate accurately fitting implant-supported prostheses. This in vitro study aimed to explore the impact of the number of scan bodies on scanning quality by comparing scans of 2 vs 4 implants, and to determine if their accuracy and precision meets acceptable clinical threshold. Two mandibular edentulous models were used: one with 4-parallel implants (4-IM) and the other with 2-parallel implants (2-IM). Each model was scanned 10 times with an intraoral scanner, while reference scans were obtained with a high-precision laboratory scanner. The accuracy of test scans was evaluated by superimposing them onto reference scans and measuring 3D and angular deviations of the scan bodies. To assess the precision, the repeatability of the scans was analyzed by measuring the 3D SDs. Independent t test was used to compare angular deviations, the Mann-Whitney U test was used for 3D deviations and 3D SDs, and 1 sample t test was used for comparing means to the clinical threshold. Angular and 3D deviations were statistically not significant between the 2 groups (P = .054 and 0.143). 3D deviation values were higher than the 150-µm threshold for 2-IM (201 µm) and 4-IM (290 µm); angular deviation in 2-IM was 0.600 degrees and 0.885 degrees for 4-IM. There was no statistically significant difference in the precision of scans between the 2 groups. (P = .161). Although scanning quality improved when 2 scan bodies were used, the difference was not statistically significant. Moreover, full-arch implant scanning did not meet acceptable levels of accuracy and precision.
    MeSH terms: Dental Impression Technique*; Dental Models; Humans; Dental Implants*; Computer-Aided Design; Dental Prosthesis Design; Dental Prosthesis, Implant-Supported; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; In Vitro Techniques
  11. Rajasegaran S, Chandrasagran RA, Tan SK, Ahmad NA, Lechmiannandan A, Sanmugam A, et al.
    Pediatr Surg Int, 2024 May 03;40(1):119.
    PMID: 38700671 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-024-05709-w
    PURPOSE: Patients with anorectal malformation (ARM) and Hirschsprung's disease (HD) live with long-term impact of these diseases even into adulthood. We aimed to explore the physical, social and emotional impact of these diseases in adolescents and young adults to develop best practices for transition care.

    METHODS: We conducted one-on-one in-depth interviews with ARM and HD patients aged  ≥ 11 years who had undergone surgery at four tertiary referral centers. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We analyzed transcripts for recurring themes, and data were collected until data saturation was reached. Three researchers independently coded the transcripts for major themes using thematic analysis approach.

    RESULTS: We interviewed 16 participants (11 males) between October 2022 and April 2023. Ages ranged from 11 to 26 years. Five major themes emerged: (1) personal impact (subthemes: physical, emotional and mental health, social, school), (2) impact on family, (3) perceptions of their future (subthemes: relationships, career, state of health), (4) sources of support (subthemes: family, peers, partner), and (5) transition care (subthemes: concerns, expectations). Only females expressed concerns regarding future fertility.

    CONCLUSION: This study highlights the evolving problems faced by adolescents and young adults with ARM and HD, especially gender-specific concerns. Our findings can inform efforts to provide individualized care.

    MeSH terms: Adolescent; Adult; Child; Female; Humans; Interviews as Topic*; Male; Quality of Life/psychology; Qualitative Research*; Young Adult; Transition to Adult Care
  12. Danmaigoro A, Muhammad MA, Abubakar K, Magiri RB, Bakare AG, Iji PA
    Int J Biometeorol, 2024 Aug;68(8):1497-1505.
    PMID: 38700715 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-024-02694-6
    Climate change due to natural human activity is a significant global phenomenon affecting the sustainability of most countries' livestock industries. Climate change factors such as ambient temperature, relative humidity, direct and indirect sun radiation, and wind have significant consequences on feed, water, pasture availability, and the re-emergence of diseases in livestock. All these variables have a considerable impact on livestock production and welfare. However, animals' ability to respond and adapt to changes in climate differs within species and breeds. Comparatively, small ruminants are more adaptive to the adverse effects of climate change than large ruminants in terms of reproduction performance, survival, production yield, and resistance to re-emerging diseases. This is mainly due to their morphological features against harsh climate effects. Tropical breeds are more adaptive to the adverse effects of climate change than small temperate ruminants. However, the difference in morphological characteristics towards adaptation to the impact of climate change will guide the development of suitable policies on the selection of breeding stock suitable for different regions in the world. The choice of breeds based on morphological features and traits is an essential strategy in mitigating and minimizing the effects of climate change on small ruminants' production and welfare. This review highlights the adaptive morphological features within and among breeds of small ruminants toward adaptation to climate change.
  13. Chin TL, Chee TL
    Work, 2024 May 03.
    PMID: 38701128 DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230751
    BACKGROUND: Many organizations around the world have prudently adopted corporate environmental citizenship. However, the corporate environmental citizenship implementation may vary from reality. Thus, this study examines corporate environmental citizenship to identify ultimate practices to create a strong premise of CEC.

    OBJECTIVE: The study examines the influence of organizational learning capability, organization age on corporate environmental citizenship.

    METHODS: The data were collected from 50 Malaysian construction firms using the survey questionnaire and analyzed by using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).

    RESULTS: The finding revealed that organizational learning capability positively related to corporate environmental citizenship. Organization age was not found to moderate such relationships.

    CONCLUSION: This study establishes that organizational learning capability encourages construction firms to take risks and explore new opportunities are essential for corporate environmental citizenship implementation. This study highlights the role of organizational learning capability to achieve corporate environmental citizenship irrespective of their organization age for construction firms. This study confirms the logic of Natural Resource Based View (NRBV) theory for predicting organizational learning capability as a critical foundation to build corporate environmental citizenship.

  14. Suparmaniam U, Lam MK, Lim JW, Rawindran H, Ho YC, Tan IS, et al.
    J Environ Manage, 2024 May 02;359:120988.
    PMID: 38701587 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120988
    Microalgae demonstrate significant potential as a source of liquid-based biofuels. However, increasing biomass productivity in existing cultivation systems is a critical prerequisite for their successful integration into large-scale operations. Thus, the current work aimed to accelerate the growth of C. vulgaris via exogenous supplementation of biostimulant derived from onion peel waste. Under the optimal growth conditions, which entailed a biostimulant dosage of 37.5% v/v, a pH of 3, an air flow rate of 0.4 L/min, and a 2% v/v inoculum harvested during the mid-log phase, yielded a maximum biomass concentration of 1.865 g/L. Under the arbitrarily optimized parameters, a comparable growth pattern was evident in the upscaled cultivation of C. vulgaris, underscoring the potential commercial viability of the biostimulant. The biostimulant, characterized through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, revealed a composition rich in polyphenolic and organo-sulphur compounds, notably including allyl trisulfide (28.13%), methyl allyl trisulfide (23.04%), and allyl disulfide (20.78%), showcasing potent antioxidant properties. Additionally, microalgae treated with the biostimulant consistently retained their lipid content at 18.44% without any significant reduction. Furthermore, a significant rise in saturated fatty acid (SFA) content was observed, with C16:0 and C18:1 dominating both bench-scale (44.08% and 14.01%) and upscaled (51.12% and 13.07%) microalgae cultures, in contrast to the control group where C18:2 was prevalent. Consequently, SFA contents reached 54.35% and 65.43% in bench-scale and upscaled samples respectively, compared to 33.73% in the control culture. These compositional characteristics align well with the requirements for producing high-quality crude biodiesel.
  15. Solarin SA, Kundu P, Sahu PK, Law JY
    Mar Pollut Bull, 2024 May 02;203:116423.
    PMID: 38701602 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116423
    This study has examined the factors of fishing grounds footprint in Malaysia during 1961-2018, which has been used as the indicator of environmental degradation. The main contribution of this paper is that we have considered the role of aggregated and disaggregated fisheries production on pollution in the fishing industry. Another contribution of this study is that the environmental impact of activities of licensed fishermen has been examined. The results suggest that the total fisheries production and its components- capture fisheries production and aquaculture production generate an increase in fishing grounds footprint in Malaysia. The results suggest that an increase in total licensed fishermen facilitate an increase in fishing grounds footprint. There is mixed evidence on the impact of local fishermen on fishing footprint. The results indicate that an increase in foreign fishermen facilitate an increase in fishing grounds footprint. The results suggest mixed evidence for Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis.
  16. Marchellina A, Soegianto A, Irawan B, Indriyasari KN, Rahmatin NM, Mukholladun W, et al.
    Chemosphere, 2024 May 01;358:142214.
    PMID: 38701863 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142214
    A comprehensive study was undertaken to examine the contamination of spotted scat fish (Scatophagus argus) with microplastics (MP) in various locations along the East Java coast of Indonesia. The purpose of this study was to collect detailed information regarding the abundance, color, shape, size, type of polymer, and chemical components of the MP. The findings of this study indicated that MP exhibiting distinct attributes-including a specific fiber type, black coloration, and a size range of 1000- <5000 μm-was most abundant in the gill, stomach, and intestines of spotted scat fish of varying lengths. And MP with a size range of 100-<500 μm was prevalent in the sediment. MP with black fragments measuring less than 100 μm in diameter were found primarily in seawater. A positive correlation was identified between fish length and MP abundance in the intestines, as indicated by the Spearman correlation coefficient. Conversely, a negative correlation was detected between fish length and MP abundance in the gills. The findings of the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses, which indicate the presence of various polymers and chemical substances including plasticizers (e.g., diethyl phthalate, decane, and eicosane), stabilizers (2-piperidinone, hexadecanoic acid, mesitylene, and 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol), and flame retardant (cyclododecene), in fish, are of the utmost importance. These substances have the potential to endanger the health of both animals and humans if they are ingested through the food chain.
  17. Metanat Y, Viktor P, Amajd A, Kaur I, Hamed AM, Abed Al-Abadi NK, et al.
    Life Sci, 2024 May 01.
    PMID: 38702027 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122683
    Although CAR-T cell therapy has emerged as a game-changer in cancer immunotherapy several bottlenecks limit its widespread use as a front-line therapy. Current protocols for the production of CAR-T cells rely mainly on the use of lentiviral/retroviral vectors. Nevertheless, according to the safety concerns around the use of viral vectors, there are several regulatory hurdles to their clinical use. Large-scale production of viral vectors under "Current Good Manufacturing Practice" (cGMP) involves rigorous quality control assessments and regulatory requirements that impose exorbitant costs on suppliers and as a result, lead to a significant increase in the cost of treatment. Pursuing an efficient non-viral method for genetic modification of immune cells is a hot topic in cell-based gene therapy. This study aims to investigate the current state-of-the-art in non-viral methods of CAR-T cell manufacturing. In the first part of this study, after reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of the clinical use of viral vectors, different non-viral vectors and the path of their clinical translation are discussed. These vectors include transposons (sleeping beauty, piggyBac, Tol2, and Tc Buster), programmable nucleases (ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas9), mRNA, plasmids, minicircles, and nanoplasmids. Afterward, various methods for efficient delivery of non-viral vectors into the cells are reviewed.
  18. Che-Kamaruddin N, Hamid NFS, Idris LH, Yusuff FM, Ashaari ZH, Yahaya H, et al.
    Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports, 2024 Apr;49:100998.
    PMID: 38462308 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.100998
    Fasciolosis is a zoonotic disease, considered an emerging neglected tropical disease threatening ruminant productivity and causing economic losses. Controlling fasciolosis is challenging due to the complex life cycle of Fasciola, which involves snail intermediate hosts. The high rainfall status in Taiping makes it an optimal region for snail abundance, which increases the opportunity to complete Fasciola's life cycle. Previous studies showed that liver condemnation caused by fasciolosis was highly prevalent in the Taiping abattoir compared to other investigated main abattoirs of Peninsular Malaysia. Therefore, the present study determined the prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and risk factors in farms from Larut and Matang (Taiping), Malaysia. Sampling was carried out from February until August 2020. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 371 fecal samples from bovines (dairy cattle, beef cattle, buffalo) were examined from 23 farms selected based on location, farmer consent, and history of anthelmintic usage. Animal's intrinsic and farm management details were recorded, and interview sessions were conducted with farmers to collect information on the potential risk factors. Individual fecal samples were examined for the presence of Fasciola egg using Flukefinder® sedimentation. There was moderate prevalence of bovine fasciolosis in Taiping (36.9%, n = 137/371). Significant risk factors (p 3 years (OR = 5.5, 95% CI: 5.43-5.57), thinner animals with body condition score of 1 to 4 (OR = 1.2-14.9, 95% CI: 1.09-15.08), and larger grazing area (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.30-1.31). Additional risk factors include the presence of more than one ruminant species in the same farm (OR = 2.0-2.1, 95% CI: 2.00-2.22), extensive housing system (OR = 4.0, 95% CI: 3.77-4.23), farm age (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.20-1.21), and also co-infection with Paramphistomes (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.10-1.71). The present study underscores the importance of local bovine fasciolosis epidemiology, which could be used to conduct future veterinary and public health programmes to inform effective parasitic management aimed at reducing the prevalence of fasciolosis.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Buffaloes; Cattle; Cross-Sectional Studies; Fasciola*; Malaysia/epidemiology; Risk Factors; Prevalence; Farms
  19. Ab Aziz M, Ai Kah N, Ismail M, Majid HA
    Asia Pac J Public Health, 2024 Jul;36(5):437-446.
    PMID: 38695359 DOI: 10.1177/10105395241248545
    Low- and lower-middle-income countries bear the greatest burden of anemia, particularly those living in rural settings such as an indigenous community. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the prevalence of anemia and its determinants among the Orang Asli children in Peninsular Malaysia. A web-based search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, and ProQuest from January 2000 to June 2022, using specified search/MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms and keywords, was conducted. The search identified studies reported the prevalence of anemia among the children of Orang Asli and its causes. Eight studies were included in the final analysis. The prevalence of anemia among the Orang Asli children was high (61.6%). Most research has focused primarily on iron-deficiency anemia and soil-transmitted helminth infections. Other causes include female gender, mothers with low education levels, and low household incomes. Despite being a public health concern, this study found no studies associating Orang Asli children with hereditary anemia and malaria, which is a limitation. In conclusion, the Orang Asli children are more likely to have anemia compared with the general Malaysian population. To overcome this, a comprehensive examination of the determinants of anemia in this community is required. Thus, interventions can be personalized.
    MeSH terms: Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Humans; Infant; Malaysia/epidemiology; Risk Factors; Prevalence
  20. Lim JY, Ker CJ, Lai NM, Romantsik O, Fiander M, Tan K
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2024 May 02;5(5):CD012361.
    PMID: 38695625 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD012361.pub2
    BACKGROUND: Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 agonist with minimal impact on the haemodynamic profile. It is thought to be safer than morphine or stronger opioids, which are drugs currently used for analgesia and sedation in newborn infants. Dexmedetomidine is increasingly being used in children and infants despite not being licenced for analgesia in this group.

    OBJECTIVES: To determine the overall effectiveness and safety of dexmedetomidine for sedation and analgesia in newborn infants receiving mechanical ventilation compared with other non-opioids, opioids, or placebo.

    SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and two trial registries in September 2023.

    SELECTION CRITERIA: We planned to include randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs evaluating the effectiveness of dexmedetomidine compared with other non-opioids, opioids, or placebo for sedation and analgesia in neonates (aged under four weeks) requiring mechanical ventilation.

    DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were level of sedation and level of analgesia. Our secondary outcomes included days on mechanical ventilation, number of infants requiring additional medication for sedation or analgesia (or both), hypotension, neonatal mortality, and neurodevelopmental outcomes. We planned to use GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for each outcome.

    MAIN RESULTS: We identified no eligible studies for inclusion. We identified four ongoing studies, two of which appear to be eligible for inclusion; they will compare dexmedetomidine with fentanyl in newborn infants requiring surgery. We listed the other two studies as awaiting classification pending assessment of full reports. One study will compare dexmedetomidine with morphine in asphyxiated newborns undergoing hypothermia, and the other (mixed population, age up to three years) will evaluate dexmedetomidine versus ketamine plus dexmedetomidine for echocardiography. The planned sample size of the four studies ranges from 40 to 200 neonates. Data from these studies may provide some evidence for dexmedetomidine efficacy and safety.

    AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Despite the increasing use of dexmedetomidine, there is insufficient evidence supporting its routine use for analgesia and sedation in newborn infants on mechanical ventilation. Furthermore, data on dexmedetomidine safety are scarce, and there are no data available on its long-term effects. Future studies should address the efficacy, safety, and long-term effects of dexmedetomidine as a single drug therapy for sedation and analgesia in newborn infants.

    MeSH terms: Analgesia/methods; Analgesics, Opioid/therapeutic use; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Morphine/therapeutic use; Respiration, Artificial*; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Analgesics, Non-Narcotic/therapeutic use
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