Displaying publications 1 - 20 of 78 in total

Abstract:
Sort:
  1. Fulltext Impact of the additive effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and /or statins with antiplatelet medication on mortality after acute ischaemic stroke
    Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol, 2012 Apr;110(4):370-7.
    PMID: 22023326 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2011.00825.x
    There has been recent interest in combining antiplatelets, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and statins in primary and secondary ischaemic stroke prevention. This observational study was performed to evaluate the impact of adding ACEIs and/or statins to antiplatelets on post-stroke in-hospital mortality. Ischaemic stroke patients attending a hospital in Malaysia over an 18-month period were evaluated. Patients were categorized according to their vital status at discharge. Data included demographic information, risk factors, clinical characteristics and previous medications with particular attention on antiplatelets, ACEIs and statins. In-hospital mortality was compared among patients who were not taking antiplatelets, ACEIs or statins before stroke onset versus those who were taking antiplatelets alone or in combination with either ACEIs, statins or both. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 15. Overall, 637 patients met the study inclusion criteria. After controlling for the effects of confounders, adding ACEIs or statins to antiplatelets significantly decreased the incidence of death after stroke attack by 68% (p = 0.036) and 81% (p = 0.010), respectively, compared to patients on antiplatelets alone or none of these medications. Additionally, the addition of both ACEIs and statins to antiplatelet medication resulted in the highest reduction (by 94%) of the occurrence of death after stroke attack (p < 0.001). Our results suggest that adding ACEIs and/or statins to antiplatelets for patients at risk of developing stroke, either as a primary or as a secondary preventive regimen, was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of mortality after ischaemic stroke than antiplatelets alone. These results might help reduce the rate of ischaemic stroke morbidity and mortality by enhancing the application of specific therapeutic and management strategies for patients at a high risk of acute stroke.
  2. Effect of prestroke use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors alone versus combination with antiplatelets and statin on ischemic stroke outcome
    Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Clin Neuropharmacol, 2011 Nov-Dec;34(6):234-40.
    PMID: 21996648 DOI: 10.1097/WNF.0b013e3182348abe
    BACKGROUND: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), antiplatelets (APs), and statin are increasingly being prescribed for ischemic stroke prevention.
    OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to examine whether previous combination therapy of ACEI with AP and/or statin has additive effect compared with ACEI alone on functional outcome after ischemic stroke. Furthermore, factors associated with improving functional outcome were investigated.
    METHODS: Ischemic stroke patients attending a Malaysian hospital in 2008 were categorized according to Barthel Index at discharge. Favorable outcome was defined as Barthel Index of 75 or greater. Data included demographic information, clinical characteristics, and previous medications with particular attention to ACEI, AP, and statin.
    RESULTS: Overall, 505 patients were included. Variables associated with good functional outcome were younger age (P = 0.002), first-ever attack (P = 0.016), lacunar (P = 0.015) or posterior circulation infarct stroke subtype (P = 0.034), minor Glasgow Coma Scale (P < 0.001), and previous use of ACEI alone or combined with AP and/or statin (P = 0.002). Using ACEI alone as the reference for ACEI + AP, ACEI + statin, or ACEI + AP + statin combinations, there was no significant difference among combinations on improving functional outcome (P = 0.852).
    CONCLUSIONS: Prestroke use of ACEI either alone or combined with AP and/or statin was associated with better functional outcome. Previous use of ACEI in combination with AP and/or statin did not significantly differ from ACEI alone in their effect on outcome. Our study provides a potential rationale for optimizing the use of ACEI among individuals at risk of developing ischemic stroke.
  3. Statin use prior to ischemic stroke onset is associated with decreased in-hospital mortality
    Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Fundam Clin Pharmacol, 2011 Jun;25(3):388-94.
    PMID: 20608996 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2010.00846.x
    Statins can reduce the risk of stroke in at-risk populations and improve survival after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) among patients with previous statin use. This study aimed to investigate the impact of statin use before AIS onset on in-hospital mortality and identify the factors related to in-hospital mortality among patients with and without previous statin use. A retrospective cohort study of all patients with AIS attending hospital from June 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008. Data were collected from medical records including demographic information, diagnostic information, risk factors, previous statin use, and vital discharge status. Chi-square, Fisher's exact tests, student's t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test, whatever appropriate, were used to test the significance between the variables, and multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality. Altogether, 386 patients with AIS were studied, of which 113 (29.3%) had a documented previous statin use. A total of 62 (16.1%) patients with AIS died in hospital. In-hospital mortality was significantly lower among previous statin users (P = 0.013). The presence of atrial fibrillation (AF) increased in-hospital mortality among patients with or without previous statin use. The independent predictors for in-hospital mortality among AIS patients without previous statin use were the presence of diabetes mellitus (P = 0.047), AF (P = 0.045), and renal impairment (P < 0.001). The prophylactic administration of statins significantly reduces post-AIS in-hospital mortality. Furthermore, the identification of predictors of in-hospital mortality might reduce death rates and enhance the application of specific therapeutic and management strategies to patients at a high risk of dying.
  4. Antiplatelet therapy in diabetic ischemic stroke patients: associated factors and outcomes
    Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther, 2011 Oct;49(10):605-13.
    PMID: 21961485 DOI: 10.5414/cp201574
    BACKGROUND: Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are more prone to develop atherosclerotic complications including stroke. Moreover, as a primary and secondary prevention of stroke, antiplatelet therapy is recommended by clinical guidelines for patients with DM.

    AIMS: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of antiplatelet therapy use prior to current stroke in diabetic ischemic stroke patients, to examine the factors associated with the use of this important therapy and to assess the impact of the previous use of antiplatelet therapy on ischemic stroke outcomes.

    METHODS: An observational study of diabetic acute ischemic stroke patients attending a Malaysian hospital during a 1-year period was carried out. Demographic information, risk factors, previous antiplatelet use and variables used to assess stroke outcomes were collected from medical records.

    RESULTS: Overall, 295 diabetic stroke patients were analyzed. The prevalence of previous antiplatelet use among diabetic patients was 38.3%. The independent variables associated with the previous use of antiplatelet medication were previous stroke attack (p < 0.001) and ischemic heart disease (p < 0.001). Better outcomes as measured by a minor Glasgow Coma Scale at admission (p = 0.032), and a higher Modified Barthel index at discharge (p = 0.027) were observed among patients on previous antiplatelet therapy.

    CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that antiplatelet therapy is under prescribed among such diabetic stroke patients, particularly in primary prevention. Effective methods to increase antiplatelet use and to enhance the adherence of clinical practice guidelines should be considered at the national and community level.
  5. Impact of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors administration prior to acute ischemic stroke onset on in-hospital mortality
    Hassan Y, Aziz NA, Al-Jabi SW, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther, 2010 Sep;15(3):274-81.
    PMID: 20624923 DOI: 10.1177/1074248410373751
    Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) have shown promising results in decreasing the incidence and the severity of ischemic stroke in populations at risk and in improving ischemic stroke outcomes.
  6. Evaluation of antihypertensive therapy among ischemic stroke survivors: impact of ischemic heart disease
    Hassan Y, Aziz NA, Al-Jabi SW, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther, 2010 Sep;15(3):282-8.
    PMID: 20472813 DOI: 10.1177/1074248410368049
    BACKGROUND: Hypertension and ischemic heart disease (IHD) are among the most prevalent modifiable risk factors for stroke. Clinical trial evidence suggests that antihypertensive medications are recommended for prevention of recurrent ischemic stroke in hypertensive and normotensive patients.
    OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to analyze and evaluate the utilization of antihypertensive medication for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA) survivors in relation to recent recommendations and guidelines and to compare their use among patients with or without IHD.
    METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of all patients with AIS/TIA attending the hospital from July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, different classes of antihypertensive medications, and different antihypertensive combinations prescribed to AIS/TIA survivors were analyzed among patients with and without IHD. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) program version 15 was used for data analysis.
    RESULTS: In all, 383 AIS/TIA survivors were studied, of which 66 (19.5%) had a documented history of IHD. Three quarters (n = 260; 76.9%) of AIS or TIA survivors received antihypertensive medication, mostly as monotherapy, at discharge. The majority of patients (n = 201, 59.5%) were prescribed angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). Patients with IHD were significantly prescribed more β-blockers than patients without IHD (P = .003). A history of hypertension, a history of diabetes mellitus, and age were significantly associated with prescription of antihypertensive medications at discharge (P < .001, P < .001, and P < .001, respectively).
    CONCLUSION: Patterns of antihypertensive therapy were commonly but not adequately consistent with international guidelines. Screening stroke survivors for blood pressure control, initiating appropriate antihypertensive medications, and decreasing the number of untreated patients might help reduce the risk of recurrent strokes and increase survival.
  7. Comparing Modified Huddart-Bodenham Scoring System and GOSLON Yardstick to Assess Dental Arch Relationships in Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Patients
    Yakob M, Hassan YR, Tse KL, Gu M, Yang Y
    Cleft Palate Craniofac J, 2018 Jan 01.
    PMID: 28092164 DOI: 10.1597/16-191
    Objective To test the reliability of the modified Huddart-Bodenham (MHB) numerical scoring system and its agreement with the GOSLON Yardstick categorization for assessing the dental arch relationships in unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) cases. Design A retrospective study. Setting Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong. Patients Forty-one nonsyndromic UCLP consecutive patients attending the Joint Cleft Lip/Palate Clinic at Faculty of Dentistry in the University of Hong Kong were selected. Interventions Study models at 8 to 10 years old (T1) and 10 to 12 years old (T2) were obtained from each patient. Main Outcome Measures Models were rated with the MHB scoring system and GOSLON Yardstick index. The intra- and interexaminer reliabilities as well as correlation of both scoring systems were evaluated. Furthermore, to investigate the outcome measurements consistency, the MHB scoring system and GOSLON Yardstick were independently used to compare the dental arch relationships from T1 to T2, with the samples split into intervention and nonintervention groups. Results The MHB scoring system presented good intra- and interexaminer agreement, which were comparable to those of the GOSLON Yardstick. The correlation between the MHB scoring system and GOSLON Yardstick scores was good. Both scoring systems showed similar results when assessing the change in the dental arch relationships from T1 to T2. Conclusions The MHB scoring system can be used as an alternative method to the commonly used GOSLON Yardstick for assessing dental deformities in UCLP patients. Both scoring systems showed similar results in assessing the improvement in dental arch relationships.
  8. Rhizomucor miehei lipase immobilized on reinforced chitosan-chitin nanowhiskers support for synthesis of eugenyl benzoate
    Abdul Manan FM, Attan N, Widodo N, Aboul-Enein HY, Wahab RA
    Prep Biochem Biotechnol, 2018 Jan 02;48(1):92-102.
    PMID: 29194017 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2017.1405021
    An alternative environmentally benign support was prepared from chitosan-chitin nanowhiskers (CS/CNWs) for covalent immobilization of Rhizomucor miehei lipase (RML) to increase the operational stability and recyclability of RML in synthesizing eugenyl benzoate. The CS/CNWs support and RML-CS/CNWs were characterized using X-ray diffraction, fluorescent microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Efficiency of the RML-CS/CNWs was compared to the free RML to synthesize eugenyl benzoate for parameters: reaction temperature, stirring rate, reusability, and thermal stability. Under optimal experimental conditions (50°C, 250 rpm, catalyst loading 3 mg/mL), a twofold increase in yield of eugenyl benzoate was observed for RML-CS/CNWs as compared to free RML, with the former achieving maximum yield of the ester at 62.1% after 5 hr. Results demonstrated that the strategy adopted to prepare RML-CS/CNWs was useful, producing an improved and prospectively greener biocatalyst that supported a sustainable process to prepare eugenyl benzoate. Moreover, RML-CS/CNWs are biodegradable and perform esterification reactions under ambient conditions as compared to the less eco-friendly conventional acid catalyst. This research provides a facile and promising approach for improving activity of RML in which the resultant RML-CS/CNWs demonstrated good operational stability for up to eight successive esterification cycles to synthesize eugenyl benzoate.
  9. Fulltext Candida glabrata: Pathogenicity and Resistance Mechanisms for Adaptation and Survival
    Hassan Y, Chew SY, Than LTL
    J Fungi (Basel), 2021 Aug 17;7(8).
    PMID: 34436206 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080667
    Candida glabrata is a yeast of increasing medical relevance, particularly in critically ill patients. It is the second most isolated Candida species associated with invasive candidiasis (IC) behind C. albicans. The attributed higher incidence is primarily due to an increase in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) population, cancer, and diabetic patients. The elderly population and the frequent use of indwelling medical devices are also predisposing factors. This work aimed to review various virulence factors that facilitate the survival of pathogenic C. glabrata in IC. The available published research articles related to the pathogenicity of C. glabrata were retrieved and reviewed from four credible databases, mainly Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Scopus. The articles highlighted many virulence factors associated with pathogenicity in C. glabrata, including adherence to susceptible host surfaces, evading host defences, replicative ageing, and producing hydrolytic enzymes (e.g., phospholipases, proteases, and haemolysins). The factors facilitate infection initiation. Other virulent factors include iron regulation and genetic mutations. Accordingly, biofilm production, tolerance to high-stress environments, resistance to neutrophil killings, and development of resistance to antifungal drugs, notably to fluconazole and other azole derivatives, were reported. The review provided evident pathogenic mechanisms and antifungal resistance associated with C. glabrata in ensuring its sustenance and survival.
  10. Application of dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction based on solidification of floating organic droplet to the analysis of antidepressant drugs in water samples
    Mohd Marsin Sanagi, Aboul-Enein HY, Wan Aini Wan Ibrahim, Siti Umairah Mokhtar
    Sains Malaysiana, 2013;42:149-157.
    A simple and rapid sample preparation method based on dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction-solidification of floating organic drop (DLLME-SFO) combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was developed for the analysis of antidepressant drugs in water samples. This method uses organic solvent with low density and less toxicity. In the method, the disperser solvent (0.5 mL acetonitrile) containing 30 μL of n-hexadecane was rapidly injected using a syringe into 5.0 mL of water sample in a glass tube. After centrifugation for 7 min at 3500 rpm, the mixture was cooled in ice bath for 5 min. The solidified n-hexadecane was transferred into a conical vial, where it melted rapidly at room temperature and 2 μL of it was injected into a gas chromatograph for analysis. Under optimized conditions, the method showed good linearity in the range of 0.04 - 0.12 μg mL-1 for amitriptyline and chlorpromazine with correlation of determination (r2) in the range of 0.992 - 0.995. The limits of detections (LODs) were in the range 0.0085 - 0.0285 μg mL-1. The extraction recoveries of amitriptyline and chlorpromazine from water samples at spiking level of 0.08 μg mL-1 were 71.34 - 73.52% and 73.83 - 91.09%, respectively, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) in the range of 4.97 - 6.85% for amitriptyline and 4.84 - 7.49% for chlorpromazine. The method was successfully applied to the determination of the analytes in drinking water, lake water and tap water samples.
  11. State of the Art and New Directions on Electrospun Lignin/Cellulose Nanofibers for Supercapacitor Application: A Systematic Literature Review
    Adam AA, Ojur Dennis J, Al-Hadeethi Y, Mkawi EM, Abubakar Abdulkadir B, Usman F, et al.
    Polymers (Basel), 2020 Dec 01;12(12).
    PMID: 33271876 DOI: 10.3390/polym12122884
    Supercapacitors are energy storage devices with high power density, rapid charge/discharge rate, and excellent cycle stability. Carbon-based supercapacitors are increasingly attracting attention because of their large surface area and high porosity. Carbon-based materials research has been recently centered on biomass-based materials due to the rising need to maintain a sustainable environment. Cellulose and lignin constitute the major components of lignocellulose biomass. Since they are renewable, sustainable, and readily accessible, lignin and cellulose-based supercapacitors are economically viable and environmentally friendly. This review aims to systematically analyze published research findings on electrospun lignin, cellulose, and lignin/cellulose nanofibers for use as supercapacitor electrode materials. A rigorous scientific approach was employed to screen the eligibility of relevant articles to be included in this study. The research questions and the inclusion criteria were clearly defined. The included articles were used to draw up the research framework and develop coherent taxonomy of literature. Taxonomy of research literature generated from the included articles was classified into review papers, electrospun lignin, cellulose, and lignin/cellulose nanofibers for use as supercapacitor electrode materials. Furthermore, challenges, recommendations, and research directions for future studies were equally discussed extensively. Before this study, no review on electrospun lignin/cellulose nanofiber-based supercapacitors has been reported. Thus, this systematic review will provide a reference for other researchers interested in developing biomass-based supercapacitors as an alternative to conventional supercapacitors based on petroleum products.
  12. Simultaneous enantioseparation of cyproconazole, bromuconazole, and diniconazole enantiomers by CD-modified MEKC
    Wan Ibrahim WA, Warno SA, Aboul-Enein HY, Hermawan D, Sanagi MM
    Electrophoresis, 2009 Jun;30(11):1976-82.
    PMID: 19517438 DOI: 10.1002/elps.200800499
    An efficient method for the simultaneous enantioseparation of cyproconazole, bromuconazole, and diniconazole enantiomers was developed by CD-modified MEKC using a dual mixture of neutral CDs as chiral selector. Three neutral CDs namely hydroxypropyl-beta-CD, hydroxypropyl-gamma-CD, and gamma-CD were tested as chiral selectors at different concentrations ranging from 10, 20, 30 and 40 mM, but enantiomers of the studied fungicides were not completely separated. The best dual chiral recognition mode for the simultaneous separation of cyproconazole, bromuconazole, and diniconazole enantiomers was achieved with a mixture of 27 mM hydroxypropyl-beta-CD and 3 mM hydroxypropyl-gamma-CD in 25 mM phosphate buffer (pH 3.0) containing 40 mM SDS to which methanol-acetonitrile (10%:5% v/v) was added as organic modifiers. The best separation was based on the appearance of 10 peaks simultaneously, with good resolution (R(s) 1.1-15.9), and peak efficiency (N>200,000). Good repeatabilities in the migration time, peak area, and peak height were obtained in terms of RSD ranging from (0.72 to 1.06)%, (0.39 to 3.49)%, and (1.90 to 4.84)%, respectively.
  13. Simultaneous preconcentration of polar and non-polar organophosphorus pesticides from water samples by using a new sorbent based on mesoporous silica
    Soutoudehnia Korrani Z, Wan Ibrahim WA, Rashidi Nodeh H, Aboul-Enein HY, Sanagi MM
    J Sep Sci, 2016 Mar;39(6):1144-51.
    PMID: 26768840 DOI: 10.1002/jssc.201500896
    A new mesoporous silica based on the sol-gel material cyanopropyltriethoxysilane (CNPrTEOS) was successfully synthesized by the hydrolysis and condensation of CNPrTEOS in the presence of ammonium solution as catalyst and methanol as solvent. It was used as a solid-phase extraction sorbent for the simultaneous extraction of three organophosphorus pesticides, namely, polar dicrotophos and non-polar diazinon and chlorpyrifos. Analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. CNPrTEOS was characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and nitrogen gas adsorption. The surface area and average pore diameter of the optimum sol-gel CNPrTEOS are 379 m(2) /g and 4.7 nm (mesoporous), respectively. The proposed solid-phase extraction based on CNPrTEOS exhibited good linearity in the range of 0.8-100 μg/L, satisfactory precision (1.15-3.82%), high enrichment factor (800) and low limit of detection (0.072-0.091 μg/L). The limits of detection obtained using the proposed solid-phase extraction method are well below the maximum residue limit set by European Union and are also lower (13.6-48.5×) than that obtained by using a commercial CN-SPE cartridge (0.98-4.41 μg/L). The new mesoporous sol-gel CNPrTEOS showed promising alternative as SPE sorbent material for the simultaneous extraction of polar and non-polar organophosphorus pesticides.
  14. Magnetic solid-phase extraction based on modified ferum oxides for enrichment, preconcentration, and isolation of pesticides and selected pollutants
    Wan Ibrahim WA, Nodeh HR, Aboul-Enein HY, Sanagi MM
    Crit Rev Anal Chem, 2015;45(3):270-87.
    PMID: 25849825 DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2014.938148
    Recently, a simple, rapid, high-efficiency, selective, and sensitive method for isolation, preconcentration, and enrichment of analytes has been developed. This new method of sample handling is based on ferum oxides as magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and has been used for magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) of various analytes from various matrices. This review focuses on the applications of modified ferum oxides, especially modified Fe3O4 MNPs, as MSPE adsorbent for pesticide isolation from various matrices. Further perspectives on MSPE based on modified Fe3O4 for inorganic metal ions, organic compounds, and biological species from water samples are also presented. Ferum(III) oxide MNPs (Fe2O3) are also highlighted.
  15. Appropriateness of empirical antibiotics: risk factors of adult patients with sepsis in the ICU
    Al-Sunaidar KA, Prof Abd Aziz N, Prof Hassan Y
    Int J Clin Pharm, 2020 Apr;42(2):527-538.
    PMID: 32144611 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-020-01005-4
    Background The appropriateness of antibiotics is the basis for improving the survival of patients with sepsis. Objective This study aimed to determine the appropriateness of empirical antibiotics, reasons for non-appropriate empirical antibiotics, risk factors of mortality, length of stay in intensive care unit (ICU-LOS) and Acute Physiology And Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score predictors in adult patients with sepsis. Setting An adult ICU of a tertiary hospital in  Malaysia. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted amongst patients with sepsis. Data were retrieved from the patients' files and computer system. Each case was reviewed for the appropriateness of empirical antibiotics based on ICU local guidelines, bacterial sensitivity, dose, frequency, creatinine clearance and time of administration of empirical antibiotics. Multivariable logistic and Cox regression modelling were performed to compute the adjusted association of receiving appropriate or inappropriate empirical antibiotics with ICU mortality. Multivariable linear regression modelling was performed using ICU-LOS and APACHE II scores. Main outcome measures were ICU mortality, severity score (APACHE II scores) and ICU-LOS. Results The total mortality rate amongst the 228 adult ICU patients was 84.6%. Males showed a higher mortality rate (119 [52.2%]) than females (74 [32.5%]). Inappropriate empirical antibiotics were significantly associated with mortality and ICU-LOS (P 
  16. Impact of pharmacist recommendations on the cost of drug therapy in ICU patients at a Malaysian hospital
    Zaidi ST, Hassan Y, Postma MJ, Ng SH
    Pharm World Sci, 2003 Dec;25(6):299-302.
    PMID: 14689820
    To analyse clinical pharmacists interventions in the ICU of the Penang General Hospital (Penang, Malaysia) and to assess the pharmaco-economic impact of these interventions.
  17. Phytochemicals and Potential Therapeutic Targets on Toxoplasma gondii Parasite
    Abdullahi SA, Unyah NZ, Nordin N, Basir R, Nasir WM, Alapid AA, et al.
    Mini Rev Med Chem, 2020;20(9):739-753.
    PMID: 31660810 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666191029105736
    Identification of drug target in protozoan T. gondii is an important step in the development of chemotherapeutic agents. Likewise, exploring phytochemical compounds effective against the parasite can lead to the development of new drug agent that can be useful for prophylaxis and treatment of toxoplasmosis. In this review, we searched for the relevant literature on the herbs that were tested against T. gondii either in vitro or in vivo, as well as different phytochemicals and their potential activities on T. gondii. Potential activities of major phytochemicals, such as alkaloid, flavonoid, terpenoids and tannins on various target sites on T. gondii as well as other related parasites was discussed. It is believed that the phytochemicals from natural sources are potential drug candidates for the treatment of toxoplasmosis with little or no toxicity to humans.
  18. Efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine versus morphine in post-operative cardiac surgery patients
    Abd Aziz N, Chue MC, Yong CY, Hassan Y, Awaisu A, Hassan J, et al.
    Int J Clin Pharm, 2011 Apr;33(2):150-4.
    PMID: 21744187 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-011-9480-7
    OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus morphine as a sedative/analgesic among post-operative cardiac surgery patients.

    METHOD: A randomized controlled open-label study was performed at the cardiothoracic intensive care unit of Penang Hospital, Malaysia. A total of 28 patients who underwent cardiac surgeries were randomly assigned to receive either dexmedetomidine or morphine. Both groups were similar in terms of preoperative baseline characteristics. Efficacy measures included sedation scores and pain intensity and requirements for additional sedative/analgesic. Mean heart rate and arterial blood pressure were used as safety measures. Other measures were additional inotropes, extubation time and other concurrent medications.

    RESULTS: The mean dose of dexmedetomidine infused was 0.12 [SD 0.03] μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹, while that of morphine was 13.2 [SD 5.84] μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹. Dexmedetomidine group showed more benefits in sedation and pain levels, additional sedative/analgesic requirements, and extubation time. No significant differences between the two groups for the outcome measures, except heart rate, which was significantly lower in the dexmedetomidine group.

    CONCLUSION: This preliminary study suggests that dexmedetomidine was at least comparable to morphine in terms of efficacy and safety among cardiac surgery patients. Further studies with larger samples are recommended in order to determine the significant effects of the outcome measures.

  19. Use of evidence-based therapy for the secondary prevention of acute coronary syndromes in Malaysian practice
    Kassab YW, Hassan Y, Aziz NA, Akram H, Ismail O
    J Eval Clin Pract, 2013 Aug;19(4):658-63.
    PMID: 22845427 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2753.2012.01894.x
    RATIONALE: Despite the availability of various prevention guidelines on acute coronary syndrome (ACS), secondary prevention practice utilizing aspirin, beta-blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and statins still can be sub-optimal.
    AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To review and document the utilization of pharmacotherapy for the secondary prevention of ACS in patients discharged from a Malaysian hospital.
    METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Penang, Malaysia. Patients with a primary diagnosis of ACS were identified from medical records over a 4-month period. A range of clinical data was extracted from medical records, including medical history, clinical presentation and pharmacotherapy both on admission and at discharge. This audit focused on the use of four guideline-recommended therapies: aspirin ± clopidogrel, beta-blockers, statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)/angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs).
    RESULTS: Data pertaining to a total of 380 ACS patients was extracted and reviewed, the mean age of the study population was 57.49 years and 73.9% of population was males. Patients with unstable angina accounted for 56.6% of the admissions whereas 23.4% and 20% of the patients were admitted for ST-elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-segment elevation infarct respectively. 95.7% of the patients received antiplatelets comprising of at least aspirin, and 82% received aspirin plus clopidogrel. Furthermore, 80.3% of the patients received a beta-blocker at discharge, 95% a statin and 69.7% received either an ACEI or ARB. Compared with patients who presented with myocardial infarction (with or without ST-segment elevation), those presenting with unstable angina were less likely to receive the combination of aspirin plus clopidogrel or an ACEI/ARB at discharge. Patients over 65 years of age were also less likely to receive a beta-blocker at discharge, compared with younger patients.
    CONCLUSIONS: There is a good adherence to evidence-based guidelines for the secondary prevention of ACS in this local setting. However, there is some potential underutilization in the older population and patients presenting with unstable angina.
    KEYWORDS: acute coronary syndromes; evidence-based pharmacotherapy; secondary prevention; utilization
  20. Fulltext Physician adherence to hypertension treatment guidelines and drug acquisition costs of antihypertensive drugs at the cardiac clinic: a pilot study
    Abdulameer SA, Sahib MN, Aziz NA, Hassan Y, Alrazzaq HA, Ismail O
    Patient Prefer Adherence, 2012;6:101-8.
    PMID: 22346346 DOI: 10.2147/PPA.S27223
    Prescribing pattern surveys are one of the pharmacoepidemiological techniques that provide an unbiased picture of prescribing habits. Prescription surveys permit the identification of suboptimal prescribing patterns for further evaluation. The aims of this study were to determine the prescribing trend, adherence of the prescribers to the guideline, and the impact of drug expenditure on drug utilization at the cardiac clinic of Penang Hospital, Malaysia. This was a cross-sectional study. Demographic data of the patients, diagnoses and the drugs prescribed were recorded. The average drug acquisition costs (ADAC) were calculated for each antihypertensive drug class on a daily and annual basis. Adherence to the guideline was calculated as a percentage of the total number of patients. A total of 313 individuals fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The average age of the study population was 59.30 ± 10.35 years. The mean number of drugs per prescription in the study was 2.09 ± 0.78. There were no significant differences in the demographic data. Antihypertensive drugs were used in monotherapy and polytherapy in 20.8% and 79.2% of the patients, respectively. Adherence to the guideline regarding prescription occurred in 85.30% of the patients. The lowest priced drug class was diuretics and the highest was angiotensin-receptor blockers. In conclusion, the total adherence to the guideline was good; the adherence percentage only slightly decreased with a co-existing comorbidity (such as diabetes mellitus). The use of thiazide diuretics was encouraged because they are well tolerated and inexpensive, and perindopril was still prescribed for diabetic patients since it is relatively cheap (generic drug) and its daily dosage is beneficial.

    Study site: cardiac clinic of Penang Hospital, Malaysia
Related Terms
Filters
Contact Us

Please provide feedback to Administrator (afdal@afpm.org.my)

External Links