Displaying publications 181 - 200 of 298 in total

Abstract:
Sort:
  1. Effects of sevoflurane increments on left ventricular systolic long-axis performance during sevoflurane-remifentanil anesthesia for cardiovascular surgery
    Kwon WK, Sung TY, Yu GY, Sidik H, Kang WS, Lee Y, et al.
    J Anesth, 2016 Apr;30(2):223-31.
    PMID: 26577248 DOI: 10.1007/s00540-015-2094-9
    BACKGROUND: The direct impact of sevoflurane on intraoperative left ventricular (LV) systolic performance during cardiac surgery has not been fully elucidated. Peak systolic tissue Doppler velocities of the lateral mitral annulus (S') have been used to evaluate LV systolic long-axis performance. We hypothesized that incremental sevoflurane concentration (1.0-3.0 inspired-vol%) would dose-dependently reduce S' in patients undergoing cardiac surgery due to mitral or aortic insufficiency.

    METHODS: In 20 patients undergoing cardiac surgery in sevoflurane-remifentanil anesthesia, we analyzed intraoperative S' values which were determined after 10 min exposure to sevoflurane at 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 inspired-vol% (T1, T2, and T3, respectively) with a fixed remifentanil dose (1.0 μg/kg/min) using transesophageal echocardiography.

    RESULTS: Linear mixed-effect modeling demonstrated dose-dependent declines in S' according to the end-tidal sevoflurane concentration increments (C(ET)-sevoflurane, p < 0.001): the mean value of S' reduction for each 1.0 vol%-increment of C(ET)-sevoflurane was 1.7 cm/s (95 % confidence interval 1.4-2.1 cm/s). Medians of S' at T1, T2, and T3 (9.6, 8.9, and 7.5 cm/s, respectively) also exhibited significant declines (by 6.6, 15.6, and 21.2 % for T1 vs. T2, T2 vs. T3, and T1 vs. T3, p < 0.001, =0.002, and <0.001 in Friedman pairwise comparisons, respectively).

    CONCLUSIONS: Administering sevoflurane as a part of a sevoflurane-remifentanil anesthesia regimen appears to dose-dependently reduce S', indicating LV systolic performance, in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Further studies may be required to evaluate the clinical implications of these findings.

  2. A case of severe Plasmodium knowlesi in a splenectomized patient
    Boo YL, Lim HT, Chin PW, Lim SY, Hoo FK
    Parasitol Int, 2016 Feb;65(1):55-57.
    PMID: 26454133 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2015.10.003
    Plasmodium knowlesi, a zoonotic malaria, is now considered the fifth species of Plasmodium causing malaria in humans. With its 24-hour erythrocytic stage of development, it has raised concern regarding its high potential in replicating and leading to severe illness. Spleen is an important site for removal of parasitized red blood cells and generating immunity. We reported a case of knowlesi malaria in a non-immune, splenectomized patient. We observed the delay in parasite clearance, high parasitic counts, and severe illness at presentation. A thorough search through literature revealed several case reports on falciparum and vivax malaria in splenectomized patients. However, literature available for knowlesi malaria in splenectomized patient is limited. Further studies need to be carried out to clarify the role of spleen in host defense against human malaria especially P. knowlesi.
  3. Fulltext Draft Genome Sequence of Lysinibacillus sp. Strain A1, Isolated from Malaysian Tropical Soil
    Chan KG, Chen JW, Chang CY, Yin WF, Chan XY
    Genome Announc, 2015;3(2).
    PMID: 25814592 DOI: 10.1128/genomeA.00095-15
    In this work, we describe the genome of Lysinibacillus sp. strain A1, which was isolated from tropical soil. Analysis of its genome sequence shows the presence of a gene encoding for a putative peptidase responsible for nitrogen compounds.
  4. Chlamydia pneumoniae IgG seropositivity and clinical history of ischemic heart disease in Singapore
    Koh WP, Taylor MB, Chew SK, Phoon MC, Kang KL, Chow VT
    J Microbiol Immunol Infect, 2003 Sep;36(3):169-74.
    PMID: 14582560
    There is still substantial uncertainty concerning the association between Chlamydia pneumoniae and ischemic heart disease. This may partly be explained by the adjustment for potential confounders in different population studies. This is the first study in Singapore to look at the association of C. pneumoniae seropositivity with ischemic heart disease in a multivariate analysis. A random sample of 714 persons aged between 35 and 69 years was selected from the participants of the Singapore National Health Survey conducted in 1998. Data on clinical measurements and conditions were collected using biochemical tests and interviewer-based questionnaires. Ischemic heart disease was defined by the Rose questionnaire and included history suggestive of angina and/or myocardial infarction. Immunoglobulin G antibodies for C. pneumoniae were detected using an indirect microimmunofluorescence test, and seropositivity was defined as IgG titers > or = 1:16. There were no statistically significant differences in the prevalence rates of seropositivity to C. pneumoniae among the three ethnic groups, that is, Chinese (80.4%), Malays (74.0%), and Asian Indians (73.2%). There was no association between seropositivity and ischemic heart disease after adjustment for age alone (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.54-1.83) or for age, sex, and other risk factors of atherosclerosis (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.53-1.84). C. pneumoniae Immunoglobulin G seropositivity was not associated with an increased risk of ischemic heart disease as defined by the Rose angina questionnaire in Singapore.
  5. Comprehensive genomic and phenotypic metal resistance profile of Pseudomonas putida strain S13.1.2 isolated from a vineyard soil
    Chong TM, Yin WF, Chen JW, Mondy S, Grandclément C, Faure D, et al.
    AMB Express, 2016 Dec;6(1):95.
    PMID: 27730570
    Trace metals are required in many cellular processes in bacteria but also induce toxic effects to cells when present in excess. As such, various forms of adaptive responses towards extracellular trace metal ions are essential for the survival and fitness of bacteria in their environment. A soil Pseudomonas putida, strain S13.1.2 has been isolated from French vineyard soil samples, and shown to confer resistance to copper ions. Further investigation revealed a high capacity to tolerate elevated concentrations of various heavy metals including nickel, cobalt, cadmium, zinc and arsenic. The complete genome analysis was conducted using single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing and the genome consisted in a single chromosome at the size of 6.6 Mb. Presence of operons and gene clusters such as cop, cus, czc, nik, and asc systems were detected and accounted for the observed resistance phenotypes. The unique features in terms of specificity and arrangements of some genetic determinants were also highlighted in the study. Our findings has provided insights into the adaptation of this strain to accumulation and persistence of copper and other heavy metals in vineyard soil environment.
  6. Fulltext Novel Carbon Quantum Dots/Silver Blended Polysulfone Membrane with Improved Properties and Enhanced Performance in Tartrazine Dye Removal
    Gan JY, Chong WC, Sim LC, Koo CH, Pang YL, Mahmoudi E, et al.
    Membranes (Basel), 2020 Aug 03;10(8).
    PMID: 32756315 DOI: 10.3390/membranes10080175
    This study produced a novel polysulfone (PSF) membrane for dye removal using lemon-derived carbon quantum dots-grafted silver nanoparticles (Ag/CQDs) as membrane nanofiller. The preparation of CQDs was completed by undergoing hydrothermal treatment to carbonize the pulp-free lemon juice into CQD solution. The CQD solution was then coupled with Ag nanoparticles to form Ag/CQDs nanohybrid. The synthesized powders were characterized in terms of morphologies, functional groups and surface charges. A set of membranes was fabricated with different loadings of Ag/CQDs powder using the nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) method. The modified membranes were studied in terms of morphology, elemental composition, hydrophilicity and pore size. In addition, pure water flux, rejection test and fouling analysis of the membranes were evaluated using tartrazine dye. From the results, 0.5 wt % of Ag/CQD was identified as the optimum loading to be incorporated with the pristine PSF membrane. The modified membrane exhibited an excellent pure water permeability and dye rejection with improvements of 169% and 92%, respectively. In addition, the composite membrane also experienced lower flux decline, higher reversible fouling and lower irreversible fouling. This study has proven that the addition of CQD additives into membrane greatly improves the polymeric membrane's properties and filtration performance.
  7. Fulltext Effect of Hydrolyzed Bird's Nest on β-Cell Function and Insulin Signaling in Type 2 Diabetic Mice
    Choy KW, Zain ZM, Murugan DD, Giribabu N, Zamakshshari NH, Lim YM, et al.
    Front Pharmacol, 2021;12:632169.
    PMID: 33986669 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.632169
    Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by both resistance to the action of insulin and defects in insulin secretion. Bird's nest, which is derived from the saliva of swiftlets are well known to possess multiple health benefits dating back to Imperial China. However, it's effect on diabetes mellitus and influence on the actions of insulin action remains to be investigated. In the present study, the effect of standardized aqueous extract of hydrolyzed edible bird nest (HBN) on metabolic characteristics and insulin signaling pathway in pancreas, liver and skeletal muscle of db/db, a type 2 diabetic mice model was investigated. Male db/db diabetic and its euglycemic control, C57BL/6J mice were administered HBN (75 and 150 mg/kg) or glibenclamide (1 mg/kg) orally for 28 days. Metabolic parameters were evaluated by measuring fasting blood glucose, serum insulin and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Insulin signaling and activation of inflammatory pathways in liver, adipose, pancreas and muscle tissue were evaluated by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured in the serum at the end of the treatment. The results showed that db/db mice treated with HBN significantly reversed the elevated fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, serum pro-inflammatory cytokines levels and the impaired OGTT without affecting the body weight of the mice in all groups. Furthermore, HBN treatment significantly ameliorated pathological changes and increased the protein expression of insulin, and glucose transporters in the pancreatic islets (GLUT-2), liver and skeletal muscle (GLUT-4). Likewise, the Western blots analysis denotes improved insulin signaling and antioxidant enzyme, decreased reactive oxygen species producing enzymes and inflammatory molecules in the liver and adipose tissues of HBN treated diabetic mice. These results suggest that HBN improves β-cell function and insulin signaling by attenuation of oxidative stress mediated chronic inflammation in the type 2 diabetic mice.
  8. Spectrophotometric evaluation of the efficacy of natural versus commercial bleaching agents
    Kohli S, Al-Haddad A, Siew AY, Nam WL, Hamdan HD, Roslan QA
    Am J Dent, 2021 04;34(2):75-79.
    PMID: 33940663
    PURPOSE: To compare the bleaching efficacy of in-office (Opalescence), professional home (LumiBrite), over the counter (WhiteLight) and natural (strawberry extract) bleaching agents.

    METHODS: 80 teeth were selected and divided into two groups which were stained with black coffee and red wine respectively. The stained specimens were subdivided into four subgroups to be bleached with Opalescence, LumiBrite, WhiteLight and strawberry extract. Color measurements were made using spectrophotometer at baseline level, after staining, after bleaching and 1 week after bleaching. The ΔE₀₀ was calculated post bleaching (ΔE₀₀1), after 1-week follow up (ΔE₀₀2) and color changes between 1-week follow up and baseline (ΔE₀₀3). Data were analyzed by paired t-test and ANOVA with a significant difference of P< 0.05.

    RESULTS: Paired t-test showed significant differences in ΔE₀₀1 and ΔE₀₀2 for both stained specimens (P< 0.001). For black coffee stained specimens, Whitelight had significantly higher ΔE₀₀2 compared to the other bleaching agents (P< 0.05). For red wine stain, Whitelight also showed the significantly lowest ΔE₀₀1 (P< 0.001) and the highest ΔE₀₀2 (P< 0.001) compared to other groups. LumiBrite showed the significantly lowest ΔE₀₀3 for red wine stained specimens (P< 0.05). Whitelight had the poorest bleaching efficacy with deterioration effect after 1-week follow up. Opalescence, LumiBrite and strawberry extract had clinically perceptible and comparable bleaching efficacy. Strawberry extract appeared to be a potential natural bleaching agent with a desirable effect.

    CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Commercial tooth bleaching agents can cause several undesirable side effects such as damage to enamel, hypersensitivity and even affecting the pulp. Strawberry extract is a natural, effective bleaching agent that may have reduced side effects.

  9. Fulltext Antimicrobial stewardship program in a Malaysian district hospital: First year experience
    Sing DY, Boo YL, Mukhlis R, Chin PW, Hoo FK
    Pak J Med Sci, 2016 Jul-Aug;32(4):999-1004.
    PMID: 27648056
    Backgrounds & Objective: Antimicrobial resistance is an alarming public health threat that requires urgent global solution. Implementation of antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) is an essential practice element for healthcare institutions in gate-keeping judicious antimicrobial use. This study highlighted the development, first year experience, and result of the implementation of ASP utilizing persuasive and restrictive approaches in a Malaysian district hospital.
    Methods: An observational study was conducted between January 2015 to December 2015 on implementation of ASP among hospitalized inpatients age 12 years old and above.
    Results: Recommendations were provided for 60% of cases (110 patients) with the average acceptance rate of 83.33%. Majority of the interventions were to stop the antimicrobial therapy (30.3%), and the most common audited antimicrobials was Piperacillin/Tazobactam (25.5%), followed by Meropenem (11.82%), Amoxicillin/Clavulanate and Vancomycin (8.18%) respectively. The concordance rate towards authorization policy was increased in 2015 (71.59% of cases) as compared before the implementation of ASP in 2014 (60.6% of cases). Restrictive enforcement under ASP had been shown to improve significantly adherence rate towards antimicrobials authorization policy (p-value: 0.004).
    Conclusion: ASP was successfully implemented in a district hospital. Future studies on its clinical outcomes are important to evaluate its effectiveness as well as focus on the improvement to the pre-existing strategies and measures.
    KEY WORDS: Antimicrobial stewardship, Anti-Infective agents, Drug resistance, Malaysia, Rural hospital
  10. Fulltext Whole-Genome Sequence and Fosfomycin Resistance of Bacillus sp. Strain G3(2015) Isolated from Seawater off the Coast of Malaysia
    Chan XY, Chen JW, Adrian TG, Hong KW, Chang CY, Yin WF, et al.
    Genome Announc, 2017 Mar 30;5(13).
    PMID: 28360153 DOI: 10.1128/genomeA.00067-17
    Bacillus sp. is a Gram-positive bacterium that is commonly found in seawater. In this study, the genome of marine Bacillus sp. strain G3(2015) was sequenced using MiSeq. The fosfomycin resistant gene fosB was identified upon bacterial genome annotation.
  11. Fulltext MicroRNAs regulating cluster of differentiation 46 (CD46) in cardioembolic and non-cardioembolic stroke
    Tan JR, Tan KS, Yong FL, Armugam A, Wang CW, Jeyaseelan K, et al.
    PLoS One, 2017;12(2):e0172131.
    PMID: 28199366 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172131
    Ischemic stroke is a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Among the ischemic stroke subtypes, cardioembolic stroke is with poor functional outcome (Modified Rankin score ≥ 2). Early diagnosis of cardioembolic stroke will prove beneficial. This study examined the microRNAs targeting cluster of differentiation 46 (CD46), a potential biomarker for cardioembolic stroke. CD46 mRNA level was shown to be differentially expressed (p < 0.001) between cardioembolic stroke (median = 1.32) and non-cardioembolic stroke subtypes (large artery stroke median = 5.05; small vessel stroke median = 6.45). Bioinformatic search showed that miR-19a, -20a, -185 and -374b were found to target CD46 mRNA and further verified by luciferase reporter assay. The levels of miRNAs targeting CD46 were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in non-cardioembolic stroke patients (large artery stroke median: miR-19a = 0.63, miR-20a = 0.42, miR-185 = 0.32, miR-374b = 0.27; small artery stroke median: miR-19a = 0.07, miR-20a = 0.06, miR-185 = 0.07, miR-374b = 0.05) as compared to cardioembolic stroke patients (median: miR-19a = 2.69, miR-20a = 1.36, miR-185 = 1.05, miR-374b = 1.23). ROC curve showed that the miRNAs could distinguish cardioembolic stroke from non-cardioembolic stroke with better AUC value as compared to CD46. Endogenous expression of CD46 in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) were found to be regulated by miR-19a and miR-20a. Thus implicating that miR-19a and -20a may play a role in pathogenesis of cardioembolic stroke, possibly via the endothelial cells.
  12. Gangrenous giant Meckel's diverticulitis masquerading acute appendicitis: a surgical conundrum
    Teng WW, Yeap BT, Azizan N, Hayati F, Chuah JA
    ANZ J Surg, 2019 09;89(9):E379-E380.
    PMID: 29695030 DOI: 10.1111/ans.14503
  13. Fulltext Guillain-Barré syndrome complicating dengue fever: Two case reports
    Boo YL, Aris MAM, Chin PW, Sulaiman WAW, Basri H, Hoo FK
    Ci Ji Yi Xue Za Zhi, 2015 11 17;28(4):157-159.
    PMID: 28757747 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcmj.2015.09.007
    Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare neurological manifestation associated with dengue infection. More common antecedent infections include Campylobacter jejuni and Cytomegalovirus infection. Here, we report two cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome complicating dengue infection.
  14. Fulltext Neglected Intestinal Parasites, Malnutrition and Associated Key Factors: A Population Based Cross-Sectional Study among Indigenous Communities in Sarawak, Malaysia
    Rajoo Y, Ambu S, Lim YA, Rajoo K, Tey SC, Lu CW, et al.
    PLoS One, 2017;12(1):e0170174.
    PMID: 28095446 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170174
    Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been recognized as one of the most significant causes of illness among disadvantaged communities. Many studies have been conducted on the prevalence of IPIs in Malaysia. However, these studies mostly focused on the indigenous groups in Peninsular Malaysia. The present study was conducted to provide the current baseline data on prevalence of IPIs, anaemia, malnutrition and associated risk factors among the indigenous communities in Sarawak, situation at northwest Borneo island of Malaysia. A cross sectional study was conducted among the longhouses communities. Stool samples were obtained and examined for the presence of IPIs using microscopy technique. Haemoglobin measurement was done using a portable haemoglobin analyzer. Malnutrition (i.e., stunting, underweight and wasting) was assessed using the WHO Anthro software. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software. A total of 341participants took part in this study. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 57.5%. Multivariate analysis indicated that the absence of toilets (OR = 1.6; 95% CI = 1.1-2.7; p = 0.002) and close contact with animals (OR = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.3-2.9; p = 0.027) as significant predictors for IPIs. The incidence of anaemia was 36.4%. The incidence of underweight, wasting and stunting were 22.2%, 5.6% and 35.4%, respectively. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that low level of parental education attainment (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.2-3.0; p = 0.006) was identified as significant predictor for anaemia. The incidence of wasting was significantly associated with mild anaemia (OR = 1.2; 95% CI = 0.9-1.7; p = 0.024). Low household income was identified as significant predictor for stunting (OR = 2.1; 95% CI = 9.8-22.2; p = 0.001) and underweight (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 5.6-18.7; p = 0.037), respectively. Essentially, the present study highlighted that intestinal parasitic infections, anaemia and malnutrition are still prevalent among rural indigenous community in Sarawak. Improvement of socioeconomic status, periodic mass deworming, iron supplementation and health education program should be included in the control and prevention of public health strategies.
  15. Gut microbiome: Microflora association with obesity and obesity-related comorbidities
    Lone JB, Koh WY, Parray HA, Paek WK, Lim J, Rather IA, et al.
    Microb Pathog, 2018 Nov;124:266-271.
    PMID: 30138755 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.08.036
    Obesity and obesity-related comorbidities have transformed into a global epidemic. The number of people suffering from obesity has increased dramatically within the past few decades. This rise in obesity cannot alone be explained by genetic factors; however, diet, environment, lifestyle, and presence of other diseases undoubtedly contribute towards obesity etiology. Nevertheless, evidence suggests that alterations in the gut microbial diversity and composition have a role to play in energy assimilation, storage, and expenditure. In this review, the impact of gut microbiota composition on metabolic functionalities, and potential therapeutics such as gut microbial modulation to manage obesity and its associated comorbidities are highlighted. Optimistically, an understanding of the gut microbiome could facilitate the innovative clinical strategies to restore the normal gut flora and improve lifestyle-related diseases in the future.
  16. Understanding the multifaceted mechanisms of diabetic wound healing and therapeutic application of stem cells conditioned medium in the healing process
    Fui LW, Lok MPW, Govindasamy V, Yong TK, Lek TK, Das AK
    J Tissue Eng Regen Med, 2019 12;13(12):2218-2233.
    PMID: 31648415 DOI: 10.1002/term.2966
    Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation seems to be a promising new therapy for diabetic wound healing (DWH), and currently, arrays of MSCs from various sources ranging from umbilical, adipose to dental sources are available as a treatment modality for this disease. However, it now appears that only a fraction of transplanted cells actually assimilate and survive in host tissues suggesting that the major mechanism by which stem cells participate in tissue repair are most likely related to their secretome level. These include a wide range of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines, which can be found from the conditioned medium (CM) used to culture the cells. Basic studies and preclinical work confirm that the therapeutic effect of CMs are comparable with the application of stem cells. This review describes in detail the wound healing process in diabetes and the cellular and biological factors that influence the process. Subsequently, through a comprehensive literature search of studies related to wound healing in diabetics, we aim to provide an overview of scientific merits of using MSCs-CM in the treatment of diabetic wound as well as the significant caveats, which restricts its potential use in clinical set-ups. To our best knowledge, this is one of the first review papers that collect the importance of stem cells as an alternative treatment to the DWH. We anticipate that the success of this treatment will have a significant clinical impact on diabetic wounds.
  17. Fulltext Flavonoids as Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agents Targeting Nuclear Factor-Kappa B (NFκB) Signaling in Cardiovascular Diseases: A Mini Review
    Choy KW, Murugan D, Leong XF, Abas R, Alias A, Mustafa MR
    Front Pharmacol, 2019;10:1295.
    PMID: 31749703 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01295
    Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as angina, hypertension, myocardial ischemia, and heart failure are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. One of the major transcription factors widely associated with CVDs is nuclear factor-kappa B (NFκB). NFκB activation initiates the canonical and non-conical pathways that promotes activation of transcription factors leading to inflammation, such as leukocyte adhesion molecules, cytokines, and chemokines. Flavonoids are bioactive polyphenolic compounds found abundantly in various fruits, vegetables, beverages (tea, coffee), nuts, and cereal products with cardiovascular protective properties. Flavonoids can be classified into six subgroups based on their chemical structures: flavanones, flavones, flavonols, flavan-3-ols, isoflavones, and anthocyanidins. As NFκB inhibitors, these flavonoids may modulate the expression of pro-inflammatory genes leading to the attenuation of the inflammatory responses underlying various cardiovascular pathology. This review presents an update on the anti-inflammatory actions of flavonoids via inhibition of NFκB mechanism supporting the therapeutic potential of these natural compounds in various CVDs.
  18. Fulltext Edible Bird's Nest Protects Against Hyperglycemia-Induced Oxidative Stress and Endothelial Dysfunction
    Murugan DD, Md Zain Z, Choy KW, Zamakshshari NH, Choong MJ, Lim YM, et al.
    Front Pharmacol, 2019;10:1624.
    PMID: 32116666 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01624
    Increased oxidative stress by hyperglycemia is a major cause of vascular complications in diabetes. Bird's nest, which is made from the saliva of swiftlets has both medicinal and nutritional values dated back to ancient China. However, its role in improving endothelial dysfunction due to diabetes is yet to be elucidated. The present study examined the protective effect and mechanism of action of the aqueous extract of hydrolyzed edible bird nest (HBN) on endothelium in models of diabetes, in vitro and in vivo. Male db/m+ and db/db mice were orally administered with or without HBN and glibenclamide for 28 days, followed by vascular reactivity studies in mouse aortas. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and isolated mouse aorta from C57BL/6J were treated with high glucose (HG), HBN, sialic acid (SA), glibenclamide, and apocynin, respectively. The effects of HBN on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability were assessed by Western blot, 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin-diacetate (DCF-DA), and 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7' difluorofluorescein (DAF-FM DA) in HUVECs, isolated mouse aorta, and db/db diabetic mice. HBN significantly reversed the endothelial dysfunction in diabetic mice and isolated mouse aorta. HBN normalized ROS over-production of NOX2 and nitrotyrosine, reversed the reduction of anti-oxidant marker, SOD-1 as well as restored NO bioavailability in both HUVECs challenged with HG and in db/db diabetic mice. Similarly, HG-induced elevation of oxidative stress in HUVECs were reversed by SA, glibenclamide, and apocynin. This attests that HBN restores endothelial function and protects endothelial cells against oxidative damage induced by HG in HUVECs, isolated mouse aorta, and db/db diabetic mice via modulating ROS mechanism, which subsequently increases NO bioavailability. This result demonstrates the potential role of HBN in preserving endothelial function and management of micro- or macrovascular complications in diabetes.
  19. Fulltext Role of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch-Derived Cellulose in Improving the Sonocatalytic Activity of Silver-Doped Titanium Dioxide
    Chai YD, Pang YL, Lim S, Chong WC, Lai CW, Abdullah AZ
    Polymers (Basel), 2021 Oct 14;13(20).
    PMID: 34685289 DOI: 10.3390/polym13203530
    In this study, a novel cellulose/Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite was successfully synthesized via the hydrothermal method. The cellulose extracted from oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) could address the disposal issue created by OPEFB biomass. Characterization studies such as FESEM, EDX, HRTEM, XRD, FTIR, UV-Vis DRS, PL, XPS, and surface analysis were conducted. It was observed that the incorporation of cellulose could hinder the agglomeration, reduce the band gap energy to 3 eV, increase the specific surface area to 150.22 m3/g, and lower the recombination rate of the generated electron-hole pairs compared to Ag/TiO2 nanoparticles. The excellent properties enhance the sonocatalytic degradation efficiency of 10 mg/L Congo red (up to 81.3% after 10 min ultrasonic irradiation) in the presence of 0.5 g/L cellulose/Ag/TiO2 at 24 kHz and 280 W. The improvement of catalytic activity was due to the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag and numerous hydroxyl groups on cellulose that capture the holes, which delay the recombination rate of the charge carriers in TiO2. This study demonstrated an alternative approach in the development of an efficient sonocatalyst for the sonocatalytic degradation of Congo red.
  20. Fulltext Rate of achievement of therapeutic outcomes and factors associated with control of non-communicable diseases in rural east Malaysia: implications for policy and practice
    Keng ZY, Saw YM, Thung SC, Chong WW, Albert A, Kariya T, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2021 02 15;11(1):3812.
    PMID: 33589659 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83168-2
    Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are an increasing problem worldwide, including in Malaysia. National surveys have been performed by the government but had poor coverage in east Malaysia, particularly in rural regions. This study aimed to describe the achievement of target therapeutic outcomes in the control of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HPT), and dyslipidemia (DLP) among diabetic patients in rural east Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among DM patients who visited the NCDs clinic in Lundu Hospital, Sarawak, Malaysia, from Jan to March 2016. In total, 214 patients (male, 37.9%; female, 62.1%) were recruited using a systemic sampling method. Multiple logistic regression models were applied to estimate the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and confidence interval (CI) for the target therapeutic achievement in the control of DM, HPT, and DLP. Compared to the national average, therapeutic target achievement in Lundu was higher for DM (43.0% vs. 23.8%), equal for DLP (35.8% vs. 37.8%) but lower for HPT (30.9% vs. 47.9%). DM patients who had at least yearly HbA1c monitoring (AOR 2.30, 95% CI 1.04-5.06, P = 0.039), and those 58.7 years or older (AOR 2.50, 95% CI 1.32-4.74, P = 0.005) were more likely to achieve the therapeutic target for DM. Health promotion and public education regarding HPT needs to be emphasized in rural Malaysia. HbA1c monitoring at least once a year was one of the important factors associated with achieving DM control in rural east Malaysia. Accessibility to HbA1c tests and monitoring should be ensured for diabetic patients.
Related Terms
Filters
Contact Us

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

External Links