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  1. A laudable strategy to manage bacterial panicle blight disease of rice using biocontrol agents
    Ngalimat MS, Mohd Hata E, Zulperi D, Ismail SI, Ismail MR, Mohd Zainudin NAI, et al.
    J Basic Microbiol, 2023 Nov;63(11):1180-1195.
    PMID: 37348082 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202300182
    Bacterial panicle blight (BPB) disease is a dreadful disease in rice-producing countries. Burkholderia glumae, a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, and flagellated bacterium was identified as the primary culprit for BPB disease. In 2019, the disease was reported in 18 countries, and to date, it has been spotted in 26 countries. Rice yield has been reduced by up to 75% worldwide due to this disease. Interestingly, the biocontrol strategy offers a promising alternative to manage BPB disease. This review summarizes the management status of BPB disease using biological control agents (BCA). Bacteria from the genera Bacillus, Burkholderia, Enterobacter, Pantoea, Pseudomonas, and Streptomyces have been examined as BCA under in vitro, glasshouse, and field conditions. Besides bacteria, bacteriophages have also been reported to reduce BPB pathogens under in vitro and glasshouse conditions. Here, the overview of the mechanisms of bacteria and bacteriophages in controlling BPB pathogens is addressed. The applications of BCA using various delivery methods could effectively manage BPB disease to benefit the agroecosystems and food security.
    Matched MeSH terms: Plant Diseases/prevention & control
  2. Role of dietary supplements in the continuous battle against COVID-19
    Zaman R, Ravichandran V, Tan CK
    Phytother Res, 2024 Feb;38(2):1071-1088.
    PMID: 38168043 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8096
    A sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic was a big blow to the world community on every level. Created by a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, which was previously unknown to the human immune system. The expert opinion almost immediately united on the fact that the most effective way of fighting the pandemic would be by building immunity artificially via a mass immunization program. However, it took about a year for the approval of the first vaccine against COVID-19. In the meantime, a big part of the general population started adapting nutritious diet plans and dietary supplements to boost natural immunity as a potential prophylactic strategy against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Whether they originate from mainstream medicine, such as synthetic supplements, or traditional herbal remedies in the form of single or poly-herbs, these supplements may comprise various components that exhibit immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial characteristics. There is a substantial body of predictions and expert opinions suggesting that enhancing one's diet with dietary supplements containing additional nutrients and bioactive compounds like vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, phytochemicals, and probiotics can enhance the immune system's ability to develop resistance against COVID-19, although none of them have any conclusive evidence nor officially recommended by World Health Organization (WHO). The current review critically acclaims the gap between public perception-based preference and real evidence-based study to weigh the actual benefit of dietary supplements in relation to COVID-19 prevention and management.
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  3. Fulltext Tuberculosis control in prisons: current situation and research gaps
    Dara M, Acosta CD, Melchers NV, Al-Darraji HA, Chorgoliani D, Reyes H, et al.
    Int J Infect Dis, 2015 Mar;32:111-7.
    PMID: 25809766 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2014.12.029
    Tuberculosis (TB) in penitentiary services (prisons) is a major challenge to TB control. This review article describes the challenges that prison systems encounter in TB control and provides solutions for the more efficient use of limited resources based on the three pillars of the post-2015 End TB Strategy. This paper also proposes research priorities for TB control in prisons based on current challenges.
    Matched MeSH terms: Tuberculosis/prevention & control*
  4. Fulltext Caught in the web: a review of web-based suicide prevention
    Lai MH, Maniam T, Chan LF, Ravindran AV
    J Med Internet Res, 2014;16(1):e30.
    PMID: 24472876 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.2973
    Suicide is a serious and increasing problem worldwide. The emergence of the digital world has had a tremendous impact on people's lives, both negative and positive, including an impact on suicidal behaviors.
    Matched MeSH terms: Suicide/prevention & control*
  5. A quality improvement project: Reducing bloodstream infection by improving adherence to the care bundle of peripheral vascular catheters at the COVID-19 treatment centre
    Tan KT, Benedict SLH, Gani YM, Chidambaran SK
    Med J Malaysia, 2022 Sep;77(5):590-596.
    PMID: 36169071
    INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, bloodstream infection (BSI) rates were substantially rising in Sungai Buloh Hospital (HSB). It is believed that the COVID-19 pandemic has had an adverse impact on BSI incidence caused by contaminated periphery vascular catheters (PVCs). The study's objective is to reduce the BSI rates in HSB by improving adherence to the PVC care bundle via the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) approach.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quality improvement (QI) project was employed over four months, from June to September 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic in HSB. All adults hospitalised for COVID-19 with intravenous lines were subjected to data collection. A baseline audit was conducted to study BSI incidence from April to May 2021. Implementation was carried out by PDSA cycles and data on BSI rates per 100 admissions was described using a monthly run chart.

    RESULTS: At baseline, the BSI rate per 100 admissions was 5.44 before implementing our QI project. Initial changes via PDSA cycles did not bring significant improvements to BSI rates and a rising trend in BSI rates was observed after two PDSA cycles. Further audits identified the problem of noncompliance with the practice of aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT) and a lack of effective leadership in implementing the PVC care bundle. The third PDSA cycle focused on adopting practical leadership skills among senior clinicians to ensure compliance with the prevention bundle and to encourage the use of ultrasound guidance for difficult line insertion. After the third PDSA cycle, the BSI rate per 100 admissions was reduced from 6.41 to 4.34 (p < 0.05). The BSI rates continued to decline down the line for another five months.

    CONCLUSION: Through QI initiatives, the risk of BSI can be significantly reduced.

    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  6. Fulltext Shifting gender barriers in immunisation in the COVID-19 pandemic response and beyond
    Nassiri-Ansari T, Atuhebwe P, Ayisi AS, Goulding S, Johri M, Allotey P, et al.
    Lancet, 2022 Jul 02;400(10345):24.
    PMID: 35780789 DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(22)01189-8
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  7. Fulltext Asian Young Doctors Session at the 64th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Gynecologic Oncology (JSGO): Educational Initiatives in the Next Generation for a New Era after the COVID-19 Pandemic
    Kobayashi Y, Komatsu H, Isobe M, Meena J, Weng CS, Kim SI, et al.
    J Gynecol Oncol, 2023 Jan;34(1):e22.
    PMID: 36509465 DOI: 10.3802/jgo.2023.34.e22
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  8. Fulltext Should I Help? Prosocial Behaviour during the COVID-19 Pandemic
    Wider W, Lim MX, Wong LS, Chan CK, Maidin SS
    Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2022 Dec 01;19(23).
    PMID: 36498158 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316084
    The Movement Control Order (MCO) enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly altered the social life and behaviour of the Malaysian population. Because the society is facing huge social and economic challenges that need individuals to work together to solve, prosocial behaviour is regarded as one of the most important social determinants. Because it is related with individual and societal benefits, participating in prosocial activities may be a major protective factor during times of global crisis. Rather than focusing only on medical and psychiatric paradigms, perhaps all that is necessary to overcome the COVID-19 risks is for individuals to make personal sacrifices for the sake of others. In reality, a large number of initiatives proven to be beneficial in decreasing viral transmission include a trade-off between individual and collective interests. Given its crucial importance, the purpose of this concept paper is to provide some insight into prosocial behaviour during the COVID-19 period. Understanding prosocial behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial because it may assist in the establishment of a post-COVID society and provide useful strategies for coping with future crises.
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  9. Fulltext The Year of the Rabbit and the COVID Pandemic
    Binns C, Low WY, Shunnmugam B
    Asia Pac J Public Health, 2023 Jan;35(1):5-6.
    PMID: 36694949 DOI: 10.1177/10105395221150836
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  10. Fulltext Competing health risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and early response: A scoping review
    Baral S, Rao A, Rwema JOT, Lyons C, Cevik M, Kågesten AE, et al.
    PLoS One, 2022;17(8):e0273389.
    PMID: 36037216 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273389
    BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has rapidly emerged as a global public health threat with infections recorded in nearly every country. Responses to COVID-19 have varied in intensity and breadth, but generally have included domestic and international travel limitations, closure of non-essential businesses, and repurposing of health services. While these interventions have focused on testing, treatment, and mitigation of COVID-19, there have been reports of interruptions to diagnostic, prevention, and treatment services for other public health threats.

    OBJECTIVES: We conducted a scoping review to characterize the early impact of COVID-19 on HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, sexual and reproductive health, and malnutrition.

    METHODS: A scoping literature review was completed using searches of PubMed and preprint servers (medRxiv/bioRxiv) from November 1st, 2019 to October 31st, 2020, using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms related to SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 and HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, sexual and reproductive health, and malnutrition. Empiric studies reporting original data collection or mathematical models were included, and available data synthesized by region. Studies were excluded if they were not written in English.

    RESULTS: A total of 1604 published papers and 205 preprints were retrieved in the search. Overall, 8.0% (129/1604) of published studies and 10.2% (21/205) of preprints met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review: 7.3% (68/931) on HIV, 7.1% (24/339) on tuberculosis, 11.6% (26/224) on malaria, 7.8% (19/183) on sexual and reproductive health, and 9.8% (13/132) on malnutrition. Thematic results were similar across competing health risks, with substantial indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and response on diagnostic, prevention, and treatment services for HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, sexual and reproductive health, and malnutrition.

    DISCUSSION: COVID-19 emerged in the context of existing public health threats that result in millions of deaths every year. Thus, effectively responding to COVID-19 while minimizing the negative impacts of COVID-19 necessitates innovation and integration of existing programs that are often siloed across health systems. Inequities have been a consistent driver of existing health threats; COVID-19 has worsened disparities, reinforcing the need for programs that address structural risks. The data reviewed here suggest that effective strengthening of health systems should include investment and planning focused on ensuring the continuity of care for both rapidly emergent and existing public health threats.

    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  11. The level of knowledge and acceptance towards the COVID-19 vaccine among the community in Johor Bahru, Johor
    Mohd Anuar AH, Mohamad Anuar NN, Isa SNI, Bahari M
    Med J Malaysia, 2024 Mar;79(Suppl 1):88-95.
    PMID: 38555891
    INTRODUCTION: Several necessary initiatives have been made to create a readily available vaccine against the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide pandemic. However, the vaccination program's success is dependent on the population's willingness as well as their knowledge of vaccination. Hence, the present study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and acceptance towards the COVID-19 vaccine among the community in Johor Bahru, Johor.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey between February and May 2022, with 423 respondents. The questionnaire consisted of socio-demographic, assessment of knowledge level and acceptance level towards COVID-19 vaccine. The descriptive analysis and non-parametric tests were employed to investigate the study outline objectives.

    RESULTS: Of all 423 participants, 293 (69.3%) of the participants had a high level of knowledge about the COVID- 19 vaccine (median knowledge score 6; IQR = 3), and 239 (56.5%) were reported to have a low level of vaccine acceptance (median acceptance scores 4; IQR=2). The knowledge level towards the COVID-19 vaccine was significantly associated with the vaccine acceptance level (p<0.001).

    CONCLUSION: The community's level of knowledge towards COVID-19 vaccine was high; however, the vaccine acceptance was low.

    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  12. Fulltext Realising a global One Health disease surveillance approach: insights from wastewater and beyond
    Hill R, Stentiford GD, Walker DI, Baker-Austin C, Ward G, Maskrey BH, et al.
    Nat Commun, 2024 Jun 22;15(1):5324.
    PMID: 38909028 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49417-4
    One Health is a recognition of the shared environment inhabited by humans, animals and plants, and the impact of their interactions on the health of all organisms. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for a framework of pathogen surveillance in a tractable One Health paradigm to allow timely detection and response to threats to human and animal health. We present case studies centered around the recent global approach to tackle antimicrobial resistance and the current interest in wastewater testing, with the concept of "one sample many analyses" to be further explored as the most appropriate means of initiating this endeavor.
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  13. Research on the application of AHP-FAST-FBS in the design of home entrance disinfection devices in the post-pandemic era
    Zhao Y, Wang T, Zhang C, Hamat B, Pang LLL
    Sci Rep, 2024 Sep 04;14(1):20550.
    PMID: 39232124 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71651-5
    With the outbreak and continued spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, people's demand for daily disinfection products has increased rapidly, and its innovative design has received widespread attention. In this context, this study aims to propose a design methodology for home entrance disinfection devices based on AHP-FAST-FBS. Firstly, the design requirements of the home entrance disinfection device were collected and analyzed through in-depth interviews and the KJ method, and a hierarchical model of design demand indicators was constructed. Secondly, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to quantify these design demand indicators, and core design demands for home entrance disinfection devices were identified by weight calculations. On this basis, the Functional Analysis System Technique (FAST) method was combined to rationally transform the design demands into product functional indicators, constructing a functional system model for the home entrance disinfection device through systematic decomposition and categorization. Lastly, based on the Function-Behavior-Structure (FBS) theoretical model, the mapping of each function of the product to its structure was realized, the product structure modules were determined, and the comprehensive design and output of the innovative design scheme for the home entrance disinfection device were completed. The results of this study indicate that the design methodology combining AHP-FAST-FBS can effectively improve the scientific rigor and effectiveness of the home entrance disinfection device design, thereby generating an ideal product design scheme. This study provides systematic theoretical guidance and practical reference for designers of subsequent related disinfection products and also offers a new path for improving social health and safety.
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  14. A comprehensive review of lignin-reinforced lignocellulosic composites: Enhancing fire resistance and reducing formaldehyde emission
    Iswanto AH, Lee SH, Hussin MH, Hamidon TS, Hajibeygi M, Manurung H, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 Dec;283(Pt 3):137714.
    PMID: 39571852 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.137714
    The rising environmental concerns and the growing demand for renewable materials have surged across various industries. In this context, lignin, being a plentiful natural aromatic compound that possesses advantageous functional groups suitable for utilization in biocomposite systems, has gained notable attention as a promising and sustainable alternative to fossil-derived materials. It can be obtained from lignocellulosic biomass through extraction via various techniques, which may cause variability in its thermal, mechanical, and physical properties. Due to its excellent biocompatibility, eco-friendliness, and low toxicity, lignin has been extensively researched for the development of high-value materials including lignin-based biocomposites. Its aromatic properties also allow it to successfully substitute phenol in the production of phenolic resin adhesives, resulting in decreased formaldehyde emission. This review investigated and evaluated the role of lignin as a green filler in lignin-based lignocellulosic composites, aimed at enhancing their fire retardancy and decreasing formaldehyde emission. In addition, relevant composite properties, such as thermal properties, were investigated in this study. Markedly, technical challenges, including compatibility with other matrix polymers that are influenced by limited reactivity, remain. Some impurities in lignin and various sources of lignin also affect the performance of composites. While lignin utilization can address certain environmental issues, its large-scale use is limited by both process costs and market factors. Therefore, the exact mechanism by which lignin enhances flame retardancy, reduces formaldehyde emissions, and improves the long-term durability of lignocellulosic composites under various environmental conditions remains unclear and requires thorough investigation. Life cycle analysis and techno-economic analysis of lignin-based composites may contribute to understanding the overall influence of systems not only at the laboratory scale but also at a larger industrial scale.
    Matched MeSH terms: Fires/prevention & control
  15. Current advances and future prospects of in-situ desulfurization processes in oxy-fuel combustion reactors
    Go ES, Ling JLJ, Solanki BS, Ahn H, Show PL, Lee SH
    Environ Res, 2024 Dec 15;263(Pt 1):119982.
    PMID: 39270960 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119982
    Oxy-fuel circulating fluidized bed combustion is known as one of the most potent fuel combustion technologies that capture ultra-low greenhouse gases and pollutant emissions. While many investigations have been conducted for carbon capturing, the associated in-situ desulfurization process using calcium-based sorbents should also be underlined. This paper critically reviews the effects of changes in the operating environment on in-situ desulfurization processes compared to conventional air combustion. A comprehensive understanding of the process, encompassing hydrodynamic, physical and chemical aspects can be a guideline for designing the oxy-fuel combustion process with effective sulfur removal, potentially eliminating the need of a flue gas desulfurization unit. Results from thermogravimetric analyzers and morphological changes of calcium-based materials were presented to offer an insight into the sulfation mechanisms involved in the oxy-fuel circulating fluidized beds. Recently findings suggested that in-situ direct desulfurization is influenced not only by the desulfurization kinetics but also by the fluidization characteristics of calcium-based materials. Therefore, a complex reaction analysis that incorporated oxy-combustion reactions, computational fluid dynamics modeling, in-situ desulfurization reaction models and particle behavior can provide a thorough understanding of desulfurization processes across the reactor. Meanwhile, machine learning as a robust tool to predict desulfurization efficiency and improve operational flexibility should be applied with consideration of environmental improvement and economic feasibility.
    Matched MeSH terms: Air Pollution/prevention & control
  16. Stem Cell-based Nerve Regenerative Therapies: The Role of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) in Preventing Nerve Adhesions and Promoting Axonal Nerve Repair
    Anjum A, Vijakumaran U, Hussain HB, Khalid S, Ghosh M
    Stem Cell Rev Rep, 2026 Apr;22(3):1309-1324.
    PMID: 41665774 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-026-11075-y
    Damage to either the central or peripheral nervous system can result in significant impairments of movement and sensation, with poor regeneration often resulting from complications such as nerve adhesion and fibrosis. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have emerged as a promising therapeutic candidate in promoting nerve regeneration owing to their regenerative potential, abundance, ease of harvest, low immunogenicity, and anti-inflammatory properties. ADSCs, isolated from adipose tissue, can differentiate into neural lineages, secrete a broad spectrum of neurotrophic and anti-fibrotic factors, and thereby foster axonal sprouting, remyelination, and scar attenuation. Additionally, these cells have demonstrated efficacy in preventing nerve adhesion, a common complication of nerve injury that impedes functional recovery. This review explores the properties, advantages, and regenerative potential of ADSCs, highlighting their roles in promoting axonal regeneration, myelination, and reducing fibrosis. Preclinical studies and early clinical trials associated with the peripheral and central nervous system injuries have reported promising results in terms of functional recovery and reduced scar formation, but challenges remain in standardizing ADSC-based therapies and achieving full functional restoration. Future advancements in ADSC therapies may include optimized delivery systems, genetic modifications, and the integration of advanced biomaterials to enhance their regenerative capabilities.
    Matched MeSH terms: Tissue Adhesions/prevention & control
  17. A Bibliometric Analysis on Multi-epitope Vaccine Development Against SARS-CoV-2: Current Status, Development, and Future Directions
    Khalid K, Ahmad F, Anwar A, Ong SK
    Mol Biotechnol, 2026 Jan;68(1):1-22.
    PMID: 39789401 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01358-5
    The etiological agent for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the SARS-CoV-2, caused a global pandemic. Although mRNA, viral-vectored, DNA, and recombinant protein vaccine candidates were effective against the SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) reduced the protective efficacies of these vaccines. This necessitates the need for effective and accelerated vaccine development against mutated VOCs. The development of multi-epitope vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 based on in silico identification of highly conserved and immunogenic epitopes is a promising strategy for future SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development. Considering the evolving landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have conducted a bibliometric analysis to consolidate current findings and research trends in multi-epitope vaccine development to provide insights for future vaccine development strategies. Analysis of 102 publications on multi-epitope vaccine development against SARS-CoV-2 revealed significant growth and global collaboration, with India leading in the number of publications, along with an identification of the most prolific authors. Key journals included the Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, while top collaborations involved Pakistan-China and India-USA. Keyword analysis showed a prominent focus on immunoinformatics, epitope prediction, and spike glycoprotein. Advances in immunoinformatics, including AI-driven epitope prediction, offer promising avenues for the development of safe and effective multi-epitope vaccines. Immunogenicity may be further improved through nanoparticle-based systems or the use of adjuvants along with real-time genomic surveillance to tailor vaccines against emerging variants.
    Matched MeSH terms: Pandemics/prevention & control
  18. Dangers of COPD and asthma under-recognised among Hajj pilgrims
    Liew SM, Hussein N, Hanafi NS, Pinnock H, Sheikh A, Khoo EM
    Lancet Respir Med, 2018 Aug;6(8):590.
    PMID: 30006073 DOI: 10.1016/S2213-2600(18)30297-2
    Matched MeSH terms: Asthma/prevention & control*; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/prevention & control*
  19. Fulltext Detection and Control of Fungal Outbreaks
    Caceres DH, Mohd Tap R, Alastruey-Izquierdo A, Hagen F
    Mycopathologia, 2020 10;185(5):741-745.
    PMID: 33037965 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-020-00494-1
    Matched MeSH terms: Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control*; Mycoses/prevention & control*
  20. Prophylaxis against choriocarcinoma
    Sivanesaratnam V, Ng KH
    Med J Malaysia, 1977 Mar;31(3):229-31.
    PMID: 904517
    Matched MeSH terms: Choriocarcinoma/prevention & control*; Uterine Neoplasms/prevention & control*
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