Displaying publications 421 - 440 of 499 in total

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  1. Fulltext The role of social support and spiritual wellbeing in predicting suicidal ideation among marginalized adolescents in Malaysia
    Ibrahim N, Che Din N, Ahmad M, Amit N, Ghazali SE, Wahab S, et al.
    BMC Public Health, 2019 Jun 13;19(Suppl 4):553.
    PMID: 31196009 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-6861-7
    BACKGROUND: The high number of adolescents and young adults harbouring suicidal ideation, as reported by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, is alarming. This cross-sectional study aims to examine the association between social support and spiritual wellbeing in predicting suicidal ideation among Malaysian adolescents.

    METHODS: A total of 176 adolescents in selected urban areas in the states of Wilayah Persekutuan and Selangor were selected. The Suicide Ideation Scale (SIS) was used to measure the level of severity or tendency of suicidal ideation. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) was used to measure the perceived social support received by the respondent while the Spiritual Wellbeing Scale (SWBS) was used to measure the religious wellbeing (RWB), the existential wellbeing (EWB) and the overall score of spiritual wellbeing (SWB).

    RESULTS: The study found that both RWB and EWB showed significant negative correlation with suicidal ideation. Similarly, support from family and friends also showed a negative correlation with suicidal ideation. Further analysis using multiple regressions showed that RWB and SWB, and family support predict suicidal ideation in adolescents.

    CONCLUSION: Spiritual wellbeing in combination with family support plays a major role in predicting suicidal ideation. Therefore, intervention for encompassing spirituality and family support may contribute to a more positive outcome in suicidal adolescents.

  2. Molecular epidemiology of amoebiasis in Malaysia: highlighting the different risk factors of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar infections among Orang Asli communities
    Anuar TS, Al-Mekhlafi HM, Abdul Ghani MK, Abu Bakar E, Azreen SN, Salleh FM, et al.
    Int J Parasitol, 2012 Dec;42(13-14):1165-75.
    PMID: 23123168 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2012.10.003
    Currently, species-specific information on Entamoeba infections is unavailable in Malaysia and is restricted worldwide due to the re-description of pathogenic Entamoeba histolytica and non-pathogenic Entamoeba dispar and Entamoeba moshkovskii. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was conducted to provide the first known documented data on the true prevalence of these three species in western Malaysia using a molecular method. Another aim of this study was to determine the association of potential risk factors associated with each Entamoeba sp. A total of 500 stool samples from three Orang Asli tribes were randomly collected. The overall prevalence of E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii determined by microscopy was 18.6% (93/500). Molecular analysis revealed that while most Entamoeba-positive individuals were infected with E. dispar (13.4%), followed by E. histolytica (3.2%) and E. moshkovskii (1.0%), the present findings show low prevalence rates of mixed infections with E. histolytica and E. dispar (2%), E. dispar and E. moshkovskii (1.2%) and association infections of E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii (0.4%). Logistical regression analysis indicates that the dynamics of the transmission of the three Entamoeba spp. was different. Of six statistically significant variables observed in the univariate analysis, three were retained as significant risk factors for E. histolytica infection in the logistical regression model. These factors were (i) not washing hands after playing with soil or gardening (Odds ratio (OR)=4.7; 95% confidence level (CI)=1.38, 16.14; P=0.013), (ii) indiscriminate defecation in the river or bush (OR=5.7; 95% CI=1.46, 21.95; P=0.012) and (iii) close contact with domestic animals (OR=5.4; 95% CI=1.36, 2.51; P=0.017). However, subjects with family members who were infected with E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii (OR=3.8; 95 CI=2.11, 6.86; P<0.001) and those who consumed raw vegetables (OR=1.8; 95% CI=1.01, 3.23; P=0.047) were more likely to be infected with E. dispar. On the other hand, no associated factor was identified with E. moshkovskii infection. Nevertheless, diarrhoea (P=0.002) and other gastroenteritis symptoms (P<0.001) were only associated with E. histolytica infection. The present study provides new insight into the distribution and risk factors of E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii infections among Orang Asli communities in Malaysia. Identifying the different risk factors of E. histolytica and E. dispar infections will help in the planning specific strategies in the control and prevention of each infection in the communities. Moreover, it emphasises the need for molecular methods to determine the species-specific prevalence of Entamoeba spp.
  3. Fulltext Combined Optimization of Codon Usage and Glycine Supplementation Enhances the Extracellular Production of a β-Cyclodextrin Glycosyltransferase from Bacillus sp. NR5 UPM in Escherichia coli
    Nik-Pa NIM, Sobri MFM, Abd-Aziz S, Ibrahim MF, Kamal Bahrin E, Mohammed Alitheen NB, et al.
    Int J Mol Sci, 2020 May 30;21(11).
    PMID: 32486212 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113919
    Two optimization strategies, codon usage modification and glycine supplementation, were adopted to improve the extracellular production of Bacillus sp. NR5 UPM β-cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGT-BS) in recombinant Escherichia coli. Several rare codons were eliminated and replaced with the ones favored by E. coli cells, resulting in an increased codon adaptation index (CAI) from 0.67 to 0.78. The cultivation of the codon modified recombinant E. coli following optimization of glycine supplementation enhanced the secretion of β-CGTase activity up to 2.2-fold at 12 h of cultivation as compared to the control. β-CGTase secreted into the culture medium by the transformant reached 65.524 U/mL at post-induction temperature of 37 °C with addition of 1.2 mM glycine and induced at 2 h of cultivation. A 20.1-fold purity of the recombinant β-CGTase was obtained when purified through a combination of diafiltration and nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni-NTA) affinity chromatography. This combined strategy doubled the extracellular β-CGTase production when compared to the single approach, hence offering the potential of enhancing the expression of extracellular enzymes, particularly β-CGTase by the recombinant E. coli.
  4. A one-step self-sustained low temperature carbonization of coconut shell biomass produced a high specific surface area biochar-derived nano-adsorbent
    Samsudin MH, Hassan MA, Idris J, Ramli N, Mohd Yusoff MZ, Ibrahim I, et al.
    Waste Manag Res, 2019 May;37(5):551-555.
    PMID: 30727859 DOI: 10.1177/0734242X18823953
    A one-step self-sustained carbonization of coconut shell biomass, carried out in a brick reactor at a relatively low temperature of 300-500°C, successfully produced a biochar-derived adsorbent with 308 m2/g surface area, 2 nm pore diameter, and 0.15 cm3/g total pore volume. The coconut shell biochar qualifies as a nano-adsorbent, supported by scanning electron microscope images, which showed well-developed nano-pores on the surface of the biochar structure, even though there was no separate activation process. This is the first report whereby coconut shell can be converted to biochar-derived nano-adsorbent at a low carbonization temperature, without the need of the activation process. This is superior to previous reports on biochar produced from oil palm empty fruit bunch.
  5. Find the Missing Millions: Malaysia's experience with nationwide hepatitis C screening campaign in the general population
    Md Said R, Mohd Zain R, Chan HK, Soelar SA, Rusli N, Nasir NH, et al.
    J Viral Hepat, 2020 06;27(6):638-643.
    PMID: 31997563 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13267
    Approximately 2.5% of the Malaysian population is currently living with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Yet, the public awareness of the disease is limited and under-screening remains a major challenge. With the support of international non-for-profit organizations, the Ministry of Health in Malaysia recently launched a one-week nationwide hepatitis C screening campaign in conjunction with the World Hepatitis Day. For the first time, the rapid diagnostic test (RDT) for HCV screening was introduced in public health institutions. This campaign involved 49 hospitals and 38 health clinics across the country, targeting the adult general population with unknown HCV infection status. Of the 11 382 participants undergoing the RDT, 1.9% were found to be positive for hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) and were referred to on-site medical departments or nearby hospitals for confirmatory testing and treatment. Men, the Malay ethnic group, intranasal and injection drug users and ex-prisoners were shown to have higher odds of being positive for anti-HCV. In addition to serving as a model to educate the general population about the disease, this campaign demonstrates the feasibility of decentralizing HCV screening, particularly by promoting the use of RDT, and linking the HCV-infected patients to care in Malaysia.
  6. Fulltext Randomized Controlled Trials of a Psychosocial Intervention for Improving the Cognitive Function among Older Adults: A Scoping Review
    Mohd Safien A, Ibrahim N, Subramaniam P, Shahar S, Din NC, Ismail A, et al.
    Gerontol Geriatr Med, 2021 08 11;7:23337214211025167.
    PMID: 34395815 DOI: 10.1177/23337214211025167
    Aim: The goal is to explore available evidence and provide greater clarity to what is described as psychosocial intervention to improve cognitive function among older population with MCI as well as identifying areas for future research. Methods: An electronic literature search of PubMed, Cochrane, Ebscohost, Medline, Scopus, and gray resource was conducted to find articles published in English language between 2010 and September 2020. This review focused on research undertaken using randomized clinical trials study design. We extracted information regarding the publication date, geographical location, study setting, intervention mechanism, type of cognitive measurement used, and outcome of the studies. References of this literature were also reviewed to ensure comprehensive search. Result: Out of 240 potential records found, a total of 27 articles were identified following the first round of screening and deletion of duplicates. Full-text article reviews and analysis in the second round of screening narrowed the selection down to four articles. Another three relevant articles obtained from references were also included making a total of seven articles in the final analysis. Findings: Psychosocial intervention strategies for improvement of cognitive function, done in various setting all over the globe, covered a range of approaches including art therapy, visual art therapy, therapeutic writing therapy, reminiscence activity, and cognitive behavioral approach. Most were conducted in weekly basis within 1-to-2-hour duration of session. Cognitive function of older adult in psychosocial intervention group was significantly improved in two studies. Three studies showed no significant improvement at all in the cognitive function, and another one reported success in improving cognitive function over time in the intervention group than in control group. One study did not describe the interaction effect. Different types of cognitive measurement also were used to quantify different domains of cognitive function in the reviewed studies. Conclusion: The idea of using psychosocial intervention for improving cognitive function has begun to increasingly accepted recently. Findings from the limited studies are encouraging, although the outcome of the cognitive function was mixed. Large-scale and longer duration of psychosocial intervention with bigger sample size is warranted for future studies.
  7. Carboxymethyl Cellulose Hydrogel Based Formulations of Zinc Hydroxide Nitrate-Sodium Dodecylsulphate-Bispyribac Nanocomposite: Advancements in Controlled Release Formulation of Herbicide
    Mohd Sharif SN, Hashim N, Md Isa I, Abu Bakar S, Idris Saidin M, Syahrizal Ahmad M, et al.
    J Nanosci Nanotechnol, 2021 12 01;21(12):5867-5880.
    PMID: 34229781 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2021.19499
    The usefulness of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as a matrix material in enhancing the controlled release formulations of bispyribac (BP) herbicide from the interlayer gallery of zinc hydroxide nitratesodium dodecylsulphate-bispyribac (ZHN-SDS-BP) nanocomposite was investigated. The CMC coated nanocomposite, ZHN-SDS-BP-CMC was characterised using several instruments for the determination of its physicochemical properties. The release rates of the BP were measured using a UV spectrophotometer, and the aqueous solutions containing PO3-₄ , SO2-₄ and Cl- were selected as release media in the release studies so as to mimic the real conditions of environmental soil. Significant release time delays, triggered by the gelation forming ability and hygroscopic nature of CMC, were observed in all release media, and the release processes were found to behave in a concentration-dependent manner in all release media. Fitting the release data into several kinetic models demonstrated that release in aqueous solutions of Na₃PO₄ and Na₂SO₄ was governed by pseudo second order processes, whereas the release in an aqueous NaCl solution was governed by the parabolic diffusion kinetic model. The potential of CMC in prolonging the release of BP from ZHN-SDS-BP-CMC can potentially help in reducing the pollution resulting from the overuse of pesticides.
  8. Genetic Diversity of Pineapple (Ananas comosus) Germplasm in Malaysia Using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) Markers
    Ismail SN, Ghani NSA, Ab Razak SF, Abidin RAZ, Mohd Yusof MF, Zubir MN, et al.
    Trop Life Sci Res, 2020 Oct;31(3):15-27.
    PMID: 33214853 DOI: 10.21315/tlsr2020.31.3.2
    Assessments of genetic diversity have been claimed to be significantly efficient in utilising and managing resources of genetic for breeding programme. In this study, variations in genetic were observed in 65 pineapple accessions gathered from germplasm available at Malaysian Agriculture Research and Development Institute (MARDI) located in Pontian, Johor via 15 markers of simple sequence repeat (SSR). The results showed that 59 alleles appeared to range from 2.0 to 6.0 alleles with a mean of 3.9 alleles per locus, thus displaying polymorphism for all samples at a moderate level. Furthermore, the values of polymorphic information content (PIC) had been found to range between 0.104 (TsuAC035) and 0.697 (Acom_9.9), thus averaging at the value of 0.433. In addition, the expected and the observed heterozygosity of each locus seemed to vary within the ranges of 0.033 to 0.712, and from 0.033 to 0.885, along with the average values of 0.437 and 0.511, respectively. The population structure analysis via method of delta K (ΔK), along with mean of L (K) method, revealed that individuals from the germplasm could be divided into two major clusters based on genetics (K = 2), namely Group 1 and Group 2. As such, five accessions (Yankee, SRK Chalok, SCK Giant India, SC KEW5 India and SC1 Thailand) were clustered in Group 1, while the rest were clustered in Group 2. These outcomes were also supported by the dendrogram, which had been generated through the technique of unweighted pair group with arithmetic mean (UPGMA). These analyses appear to be helpful amongst breeders to maintain and to manage their collections of germplasm. Besides, the data gathered in this study can be useful for breeders to exploit the area of genetic diversity in estimating the level of heterosis.
  9. Cold-adapted organic solvent tolerant alkalophilic family I.3 lipase from an Antarctic Pseudomonas
    Ganasen M, Yaacob N, Rahman RN, Leow AT, Basri M, Salleh AB, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2016 Nov;92:1266-1276.
    PMID: 27506122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2016.06.095
    Lipolytic enzymes with cold adaptation are gaining increasing interest due to their biotechnological prospective. Previously, a cold adapted family I.3 lipase (AMS8 lipase) was isolated from an Antarctic Pseudomonas. AMS8 lipase was largely expressed in insoluble form. The refolded His-tagged recombinant AMS8 lipase was purified with 23.0% total recovery and purification factor of 9.7. The purified AMS8 lipase migrated as a single band with a molecular weight approximately 65kDa via electrophoresis. AMS8 lipase was highly active at 30°C at pH 10. The half-life of AMS8 lipase was reported at 4 and 2h under the incubation of 30 and 40°C, respectively. The lipase was stable over a broad range of pH. It showed enhancement effect in its relative activity under the presence of Li(+), Na(+), K(+), Rb(+) and Cs(+) after 30min treatment. Heavy metal ions such as Cu(2+), Fe(3+) and Zn(2+) inhibited AMS8 activity. This cold adapted alkalophilic AMS lipase was also active in various organic solvent of different polarity. These unique properties of this biological macromolecule will provide considerable potential for many biotechnological applications and organic synthesis at low temperature.
  10. Fulltext Family support and self-motivation influence dietary compliance and glycaemic control among type 2 diabetes mellitus outpatients
    Nik Mohd Fakhruddin NNI, Khor JH, Suhaimi NFS, Zulkepli NYF, Roslan R, Wong ES, et al.
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2016;14(2):39-47.
    MyJurnal
    Diabetes Mellitus is a disease due to reduced insulin sensitivity and secretion in the body which associated with obesity and hypertension. This study aimed to determine the influence of family support and self-motivation towards dietary compliance and glycaemic control among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) outpatients. This cross-sectional study involved 35 subjects selected from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC) in Cheras and Ampangan Health Clinic in Seremban. Anthropometric measurements and fasting blood glucose have been obtained. Face-to-face interview session was done to obtain socio-demographic and diet intake. Further, dietary compliance, social support and self-motivation were assessed using Summary Diabetes Self Care Activities (SDSCA), Diabetes Social Support Questionnaire Family version (DSSQ-Fa) and Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire (TSRQ), respectively. Only 8.6% of subjects complied with dietary counselling. Fasting blood glucose for both men (7.93 ± 1.99 mmol/L) and women (8.77 ± 3.08 mmol/L) were higher than normal range. Self-motivation (r = 0.358, p < 0.05) and family support (r = 0.460, p < 0.01) significantly correlated with dietary compliance. Self-motivation and family support are important factors which can increase compliance towards dietary counseling. Further investigation should be carried out to determine factors that may influence dietary compliance and family support towards achieving desirable glycaemic control among T2DM patients.
    Study site: Klinik Warga UKMMC, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (PPUKM), Kuala Lumpur; Klinik Kesihatan Ampangan, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
  11. Effects of Lid 1 Mutagenesis on Lid Displacement, Catalytic Performances and Thermostability of Cold-active Pseudomonas AMS8 Lipase in Toluene
    Yaacob N, Ahmad Kamarudin NH, Leow ATC, Salleh AB, Rahman RNZRA, Ali MSM
    Comput Struct Biotechnol J, 2019;17:215-228.
    PMID: 30828413 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2019.01.005
    Pseudomonas fluorescens AMS8 lipase lid 1 structure is rigid and holds unclear roles due to the absence of solvent-interactions. Lid 1 region was stabilized by 17 hydrogen bond linkages and displayed lower mean hydrophobicity (0.596) compared to MIS38 lipase. Mutating lid 1 residues, Thr-52 and Gly-55 to aromatic hydrophobic-polar tyrosine would churned more side-chain interactions between lid 1 and water or toluene. This study revealed that T52Y leads G55Y and its recombinant towards achieving higher solvent-accessible surface area and longer half-life at 25 to 37 °C in 0.5% (v/v) toluene. T52Y also exhibited better substrate affinity with long-chain carbon substrate in aqueous media. The affinity for pNP palmitate, laurate and caprylate increased in 0.5% (v/v) toluene in recombinant AMS8, but the affinity in similar substrates was substantially declined in lid 1 mutated lipases. Regarding enzyme efficiency, the recombinant AMS8 lipase displayed highest value of kcat/Km in 0.5% (v/v) toluene, mainly with pNPC. In both hydrolysis reactions with 0% and 0.5% (v/v) toluene, the enzyme efficiency of G55Y was found higher than T52Y for pNPL and pNPP. At 0.5% (v/v) toluene, both mutants showed reductions in activation energy and enthalpy values as temperature increased from 25 to 35 °C, displaying better catalytic functions. Only T52Y exhibited increase in entropy values at 0.5% (v/v) toluene indicating structure stability. As a conclusion, Thr-52 and Gly-55 are important residues for lid 1 stability as their existence helps to retain the geometrical structure of alpha-helix and connecting hinge.
  12. Fulltext Ocular manifestation of vitamin A deficiency among Orang asli (Aborigine) children in Malaysia
    Ngah NF, Moktar N, Isa NH, Selvara S, Yusof MS, Sani HA, et al.
    Asia Pac J Clin Nutr, 2002;11(2):88-91.
    PMID: 12074186
    This study determined the prevalence of ocular manifestation of vitamin A deficiency in Orang Asli (Aborigine) children. Night blindness was found in 16.0% of the children, conjunctiva xerosis in 57.3%, Bitot's spot in 2.8%, corneal xerosis in 0.5% and corneal scars in 5.6%. These findings show that history of night blindness had sensitivity, specificity and predictive value (positive) of 47.2, 98.1 and 96.2%, respectively, compared with the standard diagnosis procedure using luxometer readings.
  13. Bio-corrosion behavior and mechanical characteristics of magnesium-titania-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites coated by magnesium-oxide flakes and silicon for use as resorbable bone fixation material
    Khalajabadi SZ, Abu ABH, Ahmad N, Yajid MAM, Hj Redzuan NB, Nasiri R, et al.
    J Mech Behav Biomed Mater, 2018 Jan;77:360-374.
    PMID: 28985616 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.09.032
    This study was aimed to improve of the corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of Mg/15TiO2/5HA nanocomposite by silicon and magnesium oxide coatings prepared using a powder metallurgy method. The phase evolution, chemical composition, microstructure and mechanical properties of uncoated and coated samples were characterized. Electrochemical and immersion tests used to investigate the in vitro corrosion behavior of the fabricated samples. The adhesion strength of ~36MPa for MgO and ~32MPa for Si/MgO coatings to substrate was measured by adhesion test. Fabrication a homogenous double layer coating with uniform thicknesses consisting micro-sized particles of Si as outer layer and flake-like particles of MgO as the inner layer on the surface of Mg/15TiO2/5HA nanocomposite caused the corrosion resistance and ductility increased whereas the ultimate compressive stress decreased. However, after immersion in SBF solution, Si/MgO-coated sample indicates the best mechanical properties compared to those of the uncoated and MgO-coated samples. The increase of cell viability percentage of the normal human osteoblast (NHOst) cells indicates the improvement in biocompatibility of Mg/15TiO2/5HA nanocomposite by Si/MgO coating.
  14. Reactions to symptoms of mental disorder and help seeking in Sabah, Malaysia
    Shoesmith WD, Borhanuddin AFBA, Yong Pau Lin P, Abdullah AF, Nordin N, Giridharan B, et al.
    Int J Soc Psychiatry, 2018 02;64(1):49-55.
    PMID: 29103338 DOI: 10.1177/0020764017739643
    BACKGROUND: A better understanding is needed about how people make decisions about help seeking.

    MATERIALS: Focus group and individual interviews with patients, carers, healthcare staff, religious authorities, traditional healers and community members.

    DISCUSSION: Four stages of help seeking were identified: (1) noticing symptoms and initial labelling, (2) collective decision-making, (3) spiritual diagnoses and treatment and (4) psychiatric diagnosis and treatment.

    CONCLUSION: Spiritual diagnoses have the advantage of being less stigmatising, giving meaning to symptoms, and were seen to offer hope of cure rather than just symptom control. Patients and carers need help to integrate different explanatory models into a meaningful whole.

  15. ISSR marker-assisted genetic diversity analysis of Dioscorea hispida and selection of the best variety for sustainable production
    Nudin NFH, Ali AM, Ngah N, Mazlan NZ, Mat N, Ghani MNA, et al.
    C. R. Biol., 2017 Aug;340(8):359-366.
    PMID: 28888550 DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2017.08.003
    Plant breeding is a way of selection of a particular individual for the production of the progeny by separating or combining desired characteristics. The objective of this study was to justify different characteristics of Dioscorea hispida (Ubi gadong) varieties using molecular techniques to select the best variety for sustainable production at the farmer's level. A total of 160 germplasms of Ubi gadong were collected from different locations at the Terengganu and Kelantan states of Malaysia. Forty eight (48) out of 160 germplasms were selected as "primary" selection based on yield and other qualitative characters. Selected collections were then grown and maintained for ISSR marker-assisted genetic diversity analysis. Overall plant growth and yield of tubers were also determined. A total of 12 ISSR markers were tested to justify the characteristics of Ubi gadong varieties among which three markers showed polymorphic bands and on average 57.3% polymorphism were observed representing the highest variation among germplasms. The ISSR marker based on UPGMA cluster analysis grouped all 48 D. hispida into 10 vital groups that proved a vast genetic variation among germplasm collections. Therefore, hybridization should be made between two distant populations. The D. hispida is already proved as the highest starch content tuber crops and very rich in vitamins with both micro and macro minerals. Considering all these criteria and results from marker-assisted diversity analysis, accessions that are far apart based on their genetic coefficient (like DH27 and DH71; DH30 and DH70; DH43 and DH62; DH45 and DH61; DH77 and DH61; DH78 and DH57) could be selected as parents for further breeding programs. This will bring about greater diversity, which will lead to high productive index in terms of increase in yield and overall quality and for the ultimate target of sustainable Ubi gadong production.
  16. The first riparian skink (Genus: Sphenomorphus Strauch, 1887) from Peninsular Malaysia and its relationship to other Indochinese and Sundaic species
    Sumarli A, Grismer LL, Wood PL, Ahmad AB, Rizal S, Ismail LH, et al.
    Zootaxa, 2016 Oct 02;4173(1):29-44.
    PMID: 27701201 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4173.1.3
    Recently discovered populations of skinks of the genus Sphenomorphus from central Peninsular Malaysia represent a new species, S. sungaicolus sp. nov., and the first riparian skink known from Peninsular Malaysia. Morphological analyses of an earlier specimen reported as S. tersus from the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM), Selangor indicate that it too is the new riparian species S. sungaicolus sp. nov. Additionally, two specimens from the Tembat Forest Reserve, Hulu Terengganu, Kelantan and another from Ulu Gombak, Selangor have been diagnosed as new the species. The latter specimen remained unidentified in the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, Honolulu, Hawaii since its collection in June 1962. Morphological and molecular analyses demonstrate that S. sungaicolus sp. nov. forms a clade with the Indochinese species S. maculatus, S. indicus, and S. tersus and is the sister species of the latter. Sphenomorphus sungaicolus sp. nov. can be differentiated from all other members of this clade by having a smaller SVL (66.5-89.6 mm); 39-44 midbody scale rows; 72-81 paravertebral scales; 74-86 ventral scales; a primitive plantar scale arrangement; and 20-22 scale rows around the tail at the position of the 10th subcaudal.
  17. Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor for Supplementary Management in Severe Asthma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
    Ahmad S, Mohd Noor N, Engku Nur Syafirah EAR, Irekeola AA, Shueb RH, Chan YY, et al.
    J Interferon Cytokine Res, 2023 Feb;43(2):77-85.
    PMID: 36795972 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2022.0211
    Tumor-necrosis factor (TNF) is recognized as a therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases, including asthma. In severe forms of asthma, biologics such as anti-TNF are rendered to be investigated as therapeutic options in severe asthma. Hence, this work is done to assess the efficacy and safety of anti-TNF as a supplementary therapy for patients with severe asthma. A systematic search of 3 databases (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov) was performed to identify for published and unpublished randomized controlled trials comparing anti-TNF (etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab, certolizumab pegol, golimumab) with placebo in patients diagnosed with persistent or severe asthma. Random-effects model was used to estimate risk ratios and mean differences (MDs) with confidence intervals (95% CIs). PROSPERO registration number is CRD42020172006. Four trials with 489 randomized patients were included. Comparison between etanercept and placebo involved 3 trials while comparison between golimumab and placebo involved 1 trial. Etanercept produced a small but significant impairment in forced expiratory flow in 1 second (MD 0.33, 95% CI 0.09-0.57, I2 statistic = 0%, P = 0.008) and a modest improvement of asthma control using the Asthma Control Questionnaire. However, using the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire, the patients exhibit an impaired quality of life with etanercept. Treatment with etanercept showed a reduced injection site reaction and gastroenteritis compared with placebo. Although treatment with anti-TNF is shown to improve asthma control, severe asthma patients did not benefit from this therapy as there is limited evidence for improvement in lung function and reduction of asthma exacerbation. Hence, it is unlikely to prescribe anti-TNF in adults with severe asthma.
  18. Fulltext Dysregulation in Multiple Transcriptomic Endometrial Pathways Is Associated with Recurrent Implantation Failure and Recurrent Early Pregnancy Loss
    Liaqat Ali Khan N, Nafee T, Shao T, Hart AR, Elliott S, Ola B, et al.
    Int J Mol Sci, 2022 Dec 16;23(24).
    PMID: 36555686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416051
    Overlapping disease aetiologies associated with multiple altered biological processes have been identified that change the endometrial function leading to recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent early pregnancy loss (REPL). We aimed to provide a detailed insight into the nature of the biological malfunction and related pathways of differentially expressed genes in RIF and REPL. Endometrial biopsies were obtained from 9 women experiencing RIF, REPL and control groups. Affymetrix microarray analysis was performed to measure the gene expression level of the endometrial biopsies. Unsupervised clustering of endometrial samples shows scattered distribution of gene expression between the RIF, REPL and control groups. 2556 and 1174 genes (p value < 0.05, Fold change > 1.2) were significantly altered in the endometria of RIF and REPL patients’ group, respectively compared to the control group. Downregulation in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in RIF and REPL including ribosome and oxidative phosphorylation pathways. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed ribosomes and mitochondria inner membrane as the most significantly downregulated cellular component (CC) affected in RIF and REPL. Determination of the dysregulated genes and related biological pathways in RIF and REPL will be key in understanding their molecular pathology and of major importance in addressing diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment issues
  19. Fulltext Effectiveness of Pulmonary Rehabilitation among COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Al-Mhanna SB, Mohamed M, Noor NM, Afolabi HA, Irekeola AA, Bello KE, et al.
    Healthcare (Basel), 2022 Oct 26;10(11).
    PMID: 36360471 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10112130
    Background: Many COVID-19 patients presented with detrimental features, such as impaired respiratory function, physical capacity, and overall poor quality of life. The present study evaluates the effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation on COVID-19 patients. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar from 2019 to 2021. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42021273618. We performed statistical analyses via random effects and expressed the outcomes as standardized mean difference (SMD) for continuous variables, with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: We included six trials involving 432 patients. The primary outcome showed a significant improvement in physical function (SMD 0.83, 95% CI −0.58 to 1.09; p < 0.001; four trials, 266 participants; high-quality evidence). There was significant difference in anxiety (SMD −0.80, 95% CI −1.23 to −0.37; p = 0.003), physical activity intensity levels (SMD −1.27, 95% CI −2.23 to −0.32; p = 0.009), sleep quality (MD −0.05, 95% CI −0.83 to −0.16; p = 0.004), peripheral muscle performance of lower limbs (SMD 0.90, 95% CI −0.60 to 1.20; p < 0.001), and dyspnoea outcomes (SMD −0.55, 95% CI −0.87 to −0.23; p = 0.007). Conclusions: Pulmonary rehabilitation is an effective adjuvant therapy that minimizes COVID-19 severity in the intervention group compared to the conventional treatment. The findings of this study will need to be considered in the framework of the clinical outcome as observed in the intervention outcome. Additionally, safer data on guideline rehabilitation would be needed to examine whether pulmonary rehabilitation would be a fruitful intervention to reduce COVID-19 severity.
  20. Micro and macro analysis of restaurant wastewater containing fat, oil, grease (FOG): An approach based on prevention, control, and sustainable management
    Ahmad I, Abdullah N, Koji I, Yuzir A, Ahmad MD, Rachmadona N, et al.
    Chemosphere, 2023 Jun;325:138236.
    PMID: 36868419 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138236
    The number of restaurants is increasing day by day in almost all the developing countries, causing the increase in the generation of restaurant wastewater. Various activities (i.e., cleaning, washing, and cooking) going on in the restaurant kitchen lead to restaurant wastewater (RWW). RWW has high concentrations of chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, and solids. RWW also contains fats, oil, and grease (FOG) in alarmingly high concentration, which after congealing can constrict the sewer lines, leading to blockages, backups, and sanitatry sewer overflows (SSOs). The paper provides an insight to the details of RWW containing FOG collected from a gravity grease interceptor at a specific site in Malaysia, and its expected consequences and the sustainable management plan as prevention, control, and mitigation (PCM) approach. The results showed that the concentrations of pollutants are very high as compared to the discharge standards given by Department of Environment, Malaysia. Maximum values for COD, BOD and FOG in the restaurant wastewater samples were found to be 9948, 3170, and 1640 mg/l, respectively. FAME and FESEM analysis are done on the RWW containing FOG. In the FOG, palmitic acid (C16:0), stearic acid (C18:0), oleic acid (C18:1n9c), linoleic acid (C18:2n6c) are the dominant lipid acids with a maximum of 41, 8.4, 43.2, and 11.5%, respectively. FESEM analysis showed formation of whitish layers fprmed due to the deposition of calcium salts. Furthermore, a novel design of indoor hydromechanical grease interceptor (HGI) was proposed in the study based on the Malaysian conditions of restaurant. The HGI was designed for a maximum flow rate of 132 L per minute and a maximum FOG capacity of 60 kg.
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