Displaying publications 461 - 480 of 1094 in total

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  1. Fulltext Screening of Streptococcus suis in swine workers of selected states in Peninsular Malaysia
    Lee CY, Zakaria Z, Selvarajah GT, Mustaffa-Kamal F, Voon KGL, Fong MWC, et al.
    Vet World, 2024 Jan;17(1):1-7.
    PMID: 38406356 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.1-7
    BACKGROUND AND AIM: Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic pathogen that is highly associated with contact between live pigs and raw pig material. In view of the recent reports of human infections in Malaysia, epidemiological data on the status of S. suis in the human population, especially among people working closely with pigs and/or raw pork, should be provided. The aim of this study was to detect S. suis among individuals working in the swine industry in several major pig production areas in Peninsular Malaysia.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: Demographic information, exposure determinants, and oral swabs were collected from swine personnel, including farmers, butchers, and veterinarians. Oral swabs were subjected to bacterial isolation and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for S. suis detection.

    RESULTS: The study included 40 participants working in the swine industry, with a predominant representation of males (62.5%) and Malaysian Chinese individuals (60.0%) who consumed pork (92.5%). Notably, none of the participants reported consuming raw or partially cooked pork. In spite of their occupational exposure risk, none of the oral swabs showed positive results for S. suis infection.

    CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report and detection study of S. suis using oral swabs obtained from swine personnel in Peninsular Malaysia.

  2. Fulltext Professionalism perspectives among medical students of a novel medical graduate school in Malaysia
    Haque M, Zulkifli Z, Haque SZ, Kamal ZM, Salam A, Bhagat V, et al.
    Adv Med Educ Pract, 2016;7:407-22.
    PMID: 27524927 DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S90737
    Defining professionalism in this constantly evolving world is not easy. How do you measure degrees of benevolence and compassion? If it is so obvious to our profession, what professionalism is, then why is it so difficult to teach it to medical students and residents? Today's definition of medical professionalism is evolving - from autonomy to accountability, from expert opinion to evidence-based medicine, and from self-interest to teamwork and shared responsibility. However, medical professionalism is defined as the basis for the trust in the patient-physician relationship, caring and compassion, insight, openness, respect for patient dignity, confidentiality, autonomy, presence, altruism, and those qualities that lead to trust-competence, integrity, honesty, morality, and ethical conduct. The purpose of this study is to explore professionalism in terms of its fundamental elements among medical students of Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). This was a cross-sectional study carried out on medical students of UniSZA. The study population included preclinical and clinical medical students of UniSZA from Year I to Year V of academic session 2014/2015. The simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample. Data were collected using a validated instrument. The data were then compiled and analyzed using SPSS Version 21. Out of 165 questionnaires distributed randomly among Year I to Year V medical students of UniSZA, 144 returned, giving a response rate of 87%. Among the study participants, 38% (54) and 62% (90) were males and females, respectively. The grand total score was 170.92±19.08. A total of 166.98±20.15 and 173.49±18.09 were the total professionalism score of male and female study participants, respectively, with no statistically significant (P=0.61) differences. This study found almost similar levels of familiarity with all fundamental issues of professionalism with no statistically (P>0.05) significant differences. Medical faculty members should give more effort for the professional development of medical doctor. Henceforth, researchers believe and expect that the country will produce more rational and holistic medical doctors.
  3. Fulltext Effect of different levels of EDTA on phytoextraction of heavy metal and growth of Brassica juncea L
    Kamal MA, Perveen K, Khan F, Sayyed RZ, Hock OG, Bhatt SC, et al.
    Front Microbiol, 2023;14:1228117.
    PMID: 37601347 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1228117
    Heavy metal pollution of soil is a major concern due to its non-biodegradable nature, bioaccumulation, and persistence in the environment. To explore the probable function of EDTA in ameliorating heavy metal toxicity and achieve the sustainable development goal (SDG), Brassica juncea L. seedlings were treated with different concentrations of EDTA (0, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 mM Kg-1) in heavy metal-polluted soil. Plant samples were collected 60 days after sowing; photosynthetic pigments, H2O2, monoaldehyde (MDA), antioxidant enzymes, and ascorbic acid content, as well as plant biomass, were estimated in plants. Soil and plant samples were also examined for the concentrations of Cd, Cr, Pb, and Hg. Moreover, values of the phytoremediation factor were utilized to assess the accumulation capacity of heavy metals by B. juncea under EDTA treatments. In the absence of EDTA, B. juncea seedlings accrued heavy metals in their roots and shoots in a concentration-dependent manner. However, the highest biomass of plants (roots and shoots) was recorded with the application of 2 mM kg-1 EDTA. Moreover, high levels (above 3 mM kg-1) of EDTA concentration have reduced the biomass of plants (roots and shoots), photosynthetic area, and chlorophyll content. The effect of EDTA levels on photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a and b) revealed that with an increment in EDTA concentration, accumulation of heavy metals was also increased in the plant, subsequently decreasing the chlorophyll a and b concentration in the plant. TLF was found to be in the order Pb> Hg> Zn> and >Ni, while TF was found to be in the order Hg>Zn>Ni>Pb, and the best dose was 3 mM kg-1 EDTA for Hg and 4 mM kg-1 for Pb, Ni, and Zn. Furthermore, hyperaccumulation of heavy metals enhanced the generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide anions (O2•-), and lipid peroxidation. It also interrupts mechanisms of the antioxidant defense system. Furthermore, heavy metal stress reduced plant growth, biomass, and chlorophyll (chl) content. These findings suggest that the exogenous addition of EDTA to the heavy metal-treated seedlings increases the bioavailability of heavy metals for phytoextraction and decreases heavy metal-induced oxidative injuries by restricting heavy metal uptake and components of their antioxidant defense systems.
  4. Fulltext Building the Positive Emotion-Resilience-Coping Efficacy Model for COVID-19 Pandemic
    Ke GN, Grajfoner D, Wong RMM, Carter S, Khairudin R, Lau WY, et al.
    Front Psychol, 2022;13:764811.
    PMID: 35369195 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.764811
    The world faces unprecedented challenges because of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Existing theories of human flourishing and coping efficacy are too broad and general to address COVID-19 unprecedented mental health challenges. This study examined two main objectives, first the associations between psychological outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress) and psychological wellbeing of this phenomenon, and second, moderating and mediating factors emotions, resilience and coping self-efficacy. A nationwide survey was carried out on a Malaysian sample (n = 920). Participants completed an on-line survey that assessed psychological outcomes, psychological wellbeing, positive-negative emotions, resilience, and coping self-efficacy. The relationship between psychological states and psychological wellbeing was successfully mediated by coping self-efficacy (direct effects of -0.31 to -0.46 at p 
  5. Fulltext Alcohol Dependence Modulates Amygdalar mTORC2 and PKCε Expression in a Rodent Model
    Hanim A, Mohamed IN, Mohamed RMP, Mokhtar MH, Makpol S, Naomi R, et al.
    Nutrients, 2023 Jul 05;15(13).
    PMID: 37447362 DOI: 10.3390/nu15133036
    Multiple alcohol use disorder (AUD)-related behavioral alterations are governed by protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε), particularly in the amygdala. Protein kinase C (PKC) is readily phosphorylated at Ser729 before activation by the mTORC2 protein complex. In keeping with this, the current study was conducted to assess the variations in mTORC2 and PKCε during different ethanol exposure stages. The following groups of rats were employed: control, acute, chronic, ethanol withdrawal (EW), and EW + ethanol (EtOH). Ethanol-containing and non-ethanol-containing modified liquid diets (MLDs) were administered for 27 days. On day 28, either saline or ethanol (2.5 g/kg, 20% v/v) was intraperitoneally administered, followed by bilateral amygdala extraction. PKCε mRNA levels were noticeably increased in the amygdala of the EW + EtOH and EW groups. Following chronic ethanol consumption, the stress-activated map kinase-interacting protein 1 (Sin1) gene expression was markedly decreased. In the EW, EW + EtOH, and chronic ethanol groups, there was a profound increase in the protein expression of mTOR, Sin1, PKCε, and phosphorylated PKCε (Ser729). The PKCε gene and protein expressions showed a statistically significant moderate association, according to a correlation analysis. Our results suggest that an elevated PKCε protein expression in the amygdala during EW and EW + EtOH occurred at the transcriptional level. However, an elevation in the PKCε protein expression, but not its mRNA, after chronic ethanol intake warrants further investigation to fully understand the signaling pathways during different episodes of AUD.
  6. Fulltext An elderly patient with depression and a suicide attempt during the COVID-19 pandemic: a case report
    Mohd Salleh Sahimi H, Midin M, Lim JTY, Anwar MWA, Abdul Samad FD, Mohamad Kamal NA
    Front Psychiatry, 2023;14:1151482.
    PMID: 37840789 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1151482
    OBJECTIVE: Elderly individuals are among the age groups with the highest risk of suicide. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic forced isolation and resulted in an increased risk of depression, hopelessness, and perceived burdensomeness among the elderly, thereby increasing the risk of suicide.

    METHODS: This is a case report of an elderly single retired school principal with obsessive-compulsive personality traits who developed depression with psychotic symptoms after being isolated following the movement control order (MCO) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The social isolation led to feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. The patient's depressive symptoms worsened after he developed physical illnesses, such as eye floaters, that affected his daily activities. This caused him to have suicidal ideation to the extent that he attempted suicide by ingesting 90 mL of pesticide. Two weeks prior to the attempt, he updated his will and asked his friend to keep it. After the suicide attempt, he vomited and had diarrhea and epigastric pain. He called his friend, who brought him to the hospital emergency room (ER). He was resuscitated and subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). After being medically stabilized, he was transferred to the psychiatric ward, where further treatment was administered for his depression. His depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation improved after he was administered antidepressants and psychotherapy.

    RESULTS: The impact of the COVID pandemic has led to a surge in mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The elderly are among the highest-risk groups of individuals to contract or die of COVID-19 infection, and they are also the most likely to develop mental health issues related to the pandemic. Furthermore, the risk of death by suicide is highest in this age group due to physical illness, social isolation, and the lack of a support system. This case also highlights the need for awareness of suicidal ideation screening among non-medical healthcare professionals and religious organizations to avoid the treatment gap.

    CONCLUSION: It is essential to enhance suicide risk assessment and management among the elderly after the COVID-19 pandemic.

  7. Fulltext Bacterial Metabolomics: Sample Preparation Methods
    Mohd Kamal K, Mahamad Maifiah MH, Abdul Rahim N, Hashim YZH, Abdullah Sani MS, Azizan KA
    Biochem Res Int, 2022;2022:9186536.
    PMID: 35465444 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9186536
    Metabolomics is a comprehensive analysis of metabolites existing in biological systems. As one of the important "omics" tools, the approach has been widely employed in various fields in helping to better understand the complex cellular metabolic states and changes. Bacterial metabolomics has gained a significant interest as bacteria serve to provide a better subject or model at systems level. The approach in metabolomics is categorized into untargeted and targeted which serves different paradigms of interest. Nevertheless, the bottleneck in metabolomics has been the sample or metabolite preparation method. A custom-made method and design for a particular species or strain of bacteria might be necessary as most studies generally refer to other bacteria or even yeast and fungi that may lead to unreliable analysis. The paramount aspect of metabolomics design comprises sample harvesting, quenching, and metabolite extraction procedures. Depending on the type of samples and research objective, each step must be at optimal conditions which are significantly important in determining the final output. To date, there are no standardized nor single designated protocols that have been established for a specific bacteria strain for untargeted and targeted approaches. In this paper, the existing and current developments of sample preparation methods of bacterial metabolomics used in both approaches are reviewed. The review also highlights previous literature of optimized conditions used to propose the most ideal methods for metabolite preparation, particularly for bacterial cells. Advantages and limitations of methods are discussed for future improvement of bacterial metabolomics.
  8. An efficient wastewater treatment through reduction of organic dyes using Ag nanoparticles supported on cellulose gum beads
    Khan MSJ, Sidek LM, Kamal T, Asiri AM, Khan SB, Basri H, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 Feb;257(Pt 1):128544.
    PMID: 38061525 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128544
    This work reports silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) supported on biopolymer carboxymethyl cellulose beads (Ag-CMC) serves as an efficient catalyst in the reduction process of p-nitrophenol (p-NP) and methyl orange (MO). For Ag-CMC synthesis, first CMC beads were prepared by crosslinking the CMC solution in aluminium nitrate solution and then the CMC beads were introduced into AgNO3 solution to adsorb Ag ions. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis suggests the uniform distribution of Ag nanoparticles on the CMC beads. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the metallic and fcc planes of AgNPs, respectively, in the Ag-CMC catalyst. The Ag-CMC catalyst exhibits remarkable reduction activity for the p-NP and MO dyes with the highest rate constant (kapp) of a chemical reaction is 0.519 and 0.697 min-1, respectively. Comparative reduction studies of Ag-CMC with CMC, Fe-CMC and Co-CMC disclosed that Ag-CMC containing AgNPs is an important factore in reducing the organic pollutants like p-NP and MO dyes. During the recyclability tests, the Ag-CMC also maintained high reduction activity, which suggests that CMC protects the AgNPs from leaching during dye reduction reactions.
  9. Fulltext The Past, Present, and Future of Monkeypox: A Rapid Review Regarding Prevalence and Prevention
    Masood W, Khan HA, Cheema HA, Shahid A, Bilal W, Kamal MA, et al.
    Inquiry, 2022;59:469580221139366.
    PMID: 36484333 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221139366
    While monkeypox virus (MPXV) remained endemic in central and western African countries, a sudden unusual spike of global cases among non-endemic countries is an enigma for scientists. With 257 cases reported as of 26th May 2021, a multi-country outbreak of monkeypox has been declared in countries including the UK, EU/EEA states, and North America. Even though the likelihood of transmissibility of MPXV is limited compared to COVID-19, yet a coordinated multidisciplinary effort is required to prevent any further global expansion. Few appropriate responsive approaches to contain the infection could be; limiting the contact with potential animal reservoirs, isolation of confirmed cases, using PPEs to prevent human-human transmission, awareness activities, and administration of pre and post prophylactic vaccination. In this review, we have discussed the previous and current outbreaks of MPXV along with the abrupt actions that are needed to address the situation.
  10. Untargeted metabolomics profiling for revealing water-soluble bioactive components and biological activities in edible bird's nest
    Ter ZY, Chang LS, Zaini NAM, Fazry S, Babji AS, Koketsu M, et al.
    Food Res Int, 2024 Dec;198:115289.
    PMID: 39643356 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115289
    Edible bird's nest (EBN) is a functional food renowned for its numerous health benefits. While its nutritional and therapeutic value is well-documented, the metabolites contributing to the bioactivities of EBN remain poorly understood. This study aimed to identify the metabolites present in EBN subjected to different treatments, including double-boiled EBN (EBNdb), EBN hydrolysate (EBNhydro), EBN fermented with Lactobacillus helveticus (EBNLH), Latilactobacillus curvatus (EBNLC), and Latilactobacillus sakei (EBNLS) using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and correlate the identified bioactive metabolites with the bioactivities of EBN. It was found that the fermented EBNs exhibited the highest number of metabolites, with 76 tentatively identified, followed by EBNhydro (45) and EBNdb (37). Citric acid (1.97-4.48 g/kg) was present in all treated EBN samples, while L(+)-lactic acid (3.03-8.07 g/kg) and adipic acid (2.33-3.18 g/kg) were only found in fermented EBNs. Among the treated EBN samples, EBNLC demonstrated the significantly highest (p ≤ 0.05) antioxidative (22.34 ± 0.41 % 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil radical scavenging activity), antihypertensive (5.46 ± 0.26 % angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity), and antihyperglycemic activities (6.48 ± 0.34 % α-amylase inhibitory activity). A total of 18 metabolites, including citric acid, 4-sphingenin, N-acetylcitrulline, 4-aminophenol, L(+)-lactic acid, 2-oxoadipate, sildenafil, formylglycinamidin-RP, 11β,17α,21-α-5β-pregnane-3,20-dione, 2-ketobutyric acid, homoserine, benzaldehyde, 1-pyrroline4-hydroxy-2-carboxylate, nortriptyline, 1-methylguanine, 3-hydroxy-trimethyllysine, 3-phenylpropionate, and reserphine were predicted as bioactive metabolites using the partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). This study provides valuable insights into the metabolites present in EBN and serves as fundamental data for future investigations into the bioactive compounds responsible for its specific health benefits, potentially leading to the development of enhanced EBN-based functional foods.
  11. The new perspective of Alzheimer's Disease Research: Mechanism and therapeutic strategy of neuronal senescence
    Niu Q, Li D, Zhang J, Piao Z, Xu B, Xi Y, et al.
    Ageing Res Rev, 2024 Dec;102:102593.
    PMID: 39566741 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102593
    Alzheimer's disease (AD), commonly known as senile dementia, is a neurodegenerative disease with insidious onset and gradually worsening course. The brain is particularly sensitive to senescence, and neuronal senescence is an important risk factor for the occurrence of AD. However, the exact pathogenesis between neuronal senescence and AD has not been fully elucidated so far. Neuronal senescence is characterized by the permanent stagnation of the cell cycle, and the changes in its structure, function, and microenvironment are closely related to the pathogenesis and progression of AD. In recent years, studies such as the Aβ cascade hypothesis and Tau protein phosphorylation have provided new strategies for the therapy of AD, but due to the complexity of the etiology of AD, there are still no effective treatment measures. This article aims to deeply analyze the pathogenesis between AD and neuronal senescence, and sort out various existing therapeutic methods, to provide new ideas and references for the clinical treatment of AD.
  12. Fulltext Dietary phytochemicals alleviate the premature skin aging: A comprehensive review
    Singh H, Kamal YT, Pandohee J, Mishra AK, Biswas A, Mohanto S, et al.
    Exp Gerontol, 2025 Jan;199:112660.
    PMID: 39694450 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2024.112660
    Skin aging, often called as premature skin aging, is the hastened deterioration of the skin resulting from multiple factors, including UV radiation, environmental contaminants, inadequate nutrition, stress, etc. Dietary phytochemicals, present in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-derived meals, have gained interest due to their efficiency to eradicate free radicals and lowering the release of inflammatory mediators which accounts for premature skin aging. Several dietary phytochemicals, i.e., carotenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloids, phytosterols, etc., exhibited potential anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, suppression of UV damage, and promote collagen synthesis. In addition, dietary phytochemicals include sulfur, present in various foods safeguard the skin against oxidative stress and inflammation. Thus, this article delves into the comprehension of various dietary phytochemicals investigated to alleviate the premature skin aging. The article further highlights specific phytochemicals and their sources, bioavailability, mechanisms, etc., in the context of safeguarding the skin against oxidative stress and inflammation. The present manuscript is a systematic comprehension of the available literature on dietary phytochemicals and skin aging in various database, i.e., PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar using the keywords, i.e., "dietary phytochemicals", "nutraceuticals", "skin aging" etc., via Boolean operator, i.e., "AND". The dietary guidelines presented in the manuscript is a unique summarization for a broad reader to understand the inclusion of various functional foods, nutrients, supplements, etc., to prevent premature skin aging. Thus, the utilization of dietary phytochemicals has shown a promising avenue in preventing skin aging, however, the future perspectives and challenges of such phytochemicals should be comprehended via clinical investigations.
  13. Fulltext Ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological aspects of Melastoma sp.
    Nozlena Abdul Samad, Nik Nur Syazni Nik Mohamed Kamal, Noorfatimah Yahaya, Mohd Yusmaidie Aziz, Nur Nadhirah Mohamad Zain, Nor Adlin Md Yusoff, et al.
    Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2018;14(201):153-163.
    MyJurnal
    Melastoma is a genus that belongs to the Melastomataceae family and consists of 50–70 species distributed around India, Southeast Asia, Australia and the Pacific Island. Numerous species of this plant show potential therapeutic purposes. This review summarizes the scientific findings on the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry and pharma- cological activities of Melastoma sp. The leaves of Melastoma sp. was widely used by Asian as decoction for the remedy of gastrointestinal disorder apart from root, which was consumed as juice for skin diseases, fever and pain. Majority of the scientific studies focused on M. malabathricum showing high antimicrobial activity towards selected gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria from different parts of the plant. In vitro studies showed that Melastoma sp. possessed anti-coagulant, antioxidant, antiproliferative and immunomodulatory activities. Apart from in vitro, various in vivo studies have been conducted involving methanolic leaf extracts using Sprague Dawley rats for inhi- bition of anti-ulcer, anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic and anti-diabetic activities. Flavonoids, triterpenes, tannins, saponins and steroids are the main classes of secondary metabolites identified from Melastoma sp. Kaempferol derivatives exhibited significant main constituents from the flowers and leaves using various semi polar solvent extracts. Few phytosterols were also isolated from the leaves extract albeit the absence of alkaloids. This review shows that Melastoma sp. is an important genus of Melastomataceae family, however, the phytochemical and pharmacological findings of various species in this genus are still limited, indicating a great opportunity to explore new therapeutic activities with novel bioactive constituents.
  14. Fulltext Changes in apical corneal curvature in unilateral primary pterygium and normal adults using Simulated-K and corneal irregularity measurement
    Mohd Radzi Hilmi, Nur Hidayah Musa, Khairidzan Mohd Kamal, Mohd Zulfaezal Che Azemin, Nur Nabilah Maruziki, Nur Ain Norazmar, et al.
    International Journal of Allied Health Sciences, 2019;3(2):588-594.
    MyJurnal
    This paper aimed to describe variation in apical corneal curvature between unilateral primary pterygium and normal adults utilizing simulated-K and corneal irregularity measurement corneal indices. A total of 100 participants comprise 50 unilateral primary pterygium eyes from 50 patients and 50 normal adults were recruited in this study. Diagnosis and classification of primary pterygium were done by a consultant ophthalmologist (KMK). Standard optometric examinations were performed in all participants. Simulated-K (SimK) and corneal irregularity measurement (CIM) was objectively measured using a corneal topographer. Three measurements based on best image quality for SimK and CIM were taken by single operator in a same visit. Difference for both SimK and CIM parameters between primary pterygium and normal groups were determined via independent T-test. Overall mean and standard deviation (n = 120) of SimK and CIM were found higher in primary pterygium group (9.06 ± 4.49 D and 11.48 ± 3.12) compared to normal (1.63 ± 0.67 D and 0.62 ± 0.24) respectively. Independent T-test results showed significance difference in SimK and CIM values between primary pterygium groups and normal (both P< 0.001). Both SimK and CIM corneal indices can be an important tool in describing and predicting changes on the corneal curvature due to pterygium progression. However, it is worth to note that the detectability of changes in anterior corneal curvature is limited to 5 mm of central corneal curvature.
  15. Fulltext The effect of oxalic acid as a doping agent on the conductivity of polyaniline
    Amirah Amalina binti Ahmad Tarmizi, Mohamad Kamal Harun, Saifollah Abdullah, Hadariah Bahron, Muhd Zu Azhan Yahya, Sabrina M. Yahaya, et al.
    Scientific Research Journal, 2016;13(1):1-6.
    MyJurnal
    This study investigates the effect of oxalic acid at different concentrations as doping agent on
    the electrical properties of polyaniline (PANI). The polymerization of aniline to produce
    PANI was carried out in media containing oxalic acid at 0.08 M, 0.09 M, 0.1 M, 0.2 M and
    0.3 M in the presence of ammonium persulphate as oxidizing agent. The successful formation
    of PANI doped with oxalic acid was confirmed by FTIR and the morphology studied using
    XRD. An impedance investigation on the series of PANI formed revealed that doping in 0.1M
    oxalic acid produced PANI of the highest conductivity of 2.52 x 10-6
    Scm-1.
  16. Fulltext The prognostic factors of diabetic retinopathy severity among type 2 diabetes mellitus in a tertiary teaching hospital
    Nur Jannah Ambak, Aniza Abd Aziz, Nor Azwany Yaacob, Siti Raihan Ishak, Wan Mohd Razin Wan Hassan, Syaratul Emma Hashim, et al.
    Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 2016;16(2):48-54.
    MyJurnal
    Diabetic retinopathy (DR) may result in progressive visual impairment and blindness which affects the diabetic patients‟ morbidity and quality of life significantly. The objective of this study was to determine the proportions and prognostic factors of DR severity among Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. A cross sectional study was conducted at the Ophthalmology Clinic in a tertiary hospital using the medical record database from 2005 to 2011. A total of 216DR patients were randomly selected. The study outcome was DR severity which was classified into four grading based on the International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy Scale. Descriptive statistics and Ordinal Logistic Regression were applied using Stata SE/11. The mean (SD) age of DR
    in this study was 56.06 (9.98) years old with almost equal sex ratio. Proportion of mild non proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) was 48.6% (95% CI: 40.0, 60.0), moderate NPDR was 28.2% (95%CI: 22.0, 40.0), severe NPDR was 6.9% (95% CI: 4.0, 11.0) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) was 16.2% (95%CI: 10.0, 22.0). Diabetic patients that suffered from diabetes mellitus for more than 10 years, having nephropathy, every increased of HbA1c by 1% and higher total cholesterol were at increased risk of worsening DR.
    Note: content of full text inconsistent with title and abstract. Author informed.
  17. Fulltext Pengaruh suhu ke atas perkembangan larva lalat Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) dan Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae): aplikasi dalam sains forensik
    Ahmad Firdaus Mohd Salleh, Anita Talib, Mohamed Abdullah Marwi, Noor Hayati Mohd Isa, Syamsa Rizal Abdullah, Raja Muhammad Zuha Raja Kamal Bashah, et al.
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2009;7(2):89-96.
    MyJurnal
    Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) dan Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) adalah merupakan dua spesies lalat penting yang boleh dijadikan sebagai penunjuk terbaik untuk menganggarkan selang masa kematian atau Post Mortem Interval (PMI) untuk kegunaan dalam sains forensik. Penentuan PMI adalah berdasarkan kepada saiz dan peringkat perkembangan larva. Kajian perkembangan telur, larva dan pupa lalat Ch. megacepahala dan Ch. rufifacies dijalankan di bawah suhu 27ºC, 30ºC dan 33ºC di makmal dengan menggunakan kebuk pertumbuhann serangga. Data daripada kajian digunakan untuk menghasilkan satu graf pertumbuhan dan Jam Darjah Terkumpul (ADH) bagi kedua-dua spesies. Ch. megacephala mengambil masa selama 9.15 hari pada suhu 27ºC, 8.54 hari (30ºC) dan 6.76 hari (33ºC) untuk melengkapkan satu kitar hidup. Pada C. rufifacies pula, kitar hidupnya lebih lama berbanding Ch. megacephala iaitu 9.92 hari pada suhu 27ºC, 9.13 hari (30ºC) dan 7.44 hari (33ºC). Telur bagi kedua-dua spesies menetas lebih cepat pada suhu 33ºC berbanding dua suhu yang lainnya. Nilai ADH yang rendah pada sesuatu suhu, menunjukkan sesuatu spesies lebih cepat melengkapkan suatu kitar hidup. Penemuan ini berguna dalam menganggarkan selang masa kematian bagi mayat yang dijumpai pada suhu persekitaran yang berlainan.
  18. Fulltext The prevalence of family planning practice and associated factors among women in Serdang, Selangor
    Mardiana binti Mansor, Khatijah Lim Abdullah, San, San Oo, Kamal Akhtar, Ayu Sulaini Jusoh, Suriawati Ghazali, et al.
    Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 2015;15(3):147-156.
    MyJurnal
    Family planning is a method of controlling fertility which helps to prevent unwanted pregnancies among couples. Unwanted pregnancy has negative effects for mothers and children. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of family planning practices among women in Serdang area and associated factors with their family planning practices. A cross sectional study was conducted with a systematic random sampling of 349 women of reproductive age, who attended Sri Kembangan Polyclinic. Descriptive analysis with chi-square and multiple regression analysis were conducted to identify factors associated with the family planning practice. The prevalence of family planning practice was 38.4%. Family planning was significantly associated with age (p=0.001), marital status (p=0.001), mode of delivery of the last pregnancy (p=0.001), number of children (p=0.001), source of information (p=0.004), level of knowledge (p=0.001), and the attitude (p=0.004). Using multiple logistic regression, four factors contributed to family planning practice, were identified as statistically significant: marital status (married OR=40, 95% CI: 9.45, 169.8), religion (Muslim OR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.14, 3.4), number of children (children>4 OR=2.98, 95% CI:1. 74, 5.09) and attitude (positive attitude OR=1.88, 95% CI:1.11, 3.18). The prevalence of family planning practice in Serdang was low even though knowledge was sufficient. The use of pamphlets and booklets are still needed to enhance efforts in health education. Currently, practice on family planning will determine the future structure of the community and the economic wellbeing of a country. Future study should focus on family planning practice among teenager and types of methods for women.
  19. Fulltext Antagonistic effect of biosynthesized AgNPs from Garcinia Atroviridis extract on Anti-inflammatory properties of CD4+ILRhigh Cells from Non Obese Resistance (NOR) mouse model
    Nur Azirah Md Yusof, Lee, Pei Chen, Nik Nur Syazni NM Kamal, Nurul Izzati Zulkifli, Nor Hazwani Ahmad, Wan Adnan Wan Omar, et al.
    Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2018;14(102):1-7.
    MyJurnal
    CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ T regulatory cell (Tregs) represents approximately 8-10% of the total CD4+ T cell population and are important for immune homeostasis and preventing autoimmune development. Thus, harnessing their functions as immune modulator may be coupled with the rapid advancement of nanotechnology development. Plant-mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticle (AgNP) is noteworthy due to simplicity, rapid rate and potentially render more biocompatibility with biomolecules. This study identified the effect of biosynthesized-AgNPs from Garcinia atroviridis (GA) in modulating inflammatory properties of Treg cells in Non-Obese Resistant (NOR). GA extract was used to biosynthesized AgNPs and was tested on the effect of inducing inflammatory properties in CD4+IL17Rhigh cells following 72hr in vitro treatment. Methods: Conventional CD4+CD25-Foxp3- cells from female NOR mice were sorted using magnetic separation and cultured in RPMI in the presence of anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies, TGF-β and IL-2 cytokines. Cells were then treated with or without GA-AgNPs for 48hr of iTreg cell induction and then re-cultured with new media treated with respective treatments received. After 72hr in vitro culture, cells were stained with fluorochrome-conjugated antibodies for flow cytometry. Results: Current result showed that AgNPs suppress CD4 expression in CD4+IL17Rhigh population. MAPK pathway proteins remain unchanged in both control and AgNP-treated groups. Conclusions: The preliminary findings may suggest the properties of GA-AgNPs in modulating CD4+ T cell population in normal condition. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involve in such interaction. Current findings serve as basis in further identifying the immunomodulatory profile of nanoparticle for potential therapeutic use.
  20. Preparation of titanium dioxide hollow fiber membrane using phase inversion and sintering technique for gas separation and water purification
    Mukhlis A Rahman, Mohd Kamal Ghazali, Juhana Jaafar, Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, Wan Muhammad Solehin Wan Abd Aziz, Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
    Sains Malaysiana, 2015;44:1195-1201.
    This article describes the preparation of titanium dioxide (TiO2) hollow fiber membrane using phase inversion and sintering technique. In this study, nano-sized TiO2 powders with different particle sizes were used to prepare ceramic hollow fiber membranes. In a series of preparation steps, a dispersant was dissolved in organic solvent before the addition of ceramic powders. These steps were followed by the addition of polymer binder. The membrane precursor was obtained by extruding the ceramic suspension into a coagulation bath, which enabled the precipitation of the precursor of ceramic hollow fiber membrane. The dried precursor was later sintered at temperatures ranging from 1200 to 1300oC to obtain TiO2 hollow fiber membrane. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to study the morphology of TiO2 hollow fiber membrane. The SEM images show the membrane can be shaped into asymmetric structure and symmetric structure based on the ceramic suspension compositions. The highest mechanical strength obtained was 223 MPa when the membrane prepared using 20 wt. % ceramic loading of single nano-sized powder and sintered at 1300oC. TiO2 hollow fiber membrane prepared using similar ceramic loading showed high permeation rate of inert gas. High pure water fluxes were obtained when permeability tests was carried out using TiO2 hollow fiber membrane, prepared using mixture of nano-sized particles, even though its cross-section have a sponge-like structure.
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