Displaying publications 41 - 60 of 225 in total

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  1. Assessing ureolytic bacteria with calcifying abilities isolated from limestone caves for biocalcification
    Omoregie AI, Ong DEL, Nissom PM
    Lett Appl Microbiol, 2019 Feb;68(2):173-181.
    PMID: 30537001 DOI: 10.1111/lam.13103
    Biocalcification through the use of ureolytic bacteria and biochemical activities has evolved in recent decades into a fervent resourceful effective technology suitable for soil stabilization, crack repair and bioremediation. Extensive studies have been carried out on numerous ureolytic bacterial species isolated from soils and sewage samples. However, very limited attention has been given to limestone caves with natural calcite formations as a possible source for isolation of ureolytic bacteria. In this study, bacterial isolates were recovered from limestone cave samples to determine their suitability for biocalcification. Twenty-seven morphologically distinct bacterial isolates were identified by partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing and their various genetic diversity was characterized according to their phylogenetic affiliations. Based on the molecular identification, Sporosarcina was the most abundant genus among all the ureolytic isolates, while the rest belonged to Pseudogracilibacillus and Bacillus genera. Analytical analysis on urease measurement showed that urease activities for the isolates ranged from 1·130 to 21·513 mol urea hydrolysed per minute, with isolate NB33 achieving the highest value and TSB4 achieving the lowest value. The estimated CaCO3 precipitates for the isolates ranged from 4·04 to 17·26 mg ml-1 , with isolate NB30 achieving the highest value and TSB20 achieving the lowest value. The findings in this study demonstrated that the ureolytic bacteria from limestone caves are promising bio-calcifying agents. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Ureolytic bacteria continues to play an important role as microbial tools used in geotechnical engineering for soil biocalcification. Microbial strains with the ability to produce urease enzyme and induce calcium carbonate mineral are often isolated from soil, water and sludge samples. However, screening for these essential microbes from extreme regions such as caves are rarely investigated. In this study, native bacteria which were isolated from limestone cave samples are identified and characterized. The findings suggested that these ureolytic bacterial isolates have the potential to serve as suitable alternative microbial agents for soil strengthening and stabilization.
  2. Glossary for randomized clinical trials
    Nagendrababu V, Duncan HF, Pulikkotil SJ, Dummer PMH
    Int Endod J, 2021 Mar;54(3):354-365.
    PMID: 33089501 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13434
    Randomized clinical trials are positioned at the highest level of primary clinical evidence, as they are designed to be unbiased with a reduced risk of systematic error. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement was first developed in 1996 to improve the reporting quality of randomized clinical trials with updates being published subsequently. Recently, the Preferred Reporting Items for RAndomized Trials in Endodontics (PRIRATE) 2020 guidelines were developed exclusively for the field of Endodontics to address the suboptimal quality of randomized clinical trials submitted to Endodontic journals, which result in many being rejected. A principal flaw in submissions is the fact that many authors are unclear on the keys terms that should be used when developing manuscripts for publication. Clearly, authors should be aware of the most common terms used when conducting and reporting randomized clinical trials. Hence, the aim of the current paper is to present a comprehensive glossary of the terminology used in randomized clinical trials in order to assist authors when designing, executing and writing-up randomized clinical trials.
  3. Factors influencing adequate protein and energy delivery among critically ill children with heart disease in pediatric intensive care unit
    Sundar VV, Sehu Allavudin SF, Easaw MEPM
    Clin Nutr ESPEN, 2021 06;43:353-359.
    PMID: 34024540 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.03.024
    BACKGROUND & AIMS: Inadequate nutrition delivery in critically ill children has shown associated with poor clinical outcomes. Therefore, identifying barriers to deliver adequate nutrition is vital. The aim of this study was to identify factors influencing adequate protein and energy delivery among critically ill children with heart disease in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

    METHODS: This single-centre prospective study, involved children aged from birth to 3 years old, admitted to PICU longer than 72 hours. They received either enteral nutrition (EN) or combination of EN and partial parenteral nutrition (PPN). Clinical and nutrition delivery characteristics were recorded from admission until transferred out of PICU. Multiple regression analysis at significant level p p = 0.041), with fluid restriction (AOR 0.97; 95% CI 0.25-0.73; p = 0.041), longer length of PICU stay (AOR 0.35; 95% CI 0.18-0.64; p = 0.001) and longer feeding interruptions (AOR 3.57; 95% CI 1.39-9.15; p = 0.008) were more likely to have lower energy intake. Children at risk of malnutrition (weight-for-age Z score of p = 0.026) and longer duration of mechanical ventilation (AOR 0.73; 95% CI 0.53 to 0.98; p = 0.041) were more likely to have lower protein intake.

    CONCLUSION: This study highlighted the factors influencing adequate protein and energy delivery in critically ill children with heart disease in PICU. Strategies to improve the nutrition delivery in this group of patients should be outlined and implemented by the dietitians along with multidisciplinary team.

  4. A new system for classifying root and root canal morphology
    Ahmed HMA, Versiani MA, De-Deus G, Dummer PMH
    Int Endod J, 2017 Aug;50(8):761-770.
    PMID: 27578418 DOI: 10.1111/iej.12685
    Knowledge of root and root canal morphology is a prerequisite for effective nonsurgical and surgical endodontic treatments. The external and internal morphological features of roots are variable and complex, and several classifications have been proposed to define the various types of canal configurations that occur commonly. More recently, improvements in nondestructive digital image systems, such as cone-beam and micro-computed tomography, as well as the use of magnification in clinical practice, have increased the number of reports on complex root canal anatomy. Importantly, using these newer techniques, it has become apparent that it is not possible to classify many root canal configurations using the existing systems. The purpose of this article is to introduce a new classification system that can be adapted to categorize root and root canal configurations in an accurate, simple and reliable manner that can be used in research, clinical practice and training.
  5. Reply to the editor
    Ahmed HMA, Versiani MA, De-Deus G, Dummer PMH
    Int Endod J, 2018 Oct;51(10):1182-1183.
    PMID: 30191599 DOI: 10.1111/iej.12928
  6. An in-depth review of the methods, findings, and theories associated with odor-evoked autobiographical memory
    Hackländer RPM, Janssen SMJ, Bermeitinger C
    Psychon Bull Rev, 2019 Apr;26(2):401-429.
    PMID: 30406397 DOI: 10.3758/s13423-018-1545-3
    Over the past nearly 35 years, there has been sporadic interest in what has commonly come to be known as the Proust phenomenon, whereby autobiographical memories are retrieved and experienced differently when evoked by odors as compared with other types of cues, such as words, images or sounds. The purpose of this review is threefold. First, we provide a detailed analysis of the methods used to investigate Proust effects. Second, we review and analyze the various findings from the literature and determine what we feel to be the most important and stable findings. Third, we provide a series of previously postulated and new hypotheses that attempt to account for the various findings. Given the early stage of research, the current review aims to provide a measure of organization to the field, as well serve as a guide for how future investigations may address the topic. We conclude with the recommendation that research in this area shift its focus from establishing the phenomenon towards explaining its causes.
  7. Improving the quality of randomized trials in Endodontics
    Duncan HF, Nagendrababu V, Bjørndal L, Kvist T, Dummer PMH
    Int Endod J, 2020 Jun;53(6):731-732.
    PMID: 32396666 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13297
  8. Action research studies in the intensive care setting: a systematic review
    Soh KL, Davidson PM, Leslie G, Bin Abdul Rahman A
    Int J Nurs Stud, 2011 Feb;48(2):258-68.
    PMID: 21030021 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2010.09.014
    To review published studies using action research in the intensive care unit (ICU) in order to provide an intervention framework to improve clinical outcomes.
  9. Fulltext Evaluation of the safety of domestic food preparation in Malaysia
    Desmarchelier PM, Apiwathnasorn C, Vilainerun D, Watson C, Johari MR, Ahmad Z, et al.
    Bull World Health Organ, 1994;72(6):877-84.
    PMID: 7867133
    Food-handling practices were studied in 119 and 158 households, respectively, in an urban and a rural community in Peninsular Malaysia. Hazard analyses, including microbiological analysis of foods, were carried out in two households in each community and in a house that prepared food for distribution in the urban area. Kitchen hygiene was generally acceptable, although rated "poor" in some instances in the rural area. Food prepared for lunch was usually sufficient for dinner also, the leftover items being stored at ambient temperature until required. In the house that prepared food for distribution, breakfast was prepared during the evening, stored at ambient temperature overnight, and reheated before sale the next morning. There was a local preference for cooking food at temperatures close to boiling point; this reduced the numbers of vegetative cells but not those of spores. In some stored foods the populations of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and mesophilic aerobic bacteria increased, the last-mentioned reaching spoilage levels. Reheating reduced the populations of proliferating bacteria in most foods to acceptable levels but would not have destroyed heat-resistant enterotoxins. Because of their importance in combating acute bacterial foodborne disease, the control of the temperature and time factors during the cooking and storage of food should receive special attention in education on health and food safety.
  10. Fulltext Walking on thin ice! Identifying methamphetamine "drug mules" on digital plain radiography
    Abdul Rashid SN, Mohamad Saini SB, Abdul Hamid S, Muhammad SJ, Mahmud R, Thali MJ, et al.
    Br J Radiol, 2014 Apr;87(1036):20130472.
    PMID: 24472728 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20130472
    The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of identifying methamphetamine (MA) internal payloads in "drug mules" by plain abdominal digital radiography (DR).
  11. Fulltext An Asian validation of the TIMI risk score for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
    Selvarajah S, Fong AY, Selvaraj G, Haniff J, Uiterwaal CS, Bots ML
    PLoS One, 2012;7(7):e40249.
    PMID: 22815733 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040249
    Risk stratification in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is important, such that the most resource intensive strategy is used to achieve the greatest clinical benefit. This is essential in developing countries with wide variation in health care facilities, scarce resources and increasing burden of cardiovascular diseases. This study sought to validate the Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score for STEMI in a multi-ethnic developing country.
  12. Gender difference in academic performance of nursing students in a Malaysian university college
    Wan Chik WZ, Salamonson Y, Everett B, Ramjan LM, Attwood N, Weaver R, et al.
    Int Nurs Rev, 2012 Sep;59(3):387-93.
    PMID: 22897191 DOI: 10.1111/j.1466-7657.2012.00989.x
    To examine differences in academic performance between male and female nursing students, and to identify whether professional identity and language usage were explanatory factors of academic performance.
  13. Fulltext Gradually implemented new biomarkers for prognostication of breast cancer: complete case analysis may introduce bias
    Bhoo Pathy N, Uiterwaal CS, Taib NA, Verkooijen HM, Yip CH
    J Clin Epidemiol, 2012 May;65(5):568-71.
    PMID: 22269329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2011.09.013
    Many recent studies investigated the prognostic value of new biomarkers in breast cancer using data from cancer registries. Some of these studies were conducted using only patients for whom biomarker status was available (or tested). Using human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) as an example, we determined whether testing for a recently introduced biomarker was associated with the outcome of women with breast cancer.
  14. Expression of transforming growth factor-beta and determination of apoptotic index in histopathological sections for assessment of the effects of Apigenin (4', 5', 7'- Trihydroxyflavone) on Cyclosporine A induced renal damage
    Chong FW, Chakravarthi S, Nagaraja HS, Thanikachalam PM, Lee N
    Malays J Pathol, 2009 Jun;31(1):35-43.
    PMID: 19694312
    Cyclosporine A (CsA), a calcineurin inhibitor produced by the fungi Trichoderma polysporum and Cylindrocarpon lucidum, is an immunosuppressant prescribed in organ transplants to prevent rejection. Its adverse effect on renal dysfunction has limited its use in a clinical setting. Apigenin (4',5',7'-Trihydroxyflavone), a herbal extract, with anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties, has been investigated for properties to reverse this adverse effect. This research was conducted to establish a standard protocol for immunohistochemical estimation of Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-beta) expression, as an indicator of Cyclosporine A induced damage, and to observe whether apoptotic index and TGF-beta expression can be used to assess effects of Apigenin on CsA induced renal dysfunction. Six groups of 5 male Sprague-Dawley albino rats each were dosed once daily for 21 days, as follows: (1) negative control--oral corn oil, (2) positive control--Cyclosporine A (25 mg/kg), (3) Group 3--Apigenin (20 mg/kg), (4) Group 4--Cyclosporine A (25 mg/kg) +Apigenin (10 mg/kg), (5) Group 5--Cyclosporine A (25 mg/kg) +Apigenin (15 mg/kg) and (6) Group 6--Cyclosporine A (25 mg/kg) +Apigenin (20 mg/kg). Cyclosporine A was administered intra-peritoneally while Apigenin was given orally. The rat kidneys were harvested and examined microscopically to assess the apoptotic index, and stained by immunohistochemistry for multifunctioning polypeptide TGF-beta expression. A high apoptotic index and TGF-beta intensity was observed in the Cyclosporine A group. Apigenin significantly reduced the both apoptotic index and TGF-beta intensity. The apoptotic index correlated with TGF-beta intensity, especially in glomeruli. This study indicates that Cyclosporine A can enhance the TGF-beta expression in rat kidney, signifying accelerated apoptosis. TGF-beta and apoptotic index may be used to assess Apigenin and its effect on Cyclosporine A induced renal damage.
  15. Fulltext Psychiatric comorbidity among terminally ill patients in general practice in the Netherlands: a comparison between patients with cancer and heart failure
    Ng CG, Dijkstra E, Smeets H, Boks MP, de Wit NJ
    Br J Gen Pract, 2013 Jan;63(606):e63-8.
    PMID: 23336475 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp13X660797
    It is unclear whether psychiatric disorders are specifically related to the terminal phase of cancer, or independent of the underlying disease.
  16. Fulltext Genetic diversity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) throughout West Africa
    Lind CE, Agyakwah SK, Attipoe FY, Nugent C, Crooijmans RPMA, Toguyeni A
    Sci Rep, 2019 11 14;9(1):16767.
    PMID: 31727970 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53295-y
    Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is a globally significant aquaculture species rapidly gaining status as a farmed commodity. In West Africa, wild Nile tilapia genetic resources are abundant yet knowledge of fine-scale population structure and patterns of natural genetic variation are limited. Coinciding with this is a burgeoning growth in tilapia aquaculture in Ghana and other countries within the region underpinned by locally available genetic resources. Using 192 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers this study conducted a genetic survey of Nile tilapia throughout West Africa, sampling 23 wild populations across eight countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Mali, Gambia and Senegal), representing the major catchments of the Volta, Niger, Senegal and Gambia River basins. A pattern of isolation-by-distance and significant spatial genetic structure was identified throughout West Africa (Global FST = 0.144), which largely corresponds to major river basins and, to a lesser extent, sub-basins. Two populations from the Gambia River (Kudang and Walekounda), one from the western Niger River (Lake Sélingué) and one from the upper Red Volta River (Kongoussi) showed markedly lower levels of diversity and high genetic differentiation compared to all other populations, suggesting genetically isolated populations occurring across the region. Genetic structure within the Volta Basin did not always follow the pattern expected for sub-river basins. This study identifies clear genetic structuring and differentiation amongst West African Nile tilapia populations, which concur with broad patterns found in previous studies. In addition, we provide new evidence for fine-scale genetic structuring within the Volta Basin and previously unidentified genetic differences of populations in Gambia. The 192 SNP marker suite used in this study is a useful tool for differentiating tilapia populations and we recommend incorporating this marker suite into future population screening of O. niloticus. Our results form the basis of a solid platform for future research on wild tilapia genetic resources in West Africa, and the identification of potentially valuable germplasm for use in ongoing breeding programs for aquaculture.
  17. Glossary for systematic reviews and meta-analyses
    Nagendrababu V, Dilokthornsakul P, Jinatongthai P, Veettil SK, Pulikkotil SJ, Duncan HF, et al.
    Int Endod J, 2020 Feb;53(2):232-249.
    PMID: 31520403 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13217
    A systematic review aims to answer a focussed research question through a structured review of the evidence, using a predefined methodology, which often includes a meta-analysis. A meta-analysis is a statistical method used to combine the effect estimates from the individual studies included in a systematic review. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are positioned at the highest level in the hierarchy of clinical evidence. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was introduced in 2009 to help authors improve the quality and reliability of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Recently, the volume of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in the field of Endodontology has increased; however, the quality of the published manuscripts has been reported to be sub-optimal, which does not take account of the systematic reviews that were rejected because of more obvious deficiencies. The aim of this paper is to present a comprehensive glossary of terminology commonly used in systematic reviews and meta-analyses in an attempt to provide easily understood definitions and explanations to assist authors when reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses and to allow those wishing to read them to become better informed.
  18. Application of a new system for classifying tooth, root and canal morphology in the primary dentition
    Ahmed HMA, Musale PK, El Shahawy OI, Dummer PMH
    Int Endod J, 2020 Jan;53(1):27-35.
    PMID: 31390075 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13199
    Knowledge of root and canal morphology is essential for the effective practice of root canal treatment. Paediatric endodontics aims to preserve fully functional primary teeth in the dental arch; however, pulpectomy procedures in bizarre and tortuous canals encased in roots programmed for physiologic resorption are unique challenges. A new coding system for classifying the roots and main canals (https://doi.org/10.1111/iej.12685), accessory canals (https://doi.org/10.1111/iej.12800) and developmental anomalies (https://doi.org/10.1111/iej.12867) has been introduced recently. This paper discusses challenges for describing root and canal morphology in primary teeth and describes the potential application of the new classification system for root canals in the primary dentition.
  19. Is articaine more effective than lidocaine in patients with irreversible pulpitis? An umbrella review
    Nagendrababu V, Duncan HF, Whitworth J, Nekoofar MH, Pulikkotil SJ, Veettil SK, et al.
    Int Endod J, 2020 Feb;53(2):200-213.
    PMID: 31491042 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13215
    BACKGROUND: Pain management can be challenging during root canal treatment of teeth with irreversible pulpitis.

    AIM: To identify whether articaine or lidocaine is the most appropriate local anaesthetic solution for teeth with irreversible pulpitis undergoing root canal treatment.

    DATA SOURCE: The protocol of this umbrella review is registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42019137624). PubMed, EBSCHO host and Scopus databases were searched until June 2019.

    STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTIONS: Systematic reviews published in English comparing the effectiveness of local anaesthesia following administration of articaine or lidocaine in patients undergoing root canal treatment of teeth diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis were included. Two independent reviewers selected the studies and carried out the data extraction and the appraisal of the included reviews. Disagreements were resolved in consultation with a third reviewer.

    STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS: The quality of the included reviews was appraised by two independent reviewers using the AMSTAR tool (a measurement tool to assess systematic reviews). Each of the 11 AMSTAR items was given a score of 1 if the specific criterion was met, or 0 if the criterion was not met or the information was unclear.

    RESULTS: Five systematic reviews with meta-analyses were included. The AMSTAR score for the reviews ranged from 8 to 11, out of a maximum score of 11, and all reviews were categorized as 'high' quality. Two reviews scored 0 for item 8 in AMSTAR because the scientific quality of the clinical trials included in these reviews was not used in the formulation of the conclusions.

    LIMITATIONS: Systematic reviews published only in the English language were included. Only a small number of studies were available to assess pain intensity during the injection phase, the time until the onset of anaesthesia and the occurrence of adverse events.

    CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS OF KEY FINDINGS: Articaine is more effective than lidocaine for local anaesthesia of teeth with irreversible pulpitis undergoing root canal treatment. There is limited evidence that injection of articaine is less painful, has more rapid onset and has fewer adverse events compared with lidocaine.

  20. Guidelines for reporting the quality of clinical case reports in Endodontics: a development protocol
    Nagendrababu V, Chong BS, McCabe P, Shah PK, Priya E, Jayaraman J, et al.
    Int Endod J, 2019 Jun;52(6):775-778.
    PMID: 30586165 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13067
    Case reports are used to communicate interesting, new or rare condition/s, innovative treatment approaches or novel techniques. Apart from informing readers, such information has the potential to contribute towards further scientific studies and the development of newer management modalities. In that context, it is important that case reports are presented accurately and deliver all the necessary and pertinent information to the reader. Reporting guidelines are used to inform authors of the quality standards required to ensure their manuscripts are accurate, complete and transparent. The aim of this project is to develop and disseminate new guidelines - Preferred Reporting Items for Case reports in Endodontics (PRICE). The primary aim is to aid authors when constructing case reports in the field of Endodontics to ensure the highest possible reporting standards are adopted. The project leaders (PD and VN) formed a steering committee comprising six additional members. Subsequently, a five-phase consensus process will be used. The steering committee will develop the PRICE guidelines (PRICE checklist and flow chart) by identifying relevant items (quality standards) derived from the CAse REport guidelines and Clinical and Laboratory Images in Publications principles, focussing on the content of case reports. Following this, the steering committee will identify a PRICE Delphi Group (PDG) consisting of 30 members including academicians, practitioners, and members of the public. The individual items (components) of the PRICE checklist will be evaluated by the PDG based on a 9-point Likert scale. Only items scored between 7 and 9 by 70% or more members will be included in the draft checklist. The Delphi process will be continued until a consensus is reached and a final set of items agreed by the PDG members. Following this, a PRICE Face-to-Face meeting group (PFMG) will be formed with 20 members to achieve a final consensus. The final consensus-based checklist and flow chart will be evaluated and approved by selected members of the PDG and PFMG. The approved PRICE guidelines will be published in relevant journals and disseminated via contacts in academic institutions and national endodontic societies, as well as being presented at scientific/clinical meetings.
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