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  1. Fulltext Detection of respiratory viruses in adults with suspected COVID-19 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Chong YM, Chan YF, Jamaluddin MFH, Hasan MS, Pang YK, Ponnampalavanar S, et al.
    J Clin Virol, 2021 Dec;145:105000.
    PMID: 34739838 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2021.105000
    BACKGROUND: Reports of co-circulation of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic and co-infections with SARS-CoV-2 vary. However, limited information is available from developing countries.

    OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the incidence of respiratory viruses in adult patients with suspected COVID-19 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    STUDY DESIGN: We collected 198 respiratory samples from adult patients hospitalized with suspected COVID-19 in a single teaching hospital in Kuala Lumpur in February-May 2020 and tested combined oro-nasopharyngeal swabs with the NxTAG Respiratory Pathogen Panel (Luminex) and Allplex RV Essential (Seegene) assays. Forty-five negative samples further underwent viral metagenomics analysis.

    RESULTS: Of the 198 samples, 74 (37.4%) had respiratory pathogens, including 56 (28.3%) with SARS-CoV-2 and 18 (9.1%) positive for other respiratory pathogens. There were five (2.5%) SARS-CoV-2 co-infections, all with rhinovirus/enterovirus. Three samples (6.7%; 3/45) had viruses identified by metagenomics, including one case of enterovirus D68 and one of Saffold virus genotype 6 in a patient requiring ICU care. Most of the COVID-19 patients (91.1%; 51/56) had mild symptoms but 5.4% (3/56) died.

    CONCLUSION: During the early COVID-19 period, common respiratory viruses other than SARS-CoV-2 only accounted for 9.1% of hospitalization cases with ARI and co-infections with SARS-CoV-2 were rare. Continued surveillance is important to understand the impact of COVID-19 and its associated public health control measures on circulation of other respiratory viruses. Metagenomics can identify unexpected or rare pathogens, such as Saffold virus, which is rarely described in adults.

  2. Cerium functionalized graphene nano-structures and their applications; A review
    Nemati F, Rezaie M, Tabesh H, Eid K, Xu G, Ganjali MR, et al.
    Environ Res, 2022 Jan 06;208:112685.
    PMID: 34999024 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.112685
    Graphene-based nanomaterials with remarkable properties, such as good biocompatibility, strong mechanical strength, and outstanding electrical conductivity, have dramatically shown excellent potential in various applications. Increasing surface area and porosity percentage, improvement of adsorption capacities, reduction of adsorption energy barrier, and also prevention of agglomeration of graphene layers are the main advantages of functionalized graphene nanocomposites. On the other hand, Cerium nanostructures with remarkable properties have received a great deal of attention in a wide range of fields; however, in some cases low conductivity limits their application in different applications. Therefore, the combination of cerium structures and graphene networks has been widely invesitaged to improve properties of the composite. In order to have a comprehensive information of these nanonetworks, this research reviews the recent developments in cerium functionalized graphene derivatives (graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (RGO), and graphene quantum dot (GQD) and their industrial applications. The applications of functionalized graphene derivatives have also been successfully summarized. This systematic review study of graphene networks decorated with different structure of Cerium have potential to pave the way for scientific research not only in field of material science but also in fluorescent sensing, electrochemical sensing, supercapacitors, and catalyst as a new candidate.
  3. Fulltext Optimization of a High-Performance Poly(diallyl dimethylammonium chloride)-alumina-perfluorooctanoate Intercalated Ultrafiltration Membrane for Treating Emulsified Oily Wastewater via Response Surface Methodology Approach
    Raji YO, Othman MHD, Nordin NAHSM, Adam MR, Said KAM, Abdulyekeen KA, et al.
    Membranes (Basel), 2021 Dec 01;11(12).
    PMID: 34940457 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11120956
    This research aimed to investigate the ultrafiltration of water from emulsified oily wastewater through the application of surface-functionalized ceramic membrane to enhance its water permeability based on optimized parameters using a cross-flow filtration system. The interactive effects of feed concentration (10-1000 ppm), pH (4-10), and pressure (0-3 bar) on the water flux and oil rejection were investigated. Central composite design (CCD) from response surface methodology (RSM) was employed for statistical analysis, modeling, and optimization of operating conditions. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) results showed that the oil rejection and water flux models were significant with p-values of 0.0001 and 0.0075, respectively. In addition, good correlation coefficients of 0.997 and 0.863 were obtained for the oil rejection and water flux models, respectively. The optimum conditions for pressure, pH, and feed concentration were found to be 1.5 bar, pH 8.97, and 10 ppm, respectively with water flux and oil rejection maintained at 152 L/m2·h and 98.72%, respectively. Hence, the functionalized ultrafiltration ceramic membrane enables the separation efficiency of the emulsified oil in water to be achieved.
  4. Graphene-edge-supported iron dual-atom for oxygen reduction electrocatalysts
    Sumbowo JF, Ihsan FA, Fathurrahman F, Amalia N, Akbar FT, Yudistira HT, et al.
    Phys Chem Chem Phys, 2023 Dec 06;25(47):32637-32647.
    PMID: 38009535 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp03642a
    Pyrolyzed Fe-N-C-based catalysts, particularly FeN4, are reported to show enhanced catalytic activity for some chemical reactions, particularly for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Here, we present a computational study to investigate another pyrolyzed Fe-N-C-based catalyst, i.e. Fe2N6, adsorbed on graphene with special emphasis on the edges of graphene nanoribbons (both zig-zag and armchair configurations) as a candidate for Fe dual-atom catalysts (Fe-DACs). Utilizing density functional theory calculations along with microkinetic simulations, we investigate the influence of graphitic edges on the stability and ORR activity of Fe-DAC active sites. Our findings indicate that the presence of graphitic edges, particularly the zig-zag configuration, significantly lowers the formation energy of Fe-DAC active sites, making them more likely to form at the edges. Furthermore, several Fe-DAC active sites at graphitic edges exhibit exceptional ORR performance, surpassing the commonly employed FeN4 active site in SAC systems and even exceeding the benchmark Pt(111) surface. Notably, the (Fe2N6)o@z1 active site demonstrates outstanding performance in both associative and dissociative mechanisms. These results highlight the role of graphitic nanopores in enhancing the catalytic behavior of Fe-DAC active sites, providing valuable insights for designing efficient non-precious metal catalysts for ORR applications.
  5. Fulltext Insights into isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics of adsorption of acid blue 113 from an aqueous solution of nutraceutical industrial fennel seed spent
    Taqui SN, Syed AA, Mubarak NM, Farade RA, Khan MAM, Kalam MA, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2023 Dec 19;13(1):22665.
    PMID: 38114620 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49471-w
    Research studies have been carried out to accentuate Fennel Seed Spent, a by-product of the Nutraceutical Industry, as an inexpensive, recyclable and operational biosorbent for bioremediation of Acid Blue 113 (AB113) in simulated water-dye samples and textile industrial effluent (TIE). The physical process of adhesion of AB113 on the surface of the biosorbent depends on various parameters, such as the initial amount of the dye, amount and expanse of the biosorbent particles, pH of the solution and temperature of the medium. The data obtained was analyzed using three two-parameter and five three-parameter adsorption isotherm models to glean the adsorbent affinities and interaction mechanism of the adsorbate molecules and adsorbent surface. The adsorption feature study is conducted employing models of Weber-Morris, pseudo 1st and 2nd order, diffusion film model, Dumwald-Wagner and Avrami model. The study through 2nd order pseudo and Avrami models produced complementary results for the authentication of experimental data. The thermodynamic features, ΔG0, ΔH0, and ΔS0 of the adsorption process are acclaimed to be almost spontaneous, physical in nature and endothermic in their manifestation. Surface characterization was carried out using Scanner Electron Microscopy, and identification and determination of chemical species and molecular structure was performed using Infrared Spectroscopy (IR). Maximum adsorption evaluated using statistical optimization with different combinations of five independent variables to study the individual as well as combined effects by Fractional Factorial Experimental Design (FFED) was 236.18 mg g-1 under optimized conditions; pH of 2, adsorbent dosage of 0.500 g L-1, and an initial dye concentration of 209.47 mg L-1 for an adsorption time of 126.62 min with orbital shaking of 165 rpm at temperature 49.95 °C.
  6. Fulltext Infant & Child Mortality in Pakistan and its Determinants: A Review
    Tharwani ZH, Bilal W, Khan HA, Kumar P, Butt MS, Hamdana AH, et al.
    Inquiry, 2023;60:469580231167024.
    PMID: 37085986 DOI: 10.1177/00469580231167024
    Over the years, several developing countries have been suffering from high infant and child mortality rates, however, according to the recent statistics, Pakistan falls high on the list. Our narrative review of copious research on this topic highlights that several factors, such as complications associated with premature births, high prevalence of birth defects, lack of vaccination, unsafe deliveries, poor breastfeeding practices, complications during delivery, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), poor socioeconomic conditions, and a struggling healthcare system, have influenced these rates. Bearing in mind the urgency of addressing the increased infant and child mortality rate in Pakistan, multiple steps must be taken in order to prevent unnecessary deaths. An effective initiative could be spreading awareness and education among women, as a lack of education among women has been indirectly linked to increased child mortality in Pakistan across many researches conducted on the issue. Furthermore, the government should invest in healthcare by hiring more physicians and providing better supplies and improving infrastructure, especially in underdeveloped areas, to decrease child mortality due to lack of clean water and poor hygiene. Lastly, telemedicine should be made common in order to provide easy access to women who cannot visit the hospital.
  7. Fulltext Monkeypox Virus and Other Emerging Outbreaks: An Overview and Future Perspective
    Hamdana AH, Mohsin H, Habib Tharwani Z, Masood W, Furqana AQ, Sohail A, et al.
    Inquiry, 2023;60:469580231175437.
    PMID: 37190997 DOI: 10.1177/00469580231175437
    Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic disease caused by the MPX virus from the poxviridae family of orthopoxviruses. Typically, endemic in central and west Africa, it has now become a matter of concern since cases have been reported in non-endemic countries around mid-June 2022, especially in the European region, with the transmission not related to travel. The diagnosis is made by PCR testing of the skin lesions. Even though treatment is symptomatic, antiretrovirals, such as tecovirimat, are used in severe cases. Vaccination with second and third generation vaccines is approved for prophylaxis in high risk individuals. Unfortunately, these options of treatment and prevention are only available in high income countries at the moment. This review, through a thorough literature search of articles from 2017 onward, focuses on epidemiology, clinical manifestations, challenges, treatment, prevention and control of MPX virus and how they can be corelated with other viral outbreaks including COVID-19, Acute Hepatitis of unknown origin, Measles and Dengue, to better predict and therefore prevent its transmission. The previous COVID-19 pandemic increased the disease burden on healthcare infrastructure of low-middle income countries, therefore, this recent MPX outbreak calls for a joint effort from healthcare authorities, political figures, and NGOs to combat the disease and prevent its further spread not only in high income but also in middle- and low-income countries.
  8. Fulltext Author Correction: Insights into isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics of adsorption of acid blue 113 from an aqueous solution of nutraceutical industrial fennel seed spent
    Taqui SN, Syed AA, Mubarak NM, Farade RA, Khan MAM, Kalam MA, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2024 Jan 30;14(1):2474.
    PMID: 38291216 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53033-z
  9. Sesquiterpenoids and sesquiterpenoid dimers from the stem bark of Dysoxylum parasiticum (osbeck) kosterm
    Naini AA, Mayanti T, Harneti D, Darwati, Nurlelasari, Maharani R, et al.
    Phytochemistry, 2023 Jan;205:113477.
    PMID: 36283447 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113477
    Two undescribed sesquiterpenoids, namely dysoticans A and B, and three undescribed sesquiterpenoid dimers, namely dysoticans C-E, together with six analogs, were isolated from the stem bark of Dysoxylum parasiticum (Osbeck) Kosterm. (Meliaceae), growing in West Java, Indonesia. Their structures were elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic analysis and theoretical simulations of ECD spectra and 13C NMR shifts. Dysoticans A and B possessed undescribed cadinanes with minor modifications, while C and D featured unprecedented pseudo-sesquiterpenoid dimers through O-ether linkages of cadinanes and guaianes, respectively. Dysotican E was also characterized as the true-sesquiterpenoid dimer featuring eudesmane-germacrene hybrid framework from the Meliaceae family. Furthermore, A-C and E showed moderate activities against the human breast cancer MCF-7 and cervical cancer HeLa cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 22.15 to 45.14 μM. D selectively exhibited significant cytotoxicity against the HeLa cell line with an IC50 value of 13.00 ± 0.13 μM.
  10. Fulltext Frequency, clinical characteristics and outcomes of Tropidolaemus species bite envenomations in Malaysia
    Ismail AK, Abd Hamid MNH, Ariff NA, Frederic Ng VER, Goh WC, Abdul Samat NS, et al.
    PLoS Negl Trop Dis, 2023 Jan;17(1):e0010983.
    PMID: 36598885 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010983
    Pit vipers from the genus Tropidolaemus are identified as one of the common causes of snake bite from venomous species in Malaysia. All Tropidolaemus species bite cases referred to the Remote Envenomation Consultation Services (RECS) between 2015-2021 were included. A total of 4,718 snake-related injuries cases consulted to RECS with 310 (6.6%) involved Tropidolaemus species; of these 190 (61.3%) were T. subannulatus and 120 (38.7%) T. wagleri. All the T. subannulatus cases occurred in Sabah and Sarawak while all cases of T. wagleri occurred in Peninsular Malaysia. The majority of patients were male (74.8%) and adults between 18-59 years old (61.2%). The upper limb (56.6%) was the most frequent anatomical region involved. Most cases were non-occupationally related (75.4%). Bites from both species caused local pain (77.1%) and swelling (27.2%). Most patients complained of mild pain (48.0%). Paracetamol (40.0%) was the most common analgesic prescribed. Antivenom was not indicated in all cases. Two patients were given antivenom inappropriately before RECS consultation. Most patients (54.7%) needed hospital observation for less than 24 hours. No deaths occurred in the group studied.
  11. Fulltext Stability, Toxicity, and Antibacterial Potential of Gallic Acid-Loaded Graphene Oxide (GAGO) Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Strains
    Shamsi S, Abdul Ghafor AAH, Norjoshukrudin NH, Ng IMJ, Abdullah SNS, Sarchio SNE, et al.
    Int J Nanomedicine, 2022;17:5781-5807.
    PMID: 36474524 DOI: 10.2147/IJN.S369373
    BACKGROUND: The impetuous usage of antibiotics has led to the perpetual rise of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which has garnered the interest of potential drug alternatives, including nanomaterials.

    PURPOSE: The present study investigates the stability, toxicity, and antibacterial potential of gallic acid-loaded graphene oxide (GAGO) on several MRSA strains.

    METHODS: The stability of a synthesized and characterized GAGO was monitored in different physiological media. The toxicity profile of GAGO was evaluated in 3T3 murine fibroblast cells and the embryonic zebrafish model. The antibacterial activity of GAGO against MRSA, methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), and community-acquired MRSA; with or without Panton-valentine leucocidin gene (MRSA-pvl+ and MRSA-pvl-) was investigated through disk diffusion, CFU counting method, time-kill experiment, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) observation.

    RESULTS: A stable GAGO nanocomposite has shown an improved toxicity profile in 3T3 murine fibroblast cells and zebrafish embryos, besides exhibiting normal ROS levels than graphene oxide (GO) and GA (gallic acid). The nanocomposite inhibited the growth of all bacterial strains employed. The effectiveness of the GAGO nanocomposite was comparable to cefoxitin (CFX), at ≥150 µg/mL in MRSA and MSSA. GAGO exhibited a significantly delayed response towards MRSA-pvl+ and MRSA-pvl-, with increased inhibition following 8 to 24 h of exposure, while comparable activity to native GA was only achieved at 24 h. Meanwhile, for MRSA and MSSA, GAGO had a comparable activity with native GA and GO as early as 2 h of exposure. HRTEM observation further reveals that GAGO-exposed cells were membrane compromised.

    CONCLUSION: In summary, the present study indicates the antibacterial potential of GAGO against MRSA strains, but further study is warranted to understand the mechanism of action of GAGO and its resistance in MRSA strains.

  12. Evaluation of in vitro corrosion behavior and biocompatibility of poly[xylitol-(1,12-dodecanedioate)](PXDD)-HA coated porous iron for bone scaffolds applications
    Md Yusop AH, Wan Ali WFF, Jamaludin FH, Szali Januddi F, Sarian MN, Saad N, et al.
    Biotechnol J, 2024 Mar;19(3):e2300464.
    PMID: 38509814 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300464
    The present study evaluates the corrosion behavior of poly[xylitol-(1,12-dodecanedioate)](PXDD)-HA coated porous iron (PXDD140/HA-Fe) and its cell-material interaction aimed for temporary bone scaffold applications. The physicochemical analyses show that the addition of 20 wt.% HA into the PXDD polymers leads to a higher crystallinity and lower surface roughness. The corrosion assessments of the PXDD140/HA-Fe evaluated by electrochemical methods and surface chemistry analysis indicate that HA decelerates Fe corrosion due to a lower hydrolysis rate following lower PXDD content and being more crystalline. The cell viability and cell death mode evaluations of the PXDD140/HA-Fe exhibit favorable biocompatibility as compared to bare Fe and PXDD-Fe scaffolds owing to HA's bioactive properties. Thus, the PXDD140/HA-Fe scaffolds possess the potential to be used as a biodegradable bone implant.
  13. Fulltext A map of the extent and year of detection of oil palm plantations in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand
    Danylo O, Pirker J, Lemoine G, Ceccherini G, See L, McCallum I, et al.
    Sci Data, 2021 03 30;8(1):96.
    PMID: 33785753 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-021-00867-1
    In recent decades, global oil palm production has shown an abrupt increase, with almost 90% produced in Southeast Asia alone. To understand trends in oil palm plantation expansion and for landscape-level planning, accurate maps are needed. Although different oil palm maps have been produced using remote sensing in the past, here we use Sentinel 1 imagery to generate an oil palm plantation map for Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand for the year 2017. In addition to location, the age of the oil palm plantation is critical for calculating yields. Here we have used a Landsat time series approach to determine the year in which the oil palm plantations are first detected, at which point they are 2 to 3 years of age. From this, the approximate age of the oil palm plantation in 2017 can be derived.
  14. Fulltext Author Correction: A map of the extent and year of detection of oil palm plantations in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand
    Danylo O, Pirker J, Lemoine G, Ceccherini G, See L, McCallum I, et al.
    Sci Data, 2021 May 05;8(1):129.
    PMID: 33953193 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-021-00917-8
  15. Fulltext Development, Testing, and Implementation of a Training Curriculum for Nonphysician Health Workers to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease
    Khan M, Lamelas P, Musa H, Paty J, McCready T, Nieuwlaat R, et al.
    Glob Heart, 2018 Jun;13(2):93-100.e1.
    PMID: 29331282 DOI: 10.1016/j.gheart.2017.11.002
    BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. The need to address CVD is greatest in low- and middle-income countries where there is a shortage of trained health workers in CVD detection, prevention, and control.

    OBJECTIVES: Based on the growing evidence that many elements of chronic disease management can be shifted to nonphysician health care workers (NPHW), the HOPE-4 (Heart Outcomes Prevention and Evaluation Program) aimed to develop, test, and implement a training curriculum on CVD prevention and control in Colombia, Malaysia, and low-resource settings in Canada.

    METHODS: Curriculum development followed an iterative and phased approach where evidence-based guidelines, revised blood pressure treatment algorithms, and culturally relevant risk factor counseling were incorporated. Through a pilot-training process with high school students in Canada, the curriculum was further refined. Implementation of the curriculum in Colombia, Malaysia, and Canada occurred through partner organizations as the HOPE-4 team coordinated the program from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. In addition to content on the burden of disease, cardiovascular system pathophysiology, and CVD risk factors, the curriculum also included evaluations such as module tests, in-class exercises, and observed structured clinical examinations, which were administered by the local partner organizations. These evaluations served as indicators of adequate uptake of curriculum content as well as readiness to work as an NPHW in the field.

    RESULTS: Overall, 51 NPHW successfully completed the training curriculum with an average score of 93.19% on module tests and 84.76% on the observed structured clinical examinations. Since implementation, the curriculum has also been adapted to the World Health Organization's HEARTS Technical Package, which was launched in 2016 to improve management of CVD in primary health care.

    CONCLUSIONS: The robust curriculum development, testing, and implementation process described affirm that NPHW in diverse settings can be trained in implementing measures for CVD prevention and control.

  16. Data on diet and growth by giant panda in zoo Negara, Malaysia
    Yung DTC, Jani R, Azizi R, Ramli MN, Haidi Y, Zainudin AN, et al.
    Data Brief, 2020 Apr;29:105082.
    PMID: 31993462 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2019.105082
    In this data article we present the determinations of the diet preference and growth of a pair of the giant panda, Ailuropoda melanoleuca (David, 1869) from Zoo Negara Malaysia. Once considered as endangered, the captive giant pandas were given with nine species of local bamboo in separate indoor enclosures. We recorded data between May 25, 2014 and December 31, 2016 and analysed it based on food preference, the pattern toward food consumption and body weights using SPSS v25.0 (IBM, USA). Data on the bamboo preference, daily average bamboo provided and consumed, and factors predicting of body weight per individual are reported in this article. The data highlight correlation between panda growth (kg) to the part of bamboo consumed (kg) and exhibit the pattern of preferred part of food (i.e.: either the leaf, culm or shoots of bamboo variety) for panda consumptions. The food consumption toward the body weight was modelled using logistic regression analysis to help determine the pattern of food consumption and body weight of giant panda in the future and based on regression model 1, only consumed variable is significance to the model.
  17. Changing predominant SARS-CoV-2 lineages drives successive COVID-19 waves in Malaysia, February 2020 to March 2021
    Sam IC, Chong YM, Abdullah A, Fu JYL, Hasan MS, Jamaluddin FH, et al.
    J Med Virol, 2021 Nov 10.
    PMID: 34757638 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27441
    Malaysia has experienced three waves of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as of March 31, 2021. We studied the associated molecular epidemiology and SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence during the third wave. We obtained 60 whole-genome SARS-CoV-2 sequences between October 2020 and January 2021 in Kuala Lumpur/Selangor and analyzed 989 available Malaysian sequences. We tested 653 residual serum samples collected between December 2020 to April 2021 for anti-SARS-CoV-2 total antibodies, as a proxy for population immunity. The first wave (January 2020) comprised sporadic imported cases from China of early Pango lineages A and B. The second wave (March-June 2020) was associated with lineage B.6. The ongoing third wave (from September 2020) was propagated by a state election in Sabah. It is due to lineage B.1.524 viruses containing spike mutations D614G and A701V. Lineages B.1.459, B.1.470, and B.1.466.2 were likely imported from the region and confined to Sarawak state. Direct age-standardized seroprevalence in Kuala Lumpur/Selangor was 3.0%. The second and third waves were driven by super-spreading events and different circulating lineages. Malaysia is highly susceptible to further waves, especially as alpha (B.1.1.7) and beta (B.1.351) variants of concern were first detected in December 2020/January 2021. Increased genomic surveillance is critical.
  18. Fulltext Propolis efficacy on SARS-COV viruses: a review on antimicrobial activities and molecular simulations
    Ghosh S, Al-Sharify ZT, Maleka MF, Onyeaka H, Maleke M, Maolloum A, et al.
    Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 2022 Aug;29(39):58628-58647.
    PMID: 35794320 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21652-6
    This current study review provides a brief review of a natural bee product known as propolis and its relevance toward combating SARS-CoV viruses. Propolis has been utilized in medicinal products for centuries due to its excellent biological properties. These include anti-oxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and bactericidal activities. Furthermore, studies on molecular simulations show that flavonoids in propolis may reduce viral replication. While further research is needed to validate this theory, it has been observed that COVID-19 patients receiving propolis show earlier viral clearance, enhanced symptom recovery, quicker discharge from hospitals, and a reduced mortality rate relative to other patients. As a result, it appears that propolis could probably be useful in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. Therefore, this review sought to explore the natural properties of propolis and further evaluated past studies that investigated propolis as an alternative product for the treatment of COVID-19 symptoms. In addition, the review also highlights the possible mode of propolis action as well as molecular simulations of propolis compounds that may interact with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The activity of propolis compounds in decreasing the impact of COVID-19-related comorbidities, the possible roles of such compounds as COVID-19 vaccine adjuvants, and the use of nutraceuticals in COVID-19 treatment, instead of pharmaceuticals, has also been discussed.
  19. Fulltext Targeted Photodynamic Therapy using a Vectorized Photosensitizer coupled to Folic Acid Analog induces Ovarian Tumor Cell Death and inhibits IL-6-mediated Inflammation
    Boidin L, Moinard M, Moussaron A, Merlier M, Moralès O, Grolez GP, et al.
    J Control Release, 2024 Jul;371:351-370.
    PMID: 38789088 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.05.033
    Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most lethal cancers among women. Frequent recurrence in the peritoneum due to the presence of microscopic tumor residues justifies the development of new therapies. Indeed, our main objective is to develop a targeted photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis from OC to improve the life expectancy of cancer patients. Herein, we propose a targeted-PDT using a vectorized photosensitizer (PS) coupled with a newly folic acid analog (FAA), named PSFAA, in order to target folate receptor alpha (FRα) overexpressed on peritoneal metastasis. This PSFAA was the result of the coupling of pyropheophorbide-a (Pyro-a), as the PS, to a newly synthesized FAA via a polyethylene glycol (PEG) spacer. The selectivity and the PDT efficacy of PSFAA was evaluated on two human OC cell lines overexpressing FRα compared to fibrosarcoma cells underexpressing FRα. Final PSFAA, including the synthesis of a newly FAA and its conjugation to Pyro-a, was obtained after 10 synthesis steps, with an overall yield of 19%. Photophysical properties of PSFAA in EtOH were performed and showed similarity with those of free Pyro-a, such as the fluorescence and singlet oxygen quantum yields (Φf = 0.39 and ΦΔ = 0.53 for free Pyro-a, and Φf = 0.26 and ΦΔ = 0.41 for PSFAA). Any toxicity of PSFAA was noticed. After light illumination, a dose-dependent effect on PS concentration and light dose was shown. Furthermore, a PDT efficacy of PSFAA on OC cell secretome was detected inducing a decrease of a pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-6). This new PSFAA has shown promising biological properties highlighting the selectivity of the therapy opening new perspectives in the treatment of a cancer in a therapeutic impasse.
  20. Fulltext Acute lymphoblastic leukemia with clonal evolution due to delay in chemotherapy: A report of a case
    Haidary AM, Saadaat R, Abdul-Ghafar J, Rahmani S, Noor S, Noor S, et al.
    EJHaem, 2022 Aug;3(3):1013-1017.
    PMID: 36051042 DOI: 10.1002/jha2.483
    Clonal evolution in acute leukemias is one of the most important factors that leads to therapeutic failure and disease relapse. Delay in therapeutic intervention is one of the reasons that leads toward clonal evolution. In this report, we present a case of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in which therapeutic delay resulted in clonal evolution that was detected by conventional karyotyping and was responsible for non-responsiveness of the disease to conventional chemotherapy. A 17-year-old boy presented with generalized body aches, rapidly progressive pallor and lethargy. Bone marrow analysis was consistent with the diagnosis of B-cell ALL. Karyotypic analysis revealed 46, XY male karyotype. The patient left the hospital due to financial reasons and after 40 days came back to the hospital. Repeated bone marrow analysis including cytogenetic studies revealed presence of three different clones of blast cells: one clone showed 46, XY with del(9p) and t (11;14), second clone showed 46, XY with del(7q) and del(9p), and the third clone showed 46, XY normal karyotype. The patient did not respond to chemotherapy and died within 1 week of induction chemotherapy (HyperCVAD-A). Timely diagnosis and institution of chemotherapy in acute leukemias patients is the key to prevent clonal evolution and thus resistance of the disease to therapeutic interventions.
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