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Fulltext Ipomea aquatica crude extract inhibits lipoxygenase, hyaluronidase and xanthine oxidase activities

Muhammad Helmi Nadri, Kian, Kai Cheng, Pei, Ying Ong, Hong, Yeng L., Nor Zalina Othman, Nur Fashya Musa, et al.

Journal of Academia Universiti Teknologi MARA Negeri Sembilan, 2020;8(2):9-14.
MyJurnal

Ipomea aquatica, locally known as water spinach, is one of the most common vegetable consumed by
Malaysian. Based on previous studies, crude extract and phenolic compounds of I. aquatica exhibited
several biological activities including antioxidant, anti-microbial and anti-proliferative. The presence
of phenolic compounds in I. aquatica may contributed to their ability to inhibit enzymes, chelate
metals and scavenge free radicals. Currently, no study reported on anti-inflammatory activity of I.
aquatica with respect to lipoxygenase, hyaluronidase and xanthine oxidase enzymes. The present
study aims to enhance current knowledge on biological properties of I. aquatica crude extract
particularly on anti-inflammatory activity. Three enzymes that involve in inflammatory pathway were
selected in this study including lipoxygenase, hyaluronidase and xanthine oxidase. I. aquatica was
extracted in methanol and tested for lipoxygenase, hyaluronidase and xanthine oxidase at different
concentrations using direct enzyme inhibition assay. Lipoxygenase, hyaluronidase and xanthine
oxidase inhibitory activities of the methanol crude extract increased with increasing
concentration. Highest inhibition activity against lipoxygenase, hyaluronidase and xanthine oxidase
were observed at a concentration of 1000 µg/ml with inhibition of 87.18%, 95.36% and 78.38%,
respectively. Our finding in this study indicates potential anti-inflammatory activity of I. aquatica
crude extract through inhibition of lipoxygenase, hyaluronidase and xanthine oxidase.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Acceptability of novel antioxidant ice cream fortified with nutritous Carica papaya seed

Siti Radhiah Omar, Fauzan Aminuddin, Latiffah Karim, Nursyahida Suhaimi, Siti Nazirah Omar

Journal of Academia Universiti Teknologi MARA Negeri Sembilan, 2020;8(1):7-17.
MyJurnal

This research aimed to determine the total antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the papaya
seeds. These papaya seeds then were introduced into the prepared ice cream to determine the effect of the
papaya seeds to the physicochemical and the acceptability of ice cream by making four different
formulations (Control, 1.0%, 2.0%, and 3.0% of papaya seeds). Two methods namely free radical
scavenging assay (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were used to determine the total
antioxidant activity of the papaya seeds, whereas total phenolic content was determined by FolinCiocalteu’s method (TPC). The papaya seeds showed high total phenolic content in the TPC analysis result.
Furthermore, DPPH and FRAP showed high antioxidant activity of the papaya seeds. Acceptability of the
ice cream was conducted by sensory evaluation and the results showed that the control (0.0%) papaya seeds
ice cream formulation was the most favorable by the panelists followed by 1.0%, 2.0%, and 3.0% papaya
seeds formulation. In conclusion, the papaya seeds are proven to contain antioxidants by the results given
in DPPH, FRAP, and TPC tests. Surprisingly, the papaya seeds also did not affect the physicochemical of
the ice cream and the ice cream was accepted by the panelists.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Sociodemographic factors as determinants of fruit and vegetable consumption in Malaysia

Lung, Wei Foon, Yong, Kang Cheah, Nor Azam Abdul Razak

Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2020;18(2):19-29.
MyJurnal

The present study examines the factors affecting fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption in Malaysia. A nationally representative data that consists of a large sample size is used. Hence, the findings can provide inferential information. The present study uses secondary data from the Malaysian Household Expenditure Survey 2009/2010. The survey was carried out using a two-stage stratified sampling. The first stage was based on Enumeration Blocks, while the second stage was based on Living Quarters. A lognormal hurdle model is used to estimate the consumption decision and amount decision of FV across ethnic groups. The results suggest that household size, income, gender, marital status, age and education play significant roles in FV consumption. The probability of consuming FV and amount spent increase with household size (p

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Microbiological and physical properties of pennywort (Centella asiatica) leaves using pulsed light technology

Siti Zaharah, R., Noranizan, M., Son, R., Roselina, K., Yusof, N. L., Koh, P. C., et al.

International Food Research Journal, 2020;27(1):16-27.
MyJurnal

Pennywort (Centella asiatica) is a herbaceous vegetable commonly consumed raw as ‘ulam’ or salad. Consumption of raw leafy green vegetables is one of the pathogenic mechanisms that could cause foodborne outbreaks. The aim of the present work was therefore to investigate the effect of pulsed light (PL) treatment at fluences of 1.5, 4.2, 6.9, 9.6, and 12.3 J/cm² on the microbiological and physical quality of pennywort stored at 4 ± 1°C. Escherichia coli (E. coli) were inoculated onto the pennywort leaves before being exposed to PL and viewed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). PL fluences of 6.9, 9.6, and 12.3 J/cm² significantly reduced the microbial count; however, the highest inactivation was obtained by using fluences of 9.6 and 12.3 J/cm². The color of pennywort was not significantly affected by PL treatment applied at lower fluences of 1.5, 4.2, and 6.9 J/cm²; however, at higher fluence, 9.6 and 12.3 J/cm², the color was affected. PL at 1.5, 4.2, 6.9, and 9.6 J/cm² was able to retain the texture appearance of the leaves. To conclude, PL at 6.9 J/cm² showed the best fluence to reduce total aerobic mesophilic count while retaining the physical properties of pennywort leaves and extend the shelf life to about four days. The inactivation of E. coli population was significantly higher at PL fluence of 6.9 J/cm². It was observed that PL caused the destruction to the surface of E. coli’s cell membrane. The reductions of samples inoculated with E. coli were better than those achieved in native microbiota. Furthermore, the present work also demonstrated that PL treatment was able to reduce the microbial count on pennywort leaves.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext EFFECT OF PHOTO-SELECTIVE NETTING ON GROWTH DEVELOPMENT OF GREEN AMARANTH (Amaranthus viridis L.)

SITI NABILAH MOHAMMAD SABRI, NURUL FAZIHA IBRAHIM, SITI NABILAH MOHAMMAD SABRI, SUHAIZAN LOB

UMT Journal of Undergraduate Research, 2020;2(3):67-72.
MyJurnal

Green amaranth (Amaranthus viridis L.) is one of the most popular leafy vegetables cultivated in Malaysia. Photo-selective netting is a revolutionary agricultural-technical idea, allowing traditional nets to be improved to a sophisticated level, which can impact microclimate and solar radiation as well as protect crops from pests. This study aims to investigate the growth performance of green amaranth under different three different treatments of photo-selective nets including black, and yellow shade nets and control. The assessed physiological, pre-harvest and post-harvest parameters were air temperature and relative humidity, measurement of absorption of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), plant height, number of leaves, and dry weight. This study found that the yellow shade net showed the best performance in plant growth with the average difference in plant height (4.11 cm), average leaves number (7 leaves) and average dry weight (18.58 mg) were the highest compared to black shade net and control (without shading). In conclusion, photo-selective yellow shade net was able to enhance the growth development of green amaranth and could be applied in the large scale production to boost the growth and yield of leafy vegetables.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Antioxidant properties of total lutein content in different parts of pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima)

WONG YEN WEN, FAUZIAH TUFAIL AHMAD

UMT Journal of Undergraduate Research, 2020;2(3):27-34.
MyJurnal

Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) is a vegetable crop which is commonly consumed as vegetables or incorporated into food products. Pumpkin flesh was reported abundant with carotenoid compounds includes α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. As this antioxidant related to the colour pigment, these nutrients highly potential to be in other parts of pumpkin such as peel and seed. Therefore, the aim of this was to determine the total lutein content in different parts of pumpkin and their antioxidant properties. The pumpkin would be collected and evaluated at the commercial maturity stage (60% to fully orange-yellow of fruit peel). The presence of the lutein properties using DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays in different parts of pumpkin was tested by using microplate spectrophotometer and analysed statistically with SPSS version 20. Among of all pumpkin fruit parts, flesh presented the highest concentration of potential lutein extracts, followed by peel and seed, respectively. On the contrary, potential lutein extracts from the pumpkin peel had the highest antioxidant activity in terms of DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays when compared to the lutein extracts in flesh and seeds. This study indicates that the potential lutein from Cucurbita maxima especially peel may be the alternative to be used as both natural antioxidants in food products due to increasing demand for natural food preservatives. Therefore, this study may act as a source for others to further study to optimize the usage of pumpkin by-products

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Association between dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risks in Malaysian Punjabi adults

Yik Fah Chee, Satvinder Kaur, Roseline Wai Kuan Yap

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(106):106-115.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Globally, the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is high in Punjabi population. This could due to the increased cardiometabolic risks associated with diets high in dietary fats and refined grains. However, studies on the relationship between dietary pattern and cardiometabolic risks involving Malaysian Punjabis popu- lation are scarce. Hence, this study aims to determine the associations between dietary patterns and cardiometa- bolic risks in Malaysian Punjabi adults. Methods: Socio-demographic, lifestyle and dietary intake information was collected using self-administered questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements: weight and height for body mass index (BMI) calculation, waist circumference (WC); systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP); and biomark- ers: blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC), low-density-lipopro- tein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), apolipoprotein A1 and B100 were obtained. Major dietary patterns were derived using principal component analysis. Association between dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors were performed using ANCOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: A total of 164 (35.4% males and 64.6% females) Punjabis were included in this study. Four dietary patterns were extracted, namely ‘fruits and vegetables diet’ (FVD), ‘whole grains, condiments and beverages diet’ (WCBD), ‘protein diet’ (PD) and ‘rice, noodles, cereals and meat diet’ (RNCMD). Significant associations were obtained for FVD with BMI (p=0.012), WC (p=0.011), SBP (p=0.020) and DBP (p=0.009); WCBD with TC (p=0.010), LDL-C (p=0.015) and apolipoprotein B100 (p=0.038). Conclusion: Dietary pattern comprised of fruits, vegetables and beverages containing antioxidant-rich spices, ginger, and black tea may lower cardiometabolic risks in Malaysian Punjabis, particularly in obesity, high blood pressure and hyperlipidaemia.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Hazardous heavy metals contamination of vegetables and food chain: Role of sustainable remediation approaches - A review

Kumar S, Prasad S, Yadav KK, Shrivastava M, Gupta N, Nagar S, et al.

Environ Res, 2019 12;179(Pt A):108792.
PMID: 31610391 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108792

This review emphasizes the role of toxic metal remediation approaches due to their broad sustainability and applicability. The rapid developmental processes can incorporate a large quantity of hazardous and unseen heavy metals in all the segments of the environment, including soil, water, air and plants. The released hazardous heavy metals (HHMs) entered into the food chain and biomagnified into living beings via food and vegetable consumption and originate potentially health-threatening effects. The physical and chemical remediation approaches are restricted and localized and, mainly applied to wastewater and soils and not the plant. The nanotechnological, biotechnological and genetical approaches required to more rectification and sustainability. A cellular, molecular and nano-level understanding of the pathways and reactions are responsible for potentially toxic metals (TMs) accumulation. These approaches can enable the development of crop varieties with highly reduced concentrations of TMs in their consumable foods and vegetables. As a critical analysis by authors observed that nanoparticles could provide very high adaptability for both in-situ and ex-situ remediation of hazardous heavy metals (HHMs) in the environment. These methods could be used for the improvement of the inbuilt genetic potential and phytoremediation ability of plants by developing transgenic. These biological processes involve the transfer of gene of interest, which plays a role in hazardous metal uptake, transport, stabilization, inactivation and accumulation to increased host tolerance. This review identified that use of nanoremediation and combined biotechnological and, transgenic could help to enhance phytoremediation efficiency in a sustainable way.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables/chemistry*
Fulltext Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Association with Lifestyle, Diets, Socioeconomic and Sociodemographic in Asian Region

Okekpa SI, S M N Mydin RB, Mangantig E, Azmi NSA, Zahari SNS, Kaur G, et al.

Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2019 Nov 01;20(11):3505-3514.
PMID: 31759378 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2019.20.11.3505

OBJECTIVE: Risk factors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) have been linked with diets, life style and viral
infections. NPC is more rampant in Asian populations than non-Asian countries. Our study aims to assess the validity
of the suggestions provided by multiple case control studies demonstrating that salted fish consumption, smoking and
alcohol consumption are associated with the risk of NPC in Asia.
METHODS: Search for related literature on salted fish,
smoking and alcohol consumption were performed via Science Direct, PubMed databases and Google Scholar. Articles
included in this study were from 2009 to 2017, with specific focus on salted fish, smoking and alcohol consumption
as risk factors of NPC. This study excluded all articles published prior to 2009 and articles involving other cancers.
Data were extracted independently by two different researchers and harmonized. Meta-analysis was conducted on the
obtained data, by using R package Meta to create funnel and forest plots.
RESULTS: The meta-analysis revealed that
salted fish, smoking and alcohol consumption were significantly associated to NPC risk with random effect model score
showing OR of 1.41 at 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.13-1.75 (P<0.01), OR of 1.89 at 95 % CI of 1.49 - 2.38, and
OR: 1.42 at 95 % CI of 1.23 - 1.65 respectively. Our results also revealed significant association of salted meat, salted
vegetables, house type, wood dust exposure associated with NPC risk with p values less than 0.05.
CONCLUSION: This
study proposes that salted fish intake, smoking and alcohol consumption might be linked to NPC risk in Asians. Further
studies are necessary to ascertain the molecular mechanisms and clarify if the associated path that could function as
therapeutic target.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Valorizing cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) and capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.) wastes: in vitro health-promoting activities

Liang JL, Yeow CC, Teo KC, Gnanaraj C, Chang YP

J Food Sci Technol, 2019 Oct;56(10):4696-4704.
PMID: 31686701 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-019-03912-5

The capsicum seed core and cabbage outer leaves are common wastes generated in the vegetable processing industry. We explored the in vitro health-promoting activity of these waste products for valorization. Freeze-dried and pulverized cabbage wastes had a high bile acid binding capacity and the capsicum wastes inhibited glucose dialysis more effectively. Methanolic extracts prepared with conventional solvent extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction were analyzed to determine their 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity, in vitro α-amylase inhibitory, in vitro lipase inhibitory, and prebiotic activity. Crude extracts of cabbage and capsicum wastes were screened using GC-MS analysis. The cabbage waste extracts showed high antioxidant activities but did not inhibit α-amylase. The capsicum waste extracts inhibited both lipase and α-amylase activities and supported the growth of the probiotic bacterium, Lactobacilli brevis. Volatile compounds of the vegetables consisted mainly of phenols and fatty acid esters. In all assays except the α-amylase inhibition assay, the extracts prepared with ultrasound-assisted solvent extraction showed higher activity than those prepared using the conventional method. The capsicum seed core and cabbage outer leaves are potential sources of phytochemicals and antioxidant fibers. Capsicum waste extract supported probiotic bacterial growth without a lag phase. These waste products may be processed into high-value functional ingredients.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Human intestinal protozoa in fresh asparagus from different types of markets in northwest Mexico

Morales-Figueroa GG, Castro-García M, Esparza-Romero J, López-Mata MA, Quihui-Cota L

Trop Biomed, 2019 Sep 01;36(3):718-725.
PMID: 33597494

Caborca is one of the most productive asparagus-growing regions in the state of Sonora in northwest Mexico, an area where some fresh fruits and vegetables are sold at unregulated open-air street markets. This is a cross-sectional study in which fifty bundles of asparagus for exportation, 50 bundles of sub-standard asparagus, and 50 bundles of asparagus from open-air markets were selected randomly and then subjected to Faust, Kinyoun and ELISA testing to detect intestinal parasites. Pearson's chi-square (χ2) and Student-NewmanKeuls tests were used to estimate differences among the sampling site groups (P < 0.05). The pathogens Cryptosporidium spp. (29%) G. intestinalis (5%) and Cyclospora spp. (3%) were found in the asparagus sold in the region. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was higher in both the sub-standard asparagus and the product sampled from the open-air markets than in the samples for exportation (P < 0.05). This is the first study to demonstrate contamination by intestinal parasites in asparagus sold in different markets in northwest Mexico.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables/parasitology*
Epicatechin and scopoletin-rich Morinda citrifolia leaf ameliorated leukemia via anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenesis, and apoptosis pathways in vitro and in vivo

Ahmadi N, Mohamed S, Sulaiman Rahman H, Rosli R

J Food Biochem, 2019 07;43(7):e12868.
PMID: 31353737 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.12868

The anti-leukemia mechanisms of Morinda citrifolia L. leaf extract were investigated on human Jurkat leukemia cells and in leukemia-induced BALB/c mice. The leukemia-induced mice were fed daily with the extract (100 or 200 mg/kg BW) and compared to ATRA (All-trans-retinoic-acid; 5 mg/kg BW). After 4 weeks' treatment, the extract (standardized to epicatechin and scopoletin), arrested Jurkat cell-cycle at the G0/G1 phase and activated the caspase-3 and caspase-8 (death-receptor extrinsic pathways). The extract dose-dependently reduced the blood and bone marrow myeloblasts levels of leukemia-induced mice; upregulated cancer suppressor genes CSF3, SOCS1, PTEN and TRP53; increased anti-inflammatory IL10 and IL4; downregulated anti-apoptotic or proliferation genes; decreased the pro-inflammatory NF-κβ; suppressed pro-angiogenesis VEGFA mRNA expressions, and restored the homeostatic immune or leukocytes levels. The extract directly ameliorated leukemia via cancer cells apoptosis, suppressed inflammation and angiogenesis; and mitigated bone marrow myeloblasts imbalance, without any observable toxicity on the animals. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The scopoletin (coumarin) and epicatechin (flavonoid)-rich Morinda citrifolia (Noni) leaves may be used as functional food ingredient, vegetables, or dietary supplements to treat and suppress leukemia progression by directly killing the cancer cells and preventing new cancer cells development and bone marrow myeloblast imbalance in the bone marrow, without being toxic to normal cells. The M. citrifolia leaf extract suppressed inflammation, and potential metastasis by inhibiting new cancer-related blood vessel formation.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Associations between the dietary patterns of pregnant Malaysian women and ethnicity, education, and early pregnancy waist circumference: A prospective cohort study

Yong HY, Shariff ZM, Mohd Yusof BN, Rejali Z, Bindels J, Tee YYS, et al.

Nutr Res Pract, 2019 Jun;13(3):230-239.
PMID: 31214291 DOI: 10.4162/nrp.2019.13.3.230

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Little is known about the dietary patterns (DPs) of women during pregnancy. The present study aimed to identify the DPs of pregnant Malaysian women and their associations with socio-demographic, obstetric, and anthropometric characteristics.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This prospective cohort study included 737 participants enrolled in Seremban Cohort Study between 2013 and 2015. Food consumption was assessed using a validated 126-food item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (SFFQ) at four time-points, namely, pre-pregnancy and at each trimester (first, second, and third). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to identify DPs.
RESULTS: Three DPs were identified at each time point and designated DP 1-3 (pre-pregnancy), DP 4-6 (first trimester), DP 7-9 (second trimester) and DP 10-12 (third trimester). DP 1, 4, and 7 appeared to be more prudent diets, characterized by higher intakes of nuts, seeds & legumes, green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, eggs, fruits, and milk & dairy products. DP 2, 5, 8, and 11 had greater loadings of condiments & spices, sugar, spreads & creamer, though DP 2 had additional sweet foods, DP 5 and 8 had additional oils & fats, and DP 11 had additional tea & coffee, respectively. DP 3 and 6 were characterized by high protein (poultry, meat, processed, dairy, eggs, and fish), sugars (mainly as beverages and sweet foods), and energy (bread, cereal & cereal products, rice, noodles & pasta) intakes. DP 9 had additional fruits. However, DP 12 had greater loadings of energy foods (bread, cereal & cereal products, rice, noodles & pasta), sugars (mainly as beverages, and sweet foods), and good protein sources (eggs, nuts, seeds & legumes). Malays were more likely to have lower adherence (LA) for DP 1 and 10 than non-Malays. DP 2, 8, and 11 were more prevalent among Malays than non-Malays. Women with a higher education were more likely to have LA for DP 10, and women with a greater waist circumference at first prenatal visit were more likely to show LA for DP 11.
CONCLUSIONS: DPs observed in the present study were substantially different from those reported in Western populations. Information concerning associations between ethnicity, waist circumference and education with specific DPs before and throughout pregnancy could facilitate efforts to promote healthy dietary behavior and the overall health and well-being of pregnant women.
Study name: Seremban Cohort Study (SECOST)

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Dietary intakes and obesity of Malaysian adults

Lee YY, Wan Muda WAM

Nutr Res Pract, 2019 Apr;13(2):159-168.
PMID: 30984360 DOI: 10.4162/nrp.2019.13.2.159

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Over the past few decades, Malaysia has been experiencing an increased prevalence of overweight and obesity that threatens the health of Malaysians. Poor dietary intake is one of the major contributors to the development of obesity and many non-communicable diseases. The dietary intakes of adults in Malaysia were assessed to determine the association between the dietary intake variables and the body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) measurements. This study examined whether the dietary intake achieved the recommended nutritional guidelines and compared the intakes between both sexes.
SUBJECTS/METHODS: The height, weight, and WC of four-hundred-and-ninety adults (n = 490) in Malaysia were measured using standard procedures. The three-day 24-hour dietary recalls were conducted on 422 out of the 490 adults and their dietary intakes were evaluated in detail. The selected dietary intake variables were used to determine the associations with the obesity indicators.
RESULTS: Among the participants, 52.8% were overweight or obese. After data analysis, the mean energy intake was 1,550 kcal/day, in which male participants had a significantly higher energy and macronutrients intake than females. Protein consumption and its percentage of energy contribution exceeded the recommended range. The consumption of fruits, vegetables, and milk and milk products were lower than the recommended number of servings for a healthy diet. The male participants consumed significantly more servings of carbohydrate-based foods, meat, and fats, oils, and sweets than females. Among the selected dietary intake variables, only the carbohydrate intake was negatively associated with the BMI (Estimate b = -0.008) and WC measurements (Estimate b = -0.019) after adjusting for covariates.
CONCLUSIONS: This study evaluated the dietary intakes of a sample of Malaysian adults and its association with the obesity indicators. The results highlight the need for improvements and modifications of the dietary intake of Malaysians to reduce the overweight and obesity rates.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Antibiotic susceptibility and molecular characterization of Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi B isolated from vegetables and processing environment in Malaysia

Abatcha MG, Effarizah ME, Rusul G

Int J Food Microbiol, 2019 Feb 02;290:180-183.
PMID: 30342248 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2018.09.021

Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi B (S. Paratyphi B) is a major foodborne pathogen distributed all over the world. However, little is known about the antibiotic resistance, genetic relatedness and virulence profile of S. Paratyphi B isolated from leafy vegetables and the processing environment in Malaysia. In this study, 6 S. Paratyphi B isolates were recovered from different vegetables and drain water of processing areas obtained from fresh food markets in Malaysia. The isolates were characterized by antibiogram, Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and virulence genes. Antibiotic susceptibility test showed that 3 of the isolates were resistant to the antibiotics. These include S. Paratyphi B SP251 isolate, which was resistant to chloramphenicol, ampicillin, sulfonamides and streptomycin; Isolate SP246 which was resistant to chloramphenicol, sulfonamides and streptomycin and Isolate SP235 showing resistance to nalidixic acid only. PFGE subtyped the 6 S. Paratyphi B isolates into 6 distinct XbaI-pulsotypes, with a wide range of genetic similarity (0.55 to 0.9). The isolates from different sources and fresh food markets location were genetically diverse. Thirteen (tolC, orgA, spaN, prgH, sipB, invA, pefA, sofB, msgA, cdtB, pagC, spiA and spvB) out of the 17 virulence genes tested were found in all of the S. Paratyphi B isolates. Another gene (lpfC), was found only in one isolate (SP051). None of the isolates possessed sifA, sitC and ironN genes. In summary, this study provides unique information on antibiotic resistance, genetic relatedness, and virulotyping of S. Paratyphi B isolated from leafy vegetables and processing environment.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables/microbiology*
Fulltext The impact of four processing methods on trypsin-, chymotrypsin- and alpha-amylase inhibitors present in underutilised legumes

Choi WC, Parr T, Lim YS

J Food Sci Technol, 2019 Jan;56(1):281-289.
PMID: 30728570 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-018-3488-0

The global trend in increasing plant-based protein diets due to health and ideological reasons, has created an increased demand for food legumes that exceeds current production. To meet this demand, it is timely to reduce relying solely on soybean, and explore the potential of the underutilised legumes that are cultivated regionally. Underutilised legumes are rich in protein, carbohydrates and other nutrients that are essential for consumer. However, relatively little is known about their anti-nutritional properties and processing methods. Anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) such as enzyme inhibitors are prevalent in legumes and may interfere with digestibility and nutrient absorption. Nevertheless, an optimised food processing method will overcome this challenge and warrant a safe inclusion of legume in plant-based protein diets. Hence current study aimed to optimise the food processing methods (soaking, wet heating, autoclaving and freezing) and evaluate their efficiency in eliminating the enzyme inhibitors [trypsin, chymotrypsin (CIA) and α-amylase (AIA) inhibitors] present in seven underutilised legumes. Current study showed that autoclaving at 121 °C for 15 min reduced the AIA in all underutilised legumes tested. The AIA and CIA of bambara groundnut were successfully inactivated by wet heating at 50 °C for 60 min, and by autoclaving at 121 °C for 15 min. While the CIA of chickpea was successfully inactivated by freezing at - 80 °C for 24 h.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Risk factors, prevalence, and co-morbidities of hypertension in adult villagers in Kampung Tajau Laut, Kudat, Sabah, Malaysia

Fairrul Kadir, Saffree Jeffree, Yusof Ibrahim, Tin Tin Aye, Syed Shajee Husain, Fredie Robinson, et al.

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(106):98-98.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Hypertension is a condition where there is persistently raised pressure in the blood vessels. In Malay-sia, higher prevalence of hypertension could be explained by lifestyle factors such as higher rates of obesity, excess dietary intake of sodium and fat and lack of physical activity. The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence, risk factors and co-morbidities of hypertension in villagers aged 18 years and above in Kampung Tajau Laut, Kudat, Sabah. Methods: Non-probability convenience sampling method was used to select a total of 210 villagers for interview, anthropometric examinations and blood pressure measurements. House to house and face to face interview by trained year four medical students done using a pretested validated questionnaire. The ques-tionnaire contained data on socioeconomic status, tobacco use, physical activity, diet, extra-salt use, family history of hypertension, co-morbidity, anthropometric measurements and blood pressure. Results: Respondents noted to be hypertensive were 67.6%, and out of this, 61.3% were undiagnosed. There was a significant association between hypertension and family history (Chi-squared test=38.280, p=0.000), hypertension and smoking status (Chi-squared test=7.673, p= 0.006), hypertension and obesity (Chi-squared test= 8.731, p=0.003), hypertension and gender (Chi-squared test=5.126, p=0.024), hypertension and age (Chi-squared test=26.110, p=0.000) of respondents. There was no significant association between hypertension with vegetable intake, fruit intake, physical activity, marital status, ethnicity, economic status, level of education, and occupational status of respondents. Half of the known hyperten-sive respondents have comorbidities with most commonly being dyslipidaemia and diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: Hypertension was found to have a significant association with family history, smoking status, obesity, age and gender among the studied population.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext A short term nutrition education programme improved nutrition knowledge and increased preference for fruits, vegetables and higher intensity physical activity among kindergarteners

Stephanie Lee Lay Hua, Bonnie Teh Shou Yi, Ramlah George

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(106):92-92.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Nutrition education is crucial to promote healthy eating behaviours and lifestyle that can prevent nutrition related non-communicable diseases. Young children are known to be amenable to nutrition education programmes and the school setting provides ideal opportunity for young children to learn. It is important to measure the impact of such programmes to determine its usefulness. Thus, the current study described the impact of a short-term nutrition education programme in kindergarteners. Methods: This pre and post-test design study involved 20 kindergarteners (aged 6 years) at Pusat Minda Lestari, Universiti Malaysia Sabah. The participants of the programme received a nutrition education module at school which comprised of nutrition lessons on key messages in the Ma-laysian Dietary Guidelines and related hands-on activities for 30min/day on 10 consecutive school days. Main outcomes were children’s nutrition knowledge and attitude, their preference for fruits and/or vegetables in a meal and types of physical activity most frequently done. These were all measured using established age-appropriate methods and tools. Results: After receiving the nutrition module; study participants’ mean score for overall nutrition knowledge significantly improved by 60%, self-reported attitude towards healthy foods were more positive and the majority of participants (85% combined) reported that they would prefer to include either vegetables, fruits or vege-tables & fruits in their meal rather than none at all (65% preferred no fruits and vegetables at baseline). The number of participants who said they preferred doing healthier types of physical activities rather than sedentary activities increased by 40% after the programme. Conclusion: This short-term nutrition programme appeared to increase kin-dergarteners’ interest in making healthy food choices and doing moderate to high intensity physical activities. Thus, the nutrition education module used in this programme may be useful in promoting healthy eating behaviours and physical activity in young children.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Dengue prevention practices and their associated factors among wet market in Hilir Perak District, Malaysia

Nur Intan Kartiniewatie Kamaruddin, Salmiah Md Said, Hayati Kadir @ Shahar, Lim Poh Ying

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(104):46-46.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Wet markets are predisposed to Aedes breeding due to nature of daily activities that involve frequent water storage and usage of water collecting containers. Large numbers of visitors patronising wet markets could cause rapid spread of dengue infection. This study aimed to determine the level of dengue prevention practices among wet market traders in Hilir Perak District and their associated socioecological factors. Methods: A cross sectional study using stratified sampling method was conducted where 246 wet market traders were interviewed to collect data on dengue prevention practices (prevention of Aedes mosquitoes breeding and prevention of mosquito bites), and so-cioecological factors. Chi square test and logistic regression modelling were performed to identify socioecological factors associated with dengue prevention practices. Results: Response rate for this study was 88.9%. Majority of the respondents were male, above 40 years old, had secondary education and above, had monthly income of above MYR2000, were owner of the shop lots, was or had ever married and sold fish, vegetable or groceries products. Most of the respondents had high level of dengue prevention practices (78%). Those who were owner of shop lots, had high perceived susceptibility, high family support, and high perceived dengue prevention and control laws and reg-ulations were predicted to have high level of dengue prevention practices. Conclusion: Level of dengue prevention practices is determined not only by individual factors, but also other factors from relationship to societal level which must also be considered in planning or evaluating current dengue control programmes.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables
Fulltext Immunomodulatory effect of papaya, mata kucing, dang shen and pu-erh tea on cytokines profile

Nur Ramziahrazanah Jumat, Pei Shin Chai, Chiew Yee Loh, Sharmili Vidyadaran, Zainina Seman

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(108):21-21.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Immune response against viral infections and tumors not only requires the recruitment of immune cells but also cytokines. Cytokine dysregulation is associated with inflammatory diseases such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, infections and allergy. Intake of fruit and vegetables are known not only to reduce inflammation but may also provide protection against various diseases. Methods: Effects of selected fruits and herbs on cytokines profile of IL-8, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF and IL-12p70 were examined using the CBA flow cytometric assay. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) obtained from blood samples of twelve healthy subjects aged 20 to 30 years [males = 6 and females = 6] were treated with papaya, mata kucing, dang shen and pu-erh tea, respectively, for 6 and 48 hours at various concentrations. In vivo effects was further tested on healthy volunteers [males = 2, females = 4] by 2-days consumption of papaya following 2-days washout period without papaya. The diet of volunteers was controlled with fixed meals. Results:In vitro results after 6 hours of culture showed that papaya-treated PBMC significantly increased IL-8, IL-1β and IL-6 but reduced IL-10. Mata kucing-treated PBMC significantly increased IL-8 but reduced IL-6 while pu-erh tea significantly reduced IL-8, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF. Cytokine analysis for dang shen-treated PBMC was only conducted at 48 hours. After 48 hours, papaya extract significantly reduced IL-8, IL-6 (8000 μg/ml), IL-10 and TNF. Significant increase of IL-6 was observed at 4000 and 16000 μg/ml. Mata kucing extract significantly increased IL-1β, IL-6 but reduced TNF. Significant increase of TNF was observed at 16000 μg/ml. Dang shen and pu-erh tea reduced IL-8, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF. However, in vivo papaya consumption did not show any significant changes and levels were low. Conclusion: This study showed fruits such as papaya and mata kucing had both stimulatory and inhibitory effect on various pro-inflammatory cytokines while effect of herbs such as dang shen and pu-erh tea were inhibitory. Immunomodulatory studies of natural food such as fruits and herbs may provide better understanding and subsequently improve management of inflammatory diseases.

Matched MeSH terms: Vegetables

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