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Fulltext Gill monogeneans of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and red hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) from the wild and fish farms in Perak, Malaysia: infection dynamics and spatial distribution

Lim SY, Ooi AL, Wong WL

Springerplus, 2016;5(1):1609.
PMID: 27652182 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-3266-2

Tilapia is one of the commercially important fish in Malaysia as well as in other parts of the world. An understanding of monogenean infection dynamics in tilapia fish may assist us in searching for some intervention measures in reducing the loss of fish caused by parasitic diseases. The present study aimed (1) to compare infection level of monogeneans between the wild and cultured Oreochromis niloticus, and between the cultured O. niloticus and cultured red hybrid tilapia, and (2) to examine the spatial distribution of monogenean species over the gills of the different host species. From a total of 75 fish specimens, six species of monogeneans from two genera: Cichlidogyrus (C. halli, C. mbirizei, C. sclerosus, C. thurstonae, C. tilapiae) and Scutogyrus (S. longicornis) were identified. Data showed that the infection level of cultured O. niloticus was higher than that of the wild O. niloticus, however, the former was lower than that of the cultured red hybrid tilapia. Higher species richness of monogeneans was observed in the cultured red hybrid tilapia as compared to the others. Results for spatial distribution showed that the monogeneans have no preference on the left or right sides of the gills. However, C. halli, C. mbirizei, and C. tilapiae showed preferences on specific gill arches in the cultured O. niloticus and red hybrid tilapia. In general, the gill arch IV harboured the least number of monogeneans. The susceptibility of monogenean infection between the different types of tilapia is discussed.
Synergistic Antimicrobial Effect of a Seaweed-Probiotic Blend Against Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND)-Causing Vibrio parahaemolyticus

Lim SY, Loo KW, Wong WL

Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins, 2020 09;12(3):906-917.
PMID: 31773414 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-019-09616-8

The outbreak of acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) has caused great economic losses to the shrimp culture sector. However, the use of antibiotics to fight this disease has resulted in negative impacts on human health and the environment. Thus, the use of natural alternatives to antibiotics may be a better solution. In this study, four Bacillus species obtained from the guts of shrimps (Fenneropenaeus penicillatus and Penaeus monodon) showed antimicrobial activity against the AHPND-causing Vibrio parahaemolyticus strain 3HP using the cross-streaking and agar spot methods. Two of the Bacillus isolates, B2 and BT, also showed good probiotic properties, exhibiting tolerance to bile, good adhesion to shrimp mucus, non-hemolytic, susceptibility to antibiotics and being safe towards hosts. Moreover, a seaweed-probiotic blend (a combination of Bacillus B2 and 20 mg/ml of the red seaweed Gracilaria sp.) exhibited synergistic in vitro inhibition against V. parahaemolyticus strain 3HP, with an observed inhibition zone of 5.0 mm. The broth co-culture experiment results further indicated that the seaweed-probiotic blend inhibited V. parahaemolyticus through competitive exclusion. The in vivo challenge trials also confirmed that this seaweed-probiotic blend significantly reduced the mortality of shrimps post-challenge with the AHPND-causing V. parahaemolyticus strain 3HP (p < 0.05) compared to the negative control (mortality rate = 13.88% vs 72.19%). Thus, this seaweed-probiotic blend may serve as an alternative to antibiotics in controlling the outbreak of AHPND.
Fulltext Pleurotus giganteus (Berk.) Karunarathna & K.D. Hyde: Nutritional value and in vitro neurite outgrowth activity in rat pheochromocytoma cells

Phan CW, Wong WL, David P, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V

BMC Complement Altern Med, 2012;12:102.
PMID: 22812497 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-102

Drugs dedicated to alleviate neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's have always been associated with debilitating side effects. Medicinal mushrooms which harness neuropharmacological compounds offer a potential possibility for protection against such diseases. Pleurotus giganteus (formerly known as Panus giganteus) has been consumed by the indigenous people in Peninsular Malaysia for many years. Domestication of this wild mushroom is gaining popularity but to our knowledge, medicinal properties reported for this culinary mushroom are minimal.
Fine structure of the anterior adhesive apparatus (head organs) of Bravohollisia gussevi Lim, 1995 (Monogenea: Ancyrocephalidae)

Wong WL, Brennan GP, Halton DW, Lim LH

Parasitology, 2006 Mar;132(Pt 3):427-38.
PMID: 16309563

A study of the anterior adhesive apparatus (head organs) of Bravohollisia gussevi Lim, 1995 was carried out using light and electron microscopy. The anterior adhesive apparatus or head organs in B. gussevi comprise 6 circular openings or apertures in the antero-lateral region, associated pits lined with specialized microvillous tegument that differ from the general body tegument, a bundle of ducts, and uninucleate gland cells located lateral to the pharynx. The uninucleate glands of the anterior adhesive apparatus (head organs) comprise 2 types of cells, one kind of cell producing rod-like bodies (S1) and the other oval bodies (S2). The S1 bodies are filled with numerous, less electron-dense vesicles in an electron-dense matrix, while S2 bodies have no vesicles but contain a more homogeneous electron-dense matrix. Interlinking band-like structures were observed between S1 bodies. Similar band-like structures were found between S2 bodies. The formation of S1 bodies was followed by transmission electron microscopy. However, the formation of S2 bodies was unclear and could not be resolved. Uniciliated structures were also observed around the openings of the anterior adhesive apparatus. Each uniciliated structure is usually associated with an opening of a gland cell producing granular, electron-dense, secretory bodies, which differ from the secretions produced by the lateral gland cells of the anterior adhesive apparatus.
First development of the Malaysian River Integrity Index (MyRII) based on biological, chemical and physical multi-metrics

Ng CK, Ooi PA, Wong WL, Khoo G

J Environ Manage, 2020 Feb 01;255:109829.
PMID: 31783208 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109829

Anthropogenic pressures are causing substantial degradation to the freshwater ecosystems globally and Malaysia has not escaped such a bleak scenario. Prompted by the predicament, this study's objective was to pioneer a river assessment system that can be readily adopted to monitor, manage and drive improvement in a wholesome manner. Three sets of a priori metrics were selected to form the Ichthyofaunal Quality Index (IQI: biological), Water Quality Index (WQI: chemical) and River Physical Quality Index (RPQI: physical). These indices were further integrated on equal weighting to construct a novel Malaysian River Integrity Index (MyRII). To test its robustness, the MyRII protocol was field tested in four eco-hydrological zones located in the Kampar River water basin for 18 months to reveal its strengths, weaknesses, and establish the "excellent", "good", "average", "poor" and "impaired" thresholds based on the "best performer" reference site in an empirical manner. The resultant MyRII showed a clear trend that corresponded with different levels of river impairment. Test site zone A which was a reference site with minimal disturbance achieved the highest MyRII (88.95 ± 4.29), followed by partially disturbed zone B (61.95 ± 5.90) and heavily disturbed zone C (50.00 ± 4.29). However, the MyRII in zone D (59.9 ± 6.39), which was a heavily disturbed wetland that was disjointed from the river, did not conform to such trend. Also unveiled and recognized, however, are some unexpected nuances, limitations and challenges that emerged from this study. These are critically discussed as precautions when interpreting and implementing the MyRII protocol. This study adds to the mounting body of evidence that water resource stakeholders and policymakers must look at the big picture and adopt the "balanced ecosystem" mind-set when assessing, restoring and managing the rivers as a freshwater resource.
Fulltext Targeting PirAvp and PirBvp Toxins of Vibrio parahaemolyticus with Oilseed Peptides: An In Silico Approach

Ong JH, Wong WL, Wong FC, Chai TT

Antibiotics (Basel), 2021 Oct 05;10(10).
PMID: 34680792 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10101211

Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND), caused by PirAvp- and PirBvp-releasing Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains, has resulted in massive mortality in shrimp aquaculture. Excessive use of antibiotics for AHPND management has led to antibiotic resistance, highlighting the urgency to search for alternatives. Using an in silico approach, we aimed to discover PirAvp/PirBvp-binding peptides from oilseed meals as alternatives to antibiotics. To search for peptides that remain intact in the shrimp digestive tract, and therefore would be available for toxin binding, we focused on peptides released from tryptic hydrolysis of 37 major proteins from seeds of hemp, pumpkin, rape, sesame, and sunflower. This yielded 809 peptides. Further screening led to 24 peptides predicted as being non-toxic to shrimp, fish, and humans, with thermal stability and low water solubility. Molecular docking on the 24 peptides revealed six dual-target peptides capable of binding to key regions responsible for complex formation on both PirAvp and PirBvp. The peptides (ISYVVQGMGISGR, LTFVVHGHALMGK, QSLGVPPQLGNACNLDNLDVLQPTETIK, ISTINSQTLPILSQLR, PQFLVGASSILR, and VQVVNHMGQK) are 1139-2977 Da in mass and 10-28 residues in length. Such peptides are potential candidates for the future development of peptide-based anti-AHPND agents which potentially mitigate V. parahaemolyticus pathogenesis by intercepting PirAvp/PirBvp complex formation.
Fulltext Isolation and Characterisation of Culturable Thermophilic Cyanobacteria from Perak Hot Springs and their Plant Growth Promoting Properties Effects on Rice Seedlings (Oryza sativa L.)

Wong CKF, Chong TY, Tan J, Wong WL

Trop Life Sci Res, 2023 Sep;34(3):1-22.
PMID: 37860094 DOI: 10.21315/tlsr2023.34.3.1

Malaysia is home to a number of hot springs that are rich in microbial diversity including the photosynthetic cyanobacteria. Although this microbial community has been characterised based on metagenomics approach, the culturable thermophilic isolates have not been isolated and characterised extensively. Compared to the mesophiles, information on plant growth promoting (PGP) properties of these thermophiles remain largely untapped. As the amount of arable land for microbial bioprospecting is decreasing due to extensive human activities, the search for alternative source for microbial strains with PGP properties is important for the development of potential biofertilisers. This study sought to isolate and characterise culturable cyanobacteria strains from two local hot springs - Sungai Klah (SK) and Lubuk Timah (LT) located in Perak using morphological and molecular methods. The IAA production from the axenic cultures were measured. The PGP properties were also measured by priming the rice seeds with cyanobacterial water extracts. A total of six strains were isolated from both hot springs. Strains LTM and LTW from LT were identified as Leptolyngbya sp. whereas strains SEM, SEH, STH and STM were identified as Thermosynechococcus elongatus. All six strains produced IAA ranged from 670.10 pg/μL to 2010 pg/μL. The water extracts were found to increase the seed amylase activity of the rice seeds from 5th day of germination (DAG) to 10th DAG. In general, the IAA production and increased seed amylase activity might have contributed in enhancing the longest root length, shoot length and root-to-shoot (RS) ratio. To conclude, the thermophilic cyanobacteria from hot springs can be further exploited as a novel source of PGP microbes for the development of biofertilsers.
Sodium dodecyl sulphate as a rapid clearing agent for studying the hard parts of monogeneans and nematodes

Wong WL, Tan WB, Lim LH

J Helminthol, 2006 Mar;80(1):87-90.
PMID: 16469180

Hard structures of helminths have often been used for taxonomic identification but are usually not clearly defined when treated with conventional methods such as ammonium picrate-glycerin for monogeneans and glycerin for nematodes. The present study reports a rapid and simple technique to better resolve the hard parts of selected monogeneans and nematodes using 5-10% alkaline sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS). In comparison with established methods, SDS-treated worms become more transparent. In monogeneans treated with SDS, clear details of the hooks, hook filaments, anchors, bars and the sclerotized copulatory organs could be observed. In SDS-treated nematodes, spicules and ornamentations of the buccal capsules could be clearly seen.
Ultrastructure of head organs (anterior adhesive apparatus) and posterior secretory systems of Caballeria liewi Lim, 1995 (Monogenea, Ancyrocephalidae)

Wong WL, Brennan GP, Halton DW, Maule AG, Lim LH

Parasitol Res, 2014 Nov;113(11):3935-46.
PMID: 25098344 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4057-8

Caballeria liewi Lim, 1995, uses adhesive secretions from the head organs and posterior secretory systems to assist in locomotion and attachment. Ultrastructural investigations show that the head organs of C. liewi consist of three pairs of antero-lateral pit-like openings bearing microvilli and ducts leading from two types of uninucleated gland cells (located lateral to the pharynx), one type producing rod-like (S1) bodies with an electron-dense matrix containing less electron-dense vesicles and the second type producing oval (S2) bodies with a homogeneous electron-dense matrix. Interlinking band-like structures are observed between S1 bodies and between S2 bodies. S1 body is synthesised in the granular endoplasmic reticulum, transported to a Golgi complex to be packaged into vesicles and routed into ducts for exudation. The synthesis of the S2 body is unresolved. Haptoral secretions manifested externally as net-like structures are derived from dual electron-dense (DED) secretory body produced in the peduncular gland cells. The DED body consists of a less electron-dense oval core in a homogeneous electron-dense matrix. On exocytosis into the pyriform haptoral reservoir, DED bodies are transformed into a secretion with two types of inclusions (less electron-dense oval and electron-dense spherical inclusions) in an electron-dense matrix. The secretions are further transformed (as small, oval, electron-dense bodies) when transported to the superficial anchor grooves, and on exudation into the gill tissues, the secretions become an electron-dense matrix. Secretory bodies associated with uniciliated structures, anchor sleeves and marginal hooks are also observed.
Fulltext Isolation and identification of gastrointestinal microbiota from the short-nosed fruit bat Cynopterus brachyotis brachyotis

Daniel DS, Ng YK, Chua EL, Arumugam Y, Wong WL, Kumaran JV

Microbiol Res, 2013 Oct 1;168(8):485-96.
PMID: 23706760 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2013.04.001

Studies on the microbial ecology of gut microbiota in bats are limited and such information is necessary in determining the ecological significance of these hosts. Short-nosed fruit bats (Cynopterus brachyotis brachyotis) are good candidates for microbiota studies given their close association with humans in urban areas. Thus, this study explores the gut microbiota of this species from Peninsular Malaysia by means of biochemical tests and 16S rRNA gene sequences analysis. The estimation of viable bacteria present in the stomach and intestine of C. b. brachyotis ranged from 3.06×10(10) to 1.36×10(15)CFU/ml for stomach fluid and 1.92×10(10) to 6.10×10(15)CFU/ml for intestinal fluid. A total of 34 isolates from the stomach and intestine of seven C. b. brachyotis were retrieved. A total of 16 species of bacteria from eight genera (Bacillus, Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Escherichia, Klebsiella, Pantoea, Pseudomonas and Serratia) were identified, Enterobacteriaceae being the most prevalent, contributing 12 out of 16 species isolated. Most isolates from the Family Enterobacteriaceae have been reported as pathogens to humans and wildlife. With the possibility of human wildlife transmission, the findings of this study focus on the importance of bats as reservoirs of potential bacterial pathogens.
Larval development of the pedunculate barnacles Octolasmis angulata Aurivillius 1894 and Octolasmis cor Aurivillius 1892 (Cirripedia: Thoracica: Poecilasmatidae) from the gills of the mud crab, Scylla tranquebarica Fabricius, 1798

Yap FC, Wong WL, Maule AG, Brennan GP, Lim LH

Arthropod Struct Dev, 2015 May;44(3):253-79.
PMID: 25770075 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2015.02.001

Detailed studies of larval development of Octolasmis angulata and Octolasmis cor are pivotal in understanding the larval morphological evolution as well as enhancing the functional ecology. Six planktotrophic naupliar stages and one non-feeding cyprid stage are documented in details for the first time for the two species of Octolasmis. Morphologically, the larvae of O. angulata and O. cor are similar in body size, setation patterns on the naupliar appendages, labrum, dorsal setae-pores, frontal horns, cyprid carapace, fronto-lateral gland pores, and lattice organs. Numbers of peculiarities were observed on the gnathobases of the antennae and mandible throughout the naupliar life-cycle. The setation pattern on the naupliar appendages are classified based on the segmentation on the naupliar appendages. The nauplius VI of both species undergoes a conspicuous change before metamorphosis into cyprid stage. The cyprid structures begin to form and modify beneath the naupliar body towards the end of stage VI. This study emphasises the importance of the pedunculate barnacle larval developmental studies not only to comprehend the larval morphological evolution but also to fill in the gaps in understanding the modification of the naupliar structures to adapt into the cyprid life-style.
Retinal vascular fractal and blood pressure in a multiethnic population

Sng CC, Wong WL, Cheung CY, Lee J, Tai ES, Wong TY

J Hypertens, 2013 Oct;31(10):2036-42.
PMID: 23787404 DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0b013e328362c201

OBJECTIVE(S): To examine the effect of blood pressure (BP) on retinal vascular fractal dimension (Df), a measure of microvascular network complexity and density in a multiethnic cohort.
METHODS: A population-based study of 3876 Chinese, Malay and Indian participants in Singapore. Retinal Df was measured using a computer-based program from digital retinal photographs. Associations between retinal Df and mean arterial BP (MABP) in the whole cohort and in each racial group were analysed using linear regression analysis. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between retinal Df and hypertension status.
RESULTS: The mean retinal Df of the study population was 1.45 (standard deviation 0.03). After adjustment for age, sex, race, diabetes, BMI, cholesterol and creatinine levels, persons with smaller Df had higher MABP (mean difference MABP was 6.18 mmHg comparing lowest to highest Df quartiles, P<0.001). This was similar in Chinese, Malay and Indian persons [mean difference 6.40 (P<0.001), 4.72 (P=0.011) and 6.62 (P<0.001)mmHg, respectively]. Persons with smaller retinal Df were more likely to have uncontrolled treated or untreated hypertension [odds ratio 1.79 (P=0.003) and 2.60 (P=0.003), respectively, comparing lowest to highest Df quartiles] than those with no hypertension; this relationship was not seen comparing persons with controlled treated hypertension with no hypertension (odds ratio 1.01, P=0.972).
CONCLUSION: Hypertension was associated with a sparser retinal vascular network, which was similar across different racial/ethnic groups and most apparent in those with uncontrolled or untreated hypertension. These data suggest that microvascular remodelling can be quantified by measuring retinal vasculature.
Fulltext Pinch-off syndrome from a chemoport catheter successfully managed with endovascular retrieval

Chuah JS, Wong WL, Bakin S, Lim RZM, Lee EP, Tan JH

Ann Med Surg (Lond), 2021 May;65:102294.
PMID: 33948169 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2021.102294

Introduction and importance: A totally implantable venous access device (TIVAD), also referred to as 'chemoport', is frequently used for oncology patients. Chemoport insertion via the subclavian vein access may compress the catheter between the first rib and the clavicle, resulting in pinch-off syndrome (POS). The sequela includes catheter transection and subsequent embolization. It is a rare complication with incidence reported to be 1.1-5.0% and can lead to a devastating outcomes.
Case presentation: 50-year-old male had his chemoport inserted for adjuvant chemotherapy 3 years ago. During the removal, remaining half of the distal catheter was not found. There was no difficulties during the removal. Chest xray revealed that the fractured catheter had embolized to the right ventricle. Further history taking, he did experienced occasional palpitation and chest discomfort for the past six months. Electrocardiogram and cardiac enzymes were normal. Urgent removal of the fractured catheter via the percutaneous endovascular approach, under fluoroscopic guidance by an experience interventional radiologist was done. The procedure was successful without any complication. Patient made an uneventful recovery. He was discharged the following day, and was well during his 3rd month follow up.
Conclusion: Early detection and preventive measures can be done to prevent pinch-off syndrome. Unrecognized POS can result in fatal complications such as cardiac arrhythmia and septic embolization. Retrieval via the percutaneous endovascular approach provide excellent outcome in the case of embolized fractured catheter.
Fulltext Prevalence of microvascular complications in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus in primary healthcare clinics

Wong WL, Valliappan VN, Leong MC, Aminudin SNA, Chew SCJ, Cheong AT

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(2):237-243.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Delayed diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) increases the risk of presenting late with microvas- cular complications due to untreated long-standing hyperglycaemia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of microvascular complications in newly diagnosed T2D patients in primary healthcare clinics.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out in three government primary healthcare clinics in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Malaysian aged 18 years and above with newly diagnosed T2D (<6 months of diagnosis) were invited to participate in the study. Data collected included the sociodemographic characteristic and the clinical profile (weight, height, waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid, glycaemic, urine albumin, microalbuminuria and renal profile). The assessment of nephropathy, peripheral neuropathy and retinopathy were performed using standard protocol. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the significant factors that contribute to the presence of microvascular complications.
Results: A total of 162 newly diagnosed patients were recruited. The majority was women (64%). The mean age was 51 (SD 11) years. About one-third of the patients (27.7%) had developed at least one microvascular complication. Nephropathy was the commonest microvascular complication (19.2%), followed by peripheral neuropathy (8.6%) and retinopathy (6.5%). Poor glycaemic control was found to be a significant factor contributing to the presence of microvascular complications (OR 5.8, 95%CI:1.466, 23.288).
Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of microvascular complications among the newly diagnosed T2D. There is a need to develop appropriate strategies to increase the awareness and early detection of T2D.
Study site: three Klinik Kesihatan, Selangor, Malaysia
Development of the muscular and nervous systems during the larval ontogeny of the stalked barnacle, Octolasmis angulata Aurivillius 1894 (Cirripedia: Thoracicalcerea: Poecilasmatidae)

Yap FC, Wong WL, Chong VC, Bong CW, Lim LS

Arthropod Struct Dev, 2023 Sep;76:101298.
PMID: 37672818 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2023.101298

The advancements in microscopic techniques have stimulated great interest in the muscular and neural architectures of invertebrates, specifically using muscle and neural structures to infer phylogenetic relationships. Here, we provide the data on the development of the muscular and nervous systems during the larval development of stalked barnacle, Octolasmis angulata using the phalloidin F-actin and immunohistochemical labelling (e.g. acetylated α-tubulin and serotonin) and confocal laser scanning microscopy analysis. All naupliar stages shared the same muscle and neural architectures with only the discrepancy in size. The nauplii have a complex muscle arrangement in their feeding apparatus and naupliar appendages. Most naupliar muscles undergo histolyse during the cyprid metamorphosis. The cyprid muscles form beneath the head shield at the end of nauplius VI. The naupliar and cyprid central nervous systems exhibit the typical tripartite brain comprising the protocerebrum, deutocerebrum and tritocerebrum. The serotonin-like immunoreactivity is mainly found in the naupliar brain, mandibular ganglia, cyprid brain and posterior ganglia. Our study revealed that numerous muscle and neural architectures in the naupliar and cyprids have phylogenetic significance, but future studies on the myoanatomy and neuroanatomy of other barnacle species are necessary to determine the homology of these structures.
Fulltext First evidence for temporary and permanent adhesive systems in the stalked barnacle cyprid, Octolasmis angulata

Yap FC, Wong WL, Maule AG, Brennan GP, Chong VC, Lim LH

Sci Rep, 2017 Mar 22;7:44980.
PMID: 28327603 DOI: 10.1038/srep44980

Although there have been extensive studies on the larval adhesion of acorn barnacles over the past few decades, little is known about stalked barnacles. For the first time, we describe the larval adhesive systems in the stalked barnacle, Octolasmis angulata and the findings differ from previous reports of the temporary (antennulary) and cement glands in thoracican barnacles. We have found that the temporary adhesives of cyprid are produced by the clustered temporary adhesive glands located within the mantle, instead of the specialised hypodermal glands in the second antennular segment as reported in the acorn barnacles. The temporary adhesive secretory vesicles (TASV) are released from the gland cells into the antennule via the neck extensions of the glands, and surrounded with microtubules in the attachment disc. Cement glands undergo a morphological transition as the cyprid grows. Synthesis of the permanent adhesives only occurs during the early cyprid stage, and is terminated once the cement glands reach maximum size. Evidence of the epithelial invaginations on the cement glands supports the involvement of exocytosis in the secretion of the permanent adhesives. This study provides new insight into the larval adhesives system of thoracican barnacles.
Fulltext Hepatoprotective Effects of Panus giganteus (Berk.) Corner against Thioacetamide- (TAA-) Induced Liver Injury in Rats

Wong WL, Abdulla MA, Chua KH, Kuppusamy UR, Tan YS, Sabaratnam V

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2012;2012:170303.
PMID: 22649470 DOI: 10.1155/2012/170303

Panus giganteus, a culinary and medicinal mushroom consumed by selected indigenous communities in Malaysia, is currently being considered for large scale cultivation. This study was undertaken to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of P. giganteus against thioacetamide- (TAA-) induced liver injury in Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats were injected intraperitoneally with TAA thrice weekly and were orally administered freeze-dried fruiting bodies of P. giganteus (0.5 or 1 g/kg) daily for two months, while control rats were given vehicle or P. giganteus only. After 60 days, rats administered with P. giganteus showed lower liver body weight ratio, restored levels of serum liver biomarkers and oxidative stress parameters comparable to treatment with the standard drug silymarin. Gross necropsy and histopathological examination further confirmed the hepatoprotective effects of P. giganteus. This is the first report on hepatoprotective effects of P. giganteus. The present study showed that P. giganteus was able to prevent or reduce the severity of TAA-induced liver injury.
Prevalence and risk factors of epiretinal membrane in Asian Indians

Koh V, Cheung CY, Wong WL, Cheung CM, Wang JJ, Mitchell P, et al.

Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci, 2012 Feb;53(2):1018-22.
PMID: 22247478 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-8557

To describe the prevalence of epiretinal membrane (ERM) and its risk factors in an Indian population and compare the findings with other populations.
Determinants of the optic cup to disc ratio in an Asian population: the Singapore Malay Eye Study (SiMES)

Amerasinghe N, Wong TY, Wong WL, Mitchell P, Shen SY, Loon SC, et al.

Arch. Ophthalmol., 2008 Aug;126(8):1101-8.
PMID: 18695105 DOI: 10.1001/archopht.126.8.1101

To describe the distribution and determinants of the optic cup to disc ratio (CDR) in Malay adults in Singapore.
Water quality variation during a strong El Niño event in 2016: a case study in Kampar River, Malaysia

Ng CK, Goh CH, Lin JC, Tan MS, Bong W, Yong CS, et al.

Environ Monit Assess, 2018 Jun 15;190(7):402.
PMID: 29904816 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-018-6784-2

El Niño and Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a natural forcing that affects global climate patterns, thereon influencing freshwater quality and security. In the advent of a strong El Niño warming event in 2016 which induced an extreme dry weather in Malaysia, water quality variation was investigated in Kampar River which supplies potable water to a population of 92,850. Sampling points were stratified into four ecohydrological units and 144 water samples were examined from October 2015 to March 2017. The Malaysian Water Quality Index (WQI) and some supplementary parameters were analysed in the context of reduced precipitation. Data shows that prolonged dry weather, episodic and sporadic pollution incidents have caused some anomalies in dissolved oxygen (DO), total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity and ammoniacal nitrogen (AN) values recorded and the possible factors are discussed. The month of March and August 2016 recorded the lowest precipitation, but the overall resultant WQI remained acceptable. Since the occurrence of a strong El Niño event is infrequent and far between in decadal time scale, this paper gives some rare insights that may be central to monitoring and managing freshwater resource that has a crucial impact to the mass population in the region of Southeast Asia.

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