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10 years review of successful external cephalic version (ECV) at Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II (HRPZII)
(2022)
Makhtar, Nurul Ain Sah
Objectives: To determine the proportion of patients with successful ECV in breech pregnancy from 36-40 weeks of gestation, the predictors for successful ECV and to create a predictor tool to assist in term of counseling of patients before ECV. Study design: This single center retrospective based on clinical records reviewed 479 medical records with singleton pregnancies and breech presentations that experienced ECV attempt at Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II from January 2010 to December 2019 between 36 to 40 weeks of gestation. Variables with a possible effect on ECV success were collected. These variables include gestation, parity, body mass index (BMI), types of breech, fetal parameters, engagement of buttock, well flexed fetal head, and amniotic fluid index (AFI). Variables’ association with ECV success was assessed using a multivariate logistic regression and predictor tool was created. Results: Overall, 479 clinical records of women underwent ECV being reviewed and success rate of the ECV was 54.7%. Flexed breech (p= 0.007), multiparity (p= 0.000), unengaged of fetal buttock (p=0.000), smaller head circumference (p= 0.017) and higher amniotic fluid index (AFI) (p=0.002) were the independent factors of the version success, while other variables had no statistically significant effect on the success rate. Preoperative predictive score had been created which consist of parity, types of breech, body mass index (BMI), amniotic fluid index (AFI) and engagement of buttock with the minimum score of 8 and maximum score of 13. The favourable predictor score is 9 and above. Conclusion: The overall successful rate for ECV performed in HRPZ II is analogous to other studies and ECV should be offered as an option for the mother. Recognized fetal and maternal factors can help to estimate the chances of success and prediction tool enables accurate prediction of successful ECV and in which when the score is more than 8, it is high chance that the ECV will be successful.
A 5 year review of pre-eclampsia in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia
(2022)
Hanafi, Nor Fatimah Zakiah
Objective: To determine the rate of early onset pre-eclampsia (onset of pre-eclampsia before 34 weeks) and late onset pre-eclampsia (onset of pre-eclampsia after 34 weeks) in patients who delivered in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, the risk factors, the maternal and fetal outcomes for both groups and the associated factor for poor maternal and neonatal outcomes of both groups. Methodology: This retrospective observational study involved all patients with singleton deliveries in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, with the diagnosis of pre-eclampsia from January 2016 until December 2020. The demographic data, co-morbid, clinical presentation, clinical assessment, laboratory results, mode of delivery, and outcome were retrieved from the case notes and recorded and analyzed. Categorical data were analyzed by n (percent) and numerical data were analyzed by mean (SD) and median (IQR). Simple logistic regression testing was used to test for factors associated with poor maternal and fetal outcomes in pre-eclampsia. Any significant variables with a p-value <0.25 were included in multiple logistic regression for further analysis, and variables with p-value <0.05 were considered significant. Results: 108 (30.8%) of 351 cases had early onset pre-eclampsia, 243 (69.2%) had late onset pre-eclampsia. The prevalence rate of pre-eclampsia in our centre was 1.4%. Advanced maternal age occurs in 43.5% of the early onset pre-eclampsia group vs 24.3% in the late onset group. 58.3% of women in the early onset group had a history of pre-eclampsia in a previous pregnancy, and they were likely to be obese (59.3% vs 46.1%). Chronic hypertension significantly increased the risk for early onset pre-eclampsia. Nulliparous women were more likely to develop late onset pre-eclampsia although not statistically significant. Women with early onset pre-eclampsia had a higher percentage of the poor maternal outcome (33% vs 21%). In addition, their babies had significantly increased rates of morbidity and mortality. Among women with early onset pre-eclampsia that had a maternal complication, they were more likely to have a history of pre-eclampsia and obese, although not statistically significant. Furthermore, among women with late onset pre-eclampsia that had a maternal complication, they were likely to be nulliparous or had a shorter interpregnancy interval of less than 2 years, although not statistically significant. Among women with early onset pre-eclampsia that had poor perinatal outcomes, there was a higher percentage of advanced maternal age and nulliparous women, and among women with late onset pre-eclampsia that had poor perinatal outcomes, there was a higher percentage of patients with Diabetes Mellitus and obese. However, these differences failed to reach statistical significance. Conclusion: The prevalence of pre-eclampsia in the general population was 1.4% which was comparable to other Asian countries. Some risk factors were common to both early and late onset pre-eclampsia, however, several risk factors had quantitatively different associations with the 2 subtypes of pre-eclampsia. Pre-eclampsia causes significant maternal complications, especially early onset pre-eclampsia. Outcomes of babies of women with early onset pre-eclampsia are significantly worse than for those who presented later. Overall, women presenting with pre-eclampsia after 34 weeks have generally good maternal and fetal outcome.
A comparison of intraoperative ultrasound and post-operative MRI in paediatric intra axial tumours
(2022-11)
Fuad, Nadiah Ahmad
Background Malignant tumours of the Central Nervous System (CNS) is the second most common paediatric malignancy, following haematological malignancy. CNS tumours depend significantly on the extent of tumour resection. In the past decade, intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) has evolved into a widespread neuroimaging tool that offers real-time surgical guidance, and is a widely accessible imaging modality with minimal identified risk or additional operative time, and also lower economic investment. Recent studies found a strong correlation between IOUS and post operative MRI findings when evaluating extent of tumour resection in adult population suggesting that IOUS might have significant clinical implications, however not many studies involved the paediatrics population. The objective of our study was to compare correlation and reliability of the ultrasound as compared to MRI for tumour resection in paediatric population. We also evaluated IOUS as a real-time navigation tool during surgical resection of intra axial tumours in paediatric patients. Methods This was a prospective observational study done in a Hospital Tunku Azizah, Kuala Lumpur. Patients aged less than 12 years old, admitted between 1st December 2019 to 30th November 2021 with preoperative MRI diagnosis of intra-axial brain tumour were recruited in this study. IOUS was performed intraoperatively, and post-operative MRI performed within 24-72 hours post-op. IOUS utility assessment scoring was performed intraoperatively. Results We analysed a total of 25 paediatric patients that met the inclusion criteria. Concordance analysis between IOUS evaluation and MRI showed good agreement (kappa = 0.527). A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to look for any significant factors of discordance, and none of the variables were found significant for discordance. Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness of fit test was performed, and showed that our model is a good fit, with a good prediction value of 0.497. Conclusion The use of IOUS allowed reliable intra operative imaging modality to achieve more successful gross total resection of brain tumours in paediatrics.
A prospective case-control study on nutritional status and lifestyle risk factors towards quality of life among colorectal cancer and polyp patients in Malaysia
(2025-08)
Ashari, Lydiatul Shima
In Southeast Asian countries, there is a growing incidence and prevalence rate of disease-related malnutrition colorectal cancer (CRC) and its precursor, colorectal polyp, however there are only few reports of this condition. Treatments and the disease itself may affect and impair the overall quality of life (QOL) of CRC survivors. The study aimed to determine the nutritional status and lifestyle risk factors among CRC and polyp patients and their impact on QOL through a prospective case-control study in Malaysia. This study was conducted in two university hospitals in Peninsular Malaysia from June 2020 until December 2022. Patients were recruited through purposive sampling method and a total of 313 patients consisting of 99 and 74 pathologically confirmed CRC and colorectal polyp cases respectively, and 140 controls were included in the analysis. The following information was gathered pre- treatment: Socio-demographic, family and personal medical history, dietary intake, sedentary behaviour, nutritional risk, smoking, clinicopathological, biochemical parameters, and anthropometric profiles. Six months post-treatment, sedentary behaviour, nutritional risk, biochemical parameters, and anthropometric profiles were gathered again, together with treatment and QOL. Multiple logistic regression model revealed that the Kuala Lumpur state (OR=8.89, 95% CI=3.19-24.83; p<0.001), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (OR=4.91, 95% CI=1.81-13.29, p=0.002), vitamin/mineral supplements (OR=5.15, CI=2.33-11.39, p<0.001), and saturated fatty acids (SFA) (OR=1.19, 95% CI=1.08-1.31, p<0.001) intake were associated with greater risks of CRC while non-Malay (OR=0.36, 95% CI=0.15-0.87, p=0.024), overweight (OR=0.14, 95% CI=0.04-0.48, p=0.002), increased intake of vitamin D (OR=0.71, 95% CI=0.55-0.92, p=0.008) and dietary fibre (OR=0.81, 95% CI=0.74-0.89, p<0.001) were associated with reduced risk of CRC after the data were adjusted for age and gender. For colorectal polyp, the Kuala Lumpur state (OR=4.36, 95% CI=2.02-9.41, p<0.001) and high cholesterol (OR=1.003, 95% CI=1.001-1.005, p=0.006) intake were associated with increased risk while high thiamin (OR=0.02, 95% CI= 0.00-0.11, p<0.001) and fruits (OR=0.997, 95% CI=0.995-1.000, p=0.035) intake were found associated with decreased of risk. Multiple linear regression model showed that malnourish (β=-18.40, p<0.001) and abdominal obesity (β=-10.07, p=0.020) were negatively associated with QOL after six months of post-treatment. This study advances current understanding of the nutritional and metabolic pathways underlying colorectal cancer and polyp development, providing a foundation for future mechanistic and intervention studies
A randomized control trial: insertion of peripherally inserted central catheter (picc) in neonates; mathematical formula versus direct measurement
(2023-02)
Jusili, Syamila Huda
Introduction Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) is commonly used in preterm infants. However, many studies have shown a high need for adjustment of their position after insertion. The aim of this study was to test a new method to estimate the ideal catheter depth for cubital PICC insertion in preterm infants. Methods A multi-center randomized, controlled trial was conducted, comparing direct measurement from insertion site to sternal notch (control group) versus a formula based on the length of the infant (intervention group) to estimate the ideal depth of cubital PICC in preterm infants with a birth of less than 1.5kg. The primary outcome was the rate of correctly placed PICCs. Catheter related complications were also monitored. Results There was no difference in baseline characteristics between the intervention group and the control group except for a significant lower birth weight in the intervention group. There was no significant difference in correct placement between the intervention and the control groups (6 out of 25 or 24% vs 10 out of 27 or 37% respectively, p=0.309). There was also no significant difference in complication rates between the two groups. Discussion and conclusion This study did not show benefits of using an alternative formula for estimation of catheter depth for cubital PICC insertion in preterm infants. As in previous studies the rate of correct initial placement was low and there is definitely a need for studies to identify better ways to estimate the depth of PICC insertion for preterm infants.
A study of antibiotic agents prescribed, guideline compliance and associated factor of antibiotic failure among the hospitalised paediatric and adult general medical patients in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia
(2023)
Ramli, Nurshahira
Background: Antibiotic is the commonest drugs used in hospitals. Inappropriate use of antibiotics has been shown to contribute to the occurrence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MROs). Understanding antibiotic prescription patterns is essential for combatting limited access and excessive use of antibiotics and controlling resistance. Thus, we evaluated antibiotic agents prescribed and the associated factor of antibiotic failure among hospitalized adult and pediatric patients in Hospital USM. Methodology: This was a retrospective study of antibiotic patterns among the adult general and pediatric general medical wards. A total of 227 patients were identified after had fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study used descriptive and inferential analysis to find out the objectives. The descriptive analysis includes the frequencies, percentage, mean and standard deviation, carried out to determine the patient’s demographic, patient’s clinical diagnosis, and patients comorbid. The inferential statistics involving simple logistic and multiple logistic regression are conducted to identify the factors associated with antibiotics failure. Results: Respiratory tract infections were found to be the highest infection sites and treated with antibiotics among all age groups with a total of 163 patients. Among these, 57.7% (94 patients) have been prescribed with penicillin with β-lactamase inhibitor group, followed by 28.8% (47 patients) with macrolide and a balance of 13.5% with other groups. Amoxicillin and clavulanic acid were reported to be the commonest among the penicillin with β-lactamase inhibitor group prescribed which was 65.2%. A total of 160 (70.5%) patients' prescription was noted as a single prescription while only 67 (29.5%) were of 2 antibiotics combination prescription. Most of them were given parenterally(75.3%). As of notes, more than half of prescriptions 60.8% (138) were deemed compliance to the guidelines. The rate of antibiotic failure was 12.8% (29) which was quite similar to a few other studies. 3 factors that been identified as the significant associated factor of antibiotic failure in this study were female sex (OR, 3.459; 95% CI, 1.075,11.130), the presence of acute kidney injury (OR, 3.084; 95% CI, 1.021, 9.311) and resistant organisms (OR, 2.961; 95% CI, 3.813,97.916). Conclusion: Most of the antibiotics prescribed in this study were penicillin with β-lactamase inhibitors. Despite this, there was only 12.8% (29) antibiotic failure and only 3 significant associated factors of failure were reported. Further larger scale and longer study needed to look for more antibiotic prescriptions not limited to the medical ward but including all disciplines such as surgical, orthopaedic, obstetrics, and gynaecology to conclude more realistic rate of antibiotic failure and associated factors.
A study on anthropometric breast measurements in the malay population in Malaysian women
(2014)
Shahlini, S. Umayaal
Breasts have many anatomic variations with respect to volume, width, length, projection, density, composition, shape, and placement on the chest wall. Anthropometric measurements, which involve measuring distances between a set of anatomical landmarks and a geometric volume formula is known to be the ideal and one of the most accurate method of determining breast volume. Our main objective in this study was to evaluate and measure breast anthropometric measurements in the Malay female population and obtain a baseline of normal parameters of the breast and nipple-areolar complex among them. We also aimed to compare the difference in breast volume between the right and left breast of individuals within the study population, to study the relationship between the breast volume and the height and weight of individuals and to evaluate the variation in breast volume in regards to Body Mass Index. The study included 100 healthy 17-30 year old single nulliparous Malay females in Malaysia with “aesthetically perfect” breasts with a BMI between 17 - 24.9 kg/m2. A total of 22 parameters were measured in standing position. The parameters measured were body weight, height, shoulder width, upper chest width and circumference, middle chest width and circumference, lower chest width and circumference, waist width, clavicle-nipple length, sternal notch-nipple length, nipple-nipple length, upper arm length, acromium to midhumeral point of nipple, medial mammary radius, lateral mammary radius, nipple-inframammary fold length, nipple diameter, areola diameter, nipple projection, and mammary projection. Breast volumes were also evaluated Normal parameters were successfully obtained. The mean breast volume of right and left breast was determined to be 536.59± 339.21 cc and 553.38 ± 368.12 cc. There was no significant correlation between height and breast volume but a positive correlation between breast volume and weight .With the positive correlation between BMI and breast volume using a linear model and linear regression a formula is derived to calculate the expected breast volume of an individual solely on the BMI. The mean distance from the supra-sternal notch to the nipple on the right side and left side is 18.76 ± 2.44 cm and 18.85 ± 2.34 cm. and the mean difference between the nipples is 18.22 ± 2.25 cm, forming an equilateral triangle. The standard mammary projection is 4cm± 1.3cm. This study will help in planning both aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery and make it possible to compare the anthropometric breast values of young Malay Malaysian women with those of women in other countries.
A study on fibre identification and characterization of various headscarf fabrics
(2025-02)
Fahmi, Shazwina Ayna Mohd
This study focuses on the identification and characterisation of fibres from six types of headscarf fabrics, mainly cotton, silk, polyester, lycra, viscose, and moss crepe as potential sources of trace evidence in forensic investigations. Fibre evidence, often transferred during physical contact, plays a crucial role in linking suspects, victims, and crime scenes. Morphological tests revealed that distinct weave patterns and yarn structures significantly influence fabric behaviour, such as porosity and density, aiding in the differentiation of fabric types. Both cotton and viscose exhibited plain weaves, but cotton had a less porous fabric structure than viscose. Polyester and lycra showed dense synthetic structures. Burning tests identified fibres based on their combustion behaviour, residue formation, and odour. Lycra however shows uniqueness in the absence of hard beads although it is synthetic fibre. Moss crepe and viscose displayed mixed traits, confirming their partially synthetic origins. Solubility tests further validated fibre compositions by observing their reactions to various chemical solvents, demonstrating distinct dissolution behaviours influenced by chemical structure and environmental factors. Most fibres did not dissolve in 75% and 60% sulphuric acid, and none dissolved in formic acid, while most fibres dissolved in high-temperature 50% sodium hydroxide solutions. In conclusion, this study successfully classified and identified the six types of fibres using comprehensive fibre identification methods, enhancing their value as trace evidence in forensic applications
Aesthetically ideal breast preference among plastic surgeons and general population
(2020)
Hamzan, Muhammad Izzuddin
Introduction: Describing and accurately evaluating the ideal female breast is essential for surgical planning and to establish the goals of surgery as well as to assess surgical outcomes. There are, nevertheless, no measurable aesthetic standards for the female breast. Henceforth, setting objectively measurable ends is a critically vital element of breast surgical procedures in plastic surgery, moreover, that previous study showed that there were different opinions among plastic surgeons and their patients. In this study, we are determining the preference of an ideal breast by using 4 key parameters of which are areola size, upper pole contour, upper pole to lower pole ratio and breast size from plastic surgeons, and general population point of view in Malaysia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study using a web-based interactive questionnaire was conducted among plastic surgeons and the general population group. This questionnaire consists of created images of female breasts with 4 key parameters to assess subjects' preference towards the appearance of an aesthetically ideal female breast. Results: There were 45 plastic surgeons and 135 men and women participated in the study. There is no significant difference in the preference when comparing both the plastic surgeons and the general population group. This study showed that generally, both plastic surgeon and general population group more prefer an aesthetically ideal breast that are; areola size of 3 cm (50.4%), slightly convex upper pole contour (40.7%), 45:55 ratio of the upper pole to lower pole (36.7%), and breast size of a D cup (49.25%). Conclusion: The appearance of an aesthetically ideal female breast should have areola with 3 cm diameter, a slightly convex in upper pole contour, have a proportion of upper pole to lower pole of 45:55, and with a breast size of a D cup. Any deviation from these parameters is prone to an unattractive appearance.
Allelic variations in the edar gene and their influence on hair types in Malaysian populations
(2025-02)
Boon, Wendy Tan Lee
Ectodysplasin A Receptor (EDAR) is a tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) that is involved in the development of ectodermal tissues, including hair follicles. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs3827760, which encodes EDAR:p.(Val370Ala), is a missense mutation in the EDAR gene that pleiotropically influences phenotypic traits such as hair type, particularly in East Asian populations. However, the genotype distribution and correlation of this SNP with hair type among Malaysian ethnic groups remain largely unexplored. Thus, this study aimed to determine the allelic variation of SNP rs3827760 in the Malaysian population among the Malay, Chinese, and Indian ethnic groups. DNA samples (buccal swabs) were collected from 30 participants, with 10 individuals from each ethnic group, and extracted using a silica-based solid-phase extraction (SPE) method. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using the custom EDAR primers, followed by agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA quantification, cycle sequencing, and ethanol precipitation (purification). Sanger sequencing was conducted using the SeqStudio™ Genetic Analyzer, and the chromatograms were analyzed with Chromas and Jalview software to identify nucleotide variations at the SNP loci rs3827760, rs146567337, and rs12623957. A chi-square test was performed to determine the statistical significance of the association between the SNPs and ethnicity or hair type. The analysis showed that SNP rs3827760 was significantly correlated with both ethnicity (P-value <0.001) and hair type (P-value = 0.011). The ancestral allele (allele A) was strongly associated with Indian (curly hair) individuals, while the derived allele (allele G) was strongly associated with Chinese (straight hair) individuals. Malay individuals with straight or wavy hair exhibited a mix of all three genotypes. SNP rs146567337 showed no significant association with ethnicity (P-value = 0.155) or hair type (P-value = 0.432). SNP rs12623957 was not significantly related to ethnicity (P-value = 0.058) but was correlated with hair type (P-value = 0.017). Therefore, SNP rs3827760 in the EDAR gene was the most strongly correlated genetic factor for hair types and ethnicity in this study
An evaluation using fdi criteria to compare full-ceramic crowns, composite resin fillings, ceramic inlays and onlays in posterior teeth after endodontic treatment
(2025-09)
Shiwei, Che
Restoring endodontically treated posterior teeth is a critical challenge due to structural compromises following root canal treatment. This study evaluates the clinical performance of full-ceramic crowns (FCC), composite resin (CR) fillings, and ceramic inlays/onlays in posterior teeth using the World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria. A prospective cohort study was conducted involving 150 patients (194 posterior teeth), assessing functional outcomes such as fracture resistance, marginal adaptation, wear, and patient satisfaction over a mean follow-up period of 58.14 months (SD = 2.93). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in long-term success rates among the three groups, with FCC demonstrating superior durability and marginal adaptation, while CR fillings provided a minimally invasive, cost-effective option with higher wear and marginal deterioration over time. Ceramic inlays/onlays offered a balance between structural conservation and durability, making them suitable for cases with moderate tooth structure loss. Patient satisfaction scores, as measured by the FDI criteria, were highest in the FCC group (mean score: 1.2 ± 0.4), followed by the ceramic inlays/onlays group (1.4 ± 0.5) and the CR fillings group (1.8 ± 0.6), with differences statistically significant (p < 0.05). These findings provide evidence-based recommendations for restorative material selection, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment planning based on clinical conditions and patient needs
Analytical investigation of corrosive agents in relation to cotton textile damage assessment
(2025-02)
Khairi, Siti Nur Aiefika
Acid attacks cases occur commonly with the ill intention to hurt the victim by utilising corrosive substances that are easily obtained and cheap. Clothing fabrics are one of the surfaces that are in contact with the corrosive agents used making identification of the corrosive substances vital to provide clue in connecting the perpetrator to the crime. Therefore, this study investigates the chemical characterization of corrosive agents and the relation to textile damage. Relationships of corrosive substance samples with cotton textile were studied over time interval of every 5 minutes in spend of 15 minutes. The tear area and absorption area occurred to the cotton textile were taken into account as the effect. Lab graded acids and commercial products were included in the analytical investigation, whereby pH measurements and chemical characterization of the corrosive substance samples by using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy was performed. Resulting in observation of the acidity trends of the samples through the pH measurement. In addition, the chemical characteristics of the samples was achieved through principal component analysis, clustering the samples according to selected features of each sample unique chemical characteristics. These findings provide implications for acid attack cases in identifying corrosive substances evidence. Furthermore, identifying the corrosive substance by utilising analytical instrument and observation the relationship between corrosive substances with cotton textile in contact
Anti cancer effect of paddy husk extracts in human salivary gland epidermoid cancer cells in vitro model
(2024-02)
Al-Azazi, Entesar Ahmed Abdullah
Global agriculture produces millions of tons of waste yearly. Paddy husk is an inedible agriculture waste obtained during the process of rice milling. Studies reported that it has chemopreventive potential due to the presence of related phytochemicals. The aim of this study is to elucidate the presence of anti-cancer related phytochemicals from paddy husk extract and evaluate its inhibitory and anti-proliferative effects against human submaxillary salivary gland epidermoid carcinoma cells (HTB-41). Two types of solvent for paddy husk extract have been used; water and aqueous methanol. The phytochemical constituents of paddy husk extracts were identified using GC-MS. The inhibitory activity and cytotoxicity analysis was calculated using Trypan Blue Exclusion Assay (TBEA). Apoptosis and cell cycle analysis were evaluated by flow cytometer, and cell morphology post treatment was analysed ultrastructurally, while Western blot was performed for proteomic analysis. Our results showed presence of vitamin E and other phytochemicals in paddy husk extracts. Both water and aqueous methanol extracts demonstrated inhibitory activity on HTB- 41 cells where IC50 dose of water extract (400 μg/ml) managed to reduce cell viability to 53.0 % and IC50 dose of aqueous methanol extract (200 μg/ml) managed to reduce cell viability to 51.12 % without exhibiting any significant cytotoxic effects. Apoptosis analysis revealed that water and aqueous methanol extracts induce apoptosis effect on HTB-41 as supported with microscopic findings of cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing and apoptotic bodies, meanwhile, Hoechst 33342 staining showed nuclear shrinkage and fragmentation. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that paddy husk extracts promote a significant amount of apoptotic cellular population from 76.00% (untreated) to 47.86% (paddy husk water extract) and 43.13% (paddy husk aqueous methanol) and arresting the cells at S-phase from 19.90% (control) to 36.90 % (paddy husk aqueous methanol extract) and 27.86 % (paddy husk water extract). Western blot analysis reveals that apoptosis was induced through caspase 3-mediated intrinsic pathway. Pro-apoptotic and tumour suppressor proteins; Bax, p27kip1 expressed higher (P <0.05), while anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2 downregulated after treatment (P <0.01). This leads to increase of caspase 9 expression which in turn activate caspase 3 and 7 leading to cell apoptosis. In conclusion, the presence of phytochemicals in paddy husk especially in aqueous methanol extract successfully showed better inhibitory and anti-proliferative effects on the human submaxillary salivary gland epidermoid carcinoma cells (HTB-41), while it acted in a tumour-selective manner by not inducing any significant changes on human gingival fibroblast cell (HGF-1).
Anti-diabetic and anti-lethargic effects of stichopus horrens extract in type 2 diabetes-induced sprague dawley male rats
(2025-01)
Vixuan, Eng
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder, that is attributed to either insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or impaired response of body cells to insulin. Present medication like metformin has brought significant therapeutic effects in treating this disease but the side effects prompt the researchers to explore other alternative treatments especially natural products. This study aimed to investigate the potential of different sea cucumber samples of Stichopus horrens, differentiated by extraction methods, in reducing fasting blood glucose level, minimising fatigue condition, and restoring structure and function in organs of diabetic type 2-induced rats. Two extraction methods were utilised in this study, which are hydrolysis and high-pressure processing (HPP). The first extract of sea cucumber was subjected to hydrolysis only, while the second extract was exposed to HPP only. The last extract of sea cucumber was subjected to both hydrolysis and HPP. In the in-vitro assay, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to three Stichopus horrens body wall samples, and a positive control, metformin with concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 4000 µg/mL in MTT assay to obtain starting dosage of treatments for animal study. The in-vivo study involved Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, which included the induction of high fat diet for five weeks, 110 mg/kg of nicotinamide injection, followed by 55 mg/kg of streptozotocin (STZ) into creating Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rat model. Rats were randomly grouped into six groups; normal control (n=3), diabetic control (n=3), metformin-treated group (n=3), sea cucumber extract (hydrolysis only) (n=3), sea cucumber extract (HPP only) (n=3), and sea cucumber extract (HPP and hydrolysis) (n=4). The findings displayed a decreasing trend in cell viability with increasing sea cucumber concentration with ICS0 values of 3.771 ± 0.152 µg/mL in sea cucumber extract (hydrolysis only), 3.783 ± 0.063 µg/mL in sea cucumber extract (HPP only), and 4.006 ± 0.054 µg/mL in sea cucumber extract (HPP and hydrolysis) while metformin depicted an increasing trend of cell viability with ECS0 value of 4.931 ± 4.044 µg/mL. As a result, the starting dosage for animal study pertaining to different treatments is 150 mg/kg each. The findings depicted decreasing trend of blood glucose level after four weeks of treatments with 150 mg/kg sea cucumber samples and increased exercise tolerance in sea cucumber extract (HPP and hydrolysis) group with 150 mg/kg. Apart from that, sea cucumbers exhibited mild restoration in histological changes of liver, kidney, and pancreas. The short treatment duration of sea cucumber on diabetic rats might prove that sea cucumber is a promising candidate for the development of novel product in the future.
Anticancer effects of apis cerana and heterotrigona itama honeys on temozolomide-resistant glioblastoma cells
(2025-01)
Hui, You Ying
Glioblastoma is characterized by high aggressiveness and poor prognosis with median survival rate of less than 15 months. Due to the complexity of surgery to remove whole tumour and rapid development of chemoresistance towards temozolomide (TMZ), apitherapy using honey emerges as potential alternative treatment for glioblastoma due to its rich phenolic compounds with high antioxidant properties. However, the difference between Apis cerana honey and Heterotrigona itama honey for anti-glioblastoma effects has not been extensively studied. In this study, the phytochemical composition of A. cerana and H. itama honey were compared using phytochemical screening test and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Their antioxidant capabilities were also compared using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. Then, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of both honeys on TMZ-resistant glioblastoma cell line (DBTRG-05MG cells) were determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, while the analysis of cancer invasiveness and recurrence were determined through scratch assay and clonogenic assay respectively. After that, gene expressions between both honey-treated DBTRG-05MG cells were compared using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to elucidate their effects towards apoptosis (MDM2 gene), metastasis (WNT5A gene) and chemoresistance (YTHDF2 gene). The analysis revealed that A. cerana honey contained higher levels of alkaloid and saponin as compared to H. itama honey, which contributed to its higher antioxidant activity as evidenced via the DPPH assay. This data was also supported by its lower IC50 value (130.5 ± 33.1 mg/mL) than H. itama honey (185.8 ± 27.6 mg/mL) in 72-hour treatment on DBTRG-05MG cells. In contrast, H. itama honey contained higher levels of flavonoid than A. cerana honey. Both honeys shared similar functional groups as indicated in FTIR analysis. A. cerana honey exerted strong inhibitory effect towards invasiveness and migration of DBTRG-05MG cells with its lowest closure percentage up to 72 hours while H. itama honey exerted strong prophylactic effect towards recurrence of DBTRG-05MG cells with its lowest colony number formed. However, there was no significant difference in MDM2, WNT5A and YTHDF2 expressions between honey-treated DBTRG-05MG cells. These findings suggest that A. cerana honey could be more effective in killing TMZ-resistant glioblastoma cells while H. itama honey could be more effective in preventing glioblastoma recurrence. The anticancer effect of each phytochemical in both honeys should be further investigated in future for better elucidation towards apoptotic, metastasis and chemoresistance mechanisms
Antiviral activities of tualang honey against chikungunya virus-infected human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (HFLS)
(2025-11)
Mohamad, Nur Aliah
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by chikungunya virus (CHIKV), primarily transmitted to humans by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The illness is characterised by fever, polyarthralgia, myalgia, rash and headache. In chronic chikungunya, arthralgia can persist for months or even years. Although a vaccine called IXCHIQ exists, it is not widely used and current treatment options focus on symptom relief. This study aimed to investigate the in vitro antiviral activity of Tualang honey against CHIKV infection in human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (HFLS) cells. The potential anti-CHIKV activity of different concentrations of Tualang honey at various incubation periods was evaluated through pre-treatment and post-treatment assays. Additionally, the modes of action were further investigated using virucidal, anti-adsorption, and anti-entry assays. The maximum non-toxic dose (MNTD) of honey in HFLS cells was found to be 50 mg/mL although for subsequent antiviral assays ≤ 20 mg/mL concentrations were used. The viral inhibitory effect was evaluated using plaque assays to measure viral titres and quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) to quantify RNA copy numbers. Tualang honey exhibited minimal to excellent prophylactic activity during the pre-treatment assay, reducing viral titres by 29.21% to 94.87% and RNA copy numbers by 12.90% to 69.80%. Significant inhibition (p < 0.05) of CHIKV viral titres was observed following pre-treatment with 10 and 15 mg/mL for 6 and 12 hours before infection, respectively. Interestingly, the anti-CHIKV effects of Tualang honey in HFLS cells were more prominent during pre-treatment compared to post-treatment. Post-treatment with Tualang honey resulted in minimal to strong inhibition, reducing CHIKV viral titres by 6.67% to 72.46% and RNA copy numbers by 10.87% to 29.21%. The greatest inhibition was observed following post-treatment with 15 mg/mL concentration at 4 hour post infection (hpi), although these effects were not statistically significant. Notably, Tualang honey exhibited a virucidal effect, with up to an 80.50% reduction in CHIKV viral titres. Significant virucidal activity (p < 0.05) was observed when 15 and 20 mg/mL of honey were incubated with 2 X 10³ pfu of CHIKV. Furthermore, Tualang honey demonstrated both anti-adsorption and anti-entry effects, with the latter being more pronounced, reducing viral titres by up to 90.45% compared to 66.89% for anti-adsorption. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Tualang honey possesses anti-CHIKV activities and exerts its effects through broad modes of action. Further research is required to confirm its clinical applicability and fully elucidate its mechanisms of action
Application of eggshells and seashells for latent fingermark development.
(2025-09)
Said, Nur Fatin Nabihah
Fingerprint identification remains an essential aspect in the field of forensic science, being a reliable tool for identifying suspects and reconstructing criminal events. The current research explores the possibility of producing fingerprint powders from eggshells (ES) and seashells (SS), two widely available biowaste products that are mainly made up of calcium carbonate. The characterisation of ES and SS powders using FTIR, SEM, and EDX methods demonstrated that both the magnetic and non-magnetic types are efficient green alternatives for the development of latent fingermarks. The magnetic type is especially suitable for application on sensitive or valuable surfaces. A Friedman test revealed considerable differences in the development of latent fingermarks among the various powders, with a p-value noted at less than 0.001. Magnetic eggshell powder (MES) proves to be the best natural alternative for use on non-porous surfaces, exhibiting a durability profile that allows for multiple recovery attempts. Magnetic seashell powder (MSS) exhibited the most consistent detail in microscopic ridge patterns, showing great potential as an eco-friendly substitute for commercially magnetic powders in the development of latent fingermarks rich in amino acids, cholesterol, and squalene on non-porous surfaces. Non-magnetic ES and SS powders performed well in the case of DL-serine-based deposits. MES and MSS powders showed great promise as environmentally friendly alternatives to palmitic acid-based fingerprints. In addition, both magnetic and non-magnetic variants exhibited the most pronounced ridge definition for lactic acid-rich fingerprints, indicating their great potential for the development of hydrophilic residues. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed that the type of powder did not significantly affect fingermark scores for either heat ageing (p = 0.998) or submersion ageing (p = 0.903). This means that fingermark development was similar across all powder types in both conditions. In contrast, fingermark scores varied significantly among the ten surface types examined (p < 0.001 for both ageing studies). Natural powders derived from ES and SS, especially their magnetic forms, had shown competitive, and often better, performance than commercial powder under water exposure. On the other hand, their non-magnetic powder had proven to be remarkably resilient under different conditions, especially when subjected to high heat. In summary, this research offers valuable information on the forensic process relating to natural resource powders, moving the field towards a green and safe method for latent fingermark visualisation
Assesment of monocyte phagocytosis in the presence of synovial-fluid-derived exosomes from osteoarthritis patients
(2025-01)
Ruhani, Muhammad Akid
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterised by cartilage degradation, inflammation, and joint dysfunction, and monocytes play an important role in its pathogenesis via phagocytosis and inflammatory regulation. This study investigated the effect of synovial fluid-derived exosomes from OA patients on monocyte phagocytic activity. Synovial fluid (SF) was harvested from OA patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty, and exosomes were isolated by ultracentrifugation. Monocytes from healthy donor were cultured for 24 and 48 hours at different exosome concentrations (1:10, 1:20, and 1:40). Then, pHrodo™ Green E. coli conjugates were used to measure monocyte phagocytosis, which was quantified by flow cytometry. The findings demonstrated a significant increase in monocyte phagocytic activity upon exosome treatment, indicating a modulatory effect. These findings provide insight into the interaction between exosomes and monocyte in OA pathogenesis, underlining the possibility of exosome-based treatments to manage this degenerative illness
Assessing knowledge and awareness of multiple sclerosis among adults attending Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia (HPUSM) outpatient clinics
(2025-08)
Saidi, Nur Fatini Idrus
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, idiopathic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the central nervous system, leading to demyelination and subsequent axonal degeneration, and typically affecting young adults (Calabresi, 2004). This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and awareness of MS among adults attending the outpatient clinic at Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia (HPUSM) and to determine whether there is any association between knowledge or awareness and selected socio-demographic factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 147 adult participants at HPUSM outpatient clinic using a validated self-administered questionnaire, the MS Knowledge Questionnaire (MSKQ-25) and awareness questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to identify associations between knowledge and awareness levels and socio-demographic variables. The mean knowledge score was 7.88 ± 4.626 with 84.4% of participants demonstrating poor knowledge. The mean awareness score was 2.90 ± 1.98, and only 22.4% of participants had high awareness. There was a statistically significant association between source of information and awareness level (p = 0.018). However, no significant associations were found between knowledge and age (p = 0.363), gender (p = 0.076), or educational level (p = 0.119). In conclusion, the findings indicate a generally low level of knowledge and awareness about MS among the studied population
Assessment of consumers visual attention towards packaging attributes on stingless bee’s honey box designs using eye-tracking – A study of neuromarketing perspective
(2022)
Mawi, Nur Nasihken
Neuromarketing skills and techniques were widely used in many fields that were not only for academic purposes, but their benefit has been spreading to a lot of others, especially in the marketing world. Neuromarketing is a new discipline of marketing that examines the subconscious reactions of customers to marketing products, brands, goods, and materials. There was a lot of methods that were used by the marketer to advertise their product to attract the attention of consumer as they vary not only in their opinions of brands but also in their interactions with them, which marketers must manage. This is where neuromarketing step into the area by advancing its strategies to improve marketing skills and achieving more target in business instead of using the old traditional way of marketing that was costly and less profit given to the business. The food industry was one of the industries that used this technique to investigate in-depth how to attract customer attention and at the same time influence them to buy the product. One of the elements that were used was the design of the packaging. In this study, we gathered and evaluated the visual attention towards different attributes on stingless bee honey box packaging using the eye-tracking technique by examined the pattern of visual fixation on the attributes of the packaging that was designed solely for this experiment. The attributes are composed of the brand logo, halal logo, font style, price tag, and quality remark stamp. Every attribute consists of 3 variation that are position, size, type of font styles, placement of price tag, and word quality remark. The pattern in visual attention towards all attributes is determined whether they are related to the perceived attractiveness of the product and willingness to buy the product. The result shows that the attribute of brand logo has shown a statistically significant difference in the fixation duration. Here, the visual fixation on the left side of the brand logo is higher score and caught attention rather than the center or right position variation. Result also revealed that there was no correlation between the relation of visual fixation and attractiveness as well as visual fixation and willingness to buy according to the variation of the attributes on the box. Furthermore, even though the left position brand logo score significant value, one positive correlation between visual fixation and the attractiveness for centre position of brand logo were observed. Overall, this research provides a new insight of pattern visualization of different attributes towards subject’s choice on stingless honey box packaging and this implies that gaze fixation on the attributes of the packaging can influence consumers to be attracted and motivate them to buy the product.

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