Pusat Pengajian Sains Kesihatan - Tesis

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A 4-week internal training load monitoring and fatigue responses of malaysian under-18 rugby players during competitive season
(2018-08)
Azis, Muhamad Fakhrul Hakim
Monitoring internal training loads using session ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) has been used extensively to manage fatigue and to optimise sports performance in athletes but none was reported in Malaysian athletes. Accurate monitoring of internal training loads could assist coaches in the adjustment of training, mode, intensity and duration during the competitive season. This study was to quantify the internal training loads (training load, monotony and strain) and fatigue and to identify the correlation of internal loads on fatigue responses of Malaysian under-18 rugby players for 4-weeks during competitive season. Thirty eight male participants of the study, aged from 16-18 years old, were recruited among the students from the Kolej Vokasional Pengkalan Chepa (N=38). The research variables of this study were collected in four weeks prior to their competition. After 90 minutes of every training session, they were asked to rate their training session using the RPE scale. Then, the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory (MFSI)-Short form were administered once per week at the end of their training session for 4 weeks. The participants were trained five days per week as per coach’s training programme, hence the total number of days of data collection were 20 days. The types of training consisted of cardiovascular, strength, power and tactical. All data was entered into Microsoft Excel 2013. Statistical analyses was performed using IBM SPSS version 24.0. All data are presented as mean �} standard deviation (SD) in descriptive statistics. The statistical analysis used in this study was repeated measure ANOVA. The statistical significance was set 0.05. Pearson correlation at p was used to analyse the relationship between internal training load variables and MFSI. Results showed that the training load in week 4 (2594.00 �} 2.30) was significantly higher compared to week 1 (2388.55 �} 343.87), week 2 (2284.34 �} 411.41) and week 3 (2218.42 �} 521.63). Monotony in week 4 was higher (1.70 �} 3.13) compared to week 3 (1.43 �} 0.44). The mean of monotony in week 2 was higher (1.60 �} 0.35) than week 1 (1.49 �} 0.09). Strain increased in week 2 was higher (3728.44 �} 1228.51) compared to week 1 (3605.57 �} 653.51). In week 3, the mean strain decreased (3354.59 �} 1810.58) and increased in week 4 (4145.66 �} 306.38). In training load, monotony, strain and the total score of fatigue (TSF) correlation, the result showed that training load increased with moderate correlations to TSF (r=0.342; r=0.402; r=0.469). In monotony (r=354; r=0.371; i=0.421) and strain (r=0.343; r=0.383; r=0.446), there were also moderate correlation to TSF. The results obtained in this study will help the coaches and trainers to develop an effective training programme in order to maximise their athlete’s performance, reduce fatigue and subsequently prevent injuries.
A lahore birth cohort study (LBCS): analysis of the growth and development of Pakistani infants in relation to the nutritional status of their mother and associated risk factors after birth
(2024-05)
Amjad, Safeena
In Pakistan, the prevalence of child malnutrition is higher than in other developing countries. Lahore Birth Cohort Study (LBCS) was conducted to analyze the association between the health and growth of Pakistani infants with maternal nutritional status, depression, and dietary patterns after delivery. The LBCS was a two-year prospective cohort study started in 2020 that recruits Pakistani Infants after their birth from the Punjab Medical Centre Lahore Pakistan. Participants of the study were interviewed three times at birth, at 2.5 months, and at the age of 9 months. The mother’s postpartum information was collected from the hospital records and via a pre-structured questionnaire. Collected data included sociodemographic features, anthropometrics of newborns and mothers, dietary intake of mothers during pregnancy, infant feeding practices after birth, and 2.5 months along with breastfeeding and weaning practices at the age of 9 months. Findings indicate that the continuation of maternal breast milk during the first six months of life protects infants from various forms of malnutrition. It was also found that maternal factors such as postpartum depression (P<0.017) and mother’s occupation (P<0.04) have a significant association with the infant’s growth and development. It was also determined that breastfeeding (P<0.018), bread and cereals (P<0.00), dairy and dairy products (P<0.015), other milk (P<0.00), and meat and meat substitutes (P<0.00) also has a potentially significant association between the variables at 9 months. The correlation coefficient revealed that there is a positive association between postpartum depression and postpartum BMI on infant birth weight for the age Z score, birth weight (percentile), birth height for the age z score, and birth head circumference (percentile). There was a significant correlation between breastfeeding and infant anthropometric measurements at 2.5 and 9 months of age, including length, weight for age, and head circumference percentile. The strength of these associations increased by 9 months, indicating that breastfeeding's effect on growth parameters persists and even intensifies as infant grows. In conclusion, the Lahore Birth Cohort Study contributes crucial insights into the multifaceted relationship between breastfeeding, maternal factors, and infant growth. The findings emphasize the persistent and intensifying impact of breastfeeding, guiding healthcare recommendations and underlining the need for holistic support for infant health in the Pakistani context.
A methodology building for multilayer feed-forward neural network (MLFFNN): an application in biometry modelling
(2023-04)
Adnan, Mohamad Nasarudin
This research aims to develop a hybrid method for Multi-Layer Feed-Forward Neural Network (MLFFNN) with two different approaches; (i) Multiple Logistic Regression (MLogisticR) for the first method, (ii) Multiple Linear Regression (MLinearR) for the second method. The developed hybrid method is based on bootstrap, regression, and MLFFNN. In the first method, the accuracy of the developed method is measured based on the value of the Mean Squared Error Neural Network (MSE.net), Mean Absolute Deviance (MAD), and the accuracy percentage. While for the second method, Mean Squared Error Neural Network (MSE.net) and R2 will be used to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. All those components serve as a yardstick to determine the accuracy and efficiency of the developed model. Existing software only produces limited results. The main focus of this study is the need for better decision-making with solid evidence. The main goal of this research is to build a hybrid method and generate a numerical result and visualization (graphical representation). The results from both case studies show that the hybrid method has successfully improved the accuracy, effectiveness, and efficiency of parameter estimation in the final results of the analysis. The findings of this study contribute to the development of a comprehensive research methodology in future and suggest more accurate results for the decision-making process.
A monitoring of archery performance predictors among state-level archers
(2023-09)
Sien, Lau Jiun
Archery is a sport that required a certain level of techniques, physical conditions, tactics, and psychology to perform. It is important to understand the most crucial criteria in archery to build excellent archers. Thus, this study aimed to determine the predictors of archery performance among state-level recurve archers. Eighteen state-level recurve archers were recruited from Terengganu State Sports Council and Malaysia Pahang Sports School and 13 participants (mean age = 16.23 ± 1.74) had completed the whole study protocol. Muscle activation level, draw force line, mood states, and physical fitness level of the archers were monitored predictors of archery performance in this research. The mood states of the participants were evaluated with Brunel Mood Scale Questionnaire before the scoring session. During the scoring session, the muscle activation of left deltoid muscles, left triceps muscles, right trapezius muscles, and right triceps muscles were measured with electromyography. Meanwhile, the draw force line during the anchoring and releasing was recorded with a video camera and was analysed with Kinovea motion analysis software. The archery shooting performance was based on a total score of 36 arrows shot at a distance of 70 meters. After the scoring session, the physical fitness level of the participants was measured with fitness tests including push-ups, sit-ups, handgrip test, stork stand test, back and leg test, sit and reach test, and multistage fitness test. All the parameters were measured five times, with each measurement taken at a twomonths interval. The results of the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) revealed muscle activation level and physical fitness level can be used as a guideline in predicting the archery shooting performance. Among the muscles tested in this study, the left deltoid is the only muscle that is associated with the archery shooting performance in the fifth measurement session. Furthermore, physical fitness level also able to predict the shooting performance significantly in the first measurement session, third measurement session and forth measurement session. The physical fitness components that were associated with the archery shooting performance included left and right handgrip strength, back and leg strength, flexibility, balance, upper muscle endurance, core muscle endurance, and cardiovascular endurance. However, the mood states and the draw force line of participants are not associated with the archery performance. It is concluded that the physical fitness level and muscle activation level of the archers can predict the archery shooting performance among state-level archers.
A new regression modelling approach and its application in biostatistics
(2024-07)
Eusufzai, Sumaiya Zabin
This research aims to develop an integrated methodology that will be formulated within a Multilayer Feedforward Neural Network (MLFFNN) framework and logistic regression. The mean absolute deviation and predicted mean square error will be utilised to evaluate the performance of the integrated model, and it serves as a yardstick to determine the accuracy and efficiency of the forecasting that is achieved as a result. The urgency of better significant results serves as a motivation for this study. The objective of this study is to develop and implement an integrated model combining Bootstrap and MLFFNN with logistic regression modelling (LRM) to achieve better prediction accuracy and interpretability. The integrated method used in this study is based on the principles of Bootstrap, LRM, and MLFFNN. The accuracy of the proposed technique is assessed using the Predicted Mean Squared Error Neural Network (PMSE.net), Mean Absolute Deviance (MAD), and the accuracy percentage. Each of these components acts as a benchmark for assessing the precision and effectiveness of the created model. A t-test was used to explore the difference between actual and predicted values from the models. Data analysis was conducted using the R program and SPSS version 26. Two case studies from dental public health have been used to validate this newly developed integrated model, i) dental caries among preschool children, and ii) The case study for oral health knowledge among mothers of preschool children. The incorporation of bootstrapping, MLFFNN, and logistic regression in an integrated approach enhances the accuracy of parameter estimation and addresses the uncertain relationship between dependent and independent variables. In the case study focusing on dental caries among preschool children, the Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD) is 0.0221126 and the Predicted Mean Squared Error (PMSE) is 0.07909. A paired sample t-test reveals no significant difference between the actual and predicted values, with means and standard deviations as follows: Actual (Mean [SD] = 0.30 [0.483]) and Predicted (Mean [SD] = 0.31 [0.373]); df = -0.067(9); p-value > 0.05. In the study concerning oral health knowledge among mothers of preschool children, the MAD is 0.05303337, and the PMSE is 0.053033. Results from the paired sample t-test indicate no significant difference between actual and predicted values, with means and standard deviations as follows: Actual (Mean [SD] = 0.600 [0.940]) and Predicted (Mean [SD] = 0.940 [0.030]); df = -2.154(9). This study’s findings will considerably contribute to epidemiological methodology research, particularly relationship mapping, by introducing an integrated model. Concerning MAD, PMSE, and p-value, these indicate both models showed high accuracy in outcome prediction. The significance of the produced syntax outcome will suggest a more accurate decision-making process in disease prevention.
A preliminary study of colorimetric nanoparticle evaluation of adulterated Simulated urine for amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) abuse testing
(2023-09)
Majeed, Masar Ibrahem
Drug abuse is a serious and widespread problem, and urine testing is considered one of the most used methods to detect drug abuse, but as evidenced by the history of people who have been referred to forensic laboratories, the use of cleaning powders, bases and their components, birth control pills, or aspirin pills to change Drug analysis results, because it is believed that these substances will affect the urine screening test, the purpose of this study is to determine the effect of these substances on common colorimetric laboratory tests (UDSTs) and to use colorimetric detection of unmodified gold nanoparticles to detect false negative results. In this study, a drug screening test strip (commonly performed on urine samples using immunoassays) will be screened using urine positive for amphetaminetype stimulants (ATS) and verifying the authenticity of the sample and the presence of ATS in the sample after addition of counterfeits using thin layer chromatography method. A method was used to screen false negative results with less effort and time than the thin layer chromatography (TLC) method using nanoparticle techniques of unmodified gold, the effect of eleven common types of adulteration was studied. Acetic acid, citric acid, hydroxide, hypochlorite based bleach, Pyridinium chorochromatic PCC, potassium dichromate, sodium chloride, ammonia and nitrate compounds, eye drops and detergents are the compounds discussed. In four tests, were tested on urine positive for ATS by adding adulterants at a 2:1 ratio, urine Dipstick testing and drug presence testing gave negative results for the adulteration cases, and a third colorimetric test was performed in the urine using TLC method, Marquis reagent, iodoplatins, and Dragendoff reagent. A silica plate was sprayed with a reagent for the virtual determination of amphetamine, methamphetamine, and 3,4- methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine (MDMA) at a temperature higher than 20 °C as a result, false negative medications can be detected in the urine sample. But this method requires time, effort and materials, the fourth test is to use a nanoparticle detector formulated to detect the presence of amphetamine-type stimulants, by changing the colour from red to blue at a temperature of 24 degrees Celsius, the nanoparticle detector was able to detect the presence of amphetamine-type stimulants in low concentrations in urine samples, when compared the use of the TLC colorimetric detection method with the nanoparticle colorimetric detection method, we conclude that the latter is superior because it gives results in less time and requires less effort.
A standardised fraction 1 (SF1) from clinacanthus nutans attenuates the stemness of cervical cancer stem-like cells via inhibition of notch1 signalling
(2024-09)
Ismail, Faridah
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a tiny subset of cancer cells characterised by deregulated self-renewal, aberrant stemness signalling pathways, and a high tumorigenic potential. Mounting evidence indicates that CSCs play a critical role in cancer growth, metastasis, relapse, and resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Hence, targeting CSCs will provide novel treatments for cancer. Clinacanthus nutans (C. nutans), or locally known as Sabah snake grass (‘daun belalai gajah’), is a well reputed medicinal herb in East Asia that has shown promising anticancer activities in a range of cancer cell types. However, no study has reported its effect on CSCs. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the antitumour effect of SF1, a semi-purified fraction from C. nutans, on CSCs derived from cervical cancer (CCSCs) and the underlying mechanisms. Bioassay guided fractionation was employed for the isolation of SF1 from C. nutans leaf extract. The SiHa cell line was used for the enrichment of CCSCs by culturing the cells in CSC-conditioned medium (cervospheres). Stemness characterisation of the cervospheres was performed using a sphere formation assay and flow cytometric analysis of the stem-related markers, including CD49f, CK17, Sox2, Nanog, and Oct4. The cervospheres were then subjected to SF1 treatment, and cisplatin was used as a positive control. The antitumour effects of SF1 on cervospheres were evaluated by assessing cell viability, sphere-forming efficiency, and tumorigenic capacity using the OZ blue cell viability kit, sphere formation assay, and in vivo tumorigenicity assay, respectively. The mechanisms by which SF1 eliminated CCSCs were determined by evaluating the selected stemness marker expressions via flow cytometry. Additionally, Notch1 signalling activity, a key regulator for CSC self-renewal and tumorigenicity was examined using the Western blot, quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-qPCR), and immunohistochemistry staining assays. The results of the study showed that SiHa derived cervospheres exhibited high sphere-forming efficiency, and increased expressions of the stemness markers. In addition, further investigation revealed that these cells possessed higher tumorigenicity in nude mice and increased levels of Notch1 protein and gene expression compared to the parental SiHa monolayer cells. SF1 effectively inhibited the cervosphere viability and stemness phenotypes in vitro and in vivo. SF1 was found to induce a concentration-dependent cytotoxicity in the cells, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 17.07 µg/ml. Additionally, treatment of cervospheres with SF1 at the IC50 dose for 72 hours resulted in a significant reduction in the sphere-forming efficiency and a suppression of tumour growth in xenotransplant mice. Besides, SF1 decreased the expression of stemness markers in the cervospheres, primarily CK17 and Sox2 expressions. Nevertheless, Nanog expression remained unaffected. Apart from that, the inhibition of cervosphere stemness properties was accompanied by a marked decrease in the level of Notch1 protein expression. In contrast, increased expression of the Notch1 gene was noted. This implies that SF1 may act by promoting proteasomal degradation of Notch1 protein or disrupting its translation process. In conclusion, SF1 possesses antitumor activity against SiHa derived CSCs, which was achieved through attenuation of their stemness properties and inhibition of the Notch1 signalling. Hence, SF1 may serve as a prospective therapeutic agent for improving cervical cancer management.
A study on geriatric patients attending emergency department Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia.
(2017)
Sjahid, Afifah Sjamun
This study aimed to determine the proportion of geriatric patients attending Emergency Department in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) within January 2015 to March 2015, the mean duration of hospital stay and the outcome of the illness in geriatric patients admitted to Hospital USM. This study also aimed to identify the associated factors of mortality in geriatrics patients admitted to Hospital USM. This study was a retrospective cohort study from January 2015 till March 2015 at Emergency Department Hospital USM. All patients aged 60 years and above attended Emergency Department of Hospital USM from January 2015 until March 2015 were included. Systematic random sampling was used. A total of 209 patients had been included in this study. Descriptive statistics were expressed as cross-tables for categorical variables and as mean ± standard deviation for numerical variables. Independent categorical variables were compared using Chi-Square test or Fisher’s exact test. Paired group comparisons were performed using Independent t-test or Mann Whitney test for numerical variables. Total patients included in this study were 209 patients. The mean (standard deviation, SD) age was 68.4 (6.95) years old, with age range from 60 till 106 years old. Fifty-eight percent were male and 95.7% were Malay. Seventy-eight percent were triaged as an emergency; with 19.6% were red zone cases, while 51.2% were yellow zone cases. Three most common presenting symptoms were respiratory symptoms (24.9%), cardiovascular symptoms (19.65%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (12.9%). Out of209 patients studied, 95 patients (45.5%) were admitted. Mean duration of hospital stay was 8 days (mean 7.57, SD 12.97). Out of 95 patients admitted, only 15 patients (15.8%) died in the ward. Factors associated with mortality in hospitalized geriatric patients were gender (p = 0.009), patient’s method of arrival (p = 0.001), conscious level on arrival (p < 0.001), patient’s condition when transferring to the ward; either ventilated (p = 0.014) and on inotropic agent (p < 0.001) or not, patient’s first pulse rate taken at triage (p < 0.001) and first blood investigations taken in emergency department; white blood cell (p = 0.007), hemoglobin (p = 0.019), serum lactate (p < 0.001) and serum urea (p = 0.036). Majority of the geriatric patients triaged as emergency cases indicated that they mostly came with ill-conditioned that need to be attended immediately. By knowing the common presenting symptoms and associated factors of mortality in admitted geriatric patients will alert medical personnel in the emergency department to treat this group of patients more thoroughly and judiciously.
A study on knowledge, attitude and confidence level on pre-hospital airway management among pre-hospital care providers in Perak.
(2023-04)
Halim, Khairul Effendy Abdul
Pre-Hospital Airway Management (PHAM) is an important aspect of patient care outside the hospital setting. Pre-Hospital Care (PHC) Providers should master PHAM skills to treat patients safely. The objective of the study is to determine the level of knowledge, attitude, and confidence about PHAM among PHC Provider in the PHC Unit and to identify the factors that affect the level of knowledge, attitude, and self-confidence about PHAM. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 14 hospitals under the Malaysian Ministry of Health (MOH) in Perak using a validated digital questionnaire consists of demographics profile, knowledge, attitudes, and self-confidence involving 118 respondents. From the 3 domain scores analysed, the Knowledge domain; 35.6% (n = 42) were good. The other two which are Attitude domains; 89.8% (n = 106) and Confidence domain; 31.4% (n = 37) both were good. The study also found that there are factors that influence the domain of knowledge, which is work experience (95% CI (1.31, 9.10), p = 0.012); attitude domain factor is attending PHAM courses (95% CI (1.75, 44.84), p = 0.008); while confidence domain factor is getting enough training (95% CI (1.21, 7.06), p = 0.018). The results from this study found that only the attitude domain was good. Researchers suggest Continuous Medical Education (CME) and frequent involvement in Simulation Training related to PHAM to increase knowledge, attitude, and self-confidence.
A study on the profile of ketum preparation using colour test and GCMS
(2022-09)
Rosli, Wan Nur Qasrina Wan
Mitragyna speciosa, or known as ketum in Malaysia, is always misused as herbal drug of abuse. Typically, ketum is sold as their raw leaves, drinks or campsules in the street as well as incense online and also available at markets in more rural areas in Southeast Asia as traditional medicine, especially in Malaysia and Thailand. Ketum is very popular among men workers in Malaysia and Thailand. Many decades ago, ketum leaves have been used by natives due to its opium-like effect and cocaine-like stimulant ability to increase energy and combat fatigue. Mitragynine, an alkaloid from ketum leaves is responsible for these mentioned effects and this makes ketum drinks to become the emerging drug of abuse. However, it is unknown at all whether or not other ingredients were added in the ketum drinks available in the market.This present study was done to determine active compounds in the ketum drinks mixtures and to study the recent trend of ketum “cocktails”. In this study, all ketum drinks were obtained in the form of drinks. Presumptive colour test on ketum samples was successfully conducted using Van Urk reagent and 70 samples gave pink colour change, 4 samples gave dark pink colour change and one showed negative screening results. The preparation of ketum drink standard was successfully done by boiling 10 ketum leaves in a beaker on a hotplate. Besides, the extraction process of mitragynine from all 75 samples were successfully performed using liquid-liquid extraction method. Afterwards, the chloroform extracts were subjected to gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The resulting chromatograms and possible fragmentation pathways detected by GC-MS were discussed extensively. Out of 75 samples, only one sample did not exhibit mitragynine peak and majority showed simple chromatograms with only several peaks present in the chromatogram which include caffeine (RT=5.137) and mitragynine (RT=18.839). Sample 49 showed the most complex chromatograms with the presence of a MDMA peak. The trend of ketum drink mixtures in Malaysia was also studied. The findings showed that most of the ketum preparation were merely ketum drinks, without addition of any adulterants. A few samples were, however, in the form of cocktails, and these can cause serious health effects. It is therefore important that the monitoring of the streect drugs are conducted, perhaps via a more frequent drung profiling study to obtain information which could be useful for forensic intelligence as decision making for the respective authorities.
Acculturation of Malay culture into Malaysian non-malay and non-Malaysian and its reflection on the neural substrate of culture specific emotion
(2024-09)
Samsuri, Norlyiana
Racism, prejudice, and discrimination are significant issues that can arise from cultural diversity. It is important to understand the effect of acculturation across members of different cultural groups and how this interaction displays cultural similarities. This research aims to understand the influence of acculturation of majority culture (Malay) into Malaysian non-Malay (Chinese and Indian) and non-Malaysian participants on the neural process of culturally specific emotion. This research was implemented in two phases: (1) Validation study, and (2) Event Related Potential (ERP) study. The amplitude and latency of ERP components were analyed using SPANOVA. The source of localisation and connectivity were analysed using narrative analysis. For the active paradigm, the interaction effect analysis showed significant activation in the Temporal area (T6) of the amplitude of P200 [F (5.378, 207.932) =2.245, p = 0.047], N200 [F (5.798, 224.177) =2.727, p = 0.015], and P300 [F (5.830, 225.432) =3.676, p = 0.002] ERP components. The source of localisation for Malay participants indicated patterns originated in Temporal lobe for N100 and Occipital lobe for P300, sharing similar patterns with non-Malay and non-Malaysian participants living in Malaysia for less than one year. There were 21 connectivity activations in Malay participants, with shared similarities in sensory, motor, visual, memory, emotion, attention, and decision-making processes among non-Malay participants, followed by non-Malaysian participants living in Malaysia for more than one year. For the passive paradigm, the interaction effect analysis showed significant activation in the Parietal-Temporal-Occipital area of the latency T4 [F (8.896, 343.974) = 2.336, p = 0.015], O2 [F (9, 348) =2.446, p = 0.010] of N100 and P4 [F (9, 348) = 2.546, p = 0.008], O1 [F (9, 348) = 2.355, p = 0.014] of P300 ERP components. The source of localisation for Malay participants indicated pattern originated in Occipital lobe in N100 and Frontal lobe in P200, shared similar pattern with non-Malay and non-Malaysian participants living in Malaysia for more than one year. There were 17 connectivity activations in Malay participants with shared similarities in sensory, motor, visual, memory, emotion, language, and higher cognitive functions among non-Malay participants, followed by non-Malaysian participants living in Malaysia for more than one year, and non-Malaysian participants living in Malaysia for less than one year. In conclusion, the finding of this research indicates that non-Malay participants share similar neural process pattern associated with culturally specific emotion with Malay participants due to the influence of acculturation.
Acute oral toxicity evaluation of baicalein active compound extracted from oroxylum indicum in sprague-dawley rats
(2022-09)
Yan, Yeap Mei
Oroxylum indicum is a unique plant which can be found throughout Southeast Asia and has gained increasing attention in the field of oncology. Baicalein is the most abundantly found and dominant active compound of the O. indicum plant in general. It has been reported to exert anti-metastatic, anti-bacterial, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective, as well as wound healing potentials. However, there is a gap in scientific knowledge on the toxicological profile of baicalein active compound extracted from O. indicum. This study aims to evaluate the acute toxicity effect of baicalein extracted from O. indicum leaves by conducting acute oral toxicity testing on Sprague-Dawley rats. The Soxhlet binary extraction process using finely crushed O. indicum leaf material yielded 3.94 g (16%) of crude extract powder. Next, fractionation of the crude extract powder using 100% methanol concentration generated fraction 5 (F5) with enriched baicalein compound. TLC analysis detected the presence of baicalein in F5 under short-waved (254 nm) and longwaved (365 nm) UV light. The initial sighting study revealed that F5 did not cause any mortality among the rat models throughout the experimental period, at fixed doses of 5 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 2000 mg/kg set by Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidelines. Thus, the sub-lethal dose of baicalein was more than 2000 mg/kg. The results of the acute toxicity study revealed that body weight of all animals did not show any increment or reduction of more than 20% of their initial body weight after 14 days. Although, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were seen in the relative weight of the brain, lung, and reproductive organs among male and female treated groups. Nevertheless, the haematological and biochemical indices for treated groups of both sexes were all within normal range according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology (ASVCP) guidelines, similar to the non-treated groups. Moreover, the animals showed no clinical signs of toxicity and changes in behaviours related to the treatment. Histopathological examination also revealed normal cellular architecture with absence of treatment related toxicity on all vital internal organs of the treated group. Therefore, the results of this study demonstrate that baicalein extracted from O. indicum produced no adverse toxic effects on Sprague-Dawley rat behaviour and organ tissue morphology at highest dosage of 2000 mg/kg.
An integrated Raman spectroscopy and self-organizing feature map chemometrics analysis for the discrimination of gel inks
(2022-07)
Asri, Muhammad Naeim Mohamad
One of the techniques often used by forensic document examiner in the analysis of questioned documents is Raman spectroscopy. This technique has proven effective in rapidly and accurately characterising ink with the advantage of not causing permanent damage to the analysed document. Gel ink pen was first introduced to the market around 1990s by the Sakura Colour Product Corporation, Japan as an alternative daily writing instrument other than ballpoint-pen. Being marketed in varieties of attractive colours and also environmentally friendly, gel ink pen has become very popular among consumers therefore it appearances in cases involving document fraud is anticipated. Unfortunately, studies involving gel ink pen in the perspective of questioned document are limited compared to ball-point pen. In forensic investigation, it was reported that 80% handwritten documents were written using ballpoint pens. Therefore, due to the lack of objectivity in interpreting gel inks, this study proposed using novel chemometric techniques for discriminating gel-pen inks in forensic investigation. This study show the comprehensive conceptual work flow with conventional chemometrics techniques of Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) and novel Self-Organising Feature Maps (SOFM) in tandem with Raman spectroscopy to discriminate gel inks of three different colours i.e. blue, red and black before and after undergoing ageing process for nearly three years. Preliminary dissolution studies performed by dissolving gel inks in a varieties of organic solvents show that gel inks of pigment based colourants do not normally dissolve in organic solvents while Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) is only successful to dye-based colourant gel inks. Queries made to the acquired blue, red and black gel inks Raman spectra against a database containing Raman spectra of 200 pigments, suggested that CI Pigment Blue 15: 1 and 15: 3, could be the main pigment in blue gel inks conversely Red DPP BO (23180 – CI Pigment Red) and XSL Poppy Red (26308 – CI Pigment 112) could be the main pigment in red gel inks however main pigments in black gel inks remain unidentified. In most cases, Hierarchical Cluster Analyses (HCA) have recorded lesser number of clusterings compared to Principal Component Analyses (PCA). In general, both conventional chemometrics techniques are unable to discriminate the gel inks according to their brands however this is not the case for the novel SOFM. All SOFM maps are in line with the classification made by the visual Raman comparison of inks. The misclassified sample (HCA and PCA) was successfully resolved using the SOFM model signifying its capability for both discrimination and classification purposes. Cross validations employing the k-validation strategy have recorded 100% correct classification rates for all the SOFM models, thus signifies the robustness and potential of SOFM for discrimination of gel inks. As for the aged gel inks, SOFM has also successfully sourced the aged inks to their fresh counterparts. This study reported the first use of SOFM for discrimination and classification of gel inks. The findings of this study did not only communicate the comprehensive work flow for gel ink analysis but most importantly signify the potential of SOFM to be employed in tandem with Raman spectroscopy as an alternative pattern recognition technique to the conventional chemometrics techniques that can be highly useful in document fraud investigation involving gel inks.
Analysis of the association between SLCO1B1 genetic polymorphism (rs4149056) and lipid profile among statin users of HUSM, Kelantan
(2022-09)
Yusri, Nur Farah Izzati
Statin is a medication that was proven to treat hyperlipidaemia effectively. Despite its well-known efficacy in statin users, the cases of its effectiveness have been reported. Single nucleotide polymorphism of rs4149056 in SLCO1B1 gene has been reported to alter the efficacy of statin. Until now there is no genetic association study among Malaysian population has been reported pertaining the influence of SNP on the efficacy of statin. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate the association between SLCO1B1 rs4149056, patient’s demographic profiles and other clinical features among statin’s users from HUSM, Kelantan. Information regarding the demographic and clinical features of statin’s users obtained through examination of patient’s medical record. The extracted DNAs for this study were obtained from previous researcher. The genotyping of selected DNA sample of statin’s users was performed by using ARMS-PCR technique followed by gel electrophoresis. The results indicated that, there were no different in demographic profiles and clinical features between group 1 (those who achieved LDL-c level <2.60 mmol/L) and group 2 (those who achieved LDL-c level >2.60 mmol/L) except for concomitant drugs. The minor allele frequency (MAF) of the SNP value obtained was 0.23. However, there is no variables (age, race, gender, type of statin, concomitant drugs, supplement, genotype, physical activity, diet and smoking status) that are statistically significant associated with the achievement of LDL-c goal of <2.60 mmol/L. In conclusion, the SLCO1B1 rs41419056 polymorphism had no effect on lipid level changes in 72 hyperlipidaemic statin users.
Anthropometric and physical fitness profiles of Kelantanese intellectually disabled population
(2024-04)
Mojiin, Willince
Intellectual disability (ID) is defined by the person that has a presence of incomplete or arrested mental development. Adults with ID typically reported to be overweight and obese and demonstrate poor level in physical fitness due to inactive lifestyle. The aim of this study is to identify the anthropometric measurement and physical fitness profile in adults with ID in Kelantan. This study also assessed the correlation of anthropometric and body composition on selected physical fitness performance assessed by medicine ball throw, standing long jump, static balance, 505 agility, and 20-m sprint test. Secondly, to predict the best predictors that can significantly contribute to physical fitness performance in term of explosive strength, balance, agility and speed. The fitness test batteries in this study were adapted from Inspire i-talent manual which developed by National Institute of Malaysia. A total of 124 adults with ID in Kelantan, 70 males and 54 females were recruited in this study. Anthropometric components (standing height, sitting height and arm span) were measured by using stadiometer and measuring tape while body composition such as body weight, fat free mass, fat percentage and body mass index (BMI) were recorded by using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA). Adults with ID in this study are considered to be overweight. The higher BMI value was found in females (26.4 ± 6.6 kg/m2) than in males (22.7 ± 5.8kg/m2). In addition, physical fitness level in adult with ID in this study is considered to be generally poor, male participants performed better than female except in 505 agility test. Pearson correlation revealed that anthropometric parameters showed significant correlation with balance, lower and upper body power, agility, and speed Nevertheless, stepwise regression analysis revealed that agility test (R= 0.859, R2= 0.738, F= 6.136, p= 0.015) can be predicted by 20-meter sprint, standing long jump, and sitting height values. Besides, 505 agility test and sitting height were found to be strong predictor of 20-meter sprint (R= 0.839, R2= 0.705, F= 9.259, p=0.003). On the other hand, lower limb explosive strength variable (R= 0.864, R2= 0.747, F= 34,947, p<0.05) can be anticipated from medicine ball throw, fat percentage and 505 agility test values. In addition, for upper body explosive strength (R= 0.863, R2= 0.745, F= 4.223, p= 0.042) it can be forecasted from standing long jump, body weight, gender, static balance, and arm span values. Lastly, standing long jump and 505 agility test could be main predictor of static balance (R= 0.597, R2= 0.356, F= 6,586, p= 0.011). From these regression analysis findings, a few regression equations have been developed to predict agility, speed, explosive strength in both lower and upper body, and balance among intellectually disabled persons. Therefore, exercise intervention should be implemented to improve their general physical fitness level and to manage their weight to lower the rate of being overweight and obesity among intellectually disabled people.
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).
Antibacterial activity and mechanisms of action of the semi-purified fractions from melaleuca cajuputi leaves against selected bacterial strains
(2024-06)
Musa, Isah
The increasing incidence of bacterial infections and the rapid spread of antimicrobial resistance underscores the need to find novel alternative medications from natural sources, especially medicinal plants. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activities of Melaleuca cajuputi leaf extract and unveil the possible antibacterial mechanisms of the most potent semi-purified fractions against selected bacterial strains. The mineral content in M. cajuputi leaf was analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-mass-spectrometry (ICP-MS). Methanolic, ethanolic, and aqueous extracts were obtained by cold maceration. Subsequently, the most potent crude extract was fractionated to obtain semi-purified fractions by bioassay-guided fractionation technique. The antibacterial activity of the crude extracts and semi-purified Melaleuca fractions (MFs) was evaluated using a broth microdilution assay. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were employed to identify the chemical compositions of the most potent extract and semi-purified MFs. Mechanisms of action of the most potent MFs were investigated using time-kill assay, cell morphology examination, and in-silico molecular docking studies. The toxicity profile was evaluated using the brine shrimp lethality test (BSLT). Macronutrients such as potassium (7182.042 mg/kg), sodium (3895.795 mg/kg), calcium (3730.259 mg/kg), and trace elements including iron (89.394 mg/kg), manganese (57.070 mg/kg), and zinc (51.626 mg/kg) were detected in M. cajuputi leaf extract. The antibacterial assays demonstrated that MF2c and MF2d were the most potent, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.13 mg/mL to 0.25 mg/mL and 0.063 mg/mL to 0.25 mg/mL, respectively. The bioactive compounds identified in MF2c were β-eudesmol (71.96%), α-eudesmol (18.83%), and γ-eudesmol (9.21%). Meanwhile, 2-isopropyl-10-methylphenanthrene (83.09%), 10-methylanthracene-9-carboxaldehyde (10.95%), trimethyl gallic acid (2.60%), methyl-lathodoratin (2.10%), and methoxyamine (0.28%) were identified in MF2d. Time-kill assay revealed that MF2c and MF2d exhibited concentration-dependent bactericidal effects against the tested bacterial strains. The scanning electron micrographs of the treated bacteria showed apparent cell membrane damage characterized by abnormal cell elongation, shrinkage, and organic debris on the cell surfaces. Furthermore, the in-silico molecular docking analysis revealed that 2-isopropyl-10-methylphenanthrene had the highest binding propensity against DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, D-alanyl transferase, DNA gyrase, and dihydropteroate synthase, with docking energy scores of -8.4, -6.9, -6.5, and -6.1 kcal/mol respectively. Based on the toxicity results, M. cajuputi methanolic extract (LC50 781 μg/mL showed mild toxicity, whereas MF2c (LC50 6621 μg/mL) and MF2d (LC50 1165 μg/mL) were non-toxic. In conclusion, the semi-purified MFs showed remarkable antibacterial effects and were non-toxic. The findings hold promise for developing alternative therapeutic strategies to combat bacterial infection
Antibiotic resistance during covid-19 pandemic and perspective of healthcare providers towards antibiotic resistance: a mixed-method study
(2024-02)
Sulayyim, Hadi Jaber Al
During the Novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there was an overuse of antibiotics in hospitals. The improper use of antibiotics during COVID-19 has increased the antibiotic resistance (AR), which was reported by multiple studies. The main objective of this study was to study the AR during COVID-19 and perspective of healthcare providers towards AR. This study employed a mixed method design throughout two phases. Phase Ⅰ study (ⅰ): A retrospective cross-sectional study was employed to identify patients who had positive AR bacteria before, during and after COVID-19 as well as the bacterial isolates; Phase Ⅰ study (ⅱ): A cross sectional design was employed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of healthcare worker (HCWs) in Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA); Phase Ⅱ study: A qualitative multi-centre study was carried out in the KSA to explore the experience of health commissioners toward AR during COVID-19. Results of Phase Ⅰ study (ⅰ) showed the prevalence of Pan Drug Resistance (PDR) during COVID-19 pandemic (85.7%) was higher as compared to the time before (0%) and after (14.3%), p= 0.001. S. aureus showed a negligible resistance after pandemic, while the resistance Gramnegative bacteria decreased during and after pandemic compared to the time before. Results of Phase Ⅰ study (ⅱ) revealed poor knowledge, negative attitude and poor practice of HCWs. The significantly associated factors with good knowledge were nationality, cadre, qualification, and working place. Positive attitude was significantly associated with cadre, qualification, and working place. Good practice was significantly associated with gender, cadre, qualification, and working place. In Phase Ⅱ, seven themes emerged from data. Therefore, despite the AR increased globally during COVID-19 pandemic, it dropped gradually in Najran region, KSA. Knowledge, attitude and practice of HCWs in Najran, KSA regarding AR during pandemic need improvement, whereas healthcare commissioners showed scientific and up to date knowledge about the AR. Antibiotics’ prescription should be strictly implemented, relying on the antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) and guidelines from the world health organization (WHO) or ministry of health (MOH). Implementation of effective educational and training programs are urgently needed. Findings of this study could be used to inform policy and practice for governmental HCWs and public to reduce the impact of pandemics on the AR.
Antimicrobial activity and prebiotic effects of senna alata leaf extracts
(2022-09)
Zakaria, Nik Hasanah
Senna alata or Cassia alata is a medicinal plant found mostly in the tropics and subtropics. The leaves of the plant have been employed in the treatment of skin infection and digestion-related problems. The purpose of this study was to assess the antimicrobial activity of S. alata leaf extracts against several intestinal pathogens and their prebiotic effects against a few probiotic strains, as well as to screen the phytoconstituents in S. alata leaf extracts. MIC and MBC assays of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extract in a concentration ranging from 0.39 mg/mL to 200 mg/mL were performed on the intestinal pathogens in a sterile 96-well microtiter plate. The prebiotic effects of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts in concentrations from 1.25 mg/mL to 10.00 mg/mL were evaluated based on the growth rate of the probiotic within 24 hours. The phytoconstituents of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts were screened by standard qualitative methods. Both leaf extracts showed a bactericidal effect against S. aureus, while only aqueous leaf extract showed a bacteriostatic effect against S. Typhi. Probiotics of L. helveticus and B. longum showed a positive mean growth rate after being treated with both leaf extracts for 24 hours. However, the growth rate of both bacteria decreases as the concentration of both leaf extracts increases. Both leaf extracts showed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, and flavonoids. In conclusion, both S. alata leaf extracts showed significant antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and S. Typhi at the tested extract concentrations. Besides, both S. alata leaf extracts are weak prebiotics because they only stimulate a minimal growth of probiotics.
Antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular profiles of acinetobacter baumannii in Makkah hospitals, and the potential use of bacteriophage as a treatment option
(2022-12)
Raees, Fahad
Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic Gram-negative pathogen that frequently causes infections especially in intensive care settings worldwide including Saudi Arabia. This organism is known to acquire resistant to almost all clinically available antimicrobial agents. To understand the magnitude of A. baumannii acquisition in local settings, 895 isolates were collected from King Abdullah Medical City Makkah, Al Noor Hospital and Al Zahir Hospital of Makkah from 2013-2019. Vitek2® system was used for identification of the organism and antimicrobial susceptibility test. Thirty MDR A. baumannii isolates from King Abdullah Medical City Makkah and seven from Al Noor Hospital were selected for whole genome sequencing. To study the role of bacteriophage, sewage water from King Abdullah Medical City Makkah and Al Noor Hospital were screened for clinical isolates A. baumannii lytic phenomenon. A few bacteriophage candidates were found, but the subsequent lytic tests were negative. This phenomenon was studied by reviewing the bacteriophage genomes integrated in the bacterial nucleic acids. In this study, 70-80% of A. baumannii isolated from Makkah hospitals were found to be resistant to commonly used antibiotics in intensive care units. There are increasing trends of resistance to agents that been reserved to treat carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii i.e. tigecycline and colistin. The sequence type (ST)-195 was the predominant sequence type, contributed to 48.6% of A. baumannii isolations in Makkah hospitals. There were three novel sequence types that associated with 18.9% of infections that need further characterization. Among the β-lactamase resistant mutations, this study found blaADC-25 and blaOXA-66 were the most common with 86.5% and 83.8% respectively, followed by blaOXA-23 and blaTEM-1D, both at 37.8%. This study also found 75.7% and 73.0% of the tested MDR A. baumannii isolated from Makkah hospitals acquired mph(E) and msr(E) macrolides resistant genes respectively. The aminoglycosides resistance was encoded mainly by aminoglycoside phosphor-transferase gene, aph(3′′)-Ib at 83.8% and aminoglycoside O-phosphotransferase aph(6)-Id at 70.3%. Besides, these MDR isolates were also acquired of sulphonamide resistant genes of sul1 (32.4%) and sul2 (18.9%). Part of the core of this project was to find the potential bacteriophage that has capability to infect and lyse A. baumannii cells. After extensive searching for bacteriophage from sewage water of two tertiary care hospitals in Makkah, several bacteriophage candidates were shortlisted, however these bacteriophages failed to perform lytic phenomenon consistently. Almost one-fourth of MDR A. baumannii were found to acquire intact bacteriophage genomes, indicated prophages condition. The whole genome sequence of two MDR A. baumannii isolates (AB417 and AB552) were studied before and after bacteriophage treatment indicated additional intact bacteriophage genomes were added in isolate AB552. Three genomes of non-Acinetobacter bacteriophages was found to be integrated in these MDR Acinetobacter series. In conclusion, this study found the resistant rate of A. baumannii were more than 80% in Makkah hospitals which may lead to treatment failure in clinical practice. Searching for a non-pharmacological approach by means of using bacteriophage therapy showed inconsistent outcomes. With few treatment options available, robust infection control strategies and antibiotic stewardship programs are critical for preventing the spread of these resistant strains. Further research is very critical to find alternative agents to treat MDR A. baumannii.

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