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- PublicationAssessment of cytokine secretions by monocytes in the presence of synovial fluid-derived exosomes(2025-01)Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease marked by inflammation and cartilage deterioration. Synovial fluid-derived exosomes are emerging as key modulators in OA pathogenesis, influencing immune responses and cytokine secretion. This study aimed to assess cytokine secretions, specifically soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), complement component 5a (C5a), and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), by monocytes in the presence of synovial fluid-derived exosomes. Exosomes were isolated from the synovial fluid of late-stage OA patients through ultracentrifugation and characterised by Western blot and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). Exosome size has been confirmed between 30 to 150 nm by NTA. Additionally, exosomes expressed tetraspanin markers CD9, CD63, CD81, and HSP70 as demonstrated by Western blot. Monocytes isolated from healthy donor peripheral blood, were cultured with exosomes at various ratios (1:10, 1:20, and 1:40) and time points (24 and 48 hours). Cytokine levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results of this study showed that monocyte-exosome interactions influenced cytokine secretion in a time- and dose-dependent manner. sICAM-1 and C5a exhibited a declining trend with prolonged incubation, except at higher exosome concentrations, where C5a secretion was increased. MIF levels peaked after 48 hours, suggesting delayed cytokine induction. These findings highlight the immunomodulatory role of exosomes in OA, providing insight into the inflammatory processes underlying disease progression
- PublicationThe effect of tlr4 agonist (crx-527) on il-10 production in mice immunized with bcg-msp-1c(2025-01)Malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite, continues to be a significant global health burden, particularly in regions with limited access to healthcare. Current malaria vaccines face challenges of suboptimal efficacy and logistical barriers for widespread implementation. One promising antigen for malaria vaccine development is the C-terminal region of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP-1C), a conserved fragment of MSP-1, the major surface protein of Plasmodium merozoites, which is essential for red blood cell invasion and evasion of host immune responses. This study evaluates the impact of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) agonist CRX-527 on IL-10 production in mice immunized with the BCG-MSP-1C vaccine, developed in our laboratory by cloning the MSP-1C antigen with the Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which is primarily used for tuberculosis (TB) prevention. Treatment groups included PBS-T80, LPS, BCG, and BCG-MSP-1C. The results revealed a significant enhancement of IL-10 production across all groups in both liver and lymph node supernatant samples in the presence of CRX-527. Among these, the BCG-MSP-1C group exhibited the highest IL-10 levels, followed by the BCG, LPS, and PBS-T80 groups. IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, plays a pivotal role in regulating the immune response, ensuring controlled infection management while minimizing tissue damage. These findings highlight CRX-527’s potential as an effective immune-modulatory adjuvant for malaria vaccine strategies. The incorporation of CRX-527 with the BCG-MSP-1C vaccine offers a dual immunization approach, enabling protection against both malaria and tuberculosis with a single immunization. This strategy could significantly reduce the burden of multiple vaccine doses and improve immunization coverage in resource-limited settings. The study underscores the potential of CRX-527 to enhance vaccine efficacy and promote long-term immunity, supporting its role in advancing cost-effective, dual-purpose vaccine solutions for endemic regions
- PublicationDetermination of total immunoglobulin g and immunoglobulin g subclass response against sars-cov-2 omicron variant in pfizer and sinovac vaccinated serum samples(2025-01)The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 virus, continues to pose significant global health challenges. The emergence of variants such as Omicron has raised concerns regarding immune escape, waning immunity, and the long-term effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. While vaccination remains the most effective strategy in mitigating severe disease and transmission, differences in immune responses elicited by various vaccine platforms necessitate further investigation. This study aimed to evaluate the humoral immune response, focusing on total Immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels and IgG subclasses (IgG1 and IgG4), in individuals vaccinated with Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT162b2) and Sinovac (CoronaVac) vaccines. A total of 14 participants were recruited, with seven receiving Pfizer and seven receiving Sinovac. Serum samples were collected at six critical time points: pre-vaccination, post-first dose, two weeks after the second dose, and post-booster doses at two, 26, and 52 weeks. An indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to quantify spike-specific IgG responses. The results demonstrated a significant increase in total IgG levels over time in both vaccine groups (p < 0.0001). Sinovac recipients exhibited higher total IgG levels (predicted mean: 1.984) compared to Pfizer recipients (predicted mean: 1.442). IgG1 levels remained comparable between both groups across all time points (p > 0.05), with Sinovac showing a transiently higher IgG1 response at two- and 26-weeks post-booster. In contrast, IgG4 levels significantly increased in Pfizer recipients at later booster time points (26 and 52 weeks, p < 0.05), whereas Sinovac elicited a less pronounced IgG4 response. These findings suggest that Sinovac induces a stronger early total IgG response, while Pfizer leads to a more pronounced IgG4 response after booster doses. The distinct patterns of IgG subclass distribution may influence long-term immunity and immune regulation following vaccination. Understanding these differential immune responses is essential for optimizing booster strategies, refining vaccine policies, and ensuring prolonged protection against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants
- PublicationEffects of different types of exercise intensities on immune responses, bone metabolism markers, antioxidant status and selected physiological parameters in physically inactive adults(2025-08)High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) was proven to enhance general fitness and health in healthy individuals. However, to date, studies on the effects of HIIT and MICT on immune responses, bone metabolism markers and antioxidant status in physically inactive adults are still limited. Therefore, the study was carried out. Thirty-six physically inactive male and female adults, aged 18-35 years were recruited and randomly assigned to HIIT, MICT or control groups with 12 participants per group (n=12). Participants in the HIIT group performed 2 sets of 6-8 repetitions of running at 85- 95% of HRmax on a motorised treadmill for 30 seconds, 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Participants in the MICT group performed 30 min of running on a motorised treadmill at 55-70% of HRmax, 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Participants in the control group did not engage in any exercise training throughout the intervention period. Anthropometric measurements, maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), Wingate anaerobic capacity, isokinetic muscular strength and power, blood (for the analysis of whole blood count, calcium, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type-1 collagen and total antioxidant status) and saliva samples (for analysis of saliva flow rate and salivary lysozyme concentration and secretion rate) were taken prior to and following 8 weeks of training intervention. Results indicated that both HIIT and MICT significantly increased salivary lysozyme concentration and dominant knee extension average power at 300º.s-1 compared to pre-test measurement (p<0.05), though no significant differences were observed between groups (p>0.05). VO2max improved significantly in the HIIT group (p<0.05), whereas total monocyte count and serum ALP concentration were significantly higher in the MICT group compared to controls post-intervention (p<0.05). A significant reduction in anaerobic and peak power were noted in both groups at post-test compared to pre-test measurements (p<0.05). No significant differences across groups and time were found in the other measure parameters. In conclusion, both HIIT and MICT enhance specific immune response markers and isokinetic muscular power in physically inactive adults. However, HIIT demonstrated superior improvements in cardiovascular fitness and MICT was better at enhancing bone metabolism marker. These findings suggest that practitioners should consider incorporating HIIT into exercise regimens as a time- efficient alternative that may appeal to those with perceived time constrains for exercise while providing effective health benefits.
- PublicationCardioprotective effects of bunga kantan (etlingera elatior) in hypercholesterolaemic myocardial infarction sprague dawley rats(2025-01)Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), especially myocardial infarction (MI), remain a global health challenge with high mortality rates. Despite advancements in surgical and pharmacological interventions, the prevalence of MI continues to rise, often linked to risk factors such as hypercholesterolaemia. Alternative therapies utilising natural compounds with cardioprotective properties offer a promising alternative for addressing these limitations. This study investigates the potential of Etlingera elatior aqueous extract (EEAE) as a preventive treatment against hypercholesterolaemia-induced MI. The research employed a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) to induce hypercholesterolaemia in male Sprague-Dawley rats, followed by isoprenaline administration to induce MI. Rats treated with EEAE at 1000 mg/kg were evaluated over 12 weeks. Parameters, including blood pressure and cholesterol levels, were taken. Histopathological analyses were conducted to observe structural improvements in the myocardium. Results demonstrated that EEAE had no significant effect in lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure but showed capability in preserving cardiac integrity. EEAE-treated groups exhibited enhanced histological recovery compared to untreated controls. These findings suggest that EEAE holds potential as a natural therapeutic agent for preventing MI in hypercholesterolemic conditions. Further research is needed to explore its mechanisms and applicability in clinical settings
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- PublicationCharacterisation And Formulation Of Topical Methyl Salicylate Patches: Effect Of Solvents On Adhesion And Drug Permeation(2023-01)Topical methyl salicylate (MS) patch is popular for pain management. The skin permeation profile of MS is important for formulation design but limited studies were conducted. This project aims to investigate the effect of solvents on the characteristics of patches, drug release and permeation of MS. In this project, suitable solvents were first selected for the patch formulation. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy was utilised to scan the stratum corneum (SC) sheets treated with solvents and MS. Next, in vitro permeation studies were carried out with 10%v/v of MS in solvents. After that, patches containing 5%w/w of solvents and/or 10%w/w of MS were prepared with Durabond PC 1879A (8%w/w), Nikasol TS-620 (7%w/w), carboxymethyl cellulose (3.5%w/w) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (3%w/w). Next, the patches formed were subjected to physiochemical characterisation tests, including ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, tackiness test using stainless-steel probe, peel strength test with porcine ear skin, swelling test, in vitro drug release and skin permeation studies. In in vitro permeation studies, MS in propylene glycol (PG) in drug solution displayed the highest skin permeation of MS and followed by Plurol® oleique (PLU), Labrasol® (LA), Transcutol® (TRC), Maisine® (MAI) and isopropyl myristate (IPM) at 24 h.
- PublicationFactors Affecting Retirement Preparedness Of Urban Young Adults In Malaysia: The Mediating Role Of Temporal Construal Level(2024-08)There are numerous studies done on retirement preparedness and many have confirmed the benefits of being adequately prepared for the golden years, not just financially, but socially and psychologically as well. The bulk of these studies, however, have focused on the retiring population. Few studies, if at all, are done on youth on how they view retirement preparedness and how they are preparing for this inevitable event in their life. This study aims to identify and examine, in particular, the impact of the various communication factors on retirement preparedness [communication effectiveness, communication frequency, communication informativeness, communication persuasiveness, attitude, influence (family and peer)] as well as financial literacy and demographic factors – on urban young adults in Malaysia as well as how they are mediated by temporal construal level, a theory that espouses on people’s behavioural patterns based on the urgency of how they perceive a future event, like retirement as in the case of this study. For example, when people deliberate on the distant future (high construal level), they would construe positions and situations more abstractly as opposed to the near future (low construal level) where more concrete actions need to be taken. A total of 421 usable responses were collected and incorporated into the data analysis. The IBM SPSS for Windows Version 25.0 and Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) were employed to check the nature of data, empirically test the research model, simultaneously analyse the relationships as well as answer the research questions advanced in this study.
- PublicationNumerical Study on Effect of Perforation on the Structural Behaviour of Cold-formed Steel Hat-Section(2019-07)Many structural members, for example, cold-formed steel members, hot rolled steel members, and composite beams, are often provided with perforation of various shapes and sizes, which allow flexible installation of ductwork, piping and other systems. Substantial research has been performed on Channel and Zee cold formed steel sections, but the reports on Hat section steel purlins turned out to be few only, especially Hat-section purlin with perforation. Hence, numerical study on cold-formed Hat section steel purlin with perforation was carried out to investigate the effect of perforation to structural behaviour of such sections. Finite element method using LUSAS software was chosen to carry out the research study. Five different perforation shapes were selected, which were circle, diamond, C-hexagon, square, and elongated circle. Opening depth was fixed at 0.5D2, where D2 is the inclined web depth of the section. Nonlinear bending analysis, Eigenvalue buckling analysis and linear torsion analysis were carried out. The results showed that perforated sections had lower yield moment (a percentage difference of not more than 4%), lower buckling moment (a percentage difference of not more than 24%) and higher angle of rotation (a percentage difference of not more than 6%) when compared to the section without perforation. Most of the perforated sections had similar bending characteristic despite of the difference in perforation shapes (yield moment difference less than 2%). Different perforation area affected the buckling behaviour of the Hat-section, but not the bending and torsional behaviour. The difference between bending behaviour of each section with irregular perforation shapes was insignificant and it was observed that all the nonlinear curves were similar to each other. Section with irregular perforation shapes had lower angle of rotation (2.483%) than section with elongated circle perforations. Critical opening length played a crucial role in affecting the structural behaviour of Hat-section. Furthermore, the location of perforation also influenced the structural behaviour of perforated section. When located at mid-span, yield moment was lower (6.635% for CIR-V3, 9.953% for SQU-V3, and 14.929% for ELO-V3 when compared to section without perforation), buckling moment decreased (22.749% for ELO-V3 when compared to section without perforation) and angle of rotation reduced (0.267% for DIA-V3 when compared to the section without perforation). Regardless of perforation spacing, the perforated sections with equal number of perforations behaved similar elastic characteristic before yielding. On the other hand, buckling moment and angle of rotation increased when the perforation spacing increased. Number of perforations also affected the torsional behaviour of the section with perforations. Section with diamond perforation had better structural behaviour than other perforated section whereas section with elongated circle perforation was the worst. This study provides a guideline for the design of cold-formed steel Hat-purlin with different type of perforations, perforation location and perforation spacing. The presence of perforations gives minor effect on the structural behaviour of cold formed steel Hat-purlin.
- PublicationStudy of mild-moderate traumatic brain injury using tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) and its relationship with cognitive function(2023-09)Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is known to lead to cognitive function impairment. The degree of impairment, however, varies depending on the severity and time post-TBI. Diffuse axonal damage has been discovered as the underlying pathology even in mild TBI. Thus, this study aims to determine the state of white matter putative connectivity in patients with mild-moderate TBI in the subacute phase, or within 10 weeks of injury, and its correlation to cognitive scores. A case-control prospective study was conducted involving 11 male patients with mild-moderate TBI and an age-matched control group of 11 adult male volunteers. Diffusion MRI scanning and cognitive testing were performed within 10 weeks of injury. The difference in fractional anisotropy (FA) values between TBI patients and control group was studied using tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS). Then, the FA values that were significantly different between patients and controls were correlated with neuropsychological tests in the TBI group. When comparing patients to the control group, several clusters with peak voxels of substantial FA reductions (p < 0.05) in the white matter skeleton were seen. These clusters were later treated as region of interest and were found in the superior fronto-occipital fasciculus, superior longitudinal fasciculus, uncinate fasciculus, and cingulum. White matter fibres in the region of the genu of the corpus callosum, anterior corona radiata, superior corona radiata, anterior thalamic radiation, and a portion of the inferior frontal gyrus also contained these clusters. Region of interest analysis revealed FA values significantly correlated with Malay version of Auditory Verbal Learning Test (MAVLT) immediate recall scores in the region of genu of corpus callosum (r = 0.62, p = 0.004) and right superior fronto-occipital fasciculus (r = 0.50, p = 0.026). Matrix-reasoning scores positively correlated with FA values in the region of right superior fronto-occipital fasciculus (r = 0.45, p = 0.045) and left anterior corona radiate (r = 0.47, p = 0.036), while having negative correlation in the region of right superior fronto-occipital fasciculus (r = -0.49, p = 0.030). Mean diffusivity (MD) values significantly have positive correlation with both Rey Complex Figure Tests (RCFT) immediate (r = 0.593, p = 0.015) and delayed (r = 0.640, p = 0.002) scores in the right superior longitudinal fasciculus. During the sub-acute phase of TBI, the mild-moderate TBI patients showed unusually decreased FA values and increase MD values compared to controls, which suggested disruption of white matter tracts. The correlation between FA values with neuropsychological scores further provide evidence of cognitive impairment probably responsible by the structural disruption.
- PublicationThe development of temperature and humidity monitoring system using sht75 sensor(2009-04-01)This project is about the development of temperature and humidity control using 8 bit microcontroller and SHT75 sensor. This microcontroller is a low power microchip with AVR RISC architecture by ATMEL company product and it can accepts either assembly language or C language for instruction. AVR Studio 4 software is used for writing and compilation code C language or assembly language before it is send to microcontroller by AVRISP mkII programmer. Design implementation also important. Design implementation including flowchart, OrCAD software and design information for this project. The SHT75 sensor by Sensirion Company is used to sense both temperature and humidity. This sensor is a digital sensor with Analog-to-Digital converter feature. The output from sensor is two bytes in binary number. With microcontroller help, final reading of measurement is converted to float number (two decimal places). System is designed and tested for understanding the effect of silica gel for humidity and temperature inside the chamber. Result shows that system design is stable and reliable. Silica gel can be used for humidity control inside chamber. Finally, temperature and humidity reading will show at HyperTerminal.