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Objectives Lysosomal dysfunction could lead to a failure in the degradation process of waste materials, especially for the elimination of aggregated, misfolded and senescence proteins or organelles. Human brain endothelial cells (HBECs) are a part of the blood-brain barrier and any disruption of lysosomal functions could affect the cellular functions of the HBECs. Protein expression studies on the cells could give an insight to associate lysosomal dysfunction on HBECs homeostasis. The aim of this study was to measure the cellular changes via the expression of several proteins such as Claudin-5, which is a tight junction protein; intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), an inflammatory marker and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which provides nitric oxide (NO) for vasodilation. These components are important in maintaining homeostasis as the imbalance could lead to endothelial impairment linked brain related disorders such as neurodegenerative disease. Methods HBECs were treated with 10 mM ammonium chloride, which is a lysosome inhibitor for 1 h. The protein lysates were collected and subjected for ICAM-1 and Claudin-5 measurement by capillary immunoassay instrument, while eNOS by ELISA. Results Claudin-5 and ICAM-1 expression significantly increased (p Conclusions Inhibition of lysosome by the inhibitor increases protein expressions related with endothelial function.

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder due to lack of genes expression inherited from the paternal chromosome 15q11-q13 region usually from paternal deletions, maternal uniparental disomy 15 or imprinting defect. There are two different nutritional stages reported in an individual with PWS; first stage during infancy marked by feeding and growth difficulties and second stage where hyperphagia starts and leads to development of obesity. However, the exact mechanism of hyperphagia development, from having difficulties in feeding during early years to insatiable appetite after they grow is still unknown and is the focused in this review. The keywords used for literature search such as "Prader-Willi syndrome", "hyperphagia", "obesity", and "treatment" were used to create the search strings by using synonyms in order to retrieve the relevant records from PubMed, Scopus and Science Direct. The possible mechanism of hyperphagia can be classed into hormonal abnormalities such as increase in ghrelin and leptin from infancy to adulthood. Low level of hormones was observed in the thyroid, insulin and peptide YY at certain ages. Neuronal abnormalities contributed by Orexin A and brain structure alteration was documented at 4-30 years old. Treatment in the form of drugs such as livoletide, topiramate, and diazoxide could potentially alleviate these abnormalities and make hyperphagia less prominent in PWS. The approaches are important to regulate the hormonal changes and neuronal involvement as potentially controlling hyperphagia and obesity.

Numerous attempts have been made to control leptospirosis by using chemoprophylaxis, but with limited success. The present study was done to investigate the antileptospiral potential of hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes. The extracts were assayed for antileptospiral activity using broth microdilution method against Leptospira interrogans (serovar Batavie, Canicola, Australis) and Leptospira biflexa serovar Patoc. The Z. zerumbet hexane extract exhibited antileptospiral activity, with IC50 values of 248 μg/mL against L. interrogans serovar Canicola, IC50 of 125 μg/mL against L. interrogans serovar Australis, IC50 of 15.63 μg/mL against L. interrogans serovar Batavie and IC50 of 109 μg/mL against L. biflexa serovar Patoc. However, both ethyl acetate and methanol extracts did not show any distinct antileptospiral activity. Since the hexane extract of Z. zerumbet showed antileptospiral activity, the DNA-damaging properties of this extract were tested according to their IC50 and IC25 values that were specific to each serovars. The DNA-damaging properties were determined by treating the selected Leptospira spp. with the hexane extract and subjecting its DNA to electrophoresis and analysis on agarose gels. The results demonstrated that the hexane extract had DNA-damaging properties towards L. biflexa serovar Patoc and L. interrogans serovar Australis, as proven by the appearance of fragmented DNA on the gels. We conclude that the Z. zerumbet hexane extract could inhibit the growth of Leptospira spp. serovar Patoc and Australis through DNA-damaging activity and thus, could be a potential antileptospiral agent. Further studies are needed to investigate the potential of this hexane extract as an antileptospiral agent using in vivo rat models of leptospirosis.

Autofagi adalah proses fisiologi yang terlibat dalam penggantian komponen sel dan berfungsi sebagai mekanisme kelangsungan hidup sementara semasa kebuluran sel akibat kekurangan sumber makanan. Proses ini melibatkan tapak jalan lisosom yang menguraikan bahan yang terdapat dalam sitoplasma seperti organel dan makromolekul. Keberlangsungan proses autofagi bergantung kepada fungsi normal lisosom untuk mengurai dan mengitar semula bahan yang terkumpul di dalam autofagosom. Kegagalan fungsi pada lisosom akan mempengaruhi fungsi autofagi. Secara in vitro, proses autofagi boleh direncat dengan menggunakan bahan kimia seperti amonium klorida yang akan mengganggu fungsi lisosom melalui peningkatan pH lisosom yang seterusnya menghalang keberkesanan enzim lisosom. Hal ini akan menyebabkan kandungan di dalam autofagosom tidak dapat diurai dan meningkatkan penimbunan autofagosom yang mengandungi protein yang rosak. Penimbunan protein yang rosak ini telah dikenal pasti sebagai salah satu patogenesis penyakit neurodegenerasi yang kini dikaitkan dengan ketidakfungsian sel endotelium di otak. Perencatan tapak jalan autofagi-lisosom ini akan menyebabkan gangguan pembentukan struktur autofagi dan lisosom yang seterusnya menyebabkan peningkatan atau penurunan ekspresi protein seperti LC3 dan p62 yang terlibat dalam tapak jalan ini. ICAM-1, eNOS dan Claudin-5 pada sel endotelium merupakan antara penanda yang berpotensi digunakan dalam pengenalpastian ketidakfungsian yang mungkin berlaku pada sel endotelium otak manusia.

Four new organotin(IV) dithiocarbamate compounds with general formulae of PhnSn [S

Cancer is one of the main causes of mortality in the world. New compounds are currently being synthesized to overcome this disease. Organotin is getting more attention as anticancer agent due to its potent cytotoxic properties towards cancer cells. In this study, a series of newly synthesized organotin compounds known as dimethyltin(IV) (compound 1), dibutyltin(IV) (compound 2) and triphenyltin(IV)methylisoprophyldithiocarbamate (compound 3) have been assessed for their cytotoxic effect towards leukemic cell line K-562. MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiozol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay was employed to determine the cytotoxic effect for each of the compounds at different time points and concentrations. Compound 2 and 3 exhibited potent cytotoxic effects towards K-562 cells with IC50 values less than 2 µM. Compound 3 was found as the most toxic towards K-562 cells based on the lowest IC50 value for 72 h period of treatment at 0.25 µM. Morphological observation was conducted with IC50 values at 24, 48, and 72 h. Results showed that the changes were first observed as early as 24 h and the most significant changes were observed after 72 h period of treatment with the characteristic of apoptosis such as cell shrinkage and membrane blebbing. In addition, necrosis characteristic such as cell lysis and swelling had also been observed. Organotin(IV) methylisopropyldithiocarbamate with different functional groups affect the cytotoxic properties towards leukemic cells K-562 and these compounds have potential to be developed as an anticancer agent through structural modification.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a naturally derived compound from green tea with high antioxidant activity and various anti-cancer properties. EGCG has been widely investigated worldwide. However, effects of EGCG on cell cycle of K562 have not been clearly stated elsewhere. This study was conducted with the aim to investigate the antiproliferative effect of EGCG on K562 human leukemic cells and its underlying mechanism of action on the cells. MTT assay was conducted to determine cytotoxicity effect of EGCG on the K562 cells. Meanwhile, cell cycle analysis and DNA damage on the cells were determined by Flow cytometry and Comet assay respectively. K562 cells were treated with EGCG at concentrations ranging from 0 to 100μg/ml for 48 hours. The results showed that EGCG effectively decreased the percentage of cell viability in a dose dependent manner. The IC10, IC25 and IC50 of EGCG on K562 cell lines were 5 ± 2.44 μg/mL, 10 ± 5.93 μg/mL and 50 ± 1.93 μg/mL, respectively. In cell cycle assay, EGCG has shown no significant effect (p>0.05) on the cell cycle of K562 cell line as compared to negative control, whereas Imatinib mesylate as the positive control showed cell cycle arrest at S phase in this cell line. Hence, EGCG can be verified as a non-cell cycle specific compound. In addition, EGCG was found to cause a significant increase (p

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used in treating various types of cancer. However, its usage is restricted due to the adverse hepatoxicity, as seen in approximately 36% of cancer patients receiving cisplatin treatment. Polygonum minus essential oil has high antioxidant capacity, and is enriched with terpenoids and phenolic compounds. The objective of this study was to investigate effects of P. minus essential oil (PmEO) supplementation on cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Male rats were divided into seven different groups, namely: control (C), cisplatin-induced (CP), positive control with β-caryophyllene 150 mg/kg (BCP), PmEO 100 mg/kg (PmEO100CP), PmEO 200 mg/kg (PmEO200CP), PmEO 400 mg/kg (PmEO400CP) and PmEO 400 mg/kg alone (PmEO400). PmEO and BCP was given orally for 14 days prior to a single dose cisplatin (10 mg/kg) injection on day 15 and rats were sacrificed on day 18. Liver enzymes, histology, ultrastructural morphology and oxidative stress markers such as glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde were assayed. Compared to controls, levels of transaminase enzymes, serum bilirubin and oxidative stress were all increased in CP, PmEO200CP and PmEO400CP groups. However, only PmEO100CP and BCP groups reduced these increases in level of transaminase enzymes and oxidative stress compared to CP group. On both light microscopic and ultrastructural examination, CP and PmEO400CP groups showed hepatotoxicity, exhibited by cytoplasmic vacuolation, congested blood sinusoids and increased number of Kupffer cells. However, these changes were minimized in the PmEO100CP group. Therefore, we concluded that PmEO given at 100 mg/kg has preventive effect against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Zingiber zerumbet is widely used as therapeutic agent in traditional medicine and is reported to exert antioxidant activities. This study evaluated in vitro antioxidant potential of Z. zerumbet rhizome ethyl acetate extract on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced red blood cells (RBCs) damage; by measuring percentage of haemolysis, oxidative damage and morphological changes in treated RBCs. On a preliminary dose-response analysis, it was observed that incubation of RBCs with extract at doses of 50, 25, 12.5 and 6.25 μg/mL all had no significant effect on RBCs similar to NaCl control and BHT (positive control), therefore, these concentrations were used in the subsequent study. The RBCs were pre-incubated with extract in the chosen concentrations, prior to treatment with H2O2. The results showed that only 6.25 μg/mL+H2O2 group showed significantly (p

Background: Human brain endothelial cells (HBECs) are part of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). BBB acts as a barrier to control the passage of molecules or materials from the blood into the brain. Identification of specific proteins changes in their expressions that are related to disease state is important in order to understand the disease mechanism involving brain vasculature. To achieve that, the techniques involve in identifying the proteins of interest must be optimized prior to further investigation. Methodology: In this study, identification of Claudin-5 in HBEC lysates was tested using different sample preparation techniques such as; 1) reducing with Dithiothreitol (DTT) and non-reducing conditions; 2) denaturing by heating at 95°C for 5 minutes or 70°C for 20 minutes and 3) protein loading at 3 and 4 µg. The samples were then subjected to an automated capillary-based immunoassay, Jess. Results and Discussion: The results showed that HBEC samples loaded at 4 µg and heated for 5 minutes at 95°C with DTT produced clearer and intense bands for Claudin-5 identification compared to the other set ups. As reducing condition and denaturing by heated at 95°C for 5 minutes conditions demonstrated good results, the conditions were used to identify ICAM-1 expression at different protein loading (3 and 4 µg). The result demonstrated that HBEC samples heated for 5 minutes at 95°C with DTT and loaded at 4 µg produced a good detection for ICAM-1. Conclusion: These optimized conditions could be served as a standard procedure for further identification of Claudin-5 and ICAM-1 proteins in HBEC using a capillary immunoassay instrument.

Zingiber zerumbet is a plant that is traditionally consumed in many countries, including Malaysia due to its therapeutic properties. Previously it has been proven to inhibit migration and proliferation of cancer cells. However, its effects on normal cells are still unknown and would be the main focus of this study. The cytotoxicity along with proliferation and migration activities were evaluated against human dermal fibroblast adult cell line (HDF-a) using MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium], proliferation and scratch assays. The cytotoxicity effect was determined following 24 h of treatment by ethyl acetate Z. zerumbet extracts while proliferation assay was conducted at different concentrations (500, 750, 1000, 1250 and 1500 μg/mL) at 24, 48 and 72 h. The cell migration rate was determined by scratch assay in 6-well culture plate using 10 μL pipette tip following 80% confluency at optimum concentration (750 μg/mL) of Z. zerumbet at different time points. Migration rate was scored at every 24 h using digital camera connected to the inverted microscope. The results from cytotoxicity test showed no IC50 values were observed for Z. zerumbet extract as compared to the positive control (menadione). Proliferation assay exhibited highest cell viability (137%) at 750 μg/mL. The rate of cell migration increased following treatment with Z. zerumbet extract after 48 h. However, the result was not significantly different when compared to the control. In conclusion, Z. zerumbet ethyl acetate extract is able to induce cell proliferation and potentially promoting migration rate of wound healing in in-vitro model.

Zingiber zerumbet has been traditionally used as an anti-inflammation and antioxidant agent. The present study investigates the neuroprotective effects of ethyl acetate extract of Z. zerumbet against oxidative stress on paraquat (PQ)-induced Parkinsonism in rats. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups: Negative control (normal saline), positive control (N-acetylcysteine, NAC 20 mg/kg + PQ 10 mg/kg), PQ only, 200 mg/kg Z. zerumbet + PQ and 400 mg/kg Z. zerumbet + PQ. The extract was given orally for 19 consecutive days and PQ was administered intraperitoneally on day 8-12th of the treatment regime. Both serum and fresh brains containing substantia nigra (SN) region were taken for biochemical and histological analysis. Administration of both 200 and 400 mg/kg ethyl acetate Z. zerumbet extracts to the PQ-treated groups have resulted in: Decreased levels of MDA and PC in the SN homogenates; and increased SOD, GPx; and CAT activities in the SN and serum. Overall, ethyl acetate extract of Z. zerumbet reduced oxidative stress in the SN of PQ-induced neuronal damages, therefore, has the potential to be developed as a preventive agent for neurodegenerative disorders caused by environmental toxins.

Pesticides and chemical fertilizers are widely used in agriculture to increase crop productivity among farmers. However, exposure to pesticides will give potential risk to human health. The aim of this study was to analyze the frequency of micronucleus (MN) and binucleus (BNu) formation in buccal cells from farmers who were exposed to pesticides using the MN assay. Buccal swabs were collected from the farmers in Tanjung Karang (n = 32) and Kelantan (n = 43) using wooden tongue depressor. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain demographic data of the farmers. Cytogenetic analysis was carried out by Acridin Orange (AO) staining 0.0025% (w/v). The frequency of MN and BNu as the biomarkers for cytogenetic damage was observed by using a fluorescence microscope. Comparison of frequency of MN and BNu is conducted in two areas namely Tanjung Karang, Selangor and Kelantan because of the agricultural activity and the type of pesticides used are different. Results showed that the frequencies of both MN and BNu among farmers in Tanjung Karang were significantly higher (p 0.05) and the practices of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) (p > 0.05). This may suggests that cytogenetic changes were not influenced by these factors. In addition, correlation study shows positive correlation between the frequency of MN with the pesticide exposure of farmers in Tanjung Karang (p > 0.05, r = 0.015) and Kelantan (p > 0.05, r = 0.0158). Besides, the frequency of BNu also has a positive correlation with the pesticide exposure among farmers in Tanjung Karang (p > 0.05, r = 0.036) and farmers in Kelantan (p > 0.05, r = 0.013). Hence, this present study demonstrated that exposure to pesticides increased the formation of MN and BNu among farmers and the prolonged use of pesticides may induce genotoxicity and DNA damage to human. DOI : http://dx.doi.org./10.17576/JSKM-2018-01

Background Zerumbone (ZER) is a major bioactive compound of Zingiber zerumbet, a wild ginger plant that has been documented to have anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. To investigate its hepatoprotective potential, this study was designed to determine the treatment effects of ZER on acute hepatotoxicity induced by paracetamol (PCM) in rats. Methods The control group was administered with phosphate buffer solution (PBS) while the other two groups received PCM alone (1000 mg/kg) and PCM + 25 mg/kg ZER, respectively, at 0 h and 4 h after PCM injection. After 24 h, the blood and liver were collected for differential white blood cell count, liver histological observation and biochemical analysis including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and total protein concentration in serum and liver. Results Treatment with ZER was found to significantly reduce ALT (P = 0.041), AST (P = 0.044) and total hepatic protein (P = 0.045) in comparison to PCM-induced rats. Rats treated with ZER exhibited the normal structure of hepatocytes with no vacuolisation or necrosis and showed significantly reduced neutrophil count (P = 0.037). This finding suggests its ability to suppress the inflammatory processes caused by PCM overdosage and decrease the hepatocytes tendency to go through necrotic processes. Conclusion ZER possessed protective activity against PCM-induced acute hepatotoxicity in a rat model.

Two new organotin(IV) dithiocarbamate complexes of the type R 3SnL and R2SnL2 (L = methoxyethyldithiocarbamate and R = C 6 H 5 or C 4 H 9 ) were synthesized in good yields. The organotin complexes were suitably characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1 H, and 13 C NMR spectroscopies. These complexes were prepared in situ. Elemental analysis data (carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulfur) showed an agreement with the suggested formula structures. The infrared spectra of these complexes showed three important peaks for n(C=N), n(C=S), and n(Sn-S) in the region of 1450–1463, 992–994, and 324–326 cm-1 respectively. Data for 13C NMR spectroscopy showed an important peak in the region of d C 197–201 ppm that corresponded to the NCS 2 group. These complexes were evaluated for their in vitro anti proliferative activities against HL-60 cell lines. The results showed that both of these complexes had high cytotoxicities toward HL-60 cell lines with the IC 50 values below 1 mM.

Background Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Smith belongs to the Zingiberaceae family that is widely distributed throughout the tropics, particularly in Southeast Asia. It is locally known as ‘Lempoyang’ and traditionally used to treat fever, constipation and to relieve pain. It is also known to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Based on these antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of ethyl-acetate extract of Z. zerumbet rhizomes against ethanol-induced brain damage in male Wistar rats. Method Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into four groups which consist of normal, 1.8 g/kg ethanol (40% v/v), 200 mg/kg Z. zerumbet extract plus ethanol and 400 mg/kg Z. zerumbet plus ethanol. The extract of Z. zerumbet was given once daily by oral gavage, 30 min prior to ethanol exposure via intraperitoneal route for 14 consecutive days. The rats were then sacrificed. Blood and brain homogenate were subjected to biochemical tests and part of the brain tissue was sectioned for histological analysis. Result Treatment with ethyl-acetate Z. zerumbet extract at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (p

A. denudata is traditionally used to treat various skin disorders, including wounds. It is widely used by the traditional healers as an effective wound treatment.This study was done to determine A. denudata treatment effects on open wound healing activities in Wistar rat's skin.120 Wistar rats (250-300 g) were divided into four main groups, 1.5% and 3% A. denudata stem juice treated group, 10% Solcoseryl® gel treated group as positive control and phosphate buffer saline (PBS) treated group as negative control. Six full thicknesses wounds (6mm) were induced bilaterally on the dorsal of the rat's skin. Rats were sacrificed on day 1, 3, 6, 10 and 14. The percentage of wound contraction, biochemical estimations, macroscopic observation and histological examinations were done to evaluate the wound healing activities.Results showed wounds treated with A. denudata stem juice possess a significant higher rate of wound contraction (p0.001), total protein concentration (p0.05), hexosamine concentration (p0.001) and uronic acid concentration (p0.001). Moreover, cathepsin B (p0.05) and hydroxyproline (p0.05) level showed lower concentration in wounds treated with A. denudata stem juice. Histological observation of wounds treated with A. denudata stem juice displayed organized epithelial layer with dense and compact collagen fibers.Both doses of A. denudata stem juice were found to enhance wound healing process. However, wounds treated with 3% A. denudata stem juice were reported to be more effective as a wound healing agent thus support its traditional usage.

The photobiostimulation effects of near infrared 808 nm diode laser irradiance on diabetic wound were investigated. 120 rats were induced with diabetes by streptozotocin injection. Full thickness punch wounds of 6mm diameter were created on the dorsal part of the rats. All rats were randomly distributed into four groups; one group served as control group, whereas three groups were stimulated daily with unchanged energy density dose of 5 J/cm(2) with different power density, which were 0.1 W/cm(2), 0.2 W/cm(2) and 0.3 W/cm(2) with different exposure duration of 50s, 25s and 17s, respectively. Ten rats from each group were sacrificed on day 3, 6 and 9, respectively. Skin tissues were removed for histological purpose. The contraction of wound was found optimized after exposure with 0.1 W/cm(2). Based on the histological evidence, laser therapy has shown able to promote wound repair through enhanced epithelialization and collagen fiber synthesis. Generally, irradiated groups were advanced in terms of healing than non-irradiated group.

Summary Background/Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of multiple pulses on the depth of injury caused by CO2 laser in an in vivo rat model. Methods A 10 600-nm CO2 laser was applied to rat skin, with one side of the rat dorsal skin being exposed, leaving the other side as a control. Results All of the various laser pulses tested led to gradual loss of epidermal thickness as well as a dramatic increase in thermal damage depth. Collagen coagulation was most effective with ten pulses of CO2 laser, while the strength of irradiated skin tissue increased as the influence of the laser increased. Conclusion Fundamental laser–skin interaction effects were studied using a CO2 laser. The photodamaged areas obtained from laser interaction were recorded via couple charge device video camera and analyzed via ImageJ software. Photodamage induced by CO2 laser is due to photothermal effects, which involve burning and vaporizing mechanisms to ablate the epidermis layer. The burning area literally expands and penetrates deep into the dermis layer, subsequently causing collagen coagulation. This fundamental study shows in detail the effect of CO2 laser interaction with skin. The CO2 attributed severe burning, producing deep coagulation, and induced strength to treated skin.

Occupational exposure to toxic chemicals such as Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) from diesel engine exhaust implicates genotoxic risk. The objective of this study was to determine the DNA damage among KL Sentral depot workers exposed to TVOC by means of cytogenetic analysis. Data were obtained partially from disseminated questionnaires and buccal cells samples were collected from a total of 27 depot workers and 10 office workers by using wooden tongue depressor. TVOC measurement was carried out by using Photoionisation Detector (PID). 4 sampling points were selected, namely Locomotive (LOCO), Power Generating Car (PGC), refuelling of diesel and coach. Cytogenetic analysis was done by using Acridine Orange (AO) staining. Micronucleus (MN) frequency as a biomarker for DNA damage was scored from 1,000 cells per sample observed under fluorescence microscope. The results showed that the overall means of concentrations for TVOC were 0.1±0.1, 0.0±0.0, 0.1±0.0 and 0.1±0.0 in LOCO, PGC, refuelling of diesel and coach, respectively. TVOC concentration measured did not exceed the permissible level based on DOSH 2010. For the cytogenetic analysis, depot workers showed significantly higher MN (p

Skin is the most important organ in our body, as it protects us from external environmental effects. Study the ability of the skin to stretch and the histological examinations of irradiated tissues have significant values in scientific and medical applications. Only a few studies have been done to study the correlation between epidermis ablation and the changes that occur at dermal levels when using dual lasers in ablative resurfacing mode. The aim of this work is to determine this correlation and to estimate the effects of multiple pulses on induced collagen remodeling and the strength of skin exposed with dual lasers in an in vivo rat model. All laser exposures led to mark improvement in the skin's strength compared to their own controls. The histological investigation indicated that there was a thickness loss in the epidermis layer with the induction of deep collagen coagulation in the dermis layer as the dual laser pulses increased. Additionally, more collagen fibers were remolded in the treated samples by dual wavelengths. We conclude that by combining dual lasers with multiple pulses targeted at not only the epidermis layer of the skin, it could also induce some heat diffusion in the dermis layer which causes more coagulation of collagen fibers. The tensile results confirmed by our histological data demonstrate that the strength of irradiated skin with dual wavelengths increased more than using both lasers separately on the skin tissue since more collagen is induced.

Pesticide exposure can lead to low trace elements levels in human body. Trace element plays important role in body metabolism. The aim of this study was to study the levels of selenium, zinc and chromium among paddy farmers who expose to pesticide in Wilayah I, MADA, Perlis. This cross sectional study involved 70 males paddy farmers and 57subjects living in fisherman village as control group who were aged between 21 to 80 years old. Subjects were interviewed to obtain information on their demographic data by using validated questionnaire. Subjects also were examined for their blood pressure and glucose level. Selenium, zinc and chromium levels were analyzed by using acid digestion method and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results showed that selenium levels in hairs (5.11 ± 17.05 μg/L) and nails (4.92 ± 2.17 μg/L) were significantly (p 0.05) between all trace element levels and duration of pesticide exposures. In conclusion, levels of trace elements were lower in nails and hairs of paddy farmers than fisherman community group. DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.17576/jskm-1101-2013-02

Cytotoxicity of organotin (IV) compounds towards various types of cancerous cells have been extensively studied by researchers worldwide. In this study,two new organotin (IV) compounds; diphenyltin (IV) ethylphenyldithiocarbamate (DFEF) and diphenyltin (IV) butylphenyldithiocarbamate (DFBF) were used to evaluate their cytotoxic effect against erythroleukemia cells, K562. K562 cell was used as target cell whereas Chang liver and V79 fibroblast cells were used to evaluate the effects of both compounds on non-cancerous cells. The cytotoxic effects of both compounds were assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay at 24, 48 and 72 hours using different concentrations. Observations on the morphological changes were carried out with IC50 value for times of exposure similar to the MTT assay test. The cytotoxicity test showed that, DFEF and DFBF compounds were very toxic toward K562 cells with the IC50 values obtained less than 10 μM at all times of exposure. The selectivity index have proven that both compounds exhibited selective cytotoxic effect against K562 cells at 48 and 72 hours, meanwhile at 24 hours, these compounds showed general toxicity towards K562 and non-cancerous cells. We found that both compounds were toxic to non-cancerous cells, Chang liver and V79 cells where the IC50 values were less than 5 μM. Both compounds also showed selectivity to target cell at 48 and 72 hours of exposure. However for 24 hours, these compounds showed general toxicity and non-selective cytotoxic effect towards K562 cells and non-cancerous cells. The morphological changes match with characteristic of apoptosis such as cell shrinkage and formation of apoptotic bodies, also necrosis such as lysis of cells. In conclusion, diphenyltin (IV) alkylphenyldithiocarbamate showed great potential to be a good anti-leukemic agent. However, its specific mechanism of action in K562 cells should be further studied to elucidate its potential as a new anticancer drug. DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.17576/jskm-1101-2013-05

Background Pesticide exposure possesses risk of genotoxicity to humans, particularly farmers. Despite accumulating evidences linking genotoxicity to pesticide exposure, epidemiological studies to address pesticide toxicity in occupationally exposed farmers in Malaysia remain underreported. Thus, this study was aimed to determine the presence of nuclear abnormalities through the assessment of micronucleus (MN) and binucleus (BNu) frequencies in exfoliated buccal epithelial cells from farmers who were exposed to pesticides. A cross-sectional study of farmers among different agricultural activities farmers in Bachok and Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, North East of Peninsular Malaysia was done to evaluate the presence of nuclear abnormalities and its correlation with their health status and farming activities. Results Analysis of buccal cells revealed that the frequency of MN was significantly higher (p 0.05) was observed for BNu frequency in between groups. Correlation analysis showed that apart from a significant (p

Lecture delivery is one of the major criteria in assessing overall lecturer's performance apart from research and publications. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the lecture delivery effectiveness among Faculty of Health Sciences (FSK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) lecturers from the perception of students. Lecture delivery effectiveness was correlated significantly with characteristics of lecturers, attitudes of students, facilities and students’ satisfaction, but not associated with students’ grade. Different opinions were observed between undergraduates and postgraduates on lecture delivery effectiveness. More attention should be given to improve the quality of teaching in FSK.

UNLABELLED Studies on the discovery of new cancer treatment by using metal-based compounds such as tin (Sn) has now greatly being synthesized and evaluated to identify their effectiveness and suitability to be developed as a new anticancer drug. APPROACH This study was carried out to evaluate the cytotoxicity of triphenyltin(lV) methylisopropyldithiocarbamate (compound 1) and triphenyltin(IV) ethylisopropyldithiocarbamate (compound (2) on chronic myelogenus leukemia cells. The determination of their cytotoxicity (IC50) at different time of exposure and concentration was carried out through the employment of 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. RESULTS The IC50 values obtained for compound 1 and 2 following treatment at 24, 48 and 72 h were 0.660, 0.223, 0.370 microM and 0.677, 0.306, 0.360 microM, respectively. Cell morphological changes such as apoptotic and necrotic features were also been observed. CONCLUSION The compounds tested were found to give cytotoxic effect against chronic myelogenus leukemia (K-562) cell at a micromolar dose. Thus, further study on their specific mechanism of actions in the human cells should be carried out to elucidate their potential as an anticancer agent.

Paracetamol (PCM) overdose can cause nephrotoxicity with oxidative stress as one of the possible mechanisms mediating the event. In this study, the effects of ethyl acetate extract of Zingiber zerumbet rhizome [200 mg per kg of body weight (mg/kg) and 400 mg/kg] on PCM-induced nephrotoxicity were examined. Rats were divided into five groups containing 10 rats each. The control group received distilled water while other groups were treated with extract alone (400 mg/kg), PCM alone (750 mg/kg), 750 mg/kg PCM+200 mg/kg extract (PCM+ 200-extract), and 750 mg/kg PCM+400 mg/kg extract (PCM+400-extract), respectively, for seven consecutive days. The Z. zerumbet extract was given intraperitoneally concurrent with oral administration of PCM. Treatment with Z. zerumbet extract at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg prevented the PCM-induced nephrotoxicity and oxidative impairments of the kidney, as evidenced by a significantly reduced (P

Background: Zingiber zerumbet rhizome ethyl acetate extract (ZZRE) has the potential to be developed as a wound-healing agent with its profound anti-inflammatory property. Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the wound healing effects of 5% ZZRE on open wound in rats. Materials and Methods: Wistar rats (n = 90) were divided into three groups, negative control (treated with PBS), positive control (treated with solcoseryl gel), and 5% ethyl acetate extract of Z. zerumbet, respectively. Wounds were induced on the rat's dorsal surface on day 0. Measurements of wound closure, total protein, uronic acid, hexosamine, cathepsin B, hydroxyproline, and histological observations were conducted on the wound tissues. Results: ZZRE-treated group showed increment in wound closure, protein, and hydroxyproline level. The uronic acid and hexosamine levels of ZZRE-treated wounds significantly increased on the 3rd day (P Abbreviations Used: ZZRE: Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes extract, PDGF: Platelet-derived growth factor, TGF-β: Transforming growth factor-beta, PBS: Phosphate-buffered saline, EDTA: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid

Background: Zingiber zerumbet locally known as lempoyang is used traditionally to cure swelling, sores, and loss of appetite. Its rhizomes contain many active compounds such as zerumbone and kaempferol that have been shown to exhibit antiproliferative activities on various cancer cell types. However, the effect of this plant on leukemia has not thoroughly been investigated. Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the cytotoxic effects of Z. zerumbet ethyl acetate crude extract on apoptosis-resistant erythroleukemia cell line, K-562. Materials and Methods: The cytotoxic effects and morphological changes of Z. zerumbet ethyl acetate crude extract on apoptosis-resistant erythroleukemia cell line, K-562, were investigated spectrometrically through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and morphologically using the phase-contrast microscopy, respectively. Results: MTT assay demonstrated that this crude extract showed cytotoxic effects on erythroleukemia cell line K-562 in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner with IC50values of 13.83 ± 1.82 and 10.13 ± 1.67 μg/ml for 48 and 72 h time points, respectively. The morphology of treated cells showed apparent changes of features such as membrane blebbing, cell shrinkage, and formation of apoptotic bodies which were the signs of apoptosis. The changes of cell morphology that resembled apoptotic features were more obvious with increase in treatment time. Conclusions: This finding indicates that ethyl acetate crude extract of Z. zerumbet exhibits cytotoxic effects on K-562 cell line through induction of apoptosis as morphologically seen in the cells. Further investigations are needed to ascertain the possibility of apoptosis as its major event of cell death. Abbreviations used: MTT: 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yI)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide; DMSO: Dimethylsulfoxide; h: Hour.

Zerumbone (ZER), a sesquiterpene in the rhizomes of Zingiber zerumbet Smith, was shown to exhibit antiproliferative activities on various cancer cells. This study was carried out to determine the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of ZER on WEHI 7.2 wild type murine thymoma cells through the employment of standard MTT assay, alkaline comet assay and flow cytometry Annexin V/PI. Results from the MTT assay demonstrated that ZER has a dose-dependent but not a time-dependent cytotoxic effect towards WEHI 7.2 wild type cells with IC50 values at 24, 48 and 72 hours were 3.02±0.20 µg/ml (13.832 µM), 2.73±0.13 µg/ml (12.503 µM) and 2.65±0.13 µg/ml (12.137 µM) respectively. Using IC10 and IC25 values obtained from the MTT assay, alkaline comet assay was carried out to detect DNA damage in ZER treated cells at three different time points (1/2 h, 1 h and 2 h). From the results, it was found that ZER induced significant DNA damage at all three time points for both concentrations (p < 0.05). Comparison of DNA damage levels at both concentrations suggested a concentration-dependent genotoxicity, as significantly higher values of tail DNA percentage and tail moment were obtained for cells treated with IC25 concentration (p < 0.05). Furthermore, to understand the mode of cell death induced by ZER, flow cytometry Annexin V/PI was performed and it was found that cytotoxicity was achieved primarily via apoptosis. Collectively, ZER is able to induce genotoxicity in treated cells which subsequently leads to cytotoxicity via apoptosis and these presented characteristics suggest the compound as a potential anticancer drug.

This paper presents a study on the effect of laser irradiation on wound healing. 808 nm diode laser was employed to facilitate the healing of impaired wounds in experimental diabetes using a rat model. Diabetes was induced in male rats by a streptozotocin injection with a dose of 60 mg kg−1. The disease was verified via measurement of the blood glucose level, which was set having 20 mmol L−1 stability. The rats were randomly distributed into two groups; one served as a control group and the other group was treated with the laser. The power density of the laser used was 0.5 W cm−2 and the wounds were treated for 8 d with the contact time of one second daily. The energy density used was 0.5 J cm−2. The healing progress was recorded via a digital camera. The recorded images were then transferred into Inspector Matrox and image J programs for the accurate measurement of the healing area. The tissue details of the wound were studied through histology. The wound contraction rate of laser therapy group was found to be two times faster than control group. This indicates that the 808 nm diode laser can accelerate the wound healing process.

Wound healing is a complex matrix and overlapping process. In order to accelerate the healing process and minimize bacterial infection, light-based therapy was applied to stimulate bio-reaction to improve healing. The aim of this paper is to review the effects induced by light source (laser and incoherent light like LED) on different biological targets. The light-based therapy techniques were categorized according to the wavelength, energy density, type of irradiance and activity of tissues in the healing process. Out of 80 cases, 77% were animal studies, 5% were human studies and 18% were cell studies. Around 75% of light-based therapy has an advantage on tissue interaction and 25% has no effect or inhibition on the healing process. The appropriate dose appears to be between 1 and 5 J cm−2. At shorter wavelength, photobiostimulation would be effective with a high frequently administrated low-energy dose. On the other hand, for longer wavelength it is the reverse, i.e., more effective with a low frequent treated schedule and a high-energy dose.

Effective learning intervention should include early detection of problems in academic performance, strategies to help students develop better approaches for academic success and facilitation of self-directed learning. While the program incurred some hidden and indirect costs, the intervention can be significant, delivering the wanted result through the remediation service. The samples were 21 first year students who had poorly performed in their mid-semester assessment with average Grade Point Average (GPA) of 1.86±0.46. The students were given an intervention by giving motivational talks followed by Focus Group Discussion. They were also asked to self-evaluate their own weaknesses. They were divided into smaller groups and an academician was assigned to each group to assist and guide them by meeting the students regularly as part of the Academic Assistance Program. Their final examination showed an encouraging improvement by displaying an average GPA of 2.74±0.30. As the conclusion, learning intervention program whose main objective is to improve the academic performance of disadvantaged students helped them to improve and should be considered as a routine tool in the higher learning education.