Search

Oil thermoxidation during deep frying generates harmful oxidative free radicals that induce inflammation and increase the risk of hypertension. This study aimed to investigate the effect of repeatedly heated palm oil on blood pressure, aortic morphometry, and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups: control, fresh palm oil (FPO), one-time-heated palm oil (1HPO), five-time-heated palm oil (5HPO), or ten-time-heated palm oil (10HPO). Feeding duration was six months. Blood pressure was measured at baseline and monthly using tail-cuff method. After six months, the rats were sacrificed and the aortic arches were dissected for morphometric and immunohistochemical analyses. FPO group showed significantly lower blood pressure than all other groups. Blood pressure was increased significantly in 5HPO and 10HPO groups. The aortae of 5HPO and 10HPO groups showed significantly increased thickness and area of intima-media, circumferential wall tension, and VCAM-1 than other groups. Elastic lamellae were disorganised and fragmented in 5HPO- and 10HPO-treated rats. VCAM-1 expression showed a significant positive correlation with blood pressure. In conclusion, prolonged consumption of repeatedly heated palm oil causes blood pressure elevation, adverse remodelling, and increased VCAM-1, which suggests a possible involvement of inflammation.

Abstract Background Inflammation process plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Hypercholesterolemia is one of the major risk factors for atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Piper sarmentosum (P.s) on inflammatory markers like vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Methods Forty two male New Zealand white rabbits were divided equally into seven groups; (i) C- control group fed normal rabbit chow (ii) CH- cholesterol diet (1%cholesterol) (iii) X1- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (62.5 mg/kg) (iv) X2- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (125 mg/kg (v) X3- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (250 mg/kg) (vi) X4- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (500 mg/kg) and (vii) SMV group fed with 1% cholesterol supplemented with simvistatin drug (1.2 mg/kg). All animals were treated for 10 weeks. Blood serum was taken for observing the inflammatory markers at the beginning and end of the experiment. Results Rabbits fed with 1% cholesterol diet (CH) showed significant increase in the level of VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and CRP compared to the C group. The levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and CRP in the 1% cholesterol group and supplemented with P.s (500 mg/kg) were significantly reduced compared to the cholesterol group. Similar results were also reported with simvistatin group. Conclusion These results suggest that the supplementation of Piper sarmentosum extract could inhibit inflammatory markers which in turn could prevent atherosclerosis.

Abstract Background Piper sarmentosum (P.s) has flavonoid component in its leaves which has antioxidative effect. To date, its effect on atherosclerosis has not been studied histologically. Aim The study aimed to investigate the effect of P.s on atherosclerotic changes in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. Methods Forty two male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into seven groups. C - control group fed normal rabbit chow, CH - cholesterol diet (1% cholesterol), W1 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (62.5 mg/kg), W2 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (125 mg/kg), W3 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (250 mg/kg), W4 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (500 mg/kg) and Smv - 1% cholesterol supplemented with simvistatin drug (1.2 mg/kg). All rabbits were treated for 10 weeks. Following 10 weeks of supplementation, the animals were sacrificed and the aortic tissue was taken for histological study. Results Rabbits fed only with high cholesterol diet 1% cholesterol (CH) showed focal fatty streak lesions compared to the C group and 1% cholesterol supplemented with simvistatin drug (Smv) group. Atherosclerotic lesions in the 1% cholesterol group supplemented with P.s (500 mg/kg) i.e. W4 group showed significant reduction (30 ± 6.0%, p < 0.05) in fatty streak compared to the high cholesterol group (85.6 ± 4.1%) under Sudan IV stain. The atherosclerotic lesions under transmission electron microscope showed reduction in foam cells in the treatment groups compared to the CH groups. Conclusion Administration of P.s extract has protective effect against atheroscleros

Problem statement: Oxidative stress plays a major role in hypercholesterolemia induced atherosclerosis. Garcinia atroviridis has been shown to exhibit antioxidant properties. Approach: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Garcinia atroviridis on the oxidative stress in guinea pigs fed with high cholesterol diet. Twenty-four male Guinea pigs were divided into four groups. Group I served as control while group II, III, IV were fed with 1% cholesterol diet in rabbit chow pellet, fed with both 1% cholesterol diet plus 50 mg [body.sup.-1] weight of Garcinia atroviridis, fed with Garcinia atroviridis only (50 mg [mL.sup.-1] water [body.sup.-1] weight), respectively. All animals were sacrificed by cardiac puncture and the blood was collected for the determination of malonaldialdehyde and DNA damage using comet assay and histology of the aorta was performed. Results: The results showed a significant increase in the percentage of DNA damage in the tail and in the tail moment (comet assay) in the group II compared to the group I. Group III showed pattern of reduction in the percentage of DNA damage by 42% and tail moment by 50% compared to the group II. There were no significant changes in the MDA levels in serum, liver and heart in all groups. Histological studies in group III showed a tendency in the reduction of the fat deposition in the aorta and number of foam cells compared to the group II. Conclusion: The supplementation with Garcinia atroviridis reduced the DNA damage and deposition of lipids in the wall of the aorta in hypercholesteromic guinea pigs. Key words: Oxidative stress, Garcinia atroviridis, extract, atherosclerosis, aorta, histology, INTRODUCTION Oxidative Stress (OS) is a term used to describe the steady state level of oxidative damage in cells, tissues, or organs caused by the Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). It [...]

Background and Aim: Both virgin coconut oil (VCO) and tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) are rich in antioxidants and may protect the bone against bone loss induced by ovariectomy and high-fat diet. The study aimed to determine the protective effects of combined therapy of VCO and TRF on osteoporosis in ovariectomized (OVX) rat fed with high-fat diet. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups: Sham-operated (SHAM), OVX control, OVX and given Premarin at 64.5 µg/kg (OVX+E2), OVX and given VCO at 4.29 ml/kg (OVX+V), OVX and given TRF at 30 mg/kg (OVX+T), and OVX and given a combination of VCO at 4.29 ml/kg and TRF at 30 mg/kg (OVX+VT). Following 24 weeks of treatments, blood and femora samples were taken for analyses. Results: There were no significant differences in serum osteocalcin levels between the groups (p>0.05), while serum C-terminal telopeptide of Type I collagen levels of the OVX+VT group were significantly lower than the other groups (p<0.05). The dynamic bone histomorphometry analysis of the femur showed that the double-labeled surface/bone surface (dLS/BS), mineral apposition rate, and bone formation rate/BS of the OVX+E2, OVX+T, and OVX+VT groups were significantly higher than the rest of the groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: A combination of VCO and TRF has the potential as a therapeutic agent to restore bone loss induced by ovariectomy and high-fat diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Byline: Farkaad. Kadir, Faizah. Othman, Mahmood. Abdulla, Farida. Hussan, Pouya. Hassandarvish Objectives : This study was conducted to determine the effect of ethanolic extract of the dried stems of Tinospora [...]

Atherosclerosis is now well understood as an inflammatory disease instead of lipid storage disorder; however, the conventional treatment is not targeted on treating the inflammation. Morinda citrifolia L. (Rubiaceae) leaf or noni leaf, which is a medicinal food (ulam) used in Traditional Malay Medicine to prevent chronic diseases, may have the potential to be formulated into a functional antiatherosclerotic agent. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Morinda citrifolia leaf extract (MCLE) treatment at histological and ultrastructural level, comparing it with Simvastatin. Thirty-eight female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups: Sham (Sham), ovariectomized (OVX), ovariectomized with Simvastatin 10 mg/kg (OVX+ST), ovariectomized with low dose MC 500 mg/kg (OVX+MCLD), and ovariectomized with high dose MC 1000 mg/kg (OVX+MCHD). Atherosclerosis was induced by producing oestrogen deficiency through ovariectomy and feeding with thermoxidized palm oil (TPO) diet for 12 weeks along with the treatment. The results revealed significantly (P<0.05) lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the group treated with MCHD compared to the untreated OVX, whereas the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was significantly higher in the untreated OVX group compared to the Sham group. Treatment with MCHD also significantly lowered the total cholesterol (TC) level compared to the OVX. The OVX group showed significantly lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level compared to the Sham group. The untreated OVX group showed evident histological and ultrastructural features of vascular inflammation such as blood cells accumulation in the lumen, vacuolation of the endothelial cells, subendothelial space widening, elastic fibres disruption, increased intima media thickness (IMT), smooth muscle cells fragmentation, and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) deposition. All these pathological changes were less seen in the groups treated with MCLE. In conclusion, we reported the mechanism of antiatherosclerotic property of MCLE through lipids elimination and anti-inflammatory activity. In addition, we do not recommend the use of statin in the absence of dyslipidemia as it causes PVAT deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of corn oil for cooking purpose is gaining popularity. The present study examined the effect of heated corn oil on blood pressure and its possible mechanism in experimental rats. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 5 groups and were fed with the following diets, Group I was fed with basal diet only; whereas group II,III,IV and V were fed with basal diet fortified with 15% (w/w) either fresh, once-heated, five-times-heated or ten-times-heated corn oil, respectively for 16 weeks. Body weight, blood pressure were measured at baseline and weekly interval for 16 weeks. Inflammatory biomarkers which included soluble intracellular adhesion molecules (sICAM), soluble vascular adhesion molecules (sVCAM) and C reactive protein (CRP), were measured at baseline and the end of 16 weeks. The rats were sacrificed and thoracic aorta was taken for measurement of vascular reactivity. There was significant increase in the blood pressure in the groups fed with heated once, five-times (5HCO) and ten-times-heated corn oil (10-HCO) compared to the control. The increase in the blood pressure was associated with an increase in CRP, sICAM and sVCAM, reduction in vasodilatation response to acetylcholine and greater vasoconstriction response to phenylephrine. The results suggest that repeatedly heated corn oil causes elevation in blood pressure, vascular inflammation which impairs vascular reactivity thereby predisposing to hypertension. There is a need to educate people not to consume corn oil in a heated state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Applied Physiology, Nutrition & Metabolism is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective To determine the effect of Plantago major ( P. major ) extract on the liver injury following acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity. Methods The male Sprague Dawley rats ( n = 38) were randomly divided into normal control ( n = 6) and experiment ( n = 32) groups. The latter was subdivided into four groups and induced with APAP (1 000 mg/kg) per oral, followed by P. major extract and N -acetylcysteine orally to the respective groups for six days. Results On the seventh day, the serum bilirubin, liver enzymes and tissue malondialdehyde were increased in APAP groups whereas the total protein in serum, tissue superoxide dismutase and glutathione levels were reduced. The plant extract treatment reduced the histological deteriorations such as aggregation of hepatocellular cords, formation of binucleated cells and vacuolisation of the cells with scanty cytoplasm. It also revealed significant reduction of malondialdehyde and increased level of superoxide dismutase and glutathione. The findings in the extract treated groups were comparable to the group treated with N -acetylcysteine. Conclusions In conclusion, P. major can enhance innate antioxidant activity and ameliorate the APAP-induced liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatic injury induces inflammatory process and cell necrosis. Plantago major is traditionally used for various diseases. This study aimed to determine the anti-inflammatory property of P. major leaf extracts on inflammatory reaction following acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups, namely, normal control (C), APAP, aqueous (APAP + AQ), methanol (APAP + MT), and ethanol (APAP + ET) extract treated groups. All APAP groups received oral APAP (2 g/kg) at day 0. Then, 1000 mg/kg dose of P. major extracts was given for six days. The levels of liver transaminases were measured at day 1 and day 7 after APAP induction. At day 7, the blood and liver tissue were collected to determine plasma cytokines and tissue 11β-HSD type 1 enzyme. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activities of methanol, ethanol, and aqueous extracts were 26.74 ± 1.6%, 21.69 ± 2.81%, and 12.23 ± 3.15%, respectively. The ALT and AST levels were significantly higher in the APAP groups at day 1 whereas the enzyme levels of all groups showed no significant difference at day 7. The extracts treatment significantly reduced the proinflammatory cytokine levels and significantly increased the 11β-HSD type 1 enzyme activity (p<0.05). In conclusion, the P. major extracts attenuate the inflammatory reaction following APAP-induced liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is one of the risk factors in the development of vascular complications. Decreased nitric oxide (NO) production and increased lipid peroxidation in diabetes mellitus are the dominant exaggerating factors. Mormodica charantia (MC) was proven to be useful in improving diabetes mellitus and its complications. In the present study, a total of 40 male Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Diabetes was induced by a single dose (50 mg/kg) of streptozotocin (STZ), intramuscularly. Following 4 weeks of STZ induction, the animals were equally divided into five groups (n = 8); Control group (Ctrl), control group treated with MC (Ctrl-MC), diabetic untreated group (DM-Ctrl), diabetic group treated with MC (DM-MC) and diabetic group treated with metformin 150 g/kg (DM-Met). Oral administration of the MC fruit extract (1.5 g/kg) was continued for 28 days. DM-MC group showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in blood pressure, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to the DM-Ctrl group. Aortic tissue NO level was significantly increased and malondialdehyde level was decreased in the DM-MC group. Immunohistochemical staining showed an increase in eNOS expression in the endothelial lining of the DM-MC group. Similarly, morphological deterioration of the aortic tissues was reverted to normal. In summary, treatment with the MC fruit extract exerted the significant vasculoprotective effect in the type 1 diabetic rat model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkia speciosa Hassk., or stink bean, is a plant indigenous to Southeast Asia. It is consumed either raw or cooked. It has been used in folk medicine to treat diabetes, hypertension, and kidney problems. It contains minerals and vitamins. It displays many beneficial properties. Its extracts from the empty pods and seeds have a high content of total polyphenol, phytosterol, and flavonoids. It demonstrates a good antioxidant activity. Its hypoglycemic effect is reported to be attributable to the presence of β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and stigmast-4-en-3-one. The cyclic polysulfide compounds exhibit antibacterial activity, while thiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid possesses anticancer property. The pharmacological properties of the plant extract are described in this review. With ongoing research conducted on the plant extracts, Parkia speciosa has a potential to be developed as a phytomedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportion in Malaysia and worldwide. Scientific studies have shown that herbal plant Piper sarmentosum exhibits an antidiabetic property. Despite the extensive usage and studies of this herb as alternative medicine, there is paucity of the literature on the safety information of this plant. Thus, the present study aimed to observe the subacute toxic effects of Piper sarmentosum aqueous extract (PSAE) on the haematological profile, liver, and kidney in rats. The extract was administered by oral gavage to 6 male and female Sprague Dawley rats in daily dose of 5Omg/kg, 300mg/kg, and 2000mg/kg for 28 consecutive days. The control group received normal saline. General behavior of the rats, adverse effects, and mortality were observed for 28 days. The haematological and biochemical parameters were determined at baseline and after the treatment. PSAE did not show abnormality on the body weight and gross observation of internal organs. The haematological, biochemical and histopathological profiles showed minimal changes and variation within normal clinical range except for significant increase in serum potassium level that suggests the need of regular monitoring. Nevertheless, these findings suggested that PSAE up to 2000 mg/kg/day did not show subacute toxicity in Sprague Dawley rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Palm oil is commonly consumed in Asia. Repeatedly heating the oil is very common during food processing. Aim. This study is aimed to report on the risk of atherosclerosis due to the reheated oil consumption. Material and Methods. Twenty fourmale Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control, fresh-oil, 5 times heated-oil and 10 times heated-oil feeding groups. Heated palm oil was prepared by frying sweet potato at 180°C for 10 minutes. The ground standard rat chows were fortified with the heated oils and fed it to the rats for six months. Results. Tunica intima thickness in aorta was significantly increased in 10 times heated-oil feeding group (P < 0.05), revealing a huge atherosclerotic plaque with central necrosis projecting into the vessel lumen. Repeatedly heated oil feeding groups also revealed atherosclerotic changes including mononuclear cells infiltration, thickened subendothelial layer, disrupted internal elastic lamina and smooth muscle cells fragmentation in tunica media of the aorta. Conclusion. The usage of repeated heated oil is the predisposing factor of atherosclerosis leading to cardiovascular diseases. It is advisable to avoid the consumption of repeatedly heated palm oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is considered a serious debilitating disease. Cosmos caudatus (ulam raja), a plant containing antioxidant compounds and minerals, may be used to treat and prevent osteoporosis. This study determines the effectiveness of C. caudatus as bone protective agent in postmenopausal osteoporosis rat model. Thirty-two female rats, aged 3 months old, were divided into 4 groups. Group one was sham operated (sham) while group two was ovariectomized. These two groups were given ionized water by forced feeding. Groups three and four were ovariectomized and given calcium 1% ad libitum and force-fed with C. caudatus at the dose of 500 mg/kg, respectively. Treatments were given six days per week for a period of eight weeks. Body weight was monitored every week and structural bone histomorphometry analyses of the femur bones were performed. Ovariectomy decreased trabecular bone volume (BV/TV), decreased trabecular number (Tb.N), and increased trabecular separation (Tb.Sp). Both calcium 1% and 500 mg/kg C. caudatus reversed the above structural bone histomorphometric parameters to normal level. C. caudatus shows better effect compared to calcium 1% on trabecular number (Tb.N) and trabecular separation (Tb.Sp). Therefore, Cosmos caudatus 500 mg/kg has the potential to act as the therapeutic agent to restore bone damage in postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nigella sativa seeds (NS) has been used traditionally for various illnesses. The most abundant and active component of NS is thymoquinone (TQ). Animal studies have shown that NS and TQ may be used for the treatment of diabetes-induced osteoporosis and for the promotion of fracture healing. The mechanism involved is unclear, but it was postulated that the antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory activities may play some roles in the treatment of osteoporosis as this bone disease has been linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. This paper highlights studies on the antiosteoporotic effects of NS and TQ, the mechanisms behind these effects and their safety profiles. NS and TQ were shown to inhibit inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 and 6 and the transcription factor, nuclear factor κB. NS and TQ were found to be safe at the current dosage for supplementation in human with precautions in children and pregnant women. Both NS and TQ have shown potential as antiosteoporotic agent but more animal and clinical studies are required to further assess their antiosteoporotic efficacies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is a metabolic disease affecting both men and women especially in postmenopausal women. Curcumin possesses many medicinal properties. In this study, thirty two female Sprague-Dawley rats were used to determine the potential effect of curcumin in prevention of bone loss following ovariectomy. The animals were divided into Sham group, ovariectomised control, ovariectomised treated with curcumin 110 mg/kg and ovariectomised treated with Premarin 100 μg/kg. The treatments were given via daily oral gavages for 60 days. The structural parameters such as bone volume, trabecular number, trabecular thickness and trabecular separation were found to be deteriorated in ovariectomised rats compared to Sham group. Moreover, the reduced osteoblast count, the increased osteoclast count and increased eroded surface were found in ovariectomised groups. Treatment with curcumin was able to reverse all these ovariectomy-induced deteriorations. Curcumin treatment was as effective as Premarin in most parameters except the bone volume and eroded surface, which were better than Premarin. The high dose of curcumin treatment was not only able to reduce the osteoclast number but also increase the osteoblast count. Therefore, the potential effect of curcumin can be applied as an alternative to oestrogen for prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammation process plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Hypercholesterolemia is one of the major risk factors for atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Piper sarmentosum (P.s) on inflammatory markers like vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Methods: Forty two male New Zealand white rabbits were divided equally into seven groups; (i) C- control group fed normal rabbit chow (ii) CH- cholesterol diet (1%cholesterol) (iii) X1- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (62.5 mg/kg) (iv) X2- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (125 mg/kg (v) X3- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (250 mg/kg) (vi) X4- 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (500 mg/kg) and (vii) SMV group fed with 1% cholesterol supplemented with simvistatin drug (1.2 mg/kg). All animals were treated for 10 weeks. Blood serum was taken for observing the inflammatory markers at the beginning and end of the experiment. Results: Rabbits fed with 1% cholesterol diet (CH) showed significant increase in the level of VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and CRP compared to the C group. The levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and CRP in the 1% cholesterol group and supplemented with P.s (500 mg/kg) were significantly reduced compared to the cholesterol group. Similar results were also reported with simvistatin group. Conclusion: These results suggest that the supplementation of Piper sarmentosum extract could inhibit inflammatory markers which in turn could prevent atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Medical treatments using dexamethasone exposes the body to a higher level of glucocorticoid, which then causes increased body adiposity, hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance. It leads to obesity and further increases the epicardial fat thickness. This "ectopic fat storage syndrome" in the heart will subsequently contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases. Piper sarmentosum, locally known as Kaduk is a traditional herb rich in natural antioxidants but its effectiveness of inhibiting the "ectopic fat storage syndrome" has not been studied. Therefore, it is our interest to determine the effect of Piper sarmentosum on the histological changes and histomorphometry in the architecture of the epicardial fat of the dexamethasone treated male adrenalectomized rats. Methods: Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats, (2 months old) were divided into Baseline (B), Sham-operated (S), Adrenalectomized Control (C) and Adrenalectomized Piper sarmentosum (K) groups. Only the C and K groups received daily treatment of intramuscular dexamethasone (120 µg/kg/day) for a period of two months. Group K also received Piper sarmentosum extract (0.125 g/kg/day) during the same period. The animals were sacrificed and the heart tissues were taken and fixed in 10% formalin for light microscopy. Results: Results demonstrated that the epicardial fat thickness (p < 0.05) and adipocytes number (p < 0.05) in K were significantly reduced when compared with C. Conclusion: Thus, these results imply that there is a potential role for Piper sarmentosum in inhibiting or delaying the "ectopic fat storage syndrome" in dexamethasone treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The classical arrangement of the structures at the hilum are renal vein, renal artery and the renal pelvis (i.e. ureter), from anterior to posterior direction. In routine anatomy teaching, this important relation is being taught to the undergraduate medical students. The anomalous arrangement of the renal vein, artery or the renal pelvis is uncommon and even standard anatomy textbooks do not highlight such facts. The aim of the study was to define the exact relation of the renal vein, artery and the pelvis in dissected cadaveric kidney specimens. Materials and methods: A total of 50 kidneys irrespective of sides were taken for a detailed study of the renal hilar structures. Results: Out of 50 specimens, only one left kidney exhibited anomalous arrangement of the structures at the hilum (2%). The renal artery was located anterior to the renal vein. At a distance of 0.8 cm from the hilum, the renal artery further divided into three accessory branches which entered the hilum. The renal vein was located posterior to the renal artery and was found to traverse a course between the upper two branches of the renal artery. Conclusion: Paucity of reports on the anomalous arrangement of renal hilar structures makes these findings significant. Knowledge of the topographical anatomy of the renal vein, artery and the pelvis at the hilum is important for surgeons performing renal transplants and radiologists interpreting angiograms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Piper sarmentosum (P.s) has flavonoid component in its leaves which has antioxidative effect. To date, its effect on atherosclerosis has not been studied histologically. Aim: The study aimed to investigate the effect of P.s on atherosclerotic changes in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. Methods: Forty two male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into seven groups. C - control group fed normal rabbit chow, CH - cholesterol diet (1% cholesterol), W1 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (62.5 mg/kg), W2 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (125 mg/kg), W3 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (250 mg/kg), W4 - 1% cholesterol with water extract of P.s (500 mg/kg) and Smv - 1% cholesterol supplemented with simvistatin drug (1.2 mg/kg). All rabbits were treated for 10 weeks. Following 10 weeks of supplementation, the animals were sacrificed and the aortic tissue was taken for histological study. Results: Rabbits fed only with high cholesterol diet 1% cholesterol (CH) showed focal fatty streak lesions compared to the C group and 1% cholesterol supplemented with simvistatin drug (Smv) group. Atherosclerotic lesions in the 1% cholesterol group supplemented with P.s (500 mg/kg) i.e. W4 group showed significant reduction (30 ± 6.0%, p < 0.05) in fatty streak compared to the high cholesterol group (85.6 ± 4.1%) under Sudan IV stain. The atherosclerotic lesions under transmission electron microscope showed reduction in foam cells in the treatment groups compared to the CH groups. Conclusion: Administration of P.s extract has protective effect against atheroscleros [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports an osteological study which discussed anatomical and radiological aspects of the presence of multiple sutural bones in a human dried skull. The study revealed presence of multiple sutural bones; majority of the sutural bones were located at an average distance of 2.5 cm above the tip of mastoid process. The presence of multiple sutural bones may mimic the appearance of fractures which may result in erroneous interpretation in routine roentgenographic studies.

Objective: To study the morphological features of a cadaveric right lung exhibiting abnormal curvatures and notches along its anterior border. Materials and methods: The anterior border of right lung of a 55-year-old male cadaver was studied for the presence of abnormal curvatures and notches. Morphometric measurements were taken and the specimen was photographed. Results: The anterior border of the right lung showed the presence of convex curvature on the upper aspect, which extended 14 cm vertically and projected 2 cm outwards to the usual anterior border. Another notch was observed below this curvature, thereby leading to another projection anteriorly, which looked similar to the lingula of the left lung. On the inferior border, a notch was observed to be at a distant of 4 cm from the lower end of the anterior border. Thus, the anterior border exhibited notches and curvatures instead of being straight. The horizontal fissure was incomplete on its anterior aspect, whereas the oblique fissure was complete. Conclusion: Topograhical anatomy of the lung at its borders are important for academic and surgical purpose. Presence of anomalous fissures, lobes, notches and curvatures may result in erroneous interpretation of routine skiagrams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to editor is presented in response to the article on the correlation on the level of testosterone to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Objective: To study the anomalous left lobe of liver in gross anatomy specimens. Method: The study was conducted in 100 gross anatomy specimens of the liver. Results: Out of 100 specimens studied, only a single specimen exhibited an exceptional larger left lobe with additional notches along the inferior border (1%). The left lobe was comparatively larger as compared to the right. No abnormalities were detected in the other 99 specimens. Conclusion: The classical concept of anatomical division of the lobes by the anteriorly placed falciform ligament is usually violated in this type of anomaly where the left lobe is exceptionally large as compared to the right one. Surgeons and radiologists may be aware of the anatomical and clinical significance of enlarged left lobe of liver with additional notches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the anomalous ligainentum teres and discuss its clinical implications. Method: Ligamentum teres (LT) was studied in forty gross specimens of liver over a period of five years. The topographical anatomy of the LT was studied, the abnormalities were noted and the specimen was photographed. Result: Out of forty specimens studied, only one specimen showed the LT to be located at a distance of 5 cm to the left of midline (2.5%). As a result of the LT being situated more towards the left, the quadi ate lobe was also situated more towards the left. The groove for the LT was incomplete vertically with the lower 7.5 cm being very prominent and the upper pait submerged inside the tissue of the liver. The groove for the LT was located at a distance of 10 cm from the fossa for the gall bladder. The thickness of the LT measured 3 cm and the liver weighed 1.2 kilograms in weight. Conclusion: The anomalous position of the LT may result in erroneous interpretation of the liver lobes. Often the surgeon operating on gall bladder may be mistaken by anomalous position of the LT. The abdominal surgeries require proper anatomical knowledge of the LT and the falciform ligament. The LT is also visualized on normal radiographs and such anomalies are important for radiologists in day to day clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the anomalous Flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) muscle and discuss its clinical implications. Method: The anomalous FDS was observed incidentally in the left upper limb of human cadaver during routine dissection. Result: The FDS usually has two bellies but in the present case we observed the existence of three bellies. Interestingly, the Palmaris longus (PL) was also absent. The FDS originated from the usual site i.e. the medial epicondyle of the humerus but had three bellies instead of the normal two. The medial belly ended in a tendon which inserted into the anterior surface of the middle phalanx of the middle finger. The intermediate belly continued as tendon which inserted into the anterior surface of the anterior surface of the middle phalanx of the index finger. The lateral belly continued as a tendon which inserted into the anterior surface of the middle phalanx of the ring and the little finger. Conclusion: The absence of PL may be an accepted fact and the absence of the PL is also not known to cause any significant clinical symptom. The anomalous attachment of FDS tendon may alter the kinematics around the interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints. Supernumerary tendons of the FDS may also be liable for compression beneath the Flexor retinaculum (FR). Knowledge of normal and abnormal anatomy of the FDS muscle may be important for hand surgeons planning tendon transplantation and clinicians diagnosing compressive neuropathies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Frontal Sinus Accuracy in Identification as Measured by False Positives in Kin Groups," which was published in an earlier issue.

Introduction: There is paucity of literature on the different shapes of the styloid processes of the temporal bone of the skull. Textbooks of anatomy describe the styloid process to be slender, approximately 2.5 cm in length and concave on the anterior aspect only. In the present case, we observed the styloid process to be much longer than the usual, bearing a concavity on the anterior, as well as the posterior aspects. The mastoid process which is usually conical was found to be rounded in this case. The anatomico-radiological features and clinical implications of anomalous styloid and mastoid processes are being discussed in the present study. Case Report: The styloid process was elongated, angulated and displayed concavity on its anterior, as well as on its posterior aspects. As a consequence, the bone was constricted in the proximal part. The length of the styloid process measured 2.8 and 2.7 cm on left and right sides, respectively. The mastoid process exhibited a rounded and enlarged appearance. The skiagram (lateral view of the skull) also displayed the biconcave profile of the styloid process and the rounded appearance of the mastoid process, thus substantiated the findings on gross examination of the skull. Conclusion: The anatomical knowledge of the mastoid process is important for surgeons assessing the mastoid air cells. The elongated styloid process is often a feature of Eagle's Syndrome. An enlarged and calcified styloid process is often asymptomatic, unless detected radiologically. An abnormally elongated styloid process or its calcification may cause recurrent throat pain, foreign body sensation, dysphagia, or facial pain. An enlarged styloid process may also compress upon the internal carotid artery, leading to transient ischemic attack and may pose a threat to anesthetists performing intubation procedures. Awareness of such variations may be of clinical importance to radiologists and surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The fruit extract of Garcinia atroviridis, with solvent methanol, was used to investigate its effect on serum lipid profile and the histology of aorta in guinea pigs induced with high cholesterol diet. Methodology: Twenty four male Dunkin Hartley Guinea pigs were divided to 4 groups. The first group served as control and was given commercial rabbit chow. The second group was forced fed with 1ml G. atroviridis (50 mg/ body weight). The third group was fed with 1% cholesterol diet in food pellet only in order to induce atherosclerosis. The fourth group was given mix feeding (1% cholesterol diet plus G. atroviridis (50 mg/body weight). After two months of the diet treatment, blood and aorta were taken for biochemical analysis and histological studies. Results: The supplementation of G. atroviridis to a high cholesterol diet decreased the serum levels of cholesterol by 26%, LDL 19% and 46% for LDL/ HDL compared to giving only high cholesterol diet. Histological studies showed significant reduction in fat deposition in the aorta of high cholesterol diet animals given G. atroviridis by 36 % compared to the high cholesterol diet group. Conclusion: This study has shown that dietary intake of G. atroviridis had the tendency to decrease all lipid composition levels in the serum and it also reduced fat deposition in the aorta of high cholesterol diet animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Both virgin coconut oil (VCO) and tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) are rich in antioxidants and may protect the bone against bone loss induced by ovariectomy and high-fat diet. The study aimed to determine the protective effects of combined therapy of VCO and TRF on osteoporosis in ovariectomized (OVX) rat fed with high-fat diet., Materials and Methods: Thirty-six female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups: Sham-operated (SHAM), OVX control, OVX and given Premarin at 64.5 µg/kg (OVX+E2), OVX and given VCO at 4.29 ml/kg (OVX+V), OVX and given TRF at 30 mg/kg (OVX+T), and OVX and given a combination of VCO at 4.29 ml/kg and TRF at 30 mg/kg (OVX+VT). Following 24 weeks of treatments, blood and femora samples were taken for analyses., Results: There were no significant differences in serum osteocalcin levels between the groups (p>0.05), while serum C-terminal telopeptide of Type I collagen levels of the OVX+VT group were significantly lower than the other groups (p<0.05). The dynamic bone histomorphometry analysis of the femur showed that the double-labeled surface/bone surface (dLS/BS), mineral apposition rate, and bone formation rate/BS of the OVX+E2, OVX+T, and OVX+VT groups were significantly higher than the rest of the groups (p<0.05)., Conclusion: A combination of VCO and TRF has the potential as a therapeutic agent to restore bone loss induced by ovariectomy and high-fat diet., (Copyright: © Malik, et al.)

Cisplatin is a widely used antineoplastic agent for the treatment of metastatic tumors, advanced bladder cancer and many other solid tumors. However, at higher doses, toxicities such as nephrotoxicity may appear. Cisplatin leads to DNA damage and subsequently renal cell death. Besides that, oxidative stress is also implicated as one of the main causes of nephrotoxicity. Several studies showed that numerous natural products: ginseng, curcumin, licorice, honey and pomegranate were able to reduce the oxidative stress by restoring the levels of antioxidant enzymes and also at the same time act as an anti-inflammatory agent. Furthermore, pre-treatment with vitamin supplementation, such as vitamin C, E and riboflavin markedly decreased serum urea and increased the levels of antioxidant enzymes in the kidney even after cisplatin induction in cancer patients. These natural products possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory medicinal properties, and they can be safely used as a supplementary regime or combination therapy against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The present review focused on the protective role of a few natural products which is widely used in folk medicines in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Objective: To determine the association between carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (PWVCF); augmentation index (AI); and high-sensitivity C reactive protein (hs-CRP) with metabolic syndrome (MetS), and to determine the influence of ethnicity on PWVCF and AI, and the association between high hs-CRP and increased PWV, and AI in MetS., Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from September 2009 to September 2011. Three hundred and eighty men (Chinese and Malays) were recruited from the study. The PWVCF and AI were measured by Vicorder (SMT Medical, Wuerzburg, Germany). The hs-CRP level was also determined. We defined MetS using the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and harmonized criteria., Results: Malays had higher AI compared to the Malaysian Chinese. Patients with MetS had higher PWVCF (IDF criteria: 8.5 [8.3-8.7] versus 8.2 [8.0-8.4] m/s, p=0.03; harmonized criteria: 8.5 [8.4-8.7] versus 8.2 [8.0-8.4] m/s, p=0.007) and hs-CRP (IDF criteria: 0.9+/-2.0 versus 0.4+/-1.1 mg/L, p=0.0007; harmonized criteria: 0.8+/-1.9 versus 0.4+/-1.1 mg/L, p=0.002) compared to non-MetS. In subjects with MetS, those with high hs-CRP (>3 mg/L) had higher PWVCF., Conclusion: Augmentation index values were significantly higher in Malays compared with Malaysian Chinese. Metabolic syndrome was associated with increased PWVCF and hs-CRP. Patients with MetS and high hs-CRP were associated with higher PWVCF. The measurement of hs-CRP reflects the degree of subclinical vascular damage in MetS.

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportion in Malaysia and worldwide. Scientific studies have shown that herbal plant Piper sarmentosum exhibits an antidiabetic property. Despite the extensive usage and studies of this herb as alternative medicine, there is paucity of the literature on the safety information of this plant. Thus, the present study aimed to observe the subacute toxic effects of Piper sarmentosum aqueous extract (PSAE) on the haematological profile, liver, and kidney in rats. The extract was administered by oral gavage to 6 male and female Sprague Dawley rats in daily dose of 50 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 2000 mg/kg for 28 consecutive days. The control group received normal saline. General behavior of the rats, adverse effects, and mortality were observed for 28 days. The haematological and biochemical parameters were determined at baseline and after the treatment. PSAE did not show abnormality on the body weight and gross observation of internal organs. The haematological, biochemical and histopathological profiles showed minimal changes and variation within normal clinical range except for significant increase in serum potassium level that suggests the need of regular monitoring. Nevertheless, these findings suggested that PSAE up to 2000 mg/kg/day did not show subacute toxicity in Sprague Dawley rats.

Liver transplantation is the only solution for end-stage liver diseases. The common hepatic artery (CHA) arises from the coeliac trunk (CT), and the right (RHA) and left hepatic (LHA) arteries are its terminal branches. An abnormal arterial pattern would influence the surgical outcome. The anterior layer of the lesser omentum of a female cadaver was cleaned to identify the CHA, which was traced backwards for its origin and toward the porta hepatis for its terminal branches. In this case, the replaced RHA originated from the CT and ran posterior to the portal vein and the common bile duct. The replaced LHA arose from the left gastric artery. The CHA originated from the CT and branched out as the middle hepatic and gastroduodenal arteries. The replaced RHA and LHA with alteration in relation to the neighbouring structures is a complex and rare variant. Knowledge of this uncommon arterial anomaly is beneficial for hepatobiliary surgeons.