Pusat Pengajian Sains Kesihatan - Tesis

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Relationship Between Iron Deficiency Anaemia With Cognitive Function And Academic Performance Of The Primary School Children In Bachok, Kelantan
(2012-07)
Hasmiza Halib
The main objective of the study was to investigate the relationship between IDA with cognitive function of the school children. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 249 Malay primary school children (122 males and 127 females) aged 7-9 years old by systematic sampling method in rural area of Bachok, Kelantan.
Assessing the level of lead, cadmium and arsenic among farmers in KADA agricultural area, Kelantan
(2016-06)
Kasri, Hazmira Mohd
Heavy metals, particularly cadmium, lead, and arsenic, constitute a significant potential threat to human health. This study was conducted to determine the concentration of lead, cadmium and arsenic in nail samples from farmers at Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA), Kelantan, Malaysia. Control group of this study was selected from participants working in different environment which are USM Health Campus’s staffs. A total of 35 farmers and 35 USM Health Campus’s staffs participated in this study. The fingernails samples were extracted by using acid digestion and then analysed by Atomic Absorption spectrometry (AAS). Checklist was given to participants to get demographic, health status, and their agricultural activities data. In this study, the concentration of heavy metals was within the normal range and varies according to demographic factors. The result showed that the concentration of all heavy metals were significant different in exposed group as compared to control group (p < 0.05). There were also significant correlations between age with concentration of lead, arsenic (r = 0.317 and r = 0.326, resp., p < 0.01) respectively and cadmium (r = 0.257, p < 0.05). Findings suggested that agricultural activities could contribute to the accumulation of heavy metals in farmers. Hence, the control of human exposure to these metals was important in order to prevent adverse health effects. In conclusion, lead, cadmium and arsenic concentration among farmers were lower compared to the allowable limit and they should conduct good agricultural practice to maintain in normal range.
Recovery study of dangerous drugs in soft drinks using liquid-liquid extraction followed by gas chromatography-flame ionisation detector (GC-FID)
(2016-06)
Khai, Lee
Raves and night clubs are always associated with the recreational drugs, which are also referred as 'club drugs'. Dissolving illegal drugs, such as ketamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), into liquid forms to be disguised as bottled soft drinks is one of the current drug concealment methods. Hence, a recovery study to develop suitable method for detection and quantification of the amount of specific drugs contained in the soft drinks is proposed. The objective of this study is to study the recovery efficiency of liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) method used to extract drugs from the soft drinks. LLE with chloroform allowed the extraction of ketamine and MDMA from the sample soft drinks. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was used to confirm the presence of desired drugs in the extracts, followed by Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionisation Detector (GC-FID) analysis to quantify the amount of desired drugs extracted from the soft drinks. In GC-MS analysis, it was found that the quality of mass spectral match for MOMA (78%- 87%) was lower compared to ketamine (98%) and internal standard (91 %). In recovery study of repeated extraction on same sample, it was found that the amount of drugs recovered were consistent for blackcurrant juice (RSD = 6.77%) and ice lemon tea (RSD = 5.38%), but inconsistent for green tea (RSD = 15.52%) and orange juice (RSD = 29.43%). In recovery study using spiked samples, the average recovery percentage of ketamine from blackcurrant juice was 87.27 ± 5.72 %. The regression curve for recovery ofketamine was found to be sufficiently linear (R2 = 0.997), which indicated that the method was accurate. In brief, the analytical procedures of LLE, coupled with GC-MS and GC-FID in recovery study were found reliable for the extraction, detection and quantitation of ketamine and MDMA in the drug-laced soft drinks.
Morphological classification of male face images of three major ethnic groups for retrieval during identification
(2016-06)
Ghouse, Hazzreen Effendy Md
Human faces have their individual uniqueness. The morphology of the face is influenced by the genetic and epigenetic factors. The factors that contribute to individuality are exerted on every faces. The present human population originated from three distinct stock races, Mongoloid, Caucasoid and Negroid. The subsequent breakdown of the geographic barriers and mixing up of the gene pools due to factors such as marriage between stock races has been the cause for the diversity among features of the present population in general, and specifically in the facial structure. Epigenetic influences such as extreme climate, and differences in atmospheric pressure, has caused physical alteration in the human physical traits. Three major ethnic groups, Malay, Chinese and Indian that have originated in different geographical regions but are now living in Malaysia as Malaysian national are studied in this research for identifying facial features that manifest significant relationship to ethnic affiliation. The data collected from photogrammetric measurement of the scaled face images that were recorded in a controlled manner from each of the 105 volunteering individuals were analysed using one-way ANOVA. These ethnic groups were found to exhibits significant differences in twenty out of the total twenty-four anthropometric measurements taken.
The effects of cessation of supplementary isokinetic and isotonic training on strengh and biomechanical variables in state-level weightlifters
(2016-06)
Mohamed, Iqbal Wan
INTRODUCTION: To date, no studies have been carried out to compare the effects of cessation of supplementary Isokinetic Training (IT) and Isotonic Training (TON) in strength and biomechanical variables among elite weightlifters. Regarding biomechanical variables of the rotator cuff muscles, most studies were conducted on sedentary population and racket-sports instead of advanced level of weightlifting athletes. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the cessations effects 1 month after they completed the 24 sessions of isokinetic and isotonic supplementary training among state-level weightlifters on biomechanical variables of rotator cuff muscles. METHODS: Nineteen participants were gender- and weight- matched and randomly assigned into isotonic training group (TON) and isokinetic training (IT) group. Both groups went through 24 sessions of training programmed three times per week for 8 weeks in three distinct lifting positions. The intensity of training was increased progressively in terms of number of lifting repetitions per set and number of sets lifted. After 1 month of the cessation of supplementary training programmed, the athlete when through a follow-up testing. The 2D-kinematic analysis of barbell velocity was evaluated during the second pull and turnover phases of I-RM power clean and power snatch tests. In IT group, the participant was allowed to be seated on the the guidelines instructions. The position of the chair and dynamometer will be set at the particular angle depends on the xvi chair to perform the training programed based on the participant’s comfortability. The participants were asked to perform two sets of 12 repetitions and the angular velocity was set at 120°.s '. Meanwhile in TON group, they using the dumbbell and perform the exercise with maximum effort (as fast as they can). RESULTS: This study revealed that there was no interaction between time (e.g., post- and postl month-tests) and training programmed (e.g., IT versus TON) was found I month after they completed their 24 sessions of supplementary training on biomechanical variables among state-level weightlifters. There was a trend that indicated positive changes in biomechanical variables of IT group compared to TON group in terms of peak torque/body weight, time to peak torque and average power of the external rotation of the shoulder joint. However, the TON training was better compared to IT training after the cessation effects in 1RM (repetition maximum) power snatch and power clean, and also in kinematic analysis during 1RM test. CONCLUSION: The isokinetic training program has a potential to be proposed as an additional mode of training among the experienced weightlifters to improve their performance.
Study on vitamin D status and determination of optimum vitamin D level based on bone turnover markers in Kota Bharu, Kelantan.
(2017)
Muda, Noor Bayani Che
Background: There is no optilnmn level or threshold that has been clearly established to define whether there is adequate store of vitamin D in the body for general bone health. Therefore, our study is to determine the optimum level of vitamin D for maintenance of healthy skeleton based on bone remodelling process. Methods: This was a cross sectional study involving healthy adult population in Kota Bharu, Malaysia, aged 18-50 years. We measured serwn 25(0H)D, serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), serum C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen ( CTX) and Procollagen 1 Intact N-Terminal (P1NP) in 120 healthy adult from 6 sub districts that had been selected by multi stage sampling ( 64 males, 56 females). Results: The mean of vitamin Din this study was 23.50 (±8.74) nmol/L and there was significant difference of vitamin D betvveen gender (26.81±8.3 nmol/L and 19.72±7.68 nmol/L males and females respectively), p value < 0.001. More than 50% of female subjects had vitamin D less than 20 nmol/L, while only 20.3% of male subjects had vitamin D below 20 nmol/L. Based on LOESS plot, the bone turnover markers showed plateau result at vitamin D level of 3 5 nmoi!L for CTX and 20 nmoi/L for p 1 NP. Then, at vitamin D level of 20 nmol/L there is a step decrease of PTH level. Conclusion: The mean of vitamin D among general healthy population in Kota Bharu was 23.50nmoi/L. Based on inspection of LOESS plot for CTX, PlNP and PTH versusvitamin D level, we concluded that vitamin D level between 20 nmol/L to 35 nmol/L is considered sufficient to maintain healthy skeleton.
Assessment of nutritional status, nutrient intake, physical activity and quality of life among overweight & obese female government staffs in Kota Bharu, Kelantan.
(2017)
Ayoub, Aqila
Assessment of nutritional status, nutrient intake, physical activity and quality of life were carried out among 160 overweight and obese women government staffs in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Data was collected using a questionnaire which included socio-demographic characteristics, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), 24-hour dietary recall and Impact Weight Quality of Life (IWQOL) questionnaire. Body mass index, waist circumference, weight and height were measured using standardized methods. Almost half of the respondents (36.9 %) were within age of 30-39 years. Majority of the respondents were Malay (99.4%) and followed by Chinese (0.6%). Mean weight, height and BMI of the respondents were 72.3 ± 9.12 kg, 1.55 ± 0.06 cm, and 30.0 ± 3.33 kg/m2 respectively. Based on WHO classification, 60.0% of respondent were overweight and 40% of respondents are obese respectively. The waist circumference of respondents for normal and obese individuals are 1.9% and 98.1% respectively. The mean total physical activity score was high in obese group (17171.63 ± 13353.24) than overweight group (14238.23 ± 9963.04). Furthermore, the mean total calorie intake of respondents for overweight (1631.13 ± 458.18 kcal) was higher than obese (1513.03 ± 475.68 kcal). Significant linear relationship was found between protein intake in sexual life of quality of life (b=0.13, 95% CI= 0.001, 0.258, p < 0.048), age in public distress of quality of life (b= -0.386, 95% CI= -0.006, -0.106, p < 0.007) and individual income in public distress of quality of life (b= -0.002, 95% CI= -0.003, 0.000, p < 0.024). This indicate that age, individual income and protein intake can be used a predictor for quality of life. However, there is no association was identified between physical activity and BMI with quality of life.
A study on geriatric patients attending emergency department Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia.
(2017)
Sjahid, Afifah Sjamun
This study aimed to determine the proportion of geriatric patients attending Emergency Department in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) within January 2015 to March 2015, the mean duration of hospital stay and the outcome of the illness in geriatric patients admitted to Hospital USM. This study also aimed to identify the associated factors of mortality in geriatrics patients admitted to Hospital USM. This study was a retrospective cohort study from January 2015 till March 2015 at Emergency Department Hospital USM. All patients aged 60 years and above attended Emergency Department of Hospital USM from January 2015 until March 2015 were included. Systematic random sampling was used. A total of 209 patients had been included in this study. Descriptive statistics were expressed as cross-tables for categorical variables and as mean ± standard deviation for numerical variables. Independent categorical variables were compared using Chi-Square test or Fisher’s exact test. Paired group comparisons were performed using Independent t-test or Mann Whitney test for numerical variables. Total patients included in this study were 209 patients. The mean (standard deviation, SD) age was 68.4 (6.95) years old, with age range from 60 till 106 years old. Fifty-eight percent were male and 95.7% were Malay. Seventy-eight percent were triaged as an emergency; with 19.6% were red zone cases, while 51.2% were yellow zone cases. Three most common presenting symptoms were respiratory symptoms (24.9%), cardiovascular symptoms (19.65%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (12.9%). Out of209 patients studied, 95 patients (45.5%) were admitted. Mean duration of hospital stay was 8 days (mean 7.57, SD 12.97). Out of 95 patients admitted, only 15 patients (15.8%) died in the ward. Factors associated with mortality in hospitalized geriatric patients were gender (p = 0.009), patient’s method of arrival (p = 0.001), conscious level on arrival (p < 0.001), patient’s condition when transferring to the ward; either ventilated (p = 0.014) and on inotropic agent (p < 0.001) or not, patient’s first pulse rate taken at triage (p < 0.001) and first blood investigations taken in emergency department; white blood cell (p = 0.007), hemoglobin (p = 0.019), serum lactate (p < 0.001) and serum urea (p = 0.036). Majority of the geriatric patients triaged as emergency cases indicated that they mostly came with ill-conditioned that need to be attended immediately. By knowing the common presenting symptoms and associated factors of mortality in admitted geriatric patients will alert medical personnel in the emergency department to treat this group of patients more thoroughly and judiciously.
Effects of using breathing appplication and eeg muse device to enhance state level bowlers’ performance
(2018-07)
Raza, Muhammad Qasim
Given the key role of coping strategies in sports, this study sought to determine whether the use of breathing app and EEG-muse neurofeedback training would cause a reduction in arousal level and to enhance the scoring performance of the Malaysian state level tenpin bowlers. Besides, Heart Rate Variability indices were also measured to predict performance outcomes. Eleven State-level bowlers volunteered to took part in the study. The participants were exposed to three research conditions namely control, breathing intervention and muse intervention. The study was conducted over three weeks, with a research condition each week at random order. Prior to the intervention, the participants were required to answer the CSAI- 2R questionnaire; then the intervention was applied after which the players performed three sets of tenpin bowling simulated competition. The CSAI-2R questionnaire was again completed by the participants after post-performance. The HRV indices namely (SDNN and RMSSD) were also measured during the resting state of the bowlers (prior to the performance) and immediately following muse intervention. The results revealed that there was no significant difference in the arousal level of the bowlers following the intervention (p > 0.05). The bowling performance improved following the interventions as the results were significant (p = 0.032), which showed that Muse intervention has the highest bowling performance scores (359.09 ± 20.48), followed by breathing apps intervention (354.64 ± 21.68), and then control condition (344.27 ± 21.15). The results for HRV indices were only significant for RMSSD (p = 0.004). The bowling performance of the bowlers increased following intervention while the interventions did not have any effect over the sub-scales of CSAI-2R. The HRV indices also did not appear to be significant in predicting bowlers’ performance although the RMSSD results changed but were higher instead of being lower. The findings of the study suggest thatthere is a positive effect of EEG-muse NFB and breathing app use in enhancing bowlers’performance.
A 4-week internal training load monitoring and fatigue responses of malaysian under-18 rugby players during competitive season
(2018-08)
Azis, Muhamad Fakhrul Hakim
Monitoring internal training loads using session ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) has been used extensively to manage fatigue and to optimise sports performance in athletes but none was reported in Malaysian athletes. Accurate monitoring of internal training loads could assist coaches in the adjustment of training, mode, intensity and duration during the competitive season. This study was to quantify the internal training loads (training load, monotony and strain) and fatigue and to identify the correlation of internal loads on fatigue responses of Malaysian under-18 rugby players for 4-weeks during competitive season. Thirty eight male participants of the study, aged from 16-18 years old, were recruited among the students from the Kolej Vokasional Pengkalan Chepa (N=38). The research variables of this study were collected in four weeks prior to their competition. After 90 minutes of every training session, they were asked to rate their training session using the RPE scale. Then, the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory (MFSI)-Short form were administered once per week at the end of their training session for 4 weeks. The participants were trained five days per week as per coach’s training programme, hence the total number of days of data collection were 20 days. The types of training consisted of cardiovascular, strength, power and tactical. All data was entered into Microsoft Excel 2013. Statistical analyses was performed using IBM SPSS version 24.0. All data are presented as mean �} standard deviation (SD) in descriptive statistics. The statistical analysis used in this study was repeated measure ANOVA. The statistical significance was set 0.05. Pearson correlation at p was used to analyse the relationship between internal training load variables and MFSI. Results showed that the training load in week 4 (2594.00 �} 2.30) was significantly higher compared to week 1 (2388.55 �} 343.87), week 2 (2284.34 �} 411.41) and week 3 (2218.42 �} 521.63). Monotony in week 4 was higher (1.70 �} 3.13) compared to week 3 (1.43 �} 0.44). The mean of monotony in week 2 was higher (1.60 �} 0.35) than week 1 (1.49 �} 0.09). Strain increased in week 2 was higher (3728.44 �} 1228.51) compared to week 1 (3605.57 �} 653.51). In week 3, the mean strain decreased (3354.59 �} 1810.58) and increased in week 4 (4145.66 �} 306.38). In training load, monotony, strain and the total score of fatigue (TSF) correlation, the result showed that training load increased with moderate correlations to TSF (r=0.342; r=0.402; r=0.469). In monotony (r=354; r=0.371; i=0.421) and strain (r=0.343; r=0.383; r=0.446), there were also moderate correlation to TSF. The results obtained in this study will help the coaches and trainers to develop an effective training programme in order to maximise their athlete’s performance, reduce fatigue and subsequently prevent injuries.
In silico analysis, molecular modeling and docking of pseudomonas aeruginosa putative choline kinase
(2021-10)
Almakfoukh, Abdonasr Mohamed Ali
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major player in the bacterial invasion. Treating P. aeruginosa infections has become a serious challenge due to the bacterium's ability to survive several of the currently available medicines. To put an end to the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) issue, the quest for novel antimicrobics has been a key focus in the relevant research community. The AMR phenomenon has been evolving at a breakneck pace that has not been matched by the development of new drugs. As a result, innovative antimicrobials are urgently needed. Repurposing current medications allows for the development of novel antimicrobials. Choline kinase inhibitors (ChoKIs) could be one of these cutting-edge antimicrobials that puts an end to AMR once and for all. ChoKIs, which are used as anticancer drugs in human, have the potential to inhibit P. aeruginosa choline kinase (PaChoK). Inhibition of choline kinase would disrupt the synthesis of lipopolysaccharide/lipoteichoic acid molecules that are required for the bacterial cell membrane integrity. This study aims to characterize the basic properties of PaChoK by in silico approaches and generate the model structure of this enzyme for further molecular docking with ChoKI to assess the potential of utilizing ChoKIs as antimicrobial agent against P. aeruginosa. Basic bioinformatic analysis shows that PaChoK is abundant with alanine amino acids, has copious negatively charged residues and low solubility if expressed in Escherichia coli. Multiple amino acid sequence alignment and protein structure superimposition revealed homology between human and P. aeruginosa choline kinases, indicating the ChoKIs previously used to inhibit human choline kinase as potential anti-PaChoK. The model structure of PaChoK was generated and used for docking with hemicholinium- 3 (HC-3), a well known human ChoK inhibitor. The docking results showed feasible HC-3 interaction inside the choline-binding pocket of PaChoK, which interacts with seven pocket residues. The evidence clearly supports the ChoKIs such as Hemicholinium-3 appropriateness as anti-PaChoK that can be further develop into antimicrobials. Yet, experimental validation of ChoKIs interaction with and inhibition of PaChoK is still required to search for the most potent ChoKIs that can end AMR of P. aeruginosa.
Evaluation of physical and mechanical properties of zirconia and alumina reinforced experimental nanohybrid dental luting composite cement using silica from rice husk
(2022-03)
Islam, Md. Saiful
Aims: This study aimed to extract silica from the rice husk, then characterised the synthesised silica and commercial zirconia and alumina fillers to fabricate experimental nanohybrid dental luting composite cement (NHDLCC). The zirconia and alumina reinforced experimental NHDLCC were subjected for the evaluation of compressive strength, flexural strength, viscosity, water sorption and solubility testings. Materials and methods: The unsilanated nano silica from rice husk was characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). Silica, zirconia and alumina fillers were subjected to a surface treatment using silane coupling agents. All the silanated and unsilanated fillers were then characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Three groups were fabricated based on different types of filler reinforcement: Group 1 (3 wt.% zirconia); Group 2 (3 wt.% alumina); Group 3 (3 wt.% zirconia and 2 wt.% alumina) whereas experimental NHDLCC without zirconia and alumina reinforcement was used as a negative control and a commercial nanohybrid dental luting composite, Rely-XTM U200 luting cement (3M ESPE; USA) was used as a positive control. All the experimental groups were then characterized using (SEM) equipped with (EDX) and subjected to its mechanical and physical properties evaluation that included compressive strength, flexural strength, viscosity, water sorption and solubility. Oneway ANOVA was used for multiple group comparison followed by post-hoc (Bonferroni) A statistically significant level was set at p = 0.05. Results: SEM and EDX confirmed the homogenously distributed spherical-shaped filler and the presence of filler particles in each group of expermental NHDLCC. The compressive strength of 3 wt.% zirconia reinforced filler group was found significantly higher when compared to the negative control (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, for the flexural strength, the water sorption and solubility, 3 wt.% zirconia and 2 wt.% alumina reinforced filler group showed significantly higher compared to the negative control (p < 0.05). For the viscosity testing, 3 wt.% alumina reinforced filler group showed statistically significant increase of viscosity compared to control at the oscillation frequency (ω) of 1 rad/s (p < 0.05). However, the difference was found not statistically significant at the oscillation frequency (ω) of 10 rad/s (p > 0.05) of NHDLCC. Conclusion: The silica was successfully extracted from the rice husk and all three fillers were characterised before and after surface treatment with the silane coupling agent. The reinforcement of different percentages of zirconia and alumina filler particles in the experimental NHDLCC improved compressive strength, flexural strength, viscosity properties, and decreased water sorption and solubility.
Evaluation of physical fitness after attachment of neuropriming device among adolescent football players
(2022-06)
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a newly developed, noninvasive technique that can help researchers understand the relationship between brain processes and exercise performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of tDCS on health-related fitness and skill-related fitness tests among adolescent Malaysian football players of various age groups. The study employed a blinded crossover, randomised controlled trial, to compare the non-invasive approach to a shamcondition. Sixty-one healthy male football players from the Malaysian National Football Development Programme (NFDP), aged between 13 to 17 years old, with at least two years of competitive experience representing their state, volunteered to take part in this study. The participants’ anthropometric assessments were measured, including their weight, height, and body mass index (BMI). The participants were randomised to either receive tDCS or sham stimulation conditions, with 14 days apart. The health-related fitness assessment included of bleep test for VO2 max, body composition, back and leg strength, hand grip strength, one-minute sit-up and push up tests and sit and reach for flexibility. Skill-related fitness assessments consisted of agility test, standing long jump, vertical jump, force platform and 30-meter sprint were measured, with 10 to 15 minutes of rest in-between testing. The results from the paired t-test showed that the football players who received tDCS stimulation improved in their back and leg strength test, one-minute sit up, right handgrip strength test, vertical jump test and force platform when compared to sham condition. However, only VO2 max, right handgrip strength test and 30-meter sprint test showed a significant improvement using the tDCS stimulation, with p = 0.021, p = 0.004 and p = 0.044 respectively. Repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) within groups analysis showed significance improvement using the tDCS stimulation in VO2 max for group under 13, handgrip strength test for group under 15, and vertical jump and agility test for group under 17. Improvement of test were shown for back and leg strength test, one-min sit up, one-min push up, agility test and vertical jump for group under 13; handgrip test, standing long jump, vertical jump, one-min sit up and force platform for group under 15; VO2 max, right handgrip test, flexibility, one-min sit up, vertical jump and force platform for group under 17. The results demonstrated that tDCS improved some health-related fitness and skill-related fitness measurements in the Malaysian adolescents’ football players. The study added to the literature that neurostimulation technology has a positive relationship between the brain and physical performance. The findings are hoped to be applied and aid in the development of specific training programmes for Malaysian football players to achieve peak performance. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of this intervention on training as well as the precise mechanism through Halo Sports.
Keberkesanan teaching games for understanding (TGfU) melalui permainan tradisional terhadap kecergasan fizikal, emosi dan keseronokan dalam kalangan murid ponteng di sekolah rendah
(2022-06)
Ibrahim, Mohamad Fadil
A quality learning process is able to increase students' experience in positive attitude, emotional and enjoyment. The conceptual integration of TGfU teaching modules through traditional games is seen to be able to change teaching and learning to be more structured, effective, and interesting. The cross-sectional and quasiexperimental is used in this study. In the phase one study, the evaluation of the modules by experts showed that the constructed modules were very suitable For Study 1, the module was evaluated by experts which indicated that the module is suitable to be applied to the primary students, The result showed that the module has the level of usability of the module (95.4%), lesson planning (91.0%), module content (97.7%), TnL activities (99.0%), and related aspects of language (100%) agree and strongly agree. For Study 2, the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) test of the AEQ-PE-M questionnaire showed the model fit the data well with acceptable fit indices (CFI = 0.936, TLI = 0.926, RMSEA = 0.039 (90% CI, 0.034, 0.045), SRMR = 0.049). The final model of the Q-LES-Q-M also showed acceptable construct validity by using CFA (CFI = 0.930, TLI = 0.926, RMSEA = 0.029 (90% CI, 0.025, 0.032), SRMR = 0.042)). In addition, the Composite Reliability (CR) and Cronbach’s Alpha (CA), indicated satisfactory reliability of AEQ-PE-M and Q-LES-Q-M. In study 3, mixed factorial ANOVA was used to test effectiveness of the TGfU module in traditional games between the intervention and control groups. The result showed that for physical aspects, there was no significant effect in time, F (1,58) = 7.559, p-value = 0.080, eta2 = 0.115 and in group, F (1,58) = 0.036, p = 0.850, eta2 = 0.001. However, there is a significant interaction effect with time and groups, F (1,58) = 11.077, with p = 0.020, eta2 = 0.160. In terms of emotion aspect, there was also no significant effect in time, F (1,58) = 0.278, p = 0.600, eta2 = 0.005 and in group, F (1,58) = 1.038, p-value = 0.312, eta2 = 0.018. But, the interaction effect was significant, F (1,58) = 0.006, p = 0.937, eta2 = 0.001. As for enjoyment aspect, the results showed a significant time effect, F (1,58) = 70.087, p = 0.001, eta2 = 0.547 and group effect, F (1,58) = 3.703, p = 0.001, eta2 = 0.499. However, there was no significant interaction effect, F (1,58) = 57.672, p = 0.590, eta2 = 0.060. Further analysis by using t-test was conducted to examine the mean differences in levels of physical fitness, emotional, and enjoyment before and after the intervention for treatment group. Results showed a significant difference in mean score of the physical test (SEGAK) for the treatment group t (29) = -3.751, p < 0.001. For emotions, there was no significant difference found in mean score with t (119) = 4.140, p < 0.742. In term of enjoyment, there was a significant mean score difference on the pleasure test with t (29) = 8.580, p < 0.001. Furthermore, a correlation test was conducted between physical, emotional, and enjoyment. Only the physical constructenjoyment showed a positive relationship, with p-value = 0.409 (0.250), physicalemotional with p-value = -0.56 (0.768) and emotional construct-pleasure = -0.269 (0.166) indicates an insignificant value. The intervention program through the TGfU concept teaching module on truant students showed that it is an effective intervention to improve the physical aspects and enjoyment besides creating a positive relationship between physical fitness and emotional among truant students in primary school.
An integrated Raman spectroscopy and self-organizing feature map chemometrics analysis for the discrimination of gel inks
(2022-07)
Asri, Muhammad Naeim Mohamad
One of the techniques often used by forensic document examiner in the analysis of questioned documents is Raman spectroscopy. This technique has proven effective in rapidly and accurately characterising ink with the advantage of not causing permanent damage to the analysed document. Gel ink pen was first introduced to the market around 1990s by the Sakura Colour Product Corporation, Japan as an alternative daily writing instrument other than ballpoint-pen. Being marketed in varieties of attractive colours and also environmentally friendly, gel ink pen has become very popular among consumers therefore it appearances in cases involving document fraud is anticipated. Unfortunately, studies involving gel ink pen in the perspective of questioned document are limited compared to ball-point pen. In forensic investigation, it was reported that 80% handwritten documents were written using ballpoint pens. Therefore, due to the lack of objectivity in interpreting gel inks, this study proposed using novel chemometric techniques for discriminating gel-pen inks in forensic investigation. This study show the comprehensive conceptual work flow with conventional chemometrics techniques of Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) and novel Self-Organising Feature Maps (SOFM) in tandem with Raman spectroscopy to discriminate gel inks of three different colours i.e. blue, red and black before and after undergoing ageing process for nearly three years. Preliminary dissolution studies performed by dissolving gel inks in a varieties of organic solvents show that gel inks of pigment based colourants do not normally dissolve in organic solvents while Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) is only successful to dye-based colourant gel inks. Queries made to the acquired blue, red and black gel inks Raman spectra against a database containing Raman spectra of 200 pigments, suggested that CI Pigment Blue 15: 1 and 15: 3, could be the main pigment in blue gel inks conversely Red DPP BO (23180 – CI Pigment Red) and XSL Poppy Red (26308 – CI Pigment 112) could be the main pigment in red gel inks however main pigments in black gel inks remain unidentified. In most cases, Hierarchical Cluster Analyses (HCA) have recorded lesser number of clusterings compared to Principal Component Analyses (PCA). In general, both conventional chemometrics techniques are unable to discriminate the gel inks according to their brands however this is not the case for the novel SOFM. All SOFM maps are in line with the classification made by the visual Raman comparison of inks. The misclassified sample (HCA and PCA) was successfully resolved using the SOFM model signifying its capability for both discrimination and classification purposes. Cross validations employing the k-validation strategy have recorded 100% correct classification rates for all the SOFM models, thus signifies the robustness and potential of SOFM for discrimination of gel inks. As for the aged gel inks, SOFM has also successfully sourced the aged inks to their fresh counterparts. This study reported the first use of SOFM for discrimination and classification of gel inks. The findings of this study did not only communicate the comprehensive work flow for gel ink analysis but most importantly signify the potential of SOFM to be employed in tandem with Raman spectroscopy as an alternative pattern recognition technique to the conventional chemometrics techniques that can be highly useful in document fraud investigation involving gel inks.
Development of recombinase polymerase amplification assay for the detection of mycobacterium tuberculosis
(2022-08)
Salleh, Nur Eyuni Mohd
The World Health Organization (WHO) has incorporated various strategies to strengthen tuberculosis (TB) control programmes. The current diagnostic tools for TB detection require different levels of laboratory sophistication due to technical complexities, expertise and biosafety requirements in nucleic acid (NA) based TB testing. Therefore, it is challenging to use NA-based assays in resource-constrained settings. With such limitations, there is a need to develop new approaches that can facilitate point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. Recombinase amplification assay (RPA) is an NA-based amplification platform that requires an optimal heat source for accurate diagnosis of a particular disease in a short time. The method is capable of amplifying specific NA at a single, low and constant temperature with minimal amount of sample preparation. In this study, a rapid assay for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) based on the RPA targeting the B9 sequence was developed. The RPA-based detection of Mtb DNA was achieved within 20 minutes at 39°C. The analytical sensitivity of the test was one pg when tested using purified Mtb genomic DNA. The clinical performance of the RPA was evaluated using 387 sputum samples with the culture method as the gold standard. RPA and microscopy were compared to the gold standard in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, false positive value and false negative value. The results showed that the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, false positive value and false negative value of RPA were 97.2% (95% CI: 93.5, 99.0), 92.2% (95% CI: 87.6, 95.2), 91.7% (95% CI: 87.8, 95.6), 97.4% (95% CI: 95.2, 99.7), 7.8% (4.2, 11.4), 2.8% (95% CI:0.4, 5.1), respectively, while microscopy had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, false positive value and false negative value of 90.6% (95% CI: 85.4, 94.1), 88.8% (95% CI: 83.7, 92.5), 87.7% (95% CI: 83.0, 92.4), 91.5% (95% CI:87.6, 95.4), 11.2% (95% CI:6.9, 15.4) and 9.4% (95% CI:5.2, 13.6), respectively. RPA was found to be more sensitive and specific compared to microscopy, suggesting that the method has the potential to be used as a point-of-care (POC) TB diagnostic tool.
Comparison of the three forensic DNA Sampling and extraction techniques on various mock crime scene samples for reliable and rapid DNA analysis.
(2022-09)
Yee, Glenna Tan Jie
The capability to generate reliable DNA profiles rapidly via short tandem repeat (STR) analysis to identify the suspect could greatly assist in crime investigations. This study evaluated the performance of a compilation of sample collection and extraction techniques consisting of the Maxwell RSC 48 FSC DNA IQ Casework Kit, Casework Direct System, and the COPAN MicroFLOQ® Direct Swab. A total of 48 reactions consisting of 16 mock casework samples for each technique ranging from bloodstain, saliva stained and touch DNA samples that were commonly encountered in crime scene were used in this study. The samples extracted using the Maxwell RSC 48 FSC DNA IQ Casework Kit were quantified using the NanoDrop™ 2000 Spectrophotometer. Subsequently, the collected samples for the three techniques were amplified using the GlobalFiler™ Express PCR Amplification Kit. The amplified products were then loaded for capillary electrophoresis via the ABI 3500xL Genetic Analyzer before analyzed using the GeneMapper ID-X v1.4 software. Results demonstrated that the three techniques generated relatively high percentage of autosomal STR allele call in total (100%, 100% and 96% respectively). Particularly, the COPAN MicroFLOQ™ with 96% was possible to analyze wide range of DNA samples where seven out of 16 samples were typed successfully. Meanwhile, the same number of sample types (n=6) with 100% autosomal STR allele call percentage and full consistent profiles were generated via the extraction using the two extraction kits. Notably, the average peak height across the samples using the former extraction kit was the highest which attributed to the automated extraction and purification employed that corresponded to the high DNA concentration yielded. This were followed by Casework Direct System and COPAN MicroFLOQ . In terms of turnaround time and cost associated, the MicroFLOQ® Direct Swab outperformed the other two techniques followed by the Casework Direct System extraction which took one hour for complete extraction. Meanwhile, the Maxwell FSC DNA IQ Casework Kit which took a longer time and higher cost for the entire extraction (1 hour 30 minutes and average RM 76.15 per reaction respectively). Not to mention, the use of the kit coupled with the automated Maxwell RSC 48 instrument ( RM 450, 000 per instrument) were on the more expensive end as compared to the other two techniques. Overall, the three different techniques had their respective merits and pitfalls but the COPAN MicroFLOQ® Direct Swab had an edge over the other two methods in terms of time, cost-effectiveness and ease to use. It also offered numerous advantages due to its direct PCR amplification properties, relatively high detection ability and quality DNA profiles produced. This resulted in the COPAN MicroFLOQ® Direct Swab capable to generate DNA profiles reliably in a short time thus potentially become a novel preferable collection technique employed by law enforcement officers.
Assessment of nutrient intake and levels of nutrition knowledge, attitude, and practice among gymnasium users in Jordan
(2023-03)
Moh’d, Al-Quran Mohammad Abdel-Hakim
Proper nutrition is important for physical performance of an individuals. However, lack of knowledge might lead to negative attitude and poor dietary practice. The purpose of this study is to assess nutrient intake and the levels of nutrition knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among gymnasium users in Jordan. In this study, a total of 138 male gymnasium users (18 – 35 years) were recruited from several gymnasiums in Jordan. Their height and weight were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The KAP-Sports nutrition questionnaires which contains 3 sections was administered. In addition, participants were asked to record their dietary intake in a given food diary for three days (two weekdays and one day on the weekend). Data were analysed using Nutritionist Pro Software and SPSS vs. 25.0 (Descriptive and Pearson correlation analysis). As a result, majority of the participants had moderate knowledge on sports nutrition (77.6%), neutral attitude (84.7%) and fair dietary practice (67.4%). The mean score for knowledge, attitude and practice was 18.07±2.56, 58.75±6.24 and 29.72±3.55 respectively. The correlation analysis revealed that there was a positive significant correlation between knowledge and attitude (p=0.048, r=0.18) as well as practice (p=0.018, r=0.20). The mean of daily total energy intake was 2085.7 ± 468.1 Kcals while the percentage out of total energy for CHO, protein and fat was 42%, 19%, and 39% respectively. The total energy and CHO intake were lower than the recommended value. Protein intake was within the RDA while fat intake was higher. The mean of daily Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and zinc intake was 0.7 ± 0.3 mg, 98.0 ± 34.7 mg, 9.0 ± 1.8 mg, 823.5 ± 277.8 mg, 279.3 ± 64.3 mg, and 8.6 ± 1.1 mg respectively. Compared to the DRI value, participants’ micronutrients intake was lower except for Vitamin C and calcium. In conclusion, gymnasium users in Jordan did not have adequate knowledge that can affect positive attitude as well as good dietary practice. Sports nutrition education is recommended to ensure adequate and correct knowledge are disseminated to the athletes.
Novel binding sites on GABA (A) receptors for the alternative effects of zolpidem: in vivo and in silico studies
(2023-04)
Mohamad, Fatin Hilyani
Patients with brain injuries commonly suffered significant motor and cognitive decline which interfere with their recovery process. To improve the quality of life in these patients, pharmacological intervention targeting the motor and cognitive functions are usually administered. There have been reports on the awakening effects of the sleeping pill, zolpidem when administered to patients with different types of brain injury. Since the sedative and hypnotic effect of the drug is elicited from the α(1/2/3/5)-γ interface of GABA (A) receptor, it is possible that this effect is contributed from different binding sites which have not been explored before. Hence, this thesis aimed to investigate the molecular and pharmacological reason behind this paradoxical effect through zolpidem administration in animal behavioural studies (in vivo) supported with analysis on protein-ligand complex through computational methods (in silico). These rats with induced ischaemic injury and impaired cognitive functions were given different doses of zolpidem (control, saline, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mg/kg) and underwent open-field test and Morris water maze tests. Zolpidem administration on these animals showed improvement from the groups receiving 1.0 mg/kg zolpidem in comparison to the non-treated and those receiving higher doses of zolpidem. Further, immunohistochemistry study showed significant effects on the expression of hippocampal α1 and ε subunits of GABA (A) receptors. The observations suggested; both subunits have complementary action during ischaemic injury and both subunits have modulatory action towards 1.0 mg/kg of zolpidem. To prove this, binary α1β3α1 and GABA (A) ε-containing receptors were created using homology modelling technique and molecular docking of zolpidem were performed at several targeted interfaces of these receptors, followed by molecular dynamics simulation. Comparison of energy binding, protein-ligand interaction and structural stability to the control α1+-γ2- interface of α1β3γ2 GABA (A) receptor, showed potential binding action of zolpidem towards α1+-α1- interface from binary α1β3α1 and α1+-ε- interface of α1β3εε GABA (A) receptors. Even though the mechanism on how exactly these interfaces contribute to the awakening action of zolpidem is not revealed, these data are still able to demonstrate the binding affinity of zolpidem towards the novel binding sites of α1+-α1- and α1+-ε- interfaces. As a result, proving the existence of other binding sites of zolpidem within GABA (A) receptors possibly created due to subunit rearrangement in post-brain injuries, which could have caused the awakening action of zolpidem.
Recovery and detection of methamphetamine-contaminated fingermarks in forensic settings
(2023-05)
Sarifudin, Sarah Aliah Amir
Fingermarks are usually invisible and could be contaminated by exogenous substances such as drugs. Whenever there are drug-related crimes, either clandestine drug manufacturing or distribution and abuse of illicit drugs, fingermark, and the drug substances are the two important pieces of forensic evidence where their evidential values shall be maximised. This study aimed to investigate the detection of methamphetamine-contaminated fingermarks in forensic settings. In this study, fingermarks were developed on eleven types of surface materials using black and white fingerprint powders. The effect of the presence of methamphetamine towards the recovery and interpretation of the fingermark, as well as the immediacy of deposition either as a fingermark deposited on a priorly methamphetamine-contaminated surface or a fingermark deposited on a clean surface but subsequently contaminated by the methamphetamine, were also investigated. The application of fingerprint powder was good in developing fingermarks from any surface; however, its suitability depends on the nature of the surface materials. The choice of fingerprint powders significantly affected the fingermark scoring with F (1, 122.22) = 301.834, p < 0.001. Black fingerprint powder produced better visualisation where the fingermarks on all the eleven surface materials tested in this study were successfully recovered compared to white fingerprint powders; however, fingermarks appeared on quartz countertops and brown melamine particle board surfaces were found more difficult to be recovered. Methamphetamine-contaminated fingermarks could still be recovered using the fingerprint powdering method, but the scoring of fingermarks could be reduced due to an exogenous substance. In determining the immediacy of deposition, methamphetamine crystals at the exterior of the fingermark residue and the distinct separations between the ridge and non-ridge areas of the fingermark could suggest the prior-deposition contaminated fingermark under a scanning electron microscope. Simon’s chemical test, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, and gas chromatography methods were useful in detecting the presence of methamphetamine from the surface-sampled samples. The fingerprint powder particles were less likely to interfere with the positive detection. No association was found between the application of fingerprint powder and the positive detection of methamphetamine by Simon’s test (p = 0.709). To conclude, techniques for detecting illicit methamphetamine-contaminated fingermarks were successfully established.

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