Pusat Pengajian Sains Kesihatan - Tesis

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A 4-week internal training load monitoring and fatigue responses of malaysian under-18 rugby players during competitive season
(2018-08)
Azis, Muhamad Fakhrul Hakim
Monitoring internal training loads using session ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) has been used extensively to manage fatigue and to optimise sports performance in athletes but none was reported in Malaysian athletes. Accurate monitoring of internal training loads could assist coaches in the adjustment of training, mode, intensity and duration during the competitive season. This study was to quantify the internal training loads (training load, monotony and strain) and fatigue and to identify the correlation of internal loads on fatigue responses of Malaysian under-18 rugby players for 4-weeks during competitive season. Thirty eight male participants of the study, aged from 16-18 years old, were recruited among the students from the Kolej Vokasional Pengkalan Chepa (N=38). The research variables of this study were collected in four weeks prior to their competition. After 90 minutes of every training session, they were asked to rate their training session using the RPE scale. Then, the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory (MFSI)-Short form were administered once per week at the end of their training session for 4 weeks. The participants were trained five days per week as per coach’s training programme, hence the total number of days of data collection were 20 days. The types of training consisted of cardiovascular, strength, power and tactical. All data was entered into Microsoft Excel 2013. Statistical analyses was performed using IBM SPSS version 24.0. All data are presented as mean �} standard deviation (SD) in descriptive statistics. The statistical analysis used in this study was repeated measure ANOVA. The statistical significance was set 0.05. Pearson correlation at p was used to analyse the relationship between internal training load variables and MFSI. Results showed that the training load in week 4 (2594.00 �} 2.30) was significantly higher compared to week 1 (2388.55 �} 343.87), week 2 (2284.34 �} 411.41) and week 3 (2218.42 �} 521.63). Monotony in week 4 was higher (1.70 �} 3.13) compared to week 3 (1.43 �} 0.44). The mean of monotony in week 2 was higher (1.60 �} 0.35) than week 1 (1.49 �} 0.09). Strain increased in week 2 was higher (3728.44 �} 1228.51) compared to week 1 (3605.57 �} 653.51). In week 3, the mean strain decreased (3354.59 �} 1810.58) and increased in week 4 (4145.66 �} 306.38). In training load, monotony, strain and the total score of fatigue (TSF) correlation, the result showed that training load increased with moderate correlations to TSF (r=0.342; r=0.402; r=0.469). In monotony (r=354; r=0.371; i=0.421) and strain (r=0.343; r=0.383; r=0.446), there were also moderate correlation to TSF. The results obtained in this study will help the coaches and trainers to develop an effective training programme in order to maximise their athlete’s performance, reduce fatigue and subsequently prevent injuries.
A deep reinforcement learning hybrid algorithm for the computational discovery and characterization of small proteins utilizing mycobacterium tuberculosis as a model
(2025-08)
Ouwabunmi, Babalola AbdulHafeez
The accurate prediction and characterization of small open reading frames (smORFs) are critical for understanding their functional roles in gene regulation and cellular processes. This study presents the development and evaluation of a novel hybrid machine learning algorithm that integrates the strengths of Random Forest and Gradient Boosting models to enhance the prediction of smORFs. The performance of the hybrid algorithm was rigorously assessed and compared to the standalone models using comprehensive evaluation metrics, including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results demonstrated that the hybrid model achieved superior performance, with an accuracy of 0.998, a sensitivity of 0.998, and a specificity of 1.00, significantly outperforming both the Random Forest and Gradient Boosting models individually. Additionally, transcriptomic data from Mycobacterium tuberculosis were utilized to validate the predictions, highlighting the biological relevance and potential applications of the proposed approach in computational biology. This study underscores the importance of combining machine learning techniques to improve prediction accuracy and provides a robust framework for advancing smORF discovery. While the focus was on comparing standalone and hybrid models, the study identifies opportunities for future benchmarking against external tools to further validate its contributions. The findings contribute to both computational and biological research, offering insights into smORF prediction methodologies and their applications.
A preliminary study of colorimetric nanoparticle evaluation of adulterated Simulated urine for amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) abuse testing
(2023-09)
Majeed, Masar Ibrahem
Drug abuse is a serious and widespread problem, and urine testing is considered one of the most used methods to detect drug abuse, but as evidenced by the history of people who have been referred to forensic laboratories, the use of cleaning powders, bases and their components, birth control pills, or aspirin pills to change Drug analysis results, because it is believed that these substances will affect the urine screening test, the purpose of this study is to determine the effect of these substances on common colorimetric laboratory tests (UDSTs) and to use colorimetric detection of unmodified gold nanoparticles to detect false negative results. In this study, a drug screening test strip (commonly performed on urine samples using immunoassays) will be screened using urine positive for amphetaminetype stimulants (ATS) and verifying the authenticity of the sample and the presence of ATS in the sample after addition of counterfeits using thin layer chromatography method. A method was used to screen false negative results with less effort and time than the thin layer chromatography (TLC) method using nanoparticle techniques of unmodified gold, the effect of eleven common types of adulteration was studied. Acetic acid, citric acid, hydroxide, hypochlorite based bleach, Pyridinium chorochromatic PCC, potassium dichromate, sodium chloride, ammonia and nitrate compounds, eye drops and detergents are the compounds discussed. In four tests, were tested on urine positive for ATS by adding adulterants at a 2:1 ratio, urine Dipstick testing and drug presence testing gave negative results for the adulteration cases, and a third colorimetric test was performed in the urine using TLC method, Marquis reagent, iodoplatins, and Dragendoff reagent. A silica plate was sprayed with a reagent for the virtual determination of amphetamine, methamphetamine, and 3,4- methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine (MDMA) at a temperature higher than 20 °C as a result, false negative medications can be detected in the urine sample. But this method requires time, effort and materials, the fourth test is to use a nanoparticle detector formulated to detect the presence of amphetamine-type stimulants, by changing the colour from red to blue at a temperature of 24 degrees Celsius, the nanoparticle detector was able to detect the presence of amphetamine-type stimulants in low concentrations in urine samples, when compared the use of the TLC colorimetric detection method with the nanoparticle colorimetric detection method, we conclude that the latter is superior because it gives results in less time and requires less effort.
A review of cervical cancer in HUSM for 15 years period, from 1996 to 2010
(2014)
Narawi @ Nawi, Mohamad Maulizal
Objective: This study was designed to review the cervical cancer cases that presented to HUSM between 1996 to 2010. In specific, it involved determination of characteristic of cervical cancer cases in HUSM during this period. This study also compared the epidemiology trend of cervical cancer in HUSM in the second and third 5 years period of the study. Apart from that, it also determined and compared the associated factors between early versus advanced cervical cancer in relation to morbidity and mortality in HUSM during the period Methodology: This retrospective study was conducted in HUSM for a period between 1996 to 2010. It covered all the 221 recorded case of cervical cancer that been admitted and primarily treated in HUSM . All their medical records were review and related information were entered in a standard data collection form. Results: There were 221 cervical cancers cases involved in this study. The vast majority were Malay ethnic. Base on Malaysian and Kelantan population study, it can be concluded that Chinese ethnic group had slightly higher risk to developed cervical cancer. 72% of patients were from Kelantan and 25% from Terengganu. Most came from the capital city of Kelantan and Terengganu due to its high population. The mean age of the patients diagnosed to have cervical cancer in this study was 54 years old. The majority of the patients were in the 50th decade of their life (age 50-59 years old). Generally patients that presented in this study were healthy patients with no comorbid (84%). All of the patients were married. Vast majority (95.5%) were multiparity with average parity of 5. More than half patients were postmenopausal (55.7%). There were very high correlation between not doing any pap smear to cervical cancer as 90% of patient never did any pap smear before. However poor corelation between smoking (5%) and family history of malignancy(2.7%) to cervical cancer in this study. Obtaining sexual history were not an easy task in this population. It was considered as humilation and for some as dysrespect. Thus it was very highly likely that the number of patients or partners with multiple sexual partners will be far less then it really were. Meanwhile, mean age of sexual exposure was 20 years old. Most patients were referred to HUSM by terteiry centre for further treatment 54%. Most patients either presented with PMB (38.9%) or PCB (38.5%). Majority of patients presented during stage 2B (31.2%) and 3B (25.3%). As per other underdeveloped country, 67.4% of cases were in their late stage. Only 32.6% came when the diseases still early. 78% were SCC, 15.4% were adenocarcinoma. Base on limited CT scan report 84.6% were locally advance disease. Correspond to stage at presentation 61.5% were treated with Rtx/ CCRT. Only 60 patients undergo surgical intervention with 80% without any complication. Of that, 77% had no dyscrepancy between clinical and surgical staging. 120 patients were disease free. The average were 36 months. However up to 65% defaulted their follow up and never turn up thereafter. Most patients that had recurrent presented in >12 to 36month periods, so did the death. However 49 patients having progressive disease. Up to 13% of patient that died due to non cervical cancer causes The comparison between year 2001-2005 and 2006-2010 shows few promising data. There were slight increased patients from terengganu (20 vs 28%) and coincidental reduce in chinese patient from 13 to 6.6%. The risk factor were comparable to general population of the study. In term of stages, the prominant changes were double the case of 1b2 disease ( from 6 to 12%). This were likely influenced the increased surgery and adjuvant Rtx/CCRT in 2006-2010 periods. Early recurrent (within 6-12 months periods) were almost triple (from 4.6 to 13.9% ). The exact cause were unknown. The death were also different,where by in the earlier year had only 53% death within 36 months,while in later years the percentage of death at the same periods were 72%. Regarding the factor between early and late disease. It was noted that patients with early stage were majority in 40th decades, whereby the late stage group were majority in 50th decades. Patients from Terengganu had 3 times likely late stage compare those from Kelantan. So did patients that referred by terteiry centre (with Odd 2.5) Postmenopausal were more associates with late disease with odd more than 2.5 times. The late stage groups had higher defaulter percentage in the first year of diagnosis (41% compare to 22% in early stage). There were significantly more death at late stage arm. The majority death in late stage were within 6 months (46%), while in early stage were in >12 to 36months periods (29.6%). Conclusion: Despite the innability to come with survival rate secondary to logistic problem, the study had shown the character of cervical cancer in HUSM. The main prognosis were still the stage of the disease. It was also proven that positive changes were not achieved easily with time alone. Thus wide coverage of screening with right targetted population to detect precancerous lesion and early disease, follow by proper treatment is the key to successfull in overall outcome of cervical cancer.
A study on geriatric patients attending emergency department Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia.
(2017)
Sjahid, Afifah Sjamun
This study aimed to determine the proportion of geriatric patients attending Emergency Department in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) within January 2015 to March 2015, the mean duration of hospital stay and the outcome of the illness in geriatric patients admitted to Hospital USM. This study also aimed to identify the associated factors of mortality in geriatrics patients admitted to Hospital USM. This study was a retrospective cohort study from January 2015 till March 2015 at Emergency Department Hospital USM. All patients aged 60 years and above attended Emergency Department of Hospital USM from January 2015 until March 2015 were included. Systematic random sampling was used. A total of 209 patients had been included in this study. Descriptive statistics were expressed as cross-tables for categorical variables and as mean ± standard deviation for numerical variables. Independent categorical variables were compared using Chi-Square test or Fisher’s exact test. Paired group comparisons were performed using Independent t-test or Mann Whitney test for numerical variables. Total patients included in this study were 209 patients. The mean (standard deviation, SD) age was 68.4 (6.95) years old, with age range from 60 till 106 years old. Fifty-eight percent were male and 95.7% were Malay. Seventy-eight percent were triaged as an emergency; with 19.6% were red zone cases, while 51.2% were yellow zone cases. Three most common presenting symptoms were respiratory symptoms (24.9%), cardiovascular symptoms (19.65%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (12.9%). Out of209 patients studied, 95 patients (45.5%) were admitted. Mean duration of hospital stay was 8 days (mean 7.57, SD 12.97). Out of 95 patients admitted, only 15 patients (15.8%) died in the ward. Factors associated with mortality in hospitalized geriatric patients were gender (p = 0.009), patient’s method of arrival (p = 0.001), conscious level on arrival (p < 0.001), patient’s condition when transferring to the ward; either ventilated (p = 0.014) and on inotropic agent (p < 0.001) or not, patient’s first pulse rate taken at triage (p < 0.001) and first blood investigations taken in emergency department; white blood cell (p = 0.007), hemoglobin (p = 0.019), serum lactate (p < 0.001) and serum urea (p = 0.036). Majority of the geriatric patients triaged as emergency cases indicated that they mostly came with ill-conditioned that need to be attended immediately. By knowing the common presenting symptoms and associated factors of mortality in admitted geriatric patients will alert medical personnel in the emergency department to treat this group of patients more thoroughly and judiciously.
A study on the profile of ketum preparation using colour test and GCMS
(2022-09)
Rosli, Wan Nur Qasrina Wan
Mitragyna speciosa, or known as ketum in Malaysia, is always misused as herbal drug of abuse. Typically, ketum is sold as their raw leaves, drinks or campsules in the street as well as incense online and also available at markets in more rural areas in Southeast Asia as traditional medicine, especially in Malaysia and Thailand. Ketum is very popular among men workers in Malaysia and Thailand. Many decades ago, ketum leaves have been used by natives due to its opium-like effect and cocaine-like stimulant ability to increase energy and combat fatigue. Mitragynine, an alkaloid from ketum leaves is responsible for these mentioned effects and this makes ketum drinks to become the emerging drug of abuse. However, it is unknown at all whether or not other ingredients were added in the ketum drinks available in the market.This present study was done to determine active compounds in the ketum drinks mixtures and to study the recent trend of ketum “cocktails”. In this study, all ketum drinks were obtained in the form of drinks. Presumptive colour test on ketum samples was successfully conducted using Van Urk reagent and 70 samples gave pink colour change, 4 samples gave dark pink colour change and one showed negative screening results. The preparation of ketum drink standard was successfully done by boiling 10 ketum leaves in a beaker on a hotplate. Besides, the extraction process of mitragynine from all 75 samples were successfully performed using liquid-liquid extraction method. Afterwards, the chloroform extracts were subjected to gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The resulting chromatograms and possible fragmentation pathways detected by GC-MS were discussed extensively. Out of 75 samples, only one sample did not exhibit mitragynine peak and majority showed simple chromatograms with only several peaks present in the chromatogram which include caffeine (RT=5.137) and mitragynine (RT=18.839). Sample 49 showed the most complex chromatograms with the presence of a MDMA peak. The trend of ketum drink mixtures in Malaysia was also studied. The findings showed that most of the ketum preparation were merely ketum drinks, without addition of any adulterants. A few samples were, however, in the form of cocktails, and these can cause serious health effects. It is therefore important that the monitoring of the streect drugs are conducted, perhaps via a more frequent drung profiling study to obtain information which could be useful for forensic intelligence as decision making for the respective authorities.
Acute oral toxicity evaluation of baicalein active compound extracted from oroxylum indicum in sprague-dawley rats
(2022-09)
Yan, Yeap Mei
Oroxylum indicum is a unique plant which can be found throughout Southeast Asia and has gained increasing attention in the field of oncology. Baicalein is the most abundantly found and dominant active compound of the O. indicum plant in general. It has been reported to exert anti-metastatic, anti-bacterial, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective, as well as wound healing potentials. However, there is a gap in scientific knowledge on the toxicological profile of baicalein active compound extracted from O. indicum. This study aims to evaluate the acute toxicity effect of baicalein extracted from O. indicum leaves by conducting acute oral toxicity testing on Sprague-Dawley rats. The Soxhlet binary extraction process using finely crushed O. indicum leaf material yielded 3.94 g (16%) of crude extract powder. Next, fractionation of the crude extract powder using 100% methanol concentration generated fraction 5 (F5) with enriched baicalein compound. TLC analysis detected the presence of baicalein in F5 under short-waved (254 nm) and longwaved (365 nm) UV light. The initial sighting study revealed that F5 did not cause any mortality among the rat models throughout the experimental period, at fixed doses of 5 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 2000 mg/kg set by Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidelines. Thus, the sub-lethal dose of baicalein was more than 2000 mg/kg. The results of the acute toxicity study revealed that body weight of all animals did not show any increment or reduction of more than 20% of their initial body weight after 14 days. Although, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were seen in the relative weight of the brain, lung, and reproductive organs among male and female treated groups. Nevertheless, the haematological and biochemical indices for treated groups of both sexes were all within normal range according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology (ASVCP) guidelines, similar to the non-treated groups. Moreover, the animals showed no clinical signs of toxicity and changes in behaviours related to the treatment. Histopathological examination also revealed normal cellular architecture with absence of treatment related toxicity on all vital internal organs of the treated group. Therefore, the results of this study demonstrate that baicalein extracted from O. indicum produced no adverse toxic effects on Sprague-Dawley rat behaviour and organ tissue morphology at highest dosage of 2000 mg/kg.
An evaluation using fdi criteria to compare full-ceramic crowns, composite resin fillings, ceramic inlays and onlays in posterior teeth after endodontic treatment
(2025-09)
Shiwei, Che
Restoring endodontically treated posterior teeth is a critical challenge due to structural compromises following root canal treatment. This study evaluates the clinical performance of full-ceramic crowns (FCC), composite resin (CR) fillings, and ceramic inlays/onlays in posterior teeth using the World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria. A prospective cohort study was conducted involving 150 patients (194 posterior teeth), assessing functional outcomes such as fracture resistance, marginal adaptation, wear, and patient satisfaction over a mean follow-up period of 58.14 months (SD = 2.93). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in long-term success rates among the three groups, with FCC demonstrating superior durability and marginal adaptation, while CR fillings provided a minimally invasive, cost-effective option with higher wear and marginal deterioration over time. Ceramic inlays/onlays offered a balance between structural conservation and durability, making them suitable for cases with moderate tooth structure loss. Patient satisfaction scores, as measured by the FDI criteria, were highest in the FCC group (mean score: 1.2 ± 0.4), followed by the ceramic inlays/onlays group (1.4 ± 0.5) and the CR fillings group (1.8 ± 0.6), with differences statistically significant (p < 0.05). These findings provide evidence-based recommendations for restorative material selection, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment planning based on clinical conditions and patient needs
An investigation of physical activity level, sedentary time and bone mineral density in relation to sclerostin level in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes mellitus
(2025-04)
Othman, Mazra
People with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have been associated with an increased risk of fractures at any skeletal site due to the poorer quality of the bone, despite having greater bone mineral density when compared to osteoporotic and normal non-T2D people. Studies showed that postmenopausal women with fragility fractures have high sclerostin levels compared to those without fractures, while physical activities (PA) were inversely related to sclerostin levels. In this study, different levels of PA (sedentary, moderate, vigorous PA and MVPA) levels were objectively measured to assess their influence on sclerostin levels in T2D postmenopausal women. This cross-sectional study involved 71 postmenopausal T2D women, aged 59.5±4.1 years from the Diabetic Clinic, Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia. Health history of postmenopausal and T2D duration, also other chronic diseases were obtained, followed by calcium intake (mg/day) using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometry measurements were recorded and fasting blood glucose (mmol/L), HbA1c (%) and sclerostin (pmol/L) were obtained via blood assay. Using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), bone mineral density (BMD, kg/cm2), T-score (SD), body fat (%), total lean mass (%), and appendicular lean mass index (ALMI, kg/m2) were derived. Participants wore an accelerometer for a week during waking hours where those with a minimum of 10-h wear/day and for a minimum of four days of valid data were analysed. Accelerometer data were analysed using the GGIR package for R-software. Using SPSS version 27, descriptive output, correlation and multivariable regression analyses and outcomes were obtained. Overall, eight women (11%) were newly identified as having osteoporosis with average T-scores -3.3±0.6 SD. From our correlation analysis, duration of T2D, years (r = 0.50), ALMI, kg/m2 (r = 0.14) and average MVPA, min/day (r = -0.4) were significantly related to sclerostin levels (p<0.05). Sedentary (339.3±83.6 min/day), light (205.2±37.1 min/day), moderate (32.0±17.2 min/day) and vigorous PA (0.4±0.9min/day) were not correlated to sclerostin levels. The multivariable regression model predicted as much as 33% (F = 5.63, p<0.003) of sclerostin outcomes are influenced by the duration of T2D diagnosed (β= 1.070, p=0.009) and MVPA (β = -0.292, p = 0.056) while controlling for appendicular ALMI, kg/m2 (β= -0.010, p= 0.990). In conclusion, the duration of diagnosed T2D influenced the sclerostin levels, which may impair bone formation while accounting for appendicular muscle. More in-depth investigations are needed to understand these results of possible MVPA influence on sclerostin in T2D postmenopausal women.
Analysis of the association between SLCO1B1 genetic polymorphism (rs4149056) and lipid profile among statin users of HUSM, Kelantan
(2022-09)
Yusri, Nur Farah Izzati
Statin is a medication that was proven to treat hyperlipidaemia effectively. Despite its well-known efficacy in statin users, the cases of its effectiveness have been reported. Single nucleotide polymorphism of rs4149056 in SLCO1B1 gene has been reported to alter the efficacy of statin. Until now there is no genetic association study among Malaysian population has been reported pertaining the influence of SNP on the efficacy of statin. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate the association between SLCO1B1 rs4149056, patient’s demographic profiles and other clinical features among statin’s users from HUSM, Kelantan. Information regarding the demographic and clinical features of statin’s users obtained through examination of patient’s medical record. The extracted DNAs for this study were obtained from previous researcher. The genotyping of selected DNA sample of statin’s users was performed by using ARMS-PCR technique followed by gel electrophoresis. The results indicated that, there were no different in demographic profiles and clinical features between group 1 (those who achieved LDL-c level <2.60 mmol/L) and group 2 (those who achieved LDL-c level >2.60 mmol/L) except for concomitant drugs. The minor allele frequency (MAF) of the SNP value obtained was 0.23. However, there is no variables (age, race, gender, type of statin, concomitant drugs, supplement, genotype, physical activity, diet and smoking status) that are statistically significant associated with the achievement of LDL-c goal of <2.60 mmol/L. In conclusion, the SLCO1B1 rs41419056 polymorphism had no effect on lipid level changes in 72 hyperlipidaemic statin users.
Anthropometric and physical fitness profiles of Kelantanese intellectually disabled population
(2024-04)
Mojiin, Willince
Intellectual disability (ID) is defined by the person that has a presence of incomplete or arrested mental development. Adults with ID typically reported to be overweight and obese and demonstrate poor level in physical fitness due to inactive lifestyle. The aim of this study is to identify the anthropometric measurement and physical fitness profile in adults with ID in Kelantan. This study also assessed the correlation of anthropometric and body composition on selected physical fitness performance assessed by medicine ball throw, standing long jump, static balance, 505 agility, and 20-m sprint test. Secondly, to predict the best predictors that can significantly contribute to physical fitness performance in term of explosive strength, balance, agility and speed. The fitness test batteries in this study were adapted from Inspire i-talent manual which developed by National Institute of Malaysia. A total of 124 adults with ID in Kelantan, 70 males and 54 females were recruited in this study. Anthropometric components (standing height, sitting height and arm span) were measured by using stadiometer and measuring tape while body composition such as body weight, fat free mass, fat percentage and body mass index (BMI) were recorded by using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA). Adults with ID in this study are considered to be overweight. The higher BMI value was found in females (26.4 ± 6.6 kg/m2) than in males (22.7 ± 5.8kg/m2). In addition, physical fitness level in adult with ID in this study is considered to be generally poor, male participants performed better than female except in 505 agility test. Pearson correlation revealed that anthropometric parameters showed significant correlation with balance, lower and upper body power, agility, and speed Nevertheless, stepwise regression analysis revealed that agility test (R= 0.859, R2= 0.738, F= 6.136, p= 0.015) can be predicted by 20-meter sprint, standing long jump, and sitting height values. Besides, 505 agility test and sitting height were found to be strong predictor of 20-meter sprint (R= 0.839, R2= 0.705, F= 9.259, p=0.003). On the other hand, lower limb explosive strength variable (R= 0.864, R2= 0.747, F= 34,947, p<0.05) can be anticipated from medicine ball throw, fat percentage and 505 agility test values. In addition, for upper body explosive strength (R= 0.863, R2= 0.745, F= 4.223, p= 0.042) it can be forecasted from standing long jump, body weight, gender, static balance, and arm span values. Lastly, standing long jump and 505 agility test could be main predictor of static balance (R= 0.597, R2= 0.356, F= 6,586, p= 0.011). From these regression analysis findings, a few regression equations have been developed to predict agility, speed, explosive strength in both lower and upper body, and balance among intellectually disabled persons. Therefore, exercise intervention should be implemented to improve their general physical fitness level and to manage their weight to lower the rate of being overweight and obesity among intellectually disabled people.
Anti cancer effect of paddy husk extracts in human salivary gland epidermoid cancer cells in vitro model
(2024-02)
Al-Azazi, Entesar Ahmed Abdullah
Global agriculture produces millions of tons of waste yearly. Paddy husk is an inedible agriculture waste obtained during the process of rice milling. Studies reported that it has chemopreventive potential due to the presence of related phytochemicals. The aim of this study is to elucidate the presence of anti-cancer related phytochemicals from paddy husk extract and evaluate its inhibitory and anti-proliferative effects against human submaxillary salivary gland epidermoid carcinoma cells (HTB-41). Two types of solvent for paddy husk extract have been used; water and aqueous methanol. The phytochemical constituents of paddy husk extracts were identified using GC-MS. The inhibitory activity and cytotoxicity analysis was calculated using Trypan Blue Exclusion Assay (TBEA). Apoptosis and cell cycle analysis were evaluated by flow cytometer, and cell morphology post treatment was analysed ultrastructurally, while Western blot was performed for proteomic analysis. Our results showed presence of vitamin E and other phytochemicals in paddy husk extracts. Both water and aqueous methanol extracts demonstrated inhibitory activity on HTB- 41 cells where IC50 dose of water extract (400 μg/ml) managed to reduce cell viability to 53.0 % and IC50 dose of aqueous methanol extract (200 μg/ml) managed to reduce cell viability to 51.12 % without exhibiting any significant cytotoxic effects. Apoptosis analysis revealed that water and aqueous methanol extracts induce apoptosis effect on HTB-41 as supported with microscopic findings of cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing and apoptotic bodies, meanwhile, Hoechst 33342 staining showed nuclear shrinkage and fragmentation. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that paddy husk extracts promote a significant amount of apoptotic cellular population from 76.00% (untreated) to 47.86% (paddy husk water extract) and 43.13% (paddy husk aqueous methanol) and arresting the cells at S-phase from 19.90% (control) to 36.90 % (paddy husk aqueous methanol extract) and 27.86 % (paddy husk water extract). Western blot analysis reveals that apoptosis was induced through caspase 3-mediated intrinsic pathway. Pro-apoptotic and tumour suppressor proteins; Bax, p27kip1 expressed higher (P <0.05), while anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2 downregulated after treatment (P <0.01). This leads to increase of caspase 9 expression which in turn activate caspase 3 and 7 leading to cell apoptosis. In conclusion, the presence of phytochemicals in paddy husk especially in aqueous methanol extract successfully showed better inhibitory and anti-proliferative effects on the human submaxillary salivary gland epidermoid carcinoma cells (HTB-41), while it acted in a tumour-selective manner by not inducing any significant changes on human gingival fibroblast cell (HGF-1).
Antimicrobial activity and prebiotic effects of senna alata leaf extracts
(2022-09)
Zakaria, Nik Hasanah
Senna alata or Cassia alata is a medicinal plant found mostly in the tropics and subtropics. The leaves of the plant have been employed in the treatment of skin infection and digestion-related problems. The purpose of this study was to assess the antimicrobial activity of S. alata leaf extracts against several intestinal pathogens and their prebiotic effects against a few probiotic strains, as well as to screen the phytoconstituents in S. alata leaf extracts. MIC and MBC assays of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extract in a concentration ranging from 0.39 mg/mL to 200 mg/mL were performed on the intestinal pathogens in a sterile 96-well microtiter plate. The prebiotic effects of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts in concentrations from 1.25 mg/mL to 10.00 mg/mL were evaluated based on the growth rate of the probiotic within 24 hours. The phytoconstituents of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts were screened by standard qualitative methods. Both leaf extracts showed a bactericidal effect against S. aureus, while only aqueous leaf extract showed a bacteriostatic effect against S. Typhi. Probiotics of L. helveticus and B. longum showed a positive mean growth rate after being treated with both leaf extracts for 24 hours. However, the growth rate of both bacteria decreases as the concentration of both leaf extracts increases. Both leaf extracts showed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, and flavonoids. In conclusion, both S. alata leaf extracts showed significant antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and S. Typhi at the tested extract concentrations. Besides, both S. alata leaf extracts are weak prebiotics because they only stimulate a minimal growth of probiotics.
Anxiety, depression and coping strategies among parents of children with autism at zayed higher organization for-people of determination, Abu Dhabi
(2025-09)
Odat, Abeer Ali Ahmad Al
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder causing social communication impairments, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. A global prevalence of one in every 100 children presents lifelong challenges for affected families. Parents often experience psychological stress due to caregiving issues, inadequate support systems, and societal stigma, especially in Arab countries. This study aims to assess the levels of anxiety, depression, and coping strategies as well as determining factors associated with depression, anxiety, and coping strategies among parents of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) children at the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, Abu Dhabi. This cross-sectional study involved 200 parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), recruited through convenience sampling. Data was collected by inviting available and willing parents of children with ASD at the Zayed Higher Organization in Abu Dhabi to participate in the study by completing an online self-administered questionnaire. The data was collected using a validated online self-administered questionnaire consisting of the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) to measure anxiety and depression and the Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WOC) to measure coping methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 with a chi-square test for categorical data. The results show that the majority of the respondents had moderate anxiety levels n=72 (36%) and high depression levels (48.5%), and most of the respondents were moderate-level copers (81.3%). There was no significant association between the respondents' coping levels and their levels of depression and anxiety. The analysis identifies several factors that are significantly associated with anxiety levels: education level (p = 0.011), employment (p = 0.028), marital status (p = 0.022), number of children (p = 0.001), and children’s sex (p = 0.028). In addition to the children age/year (p = 0.010). Depression levels are associated with marital status (p = 0.035) and the children’s method of education (p = 0.002). For coping levels, the factors associated are the respondent's age (p = 0.019), marital status (p = 0.009), and the children’s method of education (p = 0.002). In addition, Income (p = <0.001) and Children age (p = <0.001). In conclusion, understanding the experiences and concerns of parents can guide the provision of services that help parents identify needs related to the challenges of raising children with autism. It suggests that nursing professionals, psychoeducation, collaboration between practitioners and families, and future research should involve a large population and awareness-raising programs. The practical implications of these findings highlight the need for targeted psychological support, counseling services, and family-centered interventions, especially for parents with limited education, low income, and those managing older children. Healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, should be trained to provide culturally sensitive psychoeducation and early emotional support. Workplace flexibility, accessible educational resources for children with ASD, and marital support programs may help improve parental well-being. Future research should involve larger, more diverse populations and support awareness-raising programs at the community and institutional levels
Assessment of nursing informatics competency level among bedside nurses in Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
(2025-01)
Melhem, Sofyan Ibrahim Hussein Bani
Advanced clinical technology is widely used by nurses in today's healthcare settings, requiring the possession of sufficient informatics knowledge and skills. Nursing competency in this field is now essential, considering the increasing focus on patient safety and care quality through informatics. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the level of Nursing Informatics (NI) competency and determine the factors influencing this competency among bedside nurses in Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Hospital (PMAH). The study adopts a descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional approach involving 196 nurses at PMAH. Utilizing the Nursing Informatics Competency Assessment Tool (NICAT), developed by Alphonsa Rahman in 2015, the research assesses bedside nurses' informatics competency. Additionally, the questionnaire gathers demographic data. The data was entered into SPSS 25 software, and correlation analysis was carried out. The average level of competency across all categories was significantly tilted toward 'Competent, Very Competent, and Expert' (74%), with a substantially lower percent in 'Novice or Advanced Beginner' (26%). Educational level was identified as significantly correlated with the level of nursing informatics competency (NIC) (P = 0.047). However, age, gender, years of nursing experience, and use of the health information system showed no significant correlation with NIC level. These findings underscore the significance of nursing informatics competency within healthcare organizations, as it determines nurses’ ability to effectively utilize available health information systems, thereby enhancing healthcare quality and improve patient safety.
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.
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.
Assessment of phagocytosis and cytokine secretions by monocytes in the presence of plasmodium falciparum
(2021-09)
Xuan, Keh Min
Malaria remains one of the most common human infections worldwide. In endemic areas, malaria is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality and it causes significant socioeconomic burdens to the affected people. Monocytes are part of the immune system to control parasite burden and to protect host against malaria infection. Monocytes play their protective roles against malaria via phagocytosis, cytokine production and antigen presentation. Though monocytes are crucial for clearance of malaria infection, they also have been shown to cause adverse clinical outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine the morphology of P. falciparum, to assess phagocytic capability of infected red blood cells by human monocytes and further measure the cytokine secretions of monocytes following phagocytosis by using ELISA. In this study, monocytes were isolated from whole blood collected from healthy individuals while Plasmodium falciparum (3D7) was cultured under optimal conditions. Phagocytotic activity and cytokine production by the monocytes following malaria infection were assessed in vitro by co-culturing the monocytes and P. falciparum-infected red blood cells for 1 and 2 hours. The present study demonstrated that the monocytes phagocytosed the P. falciparum-infected red blood cells and the phagocytosis index increased with longer incubation time, from 8.2% at 1 hour incubation time to 10.4% (p<0.05) at 2 hours incubation time. Following phagocytosis, the monocytes produced TNF-α, initiating innate immune response to help in the clearance of parasite. The data have shown that monocytes cultured alone expressed the highest level of TNF-α during 0 and 1 hour of incubation, while co-culture of monocytes with P. falciparum-infected red blood cells produced the highest level of TNF-α after 2 hours of incubation. Comparing the trend among monocyte control, parasite control and co-culture, all showed an increase in the level of TNF-α produced in the first hour, but the concentration decreased significantly in the second hour. As a conclusion, these findings suggest that monocytes play an important role in malaria infection by phagocytosing the parasites and producing TNF-α for the removal of parasites, thereby initiating an immune response for malaria eradication.
Association between nutritional status, frailty domains, physical activity, physical fitness, emotional status and quality of life with sarcopenia among older adults in Kelantan.
(2024)
Ganggaya, Keerthana Sree
Sarcopenia is a disease that affects health, functional independence and the quality of life among older adults which leads to adverse effects like falls, physical disability, hospitalization and mortality. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess the association between frailty domains, nutritional status, physical fitness, physical activity, emotional status, cognitive function and well-being of older adults with sarcopenia. This crosssectional study involved 287 community-dwelling older adults in Kelantan aged 60 and above, recruited through simple random sampling. The data collected were entered and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26 software. Data on socio-demography, sleep quality, supplement intake, geriatric syndrome, medical history, self-rated health status, frailty domains, cognitive function, functional limitation, physical activity, anthropometry, body composition, blood pressure, handgrip strength, physical fitness, emotional status, quality of life and sarcopenia were obtained through interview administered method. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with sarcopenia. The prevalence of possible sarcopenia, sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia were 59%, 9% and 14% respectively which was higher in men than in women (p = 0.029). A total of 84.0% of sarcopenic subjects were underweight while 46.7% of possible sarcopenia subjects were overweight which could lead to sarcopenic obesity. Significant association was found between physical frailty and sarcopenia (p <0.001) but not social frailty (p = 0.227) and cognitive frailty (p = 0.345). Significant association was found between sarcopenia and poor nutritional status, lack of physical fitness and cognitive function. However, no significant association was found between sarcopenia, emotional status and quality of life among older adults in Kelantan. After adjusting for confounding factors such as age, gender, smoking and education years, the factors associated with sarcopenia were muscle mass, gait speed, sit-to-stand test and physical frailty were found to be factors associated with sarcopenia. Approximately, more than half of the community-dwelling older adults in this study had possible sarcopenia (59 %). Therefore, older adults should be educated on the steps to prevent sarcopenia via healthy eating, exercising, emotional stress management and involvement in voluntary activities.
Bioassay-guided profiling of quercus infectoria gall extracts using HPLC and their antimalarial activity
(2025-01)
Hamidon, Nurul Hammizah
Malaria is a public health concern as the emergence of drug-resistant malaria parasites causes significant morbidity and mortality annually. The discovery of potent antimalarial drugs derived from medicinal plants is believed to be a crucial strategy for addressing the antimalarial drug resistance crisis. Therefore, the antimalarial properties of crude extracts from Quercus infectoria (QI) galls were investigated through bioassay-guided fractionation. Acetone (QIA) and methanol (QIM) crude extracts have been reported to exhibit promising antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum (3D7 strain) with IC50 values of 5.85 ± 1.64 μg/mL and 10.31 ± 1.90 μg/mL, respectively. These extracts were subjected to fractionation using automated preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (prep-HPLC) to identify the most active fractions. Nine fractions were separated from each extract, of which the fractions QIA6 and QIM6 showed potent antimalarial activity, with IC50 values of 17.65 ± 1.82 μg/mL and 24.21 ± 1.88 μg/mL, respectively. In comparison, the standard antimalarial drug artemisinin had an IC50 value of 0.004 ± 0.001 μg/mL. The fractions of the Quercus infectoria galls exhibited antimalarial activity, which could be attributed to the presence of various secondary metabolites, particularly phenolic compounds such as ellagic acid. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analytical method was established for the quantification of ellagic acid as a marker in the Quercus infectoria gall crude extract. All parameters including specificity, precision, accuracy, linearity, limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ), were found to be in the acceptable criteria of the ICH guideline. Targeted phenolic compound analysis of the most active fraction was performed by high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HR-LCMS). HR-LCMS analysis was conducted on the active fractions, QIA6 and QIM6, and revealed that kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-glucoside, and syringic acid were among the major compounds identified in QIA6, while syringic acid and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid were predominant in QIM6. The correlation between antimalarial activity and phenolic compounds in fractions QIA6 and QIM6 led to the quantitation of four targeted phenolic compounds. Thus, this study showed promising antimalarial activity of Quercus infectoria (QI) galls when fractionation was performed, which can be used as a guideline for future investigations on the molecular mechanism underlying the antimalarial action and further reflect the importance of an in-depth antimalarial investigation.

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