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- PublicationA cadaveric study of anatomical variation of sphenoparietal sinus & superficial sylvian draining veins in Sabah population(2022)Background : The term "sphenoparietal sinus" was coined by Gilbert Breschet in an atlas of the venous system in the early nineteenth century (Breschet, 1829). Since then, many literatures have gained interest in knowing the sinus and the drainage. Drainage of superficial sylvian veins was consistent in many literatures however controversies exist. One of the key steps in the transsylvian and subtemporal approach is identifying this sinus and bridging veins from superficial sylvian vein (SSV) to create a wide surgical corridor. Hence, this study was aimed to delineate the microsurgical anatomy and variation of the sinus and sylvian draining veins. Methods : 30 fresh cadavers were examined in Forensic Department Queen Elizabeth Hospital between October 2020 to October 2021, were anatomically analysed and studied through a data collection sheet. All data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 22.0. Results : The studied cadavers were 76% Male (n=23) and 23.3% female (n=7). The median age of cadavers is 52.5 years old with interquartile range of 14. All of Cadavers (100%, n=30) has Sphenoparietal sinus on both side and all draining to ipsilateral cavernous sinus. Number of superficial sylvian veins drainage (SSVD) varies from 0 veins up to 4 veins on both hemisphere. About 40% cadavers (n=12) has 3 SSV Vein draining on left hemisphere and 36.7% (n=11) has 2 and 3 draining veins on right side of hemisphere respectively. Only 3.3% of cadavers (n=1) has no draining veins on either side. Using McNemar test, there is no statistically significant difference of complexity between right and left hemisphere (p=0.332). It was noting to found that male group has more complex veins compare to female in the left hemisphere when compared with Fisher exact test (p=0.024). Based On cadaveric data, we have formulated new classification on SSV SPS drainage based on number of draining (bridging) veins. Type A (4 draining veins) Type B(3 draining veins) Type C ( 2 Draining veins) Type D ( 1 draining Vein) Type E (0 Draining veins) Conclusion: We have consolidated our hypothesis on the presence of SPS and variance in numbers of draining veins to SPS these new classifications is aimed at to provide new microsurgical nomenclature for future use in neuroanatomy and neurosurgery
- PublicationQuality of life comparison between controlled versus uncontrolled asthma in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan(2022)Background: Asthma is one of the most common chronic lung disease worldwide including in Malaysia. Asthma caused substantial physical, mental, and social impairment, limiting everyday activities. Asthma that is poorly controlled is linked to increased mortality and morbidity, as well as impairments in psychological, economic and quality of life. This study was done to compare Quality of Life in people with controlled and uncontrolled asthma in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Methodology: From November 2021 to February 2022T, a cross-sectional study was conducted at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. The Asthma Control Questionnaire and the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire will be completed by all patients. All data were analysed with descriptive statistics (independent t-test and one-way ANOVA), and the association between asthma control and quality of life was analysed using Pearson correlation. Results: For this study, 158 individual were screened, and 134 subjects were recruited. Participants in this study ranged in age from 18 to 80 years old, with a mean age of (48.75 14.42). Females made up 76.7% of the participants (n=103). Obesity was found in 53.7% of the patients (n=72). The most commonly reported concomitant conditions are atopies (58%). Other comorbidities, such as GERD (23.1 %), OSA (3.7%), anxiety (2.2%), diabetes, and hypertension were also discovered. Overall, 47 percent of patients had uncontrolled asthma. Overall mean ACQ of (0.950.95). There is no correlation between asthma control and the demographics of the patients, except GERD (2= 0.008, df=1, p < 0.05). When compared to other domains, the overall AQLQ mean score was (5.52 0.80), with the environmental stimulation domain having the lowest mean score (4.17, 1.28). The asthma control status and quality of life had a strong negative correlation, (r = -.777, n = 134, p = <0.001). Conclusion: There is a substantial correlation between asthma control status and asthma quality of life status, according to this study. Patients with controlled asthma have a significantly higher quality of life compared to patients with uncontrolled asthma (p<0.05)
- PublicationCharacterisation of quaternary deposit in Seberang Perai Selatan, Pulau Pinang using combine shear wave velocity (VS).(2019-02)Soft quaternary deposit are widely found in Seberang Prai Selatan, Penang which consist of marine clay, silt and few thin layers of sand. But its characteristic and data was scarcely found. Due to active development on the area laid by quaternary deposit, construction the soft ground is becoming unavoidable despite its problematic character. Since soil characterisation are most essential for preliminary assessment before substructure design, adequate information of the subsurface condition is essential. Seismic soil investigation had been done to provide a reliable characterization of the soft marine deposits using in-situ Multichannel Analysis of Surface Wave consist of Active MASW, Passive MASW, Hybrid MASW and Seismic Cone Penetration Test (SCPT) to developed for site specific data of quaternary deposits of Penang. One dimensional in-situ shear wave velocity profiling described a heterogeneous layer of clay material ranged in 20 m/s to 180m/s from top layer until 15m depth and sandy soil layer with Vs ranged in 180m/s to 360 m/s at 15m to 30m depth. The shear wave velocity were used to determine the soil material had been compared with borehole lithology and SPT-N value. The values is consistent with the lithology and SPT-N value from bore log. Therefore, the range of shear wave velocity are valid and applicable for Seberang Prai Selatan quaternary deposit. Relationship between proposed 4 methods developed where Active MASW and SCPT method show weak relationship while Passive MASW and Hybrid MASW show strongest relationship. Hybrid MASW, a combination of Active and Passive MASW, show clear advantage for characterisation at deeper region compared to SCPT methods due to SCPT limited ability to penetrate hard soil. Active MASW captured high frequency noise which is limited to shallow region only. Therefore, it can be concluded that Hybrid and SCPT are reliable method for characterisation. Based on Vs30 from Hybrid MASW, Seberang Prai Selatan soil are classified as Site D and E. Combined shear wave velocity of Hybrid MASW and SCPT were used to determine the dynamic properties of Seberang Prai Selatan. The initial small strain stiffness or initial shear modulus described to be in range of 20 MPa to 50 MPa for clay soil at top to 15m depth and 50 MPa to 200 MPa for sandy soil at 15m to 30m depth. The elastic modulus ranged in 10 MPa to 40 MPa for the clayey soil and 20 MPa to 200 MPa for the sandy soil
- PublicationA retrospective study on surgical approach and outcome in giant perforated peptic ulcer disease(2022)Introduction: Perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) carries high risk for morbidity and mortality,The mainstay treatment is surgery which includes either primary repair or gastric resection. Objective: To evaluate the factors affecting outcomes from different surgical approaches in giant PPU. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients with PPU who underwent surgery from January 2016 to December 2020 was done. Patients with PPU less than 2cm were excluded. Patient demographics and perioperative data were recorded. Length of stay, post-operative complications , need for ICU admission and all-cause mortality are reported. Results: Fifty-four patients with a median age of 60 (range 15–83) years old had PPU ≥2 cm. Eighteen (33.3%) patients presented within 24 hours from the onset of abdominal pain. The median American Society of Anaesthesiology score was 3 (range 1–4). Twenty-four patients had primary repair and 30 patients had gastrectomy. The overall incidence of anastomotic leak,intraabdominal collection, re-operation and 30 days mortality was 18.5%, 25.9%, 9.3% and 27.8%, respectively. No difference in post-operative outcomes between the two groups was detected: intra-abdominal collection (p=0.172), post-operative leakage (p=0.754), re-operation (p=0.834) and all-cause mortality (p=0.736). Conclusions: Giant PPU can be managed by either primary repair or gastrectomy, perioperative outcomes between two groups are comparable hence a careful selection of surgical approach should be made with consideration of perioperative factors to reduce post-operative morbidity and mortality
- PublicationThe mechanism of peri-implantation Sexual intercourse and oxidative stress on placenta histopathological changes(0025-12)The peri-implantation phase is a pivotal period in pregnancy establishment, characterized by intricate synchronization between maternal and embryonic factors that facilitate optimal implantation and placental development. Disruptions during this critical phase can lead to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, including preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and placenta previa. Although peri-implantation sexual intercourse (PISI) is traditionally believed to support conception, its potential impact on placental health and pregnancy outcomes remains underexplored. This study investigated the effects of peri-implantation sexual abstinence on placental histomorphology, oxidative stress markers, placental positioning, and maternal-fetal outcomes. A randomized controlled trial was conducted, involving 33 participants divided into abstinence (n=9) and non-abstinence (n=24) groups. Placental samples were analyzed for histopathological changes, including inflammation, fibrin deposits, and chorion/amnion integrity, using H&E staining and CD31 immunohistochemistry to assess angiogenesis. Oxidative stress markers, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), were quantified via ELISA. Placental positions were assessed through ultrasonography, and maternal-fetal outcomes, including preeclampsia, placenta previa, FGR, preterm birth, Apgar scores, NICU admissions, and neonatal anomalies, were documented. Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism version 8.4.3. The results demonstrated significant histomorphological improvements in the abstinence group, including lower inflammation rates (33.3% vs. 70.8%, p=0.167), absence of MPFD (0% vs. 33.3%, p=0.0731), and intact chorion and amnion integrity (100% vs. 25%, p<0.0001). CD31 staining revealed significantly higher vascular density in the abstinence group (15.3 ± 3.1 vs. 8.9 ± 2.7 vessels/HPF, p=0.0136), indicating enhanced angiogenesis. Additionally, oxidative stress markers reflected reduced oxidative stress in the abstinence group, with lower MDA levels (6.54 ± 2.37 vs. 16.65 ± 4.98 μmol/L, p=0.0006) and higher antioxidant activity (SOD: 52.16 ± 15.29 vs. 24.40 ± 6.30 U/mg protein, p=0.0038; CAT: 106.7 ± 23.24 vs. 57.33 ± 11.63 U/mg protein, p=0.0026; T-AOC: 137.5 ± 60.93 vs. 60.93 ± 22.35 μmol/L, p=0.0034). Placental positioning analysis revealed no cases of low-lying placenta in the abstinence group compared to 20.8% in the non-abstinence group, though this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.137). Maternal outcomes included one case of preterm delivery in each group, with NICU admission reported in the abstinence group, while FGR was observed in one case in the non-abstinence group. No cases of preeclampsia or placenta previa were reported. Fetal outcomes showed no significant differences in Apgar scores or neonatal anomalies between groups. Peri-implantation sexual abstinence was associated with significant improvements in placental health, including reduced oxidative stress, enhanced angiogenesis, and a reduced risk of abnormal placental positioning. These findings highlight the potential protective role of abstinence during the peri-implantation period in optimizing pregnancy outcomes. Further studies with larger cohorts are recommended to validate these results and explore their integration into preconception care strategies.
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- PublicationA Study Of Flow Characteristics Along The Hydraulic Physical Model Of Kenyir Dam Spillway(2021-08-01)Water flowing over a spillway has a very high kinetic energy because of the conversion of the entire potential energy to the kinetic energy. This circumstance will result in damage or significant erosion at the toes of the spillways, the weir bed, and downstream of a river. To solve this problem, the water flow velocity must be minimised. Physical modelling was implemented to this conundrum in order to modify the current energy dissipating structure, the stilling basin, to enhance energy dissipation as much as achievable by downstream velocity reduction. The baffles blocks were adopted as the modification in this study because they are widely used to stabilise the jumps, shorten its length, and maximise energy dissipation. A selection of baffle arrangements was evaluated by positioning them in the stilling basin's mid-span to identify the most effective outcome in minimising downstream velocity. From the findings, it is clearly shown arrangement of baffles blocks at the stilling basin impacts velocity reduction at various discharge cases. The formation of cross-waves was also assessed at the discharge channel at every discharge value with its relative distance from the sump and the width of the channel prior to the site. For discharge situations of 70.0 L/s and 100.0 L/s, modifications to the Type II stilling basin were recommended. Furthermore, constriction, expansion, or curvature should be avoided in chute spillways identical to the Kenyir Dam spillway to limit cross-wave generation and other unfavourable flow behaviours.
- PublicationSolidification/stabilization of mine tailing using biopolymer(2024-08-01)This study dives into the essential topic of stabilising and hardening mine tailings with biopolymers to reduce environmental damage and improve sustainability. The study will look into the effectiveness of biopolymers, specifically chitosan, in increasing the stability and hydraulic properties of mine tailings. Various analytical techniques, including XRD, XRF, and SEM, will be used to investigate the physiochemical parameters of the treated tailings. Mechanical tests, such as unconfined compressive strength and direct shear box testing, will be performed to evaluate the improvements in mechanical properties. The research aims to make the stabilisation process more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. This study aims to contribute to the development of efficient and long-term mine tailings management techniques by investigating novel methods and procedures customised to the soil type. Several laboratory tests were done to study the interaction between chitosan and mine tailings, with the goal of optimising chitosan's application for cost-effective and long-term stabilisation solutions. However, higher chitosan concentrations may reduce soil shear strength, emphasising the need of optimising chitosan content and mixing procedures. The study concludes that, while chitosan can stabilise mining tailings, cautious concentration and mixing techniques are required to minimise unwanted consequences. More research is needed to improve chitosan application procedures and assess longterm stability under a variety of environmental conditions.
- PublicationMeasurement of ac and dc magnetic characterization of electrical steels(2010-04-01)This project basically is to measure the AC and DC magnetic characteristics of electrical steels used in electrical machines. The measurement of the BH curve and iron loss characteristics of electrical steels is implemented based on tests on cores done at several different primary current levels and supply’s frequencies. For measurement of AC magnetic characterization, Wien-bridge oscillator and push-pull amplifier are used as the AC supply with variable frequency and magnitude. An integrator circuit is designed to measure the B-H characteristics of electrical steels and the output of measurement is shown on oscilloscope. The B-H loop of electrical steel represents the relationship between its magnetic flux density, B as a function of the magnetic field intensity, H. The hysteresis loop is plotted and the relationship between magnetic flux density, B and magnetic field intensity, H is discussed. The corresponding relative permeability, μr is obtained.
- PublicationModelling of knowledge and conspiracy beliefs on childhood vaccine hesitancy among parents in Kelantan using Malay validated questionnaires(2024-06)Background: Globally, childhood vaccine hesitancy remains a significant public health concern. Knowledge is well-known influence on the parental’s vaccination decision. Additionally, in light of COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine conspiracies theories worsen the hesitancy. However, local studies looking on this relationship towards vaccine hesitancy using Malay language validated tools were scarce. Objectives: This study aimed, firstly to translate and validate One-dimensional Knowledge scale (OKS), Vaccine Conspiracy Beliefs scale (VCBS) and Modified Vaccine Hesitancy scale (MVHS) into Malay language and secondly, to model relationship of demographic variables, knowledge, and conspiracy belief on childhood vaccine hesitancy among parents in Kelantan using structural equation modelling. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in two phases. Phase I, involved translation of the OKS, VCBS and MVHS into Malay version, from April 2023 till June 2023. The scales were translated into Malay based on established guidelines. Content and face validity were assessed involving six expert panels and 10 parents respectively. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel 365. Then, Phase II was continued between July 2023 till March 2024 involving 270 parents with children aged ≤ 7 years. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to ensure the scales used were valid and reliable to measure the study variables, then, structural equation modelling (SEM) was performed to determine the relationship between variables. Test-retest reliability was determined to ensure stability of newly translated scales. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS version 26 and Mplus version 8. Results: Phase 1, the M-OKS, M-VCBS and M-MVHS achieved recommended scores of ≥ 0.83 for item indices and scale indices for content and face validity indices. Phase II, the measurement model of M-OKS, consist of unidimensional 10-items demonstrated good model fit (CFI= 0.976, TLI= 0.969, RMSEA (90%CI) = 0.053 (0.030, 0.074), WRMR = 0.877). The 8-item of M-VCBS with correlated items showed good model fit (CFI= 0.977, TLI= 0.967, RMSEA (90% CI) = 0.053 (0.020, 0.082), SRMR = 0.028). The 9-item of M-MVHS consist of two domain “Lack of confidence” and “Risk perception” incorporating correlated items achieved good model fitness (CFI= 0.970, TLI= 0.957, RMSEA (90% CI) = 0.057 (0.031, 0.082), SRMR= 0.031). Composite reliability for M-OKS, M-VCBS and M-MVHS ranged from 0.741 to 0.935 and AVE values of ≥ 0.5, indicating all scales demonstrated good convergent validity. The test-retest reliability, measured by the Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) ranged from 0.730 to 0.854, indicating good stability for all scales. The final structural model consist of ten hypotheses exhibits good model fit based on the fit indices (CFI= 0.961, TLI= 0.954, RMSEA (90% CI) = 0.040 (0.032, 0.053), SRMR= 0.043). Several indirect relationships were identified between pathways towards vaccine hesitancy. Conclusion: This study provides valid and reliable Malay-language tools to measure knowledge and conspiracy beliefs on childhood vaccine hesitancy among parents in Kelantan. The present study demonstrated the significant relationship of knowledge and conspiracy beliefs on parental vaccination decision, offering valuable insights for public health authorities and policy maker to devise targeted strategies in increasing vaccination uptake.
- PublicationKnowledge, attitude and practice of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis among doctors and nurses in a tertiary teaching Hospital in Kelantan(2022)Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of preventable hospital mortality. It is important for healthcare providers to understand the importance of VTE prophylaxis as it may reduce the burden of this disease. Objective: Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice among doctors and nurses in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2022 at Hospital USM, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia. Data was collected using online validated questionnaires administered to doctors and nurses via WhatsApp and e-mail. The data was analysed by using SPSS software version 26. Results: The study was participated by 331 doctors and nurses. Good level of knowledge, attitude and practice of VTE were 92.4%, 78.5% and 78.5% respectively. Respondents from Internal Medicine, General surgery and Orthopaedics departments showed significant association with good knowledge and attitude. There are significant association between a working duration of more than 10 years and education level with good practice. Fear of bleeding was the most common practice barriers perceived by respondents (83.7%) in providing VTE prophylaxis. Conclusion: The results of this study show a good level of knowledge, attitude and practice among doctors and nurses regarding the implementation of VTE prevention. Education based on VTE and its prevention needs to be introduced to doctors and nurses. In addition, the formation of hospital policies will help doctors and nurses to be more sensitive about this issue