Displaying publications 21 - 36 of 36 in total

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  1. Boo NY, Chee SC, Rohana J
    Acta Paediatr, 2002;91(6):674-9.
    PMID: 12162601
    A randomized controlled study was carried out on 96 preterm infants (< 37 wk) with birthweight less than 2000 g admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit. The aim was to compare the weight gain between preterm infants exposed to 12 h cyclical lighting (intensity of light: 78.4 +/- 24.7 lux, mean +/- SD) and those exposed to a continuously dim environment (5.9 +/- 1.9 lux). The exclusion criteria were infants with major congenital malformations or who needed continuous lighting for treatment procedure and care. From day 7 of life until discharge, 50 infants were randomized to receive 12 h cyclical lighting and 46 infants to a continuously dim environment. There was no significant difference in the mean birthweight (12 h lighting vs continuously dim: 1482 vs 1465 g, p = 0.8), mean gestational age (31.6 vs 31.4 wk, p = 0.6), median duration of hospital stay (28.5 vs 28.5 d, p = 0.8), mean age to regain birthweight (13.0 vs 12.9 d, p = 0.3), mean weight gained by day 14 (27.6 vs 36.2 g, p = 1.0), median weight gain per day (11.9 vs 12.2 g, p = 0.9) or median body weight on discharge (1800 vs 1800 g, p = 0.4) between the two groups of infants.

    CONCLUSION: Exposing preterm infants to either 12 h cyglical lighting or continuously dim environment did not have any significant effect on their weight gain during the neonatal period.

    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy/methods*
  2. Yang KL, Khoo BY, Ong MT, Yoong ICK, Sreeramanan S
    Breast Cancer, 2021 Jan;28(1):60-66.
    PMID: 32654094 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-020-01128-6
    LED red light has been reported to have many health benefits. The present study was conducted to characterise anti-proliferation properties of four LED red light wavelengths (615, 630, 660 and 730 nm) against non-triple negative (MCF-7) and triple negative (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer-origin cell lines. It has been shown by MTT assay that at 24 h post-exposure time point, only LED red light with wavelength 660 nm possessed anti-proliferative effects against both cell lines with 40% reduction of cell viability. The morphology of LED 660 nm irradiated cells was found flatten with enlarged cell size, typical characteristic of cell senescent. Indications of autophagy activities following the irradiation have been provided by acridine orange staining, showing high presence of acidic vesicle organelles (AVOs). In addition, high LC3-II/LC3-I to LC3 ratio has been observed qualitatively in Western blot analysis indicating an increase number of autophagosomes formation in LED 660 nm irradiated cells compared to control cells. Electron dense bodies observed in these cells under TEM micrographs provided additional support to the above observations, leading to the conclusion that LED 660 nm irradiation promoted anti-proliferative activities through autophagy in breast cancer-origin cells. These findings have suggested that LED 660 nm might be developed and be employed as an alternative cancer treatment method in future.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy/methods*
  3. Vaani VV, Tang MM, Tan LL, Asmah J
    Med J Malaysia, 2018 06;73(3):125-130.
    PMID: 29962494 MyJurnal
    INTRODUCTION: Ultraviolet phototherapies are important treatment modalities for a wide range of dermatological conditions. We aim to describe the utilization of phototherapy in the Department of Dermatology Hospital Kuala Lumpur.

    METHODS: This is a 5-year retrospective audit on patients who underwent phototherapy between 2011 and 2015.

    RESULTS: There were 892 patients, M:F=1.08:1, aged from 4- 88 years, with a median age of 38.8 years who underwent phototherapy. Majority (58.9%) had skin phototype IV, followed by type III (37.7%) and type II (0.7%). There were 697(78.1%) who underwent NBUVB, 136 (15.2%) had topical PUVA, 22(2.5%) had oral PUVA, 12(1.4%) had UVA1 and 23(2.6%) had NBUVB with topical or oral PUVA/UVA1 at different time periods. The indications were psoriasis (46.6%), vitiligo (26.7%), atopic eczema (9.8%), pityriasis lichenoides chronica (5.3%), mycosis fungoides (3.9%), lichen planus (2.5%), nodular prurigo (2.2%), scleroderma (1.2%), alopecia areata (0.7%) and others. The median number of session received were 27 (range 1-252) for NBUVB, 30 (range 1-330) for topical PUVA, 30 (range 3-190) for oral PUVA and 24.5 (range 2-161) for UVA1. The acute adverse effects experienced by patients were erythema (18%), pruritus (16.3%), warmth (3.3%), blister formation (3.1%), cutaneous pain (2.4%), and xerosis (0.8%), skin swelling (0.7%) and phototoxicity (0.2%).

    CONCLUSION: Narrow-band UVB was the most frequently prescribed phototherapy modality in our center. The most common indication for phototherapy in our setting was psoriasis. Acute adverse events occurred in a third of patients, although these side effects were mild.

    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy/statistics & numerical data*
  4. Saw WS, Ujihara M, Chong WY, Voon SH, Imae T, Kiew LV, et al.
    Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces, 2018 Jan 01;161:365-374.
    PMID: 29101882 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2017.10.064
    Physiochemical changes, including size, are known to affect gold nanoparticle cellular internalization and treatment efficacy. Here, we report the effect of four sizes of cystine/citric acid-coated confeito-like gold nanoparticles (confeito-AuNPs) (30, 60, 80 and 100nm) on cellular uptake, intracellular localization and photothermal anticancer treatment efficiency in MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells. Cellular uptake is size dependent with the smallest size of confeito-AuNPs (30nm) having the highest cellular internalization via clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytosis. However, the other three sizes (60, 80 and 100nm) utilize clathrin-mediated endocytosis for cellular uptake. The intracellular localization of confeito-AuNPs is related to their endocytosis mechanism, where all sizes of confeito-AuNPs were localized highly in the lysosome and mitochondria, while confeito-AuNPs (30nm) gave the highest localization in the endoplasmic reticulum. Similarly, a size-dependent trend was also observed in in vitro photothermal treatment experiments, with the smallest confeito-AuNPs (30nm) giving the highest cell killing rate, whereas the largest size of confeito-AuNPs (100nm) displayed the lowest photothermal efficacy. Its desirable physicochemical characteristics, biocompatible nature and better photothermal efficacy will form the basis for further development of multifunctional confeito-AuNP-based nanotherapeutic applications.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy/methods
  5. Nawfar SA, Yacob NB
    Singapore Med J, 2011 Sep;52(9):669-72.
    PMID: 21947144
    INTRODUCTION: Peripheral diabetic neuropathy, which is a cause of increasing morbidity and mortality following foot ulcers and amputations, is a burden to health and the economy. Various adjunct treatments to improve neuropathy have been introduced into the market; one such treatment is monochromatic infrared energy (MIRE) therapy, which claimed to produce promising results. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of MIRE on diabetic feet with peripheral neuropathy.
    METHODS: A randomised controlled, single-blinded study was conducted at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from February 2008 to October 2008. A total of 30 feet from 24 patients were studied. Neuropathy was screened using the Michigan neuropathy scoring instrument, followed by an assessment of the current perception threshold using a neurometer at frequencies of 2,000 Hz, 250 Hz and 5 Hz. The feet were randomised to receive either daily MIRE or sham treatment for a total of 12 treatments. Each foot was then reassessed using the neurometer at six weeks and three months following treatment.
    RESULTS: The data obtained was analysed using a non-parametric test to compare the pre- and post-treatment groups. No significant difference was found between the neuropathic foot of diabetic patients in both the MIRE and sham groups.
    CONCLUSION: No improvement of neuropathy was observed following MIRE treatment in the neuropathic feet of diabetic patients.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy/methods*
  6. Das SS, Alkahtani S, Bharadwaj P, Ansari MT, ALKahtani MDF, Pang Z, et al.
    Int J Pharm, 2020 Jul 30;585:119556.
    PMID: 32574684 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119556
    In recent years, due to the effective drug delivery and preciseness of tumor sites or microenvironment, the targeted drug delivery approaches have gained ample attention for tumor metastasis therapy. The conventional treatment approaches for metastasis therapy have reported with immense adverse effects because they exhibited maximum probability of killing the carcinogenic cells along with healthy cells. The tumor vasculature, comprising of vasculogenic impressions and angiogenesis, greatly depends upon the growth and metastasis in the tumors. Therefore, various nanocarriers-based delivery approaches for targeting to tumor vasculature have been attempted as efficient and potential approaches for the treatment of tumor metastasis and the associated lesions. Furthermore, the targeted drug delivery approaches have found to be most apt way to overcome from all the limitations and adverse effects associated with the conventional therapies. In this review, various approaches for efficient targeting of pharmacologically active chemotherapeutics against tumor metastasis with the cohesive objectives of prognosis, tracking and therapy are summarized.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy/methods
  7. Usman AS, Mustaffa R, Ramli N, Diggi SA
    Asian J Transfus Sci, 2013 Jan;7(1):84-5.
    PMID: 23559775 DOI: 10.4103/0973-6247.106750
    OBJECTIVE: Maternal allo-antibody production is stimulated when fetal red blood cells are positive for an antigen absent on the mother's red cells. The maternal IgG antibodies produced will pass through the placenta and attack fetal red cells carrying the corresponding antigen. Allo-immune hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn caused by anti-E rarely occurs.

    CASE SUMMARY: We report two cases of anti-E hemolytic diseases in neonates. One of the neonates had severe hemolysis presenting with severe anemia, thrombocytopenia, and conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, while the other had moderate anemia and unconjugated hyperbilrubinemia. Although both the neonates were treated by phototherapy and intravenous immunoglobulin, one of them received double volume exchange transfusion.

    CONCLUSION: There appeared to be an increase in the occurrence of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn caused by Rh antibodies other than anti-D. In this case report, both patients presented with anemia and hyperbilirubinemia but were successfully treated, with a favorable outcome.

    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  8. Olusanya BO, Ogunlesi TA, Kumar P, Boo NY, Iskander IF, de Almeida MF, et al.
    BMC Pediatr, 2015 Apr 12;15:39.
    PMID: 25884679 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-015-0358-z
    Hyperbilirubinaemia is a ubiquitous transitional morbidity in the vast majority of newborns and a leading cause of hospitalisation in the first week of life worldwide. While timely and effective phototherapy and exchange transfusion are well proven treatments for severe neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia, inappropriate or ineffective treatment of hyperbilirubinaemia, at secondary and tertiary hospitals, still prevails in many poorly-resourced countries accounting for a disproportionately high burden of bilirubin-induced mortality and long-term morbidity. As part of the efforts to curtail the widely reported risks of frequent but avoidable bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction (acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE) and kernicterus) in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) with significant resource constraints, this article presents a practical framework for the management of late-preterm and term infants (≥ 35 weeks of gestation) with clinically significant hyperbilirubinaemia in these countries particularly where local practice guidelines are lacking. Standard and validated protocols were followed in adapting available evidence-based national guidelines on the management of hyperbilirubinaemia through a collaboration among clinicians and experts on newborn jaundice from different world regions. Tasks and resources required for the comprehensive management of infants with or at risk of severe hyperbilirubinaemia at all levels of healthcare delivery are proposed, covering primary prevention, early detection, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, and follow-up. Additionally, actionable treatment or referral levels for phototherapy and exchange transfusion are proposed within the context of several confounding factors such as widespread exclusive breastfeeding, infections, blood group incompatibilities and G6PD deficiency, which place infants at high risk of severe hyperbilirubinaemia and bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction in LMICs, as well as the limited facilities for clinical investigations and inconsistent functionality of available phototherapy devices. The need to adjust these levels as appropriate depending on the available facilities in each clinical setting and the risk profile of the infant is emphasised with a view to avoiding over-treatment or under-treatment. These recommendations should serve as a valuable reference material for health workers, guide the development of contextually-relevant national guidelines in each LMIC, as well as facilitate effective advocacy and mobilisation of requisite resources for the optimal care of infants with hyperbilirubinaemia at all levels.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  9. Normina Ahmad Bustami, Yu Bin Ho, Chung Keat Tan, Ahmad Zaharin Aris, Eugenie Sin Sing Tan
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Consumption of Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHMs) have escalated globally. They are preferred treat- ment for minor diseases or disorders. In Malaysia, CHMs are common home remedies during pregnancy and postpar- tum. Angelica sinensis (Danggui) is a staple CHMs during postpartum for purpose of nourishing blood and resolving stasis. Concerns are raised over possible heavy metals toxicity. Objective: This study aims to (i) determine Danggui consumption among postpartum mothers, (ii) quantify its heavy metals level, namely Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Ar- senic (As) and Chromium (Cr) and (iii) determine health risks of Danggui consumption among mothers. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 112 postpartum mothers was carried out in Kuala Lumpur. Danggui samples were collected from nine districts in Kuala Lumpur (Segambut, Seputeh, Cheras, Kepong, Bandar Tun Razak, Titiwangsa, Setiawangsa, Batu and Lembah Pantai). Heavy metals were extracted using microwave digester and analysed using Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS). Hazard Quotient (HQ) was used to determine non-carcino- genic health risks for herbal medicine consumption. Results: Danggui was consumed by 19.6% of mothers (n=22). Among them, incidence of jaundice was 63.6% and need for phototherapy was 40.9%. Heavy metals contamina- tions were found in the decreasing order of Cr > As > Pb > Cd with median (interquartile) of 3996.3 (2805.6) μg/ kg, 128.3 (56.7), 98.6 (99.1) and 37.0 (35.0) respectively. No non-carcinogenic health risks were found for all four metals. Conclusion: Alarming concentrations of heavy metals were quantified in Danggui warranting for further in- vestigation to safeguard health of postpartum mothers.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  10. Khaniabadi PM, Shahbazi-Gahrouei D, Aziz AA, Dheyab MA, Khaniabadi BM, Mehrdel B, et al.
    Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther, 2020 Sep;31:101896.
    PMID: 32585402 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2020.101896
    BACKGROUND: Theranostic agents can combine photosensitizers and contrast agents into a single unit for photothermal therapy (PTT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The possibility of treating and diagnosing malignant cancers without any ionizing radiation could become an option. This study investigates the theranostic potential of Fe3O4 nanoparticles (IONs) for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer by developing a single integrated nanoprobe.

    METHODS: Oleylamin-coated IONs (ION-Ol) were synthesized and surface of the IONs was modified using protoporphyrin (PP) and trastuzumab (TZ) to develop the TZ-conjugated SPION-porphyrin [ION-PP-TZ]. The structure, morphology, size, and cytotoxicity of all samples were investigated using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), WST-1 assay, respectively. In addition to MRI and in vitro laser irradiation (808 nm, 200 mW) to determine the r2 values and photothermal ablation.

    RESULTS: The sizes of monodispersed nanoparticles were measured in rang 5.74-7.17 nm. No cytotoxicity was observed after incubating MCF 7 cells under various Fe concentrations of nanoparticles and theranostic agents. The transverse relaxation time of the protoporphyrin conjugated to IONs (52.32 mM-1s-1) exceeded that of ION-Ol and TZ-conjugated ION-PP. In addition, the in vitro photothermal ablation of ION-PP-TZ revealed a 74 % MCF 7 cell reduction after 10 min of at the highest Fe concentration (1.00 mg Fe/mL).

    CONCLUSIONS: In summary, the water-soluble ION-PP-TZ is a promising bimodal agent for the diagnosis and treatment of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer cells using a T2 MRI contrast agent and photothermal therapy.

    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  11. Lim, N.L., Boo, N.Y., Nur Atiqah, N.A., Padma Soosai, A., Musa Mohd Nordin, M Sham. Kasim
    MyJurnal
    Severe jaundice (serum bilirubin level > 340 gmol/L) occurred in 81 infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Maternity Hospital Kuala Lumpur (MHKL) in 1993. Of these 46 (56.8%) underwent 53 exchange transfusions. In-patient case notes were available for study on 41 of them. Two infants had no cause identified while 12 were associated with prematurity, 13 ABO incompatibility, 8 G6PD deficiency, 6 sepsis 2 Rh isoimmunisation and 6 miscellaneous causes. In 14 infants it was felt that exchange transfusions might have been avoided if they were detected earlier and phototherapy instituted promptly. Twenty six (26) infants were deemed to have been given phototherapy at the appropriate time but jaundice increased to exchange transfusion levels, threshold values depending on the unit in charge. Use of higher intensity phototherapy might have been more effective in some of the cases. Available data showed similar outcomes in both groups.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  12. Chow S, Seow CS, Dizon MV, Godse K, Foong H, Chan V, et al.
    Asia Pac Allergy, 2018 Oct;8(4):e41.
    PMID: 30402408 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2018.8.e41
    Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin condition among Asians. Recent studies have shown that Asian AD has a unique clinical and immunologic phenotype compared with European/American AD.

    Objective: The Asian Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Expert Panel on Atopic Dermatitis developed this reference guide to provide a holistic and evidence-based approach in managing AD among Asians.

    Methods: Electronic searches were performed to retrieve relevant systematic reviews and guidelines on AD. Recommendations were appraised for level of evidence and strength of recommendation based on the U.K. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network guidelines. These practice points were based on the consensus recommendations discussed during the Asia Pacific Meeting of Experts in Dermatology held in Bali, Indonesia in October 2016 and April 2017.

    Results: The Expert Panel recommends an approach to treatment based on disease severity. The use of moisturizers is recommended across all levels of AD severity, while topical steroids are recommended only for flares not controlled by conventional skin care and moisturizers. Causes of waning efficacy must be explored before using topical corticosteroids of higher potency. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are recommended for patients who have become recalcitrant to steroid, in chronic uninterrupted use, and when there is steroid atrophy, or when there is a need to treat sensitive areas and pediatric patients. Systemic steroids have a limited role in AD treatment and should be avoided if possible. Educational programs that allow a patient-centered approach in AD management are recommended as an adjunct to conventional therapies. Recommendations on the use of phototherapy, systemic drugs, and emerging treatments are also included.

    Conclusion: The management of AD among Asians requires a holistic approach, integrating evidence-based treatments while considering accessibility and cultural acceptability.

    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  13. Ghanbari A, Zibara K, Salari S, Ghareghani M, Rad P, Mohamed W, et al.
    CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets, 2018;17(7):528-538.
    PMID: 29968547 DOI: 10.2174/1871527317666180703111643
    BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: The adolescent brain has a higher vulnerability to alcoholinduced neurotoxicity, compared to adult's brain. Most studies have investigated the effect of ethanol consumption on the body, however, methanol consumption, which peaked in the last years, is still poorly explored.

    METHOD: In this study, we investigated the effects of methanol neurotoxicity on memory function and pathological outcomes in the hippocampus of adolescent rats and examined the efficacy of Light- Emitting Diode (LED) therapy. Methanol induced neurotoxic rats showed a significant decrease in the latency period, in comparison to controls, which was significantly improved in LED treated rats at 7, 14 and 28 days, indicating recovery of memory function. In addition, methanol neurotoxicity in hippocampus caused a significant increase in cell death (caspase3+ cells) and cell edema at 7 and 28 days, which were significantly decreased by LED therapy. Furthermore, the number of glial fibrillary acid protein astrocytes was significantly lower in methanol rats, compared to controls, whereas LED treatment caused their significant increase. Finally, methanol neurotoxicity caused a significant decrease in the number of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF+) cells, but also circulating serum BDNF, at 7 and 28 days, compared to controls, which were significantly increased by LED therapy. Importantly, LED significantly increased the number of Ki-67+ cells and BDNF levels in the serum and hypothalamus in control-LED rats, compared to controls without LED therapy.

    CONCLUSION: In conclusion, chronic methanol administration caused severe memory impairments and several pathological outcomes in the hippocampus of adolescent rats which were improved by LED therapy.

    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy/methods*
  14. Boo NY, Sin S, Chee SC, Mohamed M, Ahluwalia AK, Ling MM, et al.
    J Trop Pediatr, 2020 12 01;66(6):569-582.
    PMID: 32577754 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmaa016
    OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine whether maternal-fetal blood group isoimmunization, breastfeeding, birth trauma, age when first total serum bilirubin (TSB) was measured, age of admission, and genetic predispositions to hemolysis [due to genetic variants of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) enzyme], and reduced hepatic uptake and/or conjugation of serum bilirubin [due to genetic variants of solute carrier organic anion transporter protein family member 1B1 (SLCO1B1) and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase family 1 member A1 (UGT1A1)] were significant risk factors associated with severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (SNH, TSB ≥ 342µmol/l) in jaundiced term neonates admitted for phototherapy.

    METHODS: The inclusion criteria were normal term neonates (gestation ≥ 37 weeks). Parents/care-givers were interviewed to obtain data on demography, clinical problems, feeding practice and age when first TSB was measured. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method was used to detect common G6PD, UGT1A1 and SLCO1B1 variants on each neonate's dry blood specimens.

    RESULTS: Of 1121 jaundiced neonates recruited, 232 had SNH. Logistic regression analysis showed that age (in days) when first TSB was measured [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.395; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.094-1.779], age (in days) of admission (aOR = 1.127; 95% CI 1.007-1.260) and genetic mutant UGT1A1 promoter A(TA)7TAA (aOR = 4.900; 95% CI 3.103-7.739), UGT1A1 c.686C>A (aOR = 6.095; 95% CI 1.549-23.985), SLCO1B1 c.388G>A (aOR = 1.807; 95% CI 1.242-2.629) and G6PD variants and/or abnormal G6PD screening test (aOR = 2.077; 95% CI 1.025-4.209) were significantly associated with SNH.

    CONCLUSION: Genetic predisposition, and delayed measuring first TSB and commencing phototherapy increased risk of SNH.

    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  15. Srinivasan V, Smits M, Spence W, Lowe AD, Kayumov L, Pandi-Perumal SR, et al.
    World J Biol Psychiatry, 2006;7(3):138-51.
    PMID: 16861139
    The cyclic nature of depressive illness, the diurnal variations in its symptomatology and the existence of disturbed sleep-wake and core body temperature rhythms, all suggest that dysfunction of the circadian time keeping system may underlie the pathophysiology of depression. As a rhythm-regulating factor, the study of melatonin in various depressive illnesses has gained attention. Melatonin can be both a 'state marker' and a 'trait marker' of mood disorders. Measurement of melatonin either in saliva or plasma, or of its main metabolite 6-sulfatoxymelatonin in urine, have documented significant alterations in melatonin secretion in depressive patients during the acute phase of illness. Not only the levels but also the timing of melatonin secretion is altered in bipolar affective disorder and in patients with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). A phase delay of melatonin secretion takes place in SAD, as well as changes in the onset, duration and offset of melatonin secretion. Bright light treatment, that suppresses melatonin production, is effective in treating bipolar affective disorder and SAD, winter type. This review discusses the role of melatonin in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder and SAD.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
  16. Lin, Hai Peng, Mohd Sham Kasim
    MyJurnal
    Malaysia is a rapidly developing country with a very young population, about 36% of which are below the age of 15 years. The standard of child health has improved greatly. However, there are great changes in the morbidity and mortality patterns of childhood diseases relating mainly to an improved standard of living; availability of safe water supply and adequate sanitary latrines; a higher literacy rate; rapid industrialisation and urban migration. The infant mortality rate has droppedfrom 50.1 per 1,000 livebirths in 1986 to 10.4 in 1995, and similar trends apply also to neonatal, perinatal and toddler mortality rates. Nevertheless, current major child health problems are those relating to events in the perinatal period and to infections. Despite improvements in the standard of neonatal care with the use ofhigh technology, the commonest cause of certified deaths still occur in the neonatal period. A rapid and inexpensive screening test for G6PD deficiency, a disease present in 2-3% of the population, is now widely available and, together with the use of phototherapy is largely responsible for the declining incidence of kernicterus in the country. Infections remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality although their patterns have changed. The very high (>95%) WHO-EPI-vaccines coverage rate is linked to the great reduction in the incidence of diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis and measles. Childhood tuberculosis is less common now, with about 250 - 300 reported cases per year and TB meningitis is rare with about 30-40 reported cases/year. The hepatitis B carrier rate is high (5%) and the introduction of routine newborn hepatitis B vaccination in 1989 is expected to have a positive impact as is the immunisation of young girls against rubella introduced in 1985 in reducing the incidence of congenital rubella syndrome. The incidence of malaria has declined but remains prevalent in the interiors of PeninsularMalaysia and in Sabah and Sarawak. Filariasis is largely under control. Unfortunately, despite great efforts at mosquito control, dengue virus infection remains a major problem with thousands of cases reported every year. Children are most susceptible to dengue haemorrhagic fever with many dying from the shock syndrome. The incidence of acute gastroenteritis has also dropped with most cases being due to a viral aetiology. Acute respiratory infections, mostly viral in origin, account for most attendances at paediatric outpatient services. Although staphylococcal and streptococcal impetigo and pneumonia are common, the incidence of streptococcal related diseases like rheumatic fever and acute glomendonephritis is rapidly declining. The nutritional status of children has improved in tandem with the rise in the standard of living, but subclinical malnutrition is prevalent, particularly among urban squatters and the rural poor. There is a disturbing decline in breastfeeding among urban working mothers. Poor weaning practices and food habits are responsible for the common occurrence of nutritional anaemia (5%) among infants and young children. Greater prosperity, rapid industrialisation and urbanisation have resulted in changes in the childhood disease pattern where non-communicable diseases assume greater importance as the problems of malnutrition and infection are gradually overcome. Road traffic accidents are a major killer and home accidents, largely preventable, are an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Childhood cancer, with about 550 new cases a year, is an important cause of death beyond infancy. Major congenital malformations, with a 1% prevalence rate, cause much ill-health. Thalassaemia is a particularly common genetic disease with fl thalassaemia gene frequency of about 5%. The prevalence of asthma is increasing, with a rate of 13.9% in the Kiang Valley but the prevalence of asthma-related symptoms is much higher. Physical, sexual child abuse and neglect, abandoned babies, substance abuse are but signs of stress of modern city living and peoples inability to cope with it. Although the general standard of child health has greatly improved, there are several states where it is still not satisfactory. In Sabah where there is a large illegal immigrant population, the infant mortality and infection rates are relatively high. In Kelantan and Trengganu, it is common for parents to refuse permission for a lumbar puncture required to treat meningitis. Other still deeply entrenched, culturally-related adverse health practices include : a fatalistic attitude to illness; a preference for traditional practitioners of medicine resulting in late treatment; and 'doctor-hopping' with unrealistic expectations of 'instant cure'. Childhood illnesses that are uncommon in Malaysia include: cystic fibrosis, coeliac disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohns disease, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, Encopresis, enuresis and epiglottitis due to Haemophilus Influen:ae.
    Matched MeSH terms: Phototherapy
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