Displaying publications 141 - 160 of 235 in total

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  1. Zaharan NL, Muhamad NH, Jalaludin MY, Su TT, Mohamed Z, Mohamed MNA, et al.
    PMID: 29755414 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00209
    Background: Several non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) have been shown to be associated with obesity. Little is known about their associations and interactions with physical activity (PA) in relation to adiposity parameters among adolescents in Malaysia.

    Methods: We examined whether (a) PA and (b) selected nsSNPs are associated with adiposity parameters and whether PA interacts with these nsSNPs on these outcomes in adolescents from the Malaysian Health and Adolescents Longitudinal Research Team study (n = 1,151). Body mass indices, waist-hip ratio, and percentage body fat (% BF) were obtained. PA was assessed using Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C). Five nsSNPs were included: beta-3 adrenergic receptor (ADRB3) rs4994, FABP2 rs1799883, GHRL rs696217, MC3R rs3827103, and vitamin D receptor rs2228570, individually and as combined genetic risk score (GRS). Associations and interactions between nsSNPs and PAQ-C scores were examined using generalized linear model.

    Results: PAQ-C scores were associated with % BF (β = -0.44 [95% confidence interval -0.72, -0.16], p = 0.002). The CC genotype of ADRB3 rs4994 (β = -0.16 [-0.28, -0.05], corrected p = 0.01) and AA genotype of MC3R rs3827103 (β = -0.06 [-0.12, -0.00], p = 0.02) were significantly associated with % BF compared to TT and GG genotypes, respectively. Significant interactions with PA were found between ADRB3 rs4994 (β = -0.05 [-0.10, -0.01], p = 0.02) and combined GRS (β = -0.03 [-0.04, -0.01], p = 0.01) for % BF.

    Conclusion: Higher PA score was associated with reduced % BF in Malaysian adolescents. Of the nsSNPs, ADRB3 rs4994 and MC3R rs3827103 were associated with % BF. Significant interactions with PA were found for ADRB3 rs4994 and combined GRS on % BF but not on measurements of weight or circumferences. Targeting body fat represent prospects for molecular studies and lifestyle intervention in this population.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  2. Goh LY, Shahrom EE, Ganesan CC, Vethakkan SR, Goh KJ
    Neurology Asia, 2017;22(4):325-331.
    MyJurnal
    Objective: To determine prevalence and factors associated with neuropathic pain symptoms in a multiethnic cohort of Malaysian adult diabetic patients.
    Methods: This was aprospective cross-sectional observational study of hospital-based diabetic outpatients in Malaysia. Subjects were interviewed for their demographic data and medical history. The painDETECT questionnaire was used to screen for neuropathic pain symptoms and pain intensity was assessed using the numeric pain rating scale (NPRS). Neuropathy symptoms and signs were assessed using the Neuropathy Symptom Score (NSS) and Neuropathy Disability Score (NDS).
    Results:Of 242 patients,140 (58%) were women, with a mean age of 61 + 11.4 years (range 21 to 81). Ninety nine(40.9%) were Malay, 64 (26.4%) Chinese, 76 (31.4%) Indian and three (1.2%) were Eurasian. Mean duration of diabetes was 15.9+ 9.8 years (range 1 to 53) and 232 (95.9%) patients had Type II diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy,based on NSS and NDS criteria, was found in 83 (34.3%). Thirteen (5.4%) patients were found to likely have neuropathic pain symptoms and this was independently associated with peripheral neuropathy ((OR) = 3.40, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04, 11.14) and Indian ethnicity (OR = 5.44, 95% CI: 1.50,
    19.57)). Patients with neuropathic pain had higher average pain intensity scores.
    Conclusions: The prevalence of neuropathic pain symptoms in a Malaysian DM patient cohort was low and was associated with the severity of neuropathy symptoms and Indian ethnicity. The causes for ethnic differences are unknown and could be due socio-cultural or physiological differences in neuropathic pain perception.
    Study site: Diabetic clinic, University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  3. Sivagurunathan A, Atwa AM, Lobetti R
    JFMS Open Rep, 2018 03 13;4(1):2055116917752587.
    PMID: 29568541 DOI: 10.1177/2055116917752587
    Objectives: Feline ownership is popular and represents the largest segment of the pet population in Malaysia. Most feline owners own, on average, 2-3 cats, with some having >10 cats per household. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) are two clinically important viral infections in cats. Documenting the prevalence of these diseases in the feline population is important for both veterinarians and the public.

    Methods: This was a retrospective study, using data collected from the domestic cat population seen at a 24 h private veterinary hospital in Malaysia, to determine the prevalence of FIV and FeLV in an urban area and risk factors associated with these infections. Between 2010 and 2016, 2230 blood samples were collected and tested for FIV antibodies and FeLV antigen using commercially available ELISA test kits.

    Results: In total, 10.0% (n = 224; 95% confidence interval [CI] 8.80-11.26) were seropositive for FIV; 12.0% (n = 267; 95% CI 10.62-13.32) were seropositive for FeLV; and 2.6% (n = 58; 95% CI 2.01-3.17) were seropositive for both.

    Conclusions and relevance: The prevalence of FIV is lower and FeLV higher than previously documented for this region. Because of the immunosuppressive potential of both viruses, client education and use of appropriate control strategies such as routine screening, vaccination and eradication should be considered.
    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  4. Tan, Kok-Leong, Fhun, Lai-Chan, Ahmad Tajudin Liza Sharmini, Maizan Yaakub, Chong, Mei-Fong
    MyJurnal
    Glaucoma is a chronic disease that could affect the quality of life and is a potential stressor for patients. Visual field assessment is important in monitoring disease progression among glaucoma patients. Stress could influence the performance of patients in visual field test that may affect the reliability of the test. Our objective in this study was to determine the association between stress score using Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) questionnaire and reliability indices of Humphrey visual field analysis (HFA). A total of 155 primary and secondary glaucoma patients were recruited in the study. Face to face interview using stress component of DASS questionnaire was conducted after automated HFA test. Reliability indices; i.e. fixation loss, false positive, and false negative error, were used to determine the accuracy of HFA result. Only 12 patients (7.7%) were found to have elevated stress score. No significant correlation was found between DASS stress score and the reliability indices of HFA. There was 0.2 folds (95% confidence interval (CI) [-2.35, -0.06], p = 0.039) reduction of fixation loss for every number of HFA done. For every one year increase in age, there was 0.2 folds (95% CI [-0.38, -0.07], p = 0.006) reduction in false positive error in HFA.
    Minimal stress may not affect the reliability of HFA assessment. Minimising stress among glaucoma patients is important not only for assessment of visual field but also for improvement of quality of life.
    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  5. Wei LK, Au A, Menon S, Griffiths LR, Kooi CW, Irene L, et al.
    J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis, 2017 Nov;26(11):2482-2493.
    PMID: 28760411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2017.05.048
    INTRODUCTION: The association between ischemic stroke and genetic polymorphisms of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR; 677C>T and 1298A>C), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS; -786T>C, +894G>T, and variable number tandem repeat [VNTR]), phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D; SNPs 83 and 87), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) I/D, angiotensinogen (AGT) 235M>T, paraoxonase 1 (PON1) 192Q>R, and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) ε2ε3ε4 remains inconclusive. Therefore, this updated meta-analysis aimed to clarify the presumed influence of genetic polymorphisms on ischemic stroke by meta-analyzing the comprehensive coverage of all individual association studies.

    METHODS: All case-control studies published in different languages such as English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Chinese, Hungarian, Ukrainian, or Russian were identified from databases. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated via fixed- and random-effect models. Sensitivity analysis, heterogeneity test, Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium, and Egger's regression analyses were performed in this study.

    RESULTS: A total of 490 case-control studies with 138,592 cases and 159,314 controls were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled ORs from all the genetic models indicated that MTHFR 677TT and 1298CC, eNOS +894TT and VNTR, PDE4D SNP 83, ACE DD, AGT 235TT, PON1 192RR, and ApoE ε4 polymorphisms were increasing the risks of ischemic stroke. Nevertheless, PDE4D SNP 87 and eNOS -786T>C polymorphisms are not associated with ischemic stroke risks.

    CONCLUSIONS: Hence, the evidence from this meta-analysis concluded that MTHFR (677C>T and 1298A>C), eNOS (+894G>T and VNTR), PDE4D SNP 83, ACE I/D, AGT 235M>T, PON1 192Q>R, and ApoE ε2ε3ε4 polymorphisms predispose individuals to ischemic stroke.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  6. Ahmad Hamdi AH, Dali AF, Mat Nuri TH, Saleh MS, Ajmi NN, Neoh CF, et al.
    Front Pharmacol, 2017;8:410.
    PMID: 28744215 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00410
    Recent clinical trials have shown that while bivalirudin exhibits similar efficacy with heparin, it offers several advantages over heparin, such as a better safety profile. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bivalirudin use during Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) in the treatment of angina and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, and Science Direct from January 1980 to January 2016. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing bivalirudin to heparin during the course of PCI in patients with angina or ACS were included. Outcome measures included all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, revascularisation, stent thrombosis, stroke, and major bleeding. The selection, quality assessment, and data extraction of the included trials were done independently by four authors, and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Pooled relative risk (RR) estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. A total of 12 RCTs involving 44,088 subjects were included. Bivalirudin appeared to be non-superior compared to heparin in reducing all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, revascularisation, and stroke. Bivalirudin appeared to be related to a higher risk of stent thrombosis when compared to heparin plus provisional use of a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (GPI) at day 30 (RR 1.94 [1.16, 3.24] p < 0.01). Overall, bivalirudin-based regimens present a lesser risk of major bleeding (RR 0.56 [0.44-0.71] p < 0.001), and Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) major bleeding (RR 0.56 [0.43-0.73]) compared with heparin-based regimens either with provisional or routine use of a GPI. However, the magnitude of TIMI major bleeding effect varied greatly (p < 0.001), depending on whether a GPI was provisionally used (RR 0.42 [0.34-0.52] p < 0.001) or routinely used (RR 0.60 [0.43 -0.83] p < 0.001), in the heparin arm. This meta-analysis demonstrated that bivalirudin is associated with a lower risk of major bleeding, but a higher risk of stent thrombosis compared to heparin.
    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  7. Jajere SM, Atsanda NN, Bitrus AA, Hamisu TM, Goni MD
    Vet World, 2018 May;11(5):598-605.
    PMID: 29915497 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2018.598-605
    Background and Aim: Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) still remains a major zoonotic bacterial disease affecting livestock and humans worldwide. The disease remains a poorly managed tropical disease in most developing countries of the world; where in addition to productivity losses and significance in international trade, it posed a major public health threat to both humans and animals. A retrospective study was designed to investigate the occurrence of bTB lesions at Bauchi municipal abattoir.

    Materials and Methods: The study utilized abattoir records spanning a period of 10 years (2004-2013). The records indicated that a total of 1,08,638 heads of cattle comprising n = 56,070 males and n = 52,570 females were slaughtered at the municipal abattoir during the study period.

    Result: Of these heads, n = 1230 (1.13%) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07, 1.19) had tuberculous lesions. The annual occurrence during the study period varied significantly (p<0.001) from 0.53% (95% CI: 0.40, 0.67) to 1.87% (95% CI: 1.66, 2.10) in 2010 and 2012, respectively. Females had a significantly higher (p<0.001) prevalence of 2.10% (95% CI: 1.98, 2.23) compared with the males 0.23% (95% CI: 0.19, 0.27). The distribution of suspected gross bTB lesions in different organs showed 11.87% in the lungs, 5.93% in the liver, 1.14% in the heart, and 0.49% accounted for generalized bTB. However, none was observed on the lymph nodes and intestines.

    Conclusion: It can be concluded that bTB persists in Bauchi State with annual variations during the study period. This study highlights the importance of meat inspection as an important tool for detecting the presence of bTB lesions.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  8. Mohd Sopian M, Shaaban J, Mohd Yusoff SS, Wan Mohamad WMZ
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2018 Jun 25;19(6):1509-1514.
    PMID: 29936724
    Background: The incidence of cervical cancer in younger women remains high. This is worrisome as it affects
    future generations. Therefore Malaysia implements human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination as a national vaccination
    program. Parents play an important role in determining the success of this HPV vaccination program among schoolaged
    girls by their compliance. Objective: To assess parental knowledge, decision-making and acceptance of HPV
    vaccination. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among 280 randomly selected parents of primary
    school students aged 11 in Kota Bharu using a pre-validated self-administered questionnaire to assess knowledge and
    decision-making with regard to HPV vaccination. Results: Most parents (62%) were shown to have poor knowledge
    while most decision-making was shared. Age of respondents (adjusted odds ratio ‘AOR’= 1.09; 95% confidence interval
    ‘CI’= 1.04-1.14; p <0.001) and good knowledge of HPV vaccination (AOR= 16.32; 95% CI= 7.32-36.4; p <0.001) were
    significantly associated with HPV vaccine acceptance. Conclusion: The majority of parents exhibited poor knowledge
    which may affect their decision-making and uptake of HPV vaccination among their children. This highlights the need
    to better educate parents on HPV vaccination.
    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  9. Jourabchi Z, Sharif S, Lye MS, Saeed A, Khor GL, Tajuddin SHS
    Am J Health Promot, 2019 03;33(3):363-371.
    PMID: 30011998 DOI: 10.1177/0890117118779808
    PURPOSE: To evaluate the association between preconception care and the risk of adverse birth outcomes.

    DESIGN: A quasi-experimental study comparing 2 groups: (1) integrated maternal health care (MHC) program (with preconception care) and (2) standard MHC program (without preconception care).

    SETTING: Maternal health-care clinics in Alvand and Qazvin cities in Qazvin Province, Iran.

    PARTICIPANTS: A total of 152 and 247 Iranian women aged 16 to 35 years were enrolled in the integrated MHC and standard MHC program, respectively.

    MEASURES: The birth outcomes measured included low birth weight, preterm birth, maternal and neonatal complications, and mode of delivery (normal vaginal delivery and cesarean delivery).

    ANALYSIS: Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine the impact of preconception care and risk of adverse birth outcomes with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) as effect sizes.

    RESULTS: One hundred forty-seven women in integrated MHC and 218 women in standard MHC completed this study. Preconception care was associated with reduced risk of preterm birth (OR = 0.298; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.120-0.743; P = .009), low birth weight (OR = 0.406; 95% CI = 0.169-0.971; P = .043), maternal complication (OR = 0.399; 95% CI = 0.241-0.663; P < .001), and neonatal complications (OR = 0.460; 95% CI = 0.275-0.771; P = .003).

    CONCLUSION: The findings of the present study revealed advantages of preconception care with reduced adverse birth outcomes.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  10. Daud A, Fuzi NMHM, Arshad MM, Kamarudin S, Mohammad WMZW, Amran F, et al.
    Vet World, 2018 Jun;11(6):840-844.
    PMID: 30034179 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2018.840-844
    Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that infects human and livestock which causes economic losses to the farmers. It has been reported as one of the causes of reproductive failure in cattle and other ruminants, determining abortions, stillbirth, weak newborns, and decrease in their growth rate and milk production.

    Aim: The objectives of this study were to determine the leptospirosis seroprevalence and to identify the predominant infecting serovars among cattle.

    Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 420 cattle from six randomly selected districts in Kelantan was conducted. A serological test using the microscopic agglutination test was conducted in the Institute of Medical Research with a cutoff titer for seropositivity of ≥1:100.

    Results: The overall prevalence of leptospirosis seropositivity among cattle in this study was 81.7% (95% confidence interval: 63.5, 80.1). The most common reaction obtained with the sera tested was from the serovar Sarawak with 78.8%.

    Conclusion: A high seroprevalence of leptospiral antibodies was found among cattle in Northeastern Malaysia. These findings urge that more studies are required to determine the reasons for the high seroprevalence among the cattle along with its transmission and pathogenicity of the local serovar Sarawak.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  11. Lye MS, Tohit NF, Rampal L
    Med J Malaysia, 2017 02;72(1):12-17.
    PMID: 28255134 MyJurnal
    INTRODUCTION: Pediculosis capitis infestation is endemic in both developing and developed countries leading to various physical, economical and psychological consequences. Our main objective was to determine the prevalence and predictors of pediculosis capitis among primary school children in Hulu Langat District, Malaysia.

    METHODS: An analytic cross-sectional study using cluster random sampling method was carried out in Hulu Langat District, Malaysia. Self-administered pretested questionnaires were used to collect the data. Hair and scalp examination was also carried out. Multivariate logistic regression was used to control for potential confounding and determine the predictors.

    RESULTS: The overall mean age of the 1,336 respondents was 9.3 years. Majority were males (52.8%), Malays (79.5%) and 81.3% of the fathers had secondary or tertiary education as compared to 77.3% for the mothers. The overall prevalence of pediculosis capitis was 15.3%. The prevalence of pediculosis was significantly higher among females (28.4%) than males (3.7%, p=0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age 10 years or more (Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.34, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.673 to 3.272), female gender (OR = 10.26, 95% CI = 6.620 to 15.903), history of contact with an infested person (OR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.506 to 2.960), Indian compared to Chinese (OR = 3.55, 95% CI = 1.282 to 9.860), Malay to Chinese (OR = 2.59, 95% CI = .994 to 6.774) were associated with pediculosis capitis.

    CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of pediculosis capitis among children aged 7 - 12 years in Hulu Langat District was high. There is a need for screening and treatment of pediculosis capitis in primary schools.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  12. Zun AB, Ibrahim MI, Hamid AA
    Oman Med J, 2018 Sep;33(5):416-422.
    PMID: 30210721 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2018.76
    Objectives: Implemented in 2010, 1 Malaysia Clinic (1MC) is the latest innovation in public primary healthcare services in Malaysia to serve the urban population. This study aimed to assess the level of satisfaction and its associated factors using the SERVQUAL (SERV-service, QUAL-quality) instrument. We also sought to compare the difference of mean score between expectation and perception of SERVQUAL dimension among patients attending 1MC in Kota Bharu district, Malaysia.

    Methods: This cross-sectional study included all nine 1MCs in the Kota Bharu district, Malaysia, and used the validated SERVQUAL questionnaire from Ministry of Health, Malaysia. The primary data was collected in January 2017. The sample size was proportionate to the average daily patient attendance for each clinic, and a simple random sampling method was applied to reduced selection bias. Satisfaction level was determined by the mean gap score of expectation and perception of the SERVQUAL dimension.

    Results: A total of 386 patients were involved in this study (184 male and 202 female). Most were from the low socioeconomic group. Less than half of the patients were satisfied with the clinic services. The tangible dimension (service quality (SQ) gap: -0.25) was the most critical dimension among all five SQ dimensions assessed. The factors included low education level (adjusted odds ratio (adj. OR) 1.87; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06, 2.67; p = 0.024), monthly household income less than RM 3000 (adj. OR 2.97; 95% CI: 1.72, 5.51; p < 0.001), and frequency 3 3 visits (adj. OR 2.23; 95% CI: 1.44, 3.45; p < 0.001) had significant association with high level of satisfaction.

    Conclusion: 1MC has achieved its objective to increase the accessibility of health services among the low-income population in urban settings. However, most patients were not satisfied with certain parts of the services. Thus, proper evaluation of the service gap is required for improvement of the service.
    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  13. Okekpa SI, S M N Mydin RB, Mangantig E, Azmi NSA, Zahari SNS, Kaur G, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2019 Nov 01;20(11):3505-3514.
    PMID: 31759378 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2019.20.11.3505
    OBJECTIVE: Risk factors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) have been linked with diets, life style and viral
    infections. NPC is more rampant in Asian populations than non-Asian countries. Our study aims to assess the validity
    of the suggestions provided by multiple case control studies demonstrating that salted fish consumption, smoking and
    alcohol consumption are associated with the risk of NPC in Asia.

    METHODS: Search for related literature on salted fish,
    smoking and alcohol consumption were performed via Science Direct, PubMed databases and Google Scholar. Articles
    included in this study were from 2009 to 2017, with specific focus on salted fish, smoking and alcohol consumption
    as risk factors of NPC. This study excluded all articles published prior to 2009 and articles involving other cancers.
    Data were extracted independently by two different researchers and harmonized. Meta-analysis was conducted on the
    obtained data, by using R package Meta to create funnel and forest plots.

    RESULTS: The meta-analysis revealed that
    salted fish, smoking and alcohol consumption were significantly associated to NPC risk with random effect model score
    showing OR of 1.41 at 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.13-1.75 (P<0.01), OR of 1.89 at 95 % CI of 1.49 - 2.38, and
    OR: 1.42 at 95 % CI of 1.23 - 1.65 respectively. Our results also revealed significant association of salted meat, salted
    vegetables, house type, wood dust exposure associated with NPC risk with p values less than 0.05.

    CONCLUSION: This
    study proposes that salted fish intake, smoking and alcohol consumption might be linked to NPC risk in Asians. Further
    studies are necessary to ascertain the molecular mechanisms and clarify if the associated path that could function as
    therapeutic target.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  14. Ramdzan AR, Ismail A, Mohd Zanib ZS
    Int J Infect Dis, 2019 Nov 27;91:68-72.
    PMID: 31785400 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2019.11.026
    OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of malaria in Sabah and its potential risk factors.

    METHODS: This cross-sectional study analysed secondary data obtained from the health clinics in Sabah, Malaysia from January to August 2016. The Pearson Chi-square test was used to analyse the relationships between malaria infection and socio-demographic characteristics. Multivariable logistic regression was performed in order to determine the risk factors for malaria in Sabah.

    RESULTS: Out of 1222 patients, 410 (33.6%) had a laboratory-confirmed malaria infection. Infection by Plasmodium knowlesi accounted for the majority of malaria reports in Sabah (n=340, 82.9%). Multivariable analysis indicated that males (prevalence odds ratio 0.023, 95% confidence interval 0.012-0.047) and those living in a rural area (prevalence odds ratio 0.004, 95% confidence interval 0.002-0.009) were at higher risk 24.0-95.9) and those living in a rural area (adjusted odds ratio 212.6, 95% confidence interval 105.8-427.2) were at higher risk of acquiring a malaria infection.

    CONCLUSIONS: Malaria infections in Sabah, Malaysia are common, with P. knowlesi being the most common malaria parasite. The infection was associated with several socio-demographic and geographical factors. Thus, mitigation measures should be considered to address modifiable risk factors for malaria infection.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  15. Bukhsh A, Khan TM, Sarfraz Nawaz M, Sajjad Ahmed H, Chan KG, Goh BH
    Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes, 2019;12:1409-1417.
    PMID: 31616171 DOI: 10.2147/DMSO.S209711
    Objective: This study explored the relationship of disease knowledge with glycemic control and self-care practices in adult Pakistani people diabetes (PWD).

    Methods: People diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (n=218) were selected from three health care centers, located in different cities of Pakistan. Disease knowledge and self-care practices were assessed by Urdu versions of Diabetes Knowledge Questionnaire (DKQ) and Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ), using a cross-sectional design. Chi-square and correlation analysis were applied to explore the relationship of disease knowledge with glycemic control and self-care practices. Linear regression was used to explore the predictors for disease knowledge.

    Results: Majority of the sample was >45-60 years old (48.8%), suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus for <5 years (49.5%) and had poor glycemic control (HbA1C≥7%; n=181 participants). Disease knowledge was significantly associated (p<0.05) with patient's gender, level of education, family history of diabetes, nature of euglycemic therapy, and glycemic control. Correlation matrix showed strongly inverse correlations of DKQ with glycated hemoglobin levels (r=-0.62; p<0.001) and strongly positive with DSMQ sum scale (r=0.63; p<0.001). PWD having university-level education (β=0.22; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.189, 0.872; p<0.01), doing job (β=0.22; 95% CI 0.009, 0.908]; p=0.046), and use of oral hypoglycemic agents in combination with insulin (β=-0.16; 95% CI [-1.224, -0.071]; p=0.028) were the significant predictors for disease knowledge.

    Conclusion: Disease knowledge significantly correlated with glycated hemoglobin levels and self-care activities of PWD. These findings will help in designing patient-tailored diabetes educational interventions for yielding a higher probability of achieving target glycemic control.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  16. Resshaya Roobini Murukesu, Devinder Kaur Ajit Singh, Suzana Shahar
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2018;16(101):227-227.
    MyJurnal
    Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common disorder among older adults, with a global prevalence between 2% to 58%. UI has been associated with social isolation, increased morbidity and reduced quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to investigate the sociodemographic, clinical, cognitive and physical function risk factors of UI among Malaysian community dwelling older adults. This study is part of a larger scale population based longitudinal study on neuroprotective model for healthy longevity among older adults (LRGS TUA). A total of 1560 Malaysian community dwelling older adults aged 60 years and above were screened in this phase III LRGS study. Participants sociodemographic and clinical history were obtained. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) and Digit Span tested cognitive function. Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Hand Grip Strength Test, Chair Stand Test and Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living tested physical function. The overall prevalence of UI was 15.7% (n = 245) in this study, with 11.8% (n = 88) in men and 19.3% (n = 157) in women. Logistic regression analysis showed that TUG (Adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.071; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.13), MMSE (OR, 0.93; CI, 0.90-0.97), weight (OR, 1.02; CI, 1.00-1.03), and constipation (OR 0.60; CI, 0.46-0.78) (p < 0.005) were significant risk factors of UI. The results indicate, decreased physical and cognitive function; increase in weight and having constipation increased the risk of UI. Maintaining optimum mobility, cognitive function, body weight and constipation prevention are vital in the prevention and management of UI among older adults.
    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  17. Landoni G, Lomivorotov VV, Nigro Neto C, Monaco F, Pasyuga VV, Bradic N, et al.
    N Engl J Med, 2019 03 28;380(13):1214-1225.
    PMID: 30888743 DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1816476
    BACKGROUND: Volatile (inhaled) anesthetic agents have cardioprotective effects, which might improve clinical outcomes in patients undergoing coronary-artery bypass grafting (CABG).

    METHODS: We conducted a pragmatic, multicenter, single-blind, controlled trial at 36 centers in 13 countries. Patients scheduled to undergo elective CABG were randomly assigned to an intraoperative anesthetic regimen that included a volatile anesthetic (desflurane, isoflurane, or sevoflurane) or to total intravenous anesthesia. The primary outcome was death from any cause at 1 year.

    RESULTS: A total of 5400 patients were randomly assigned: 2709 to the volatile anesthetics group and 2691 to the total intravenous anesthesia group. On-pump CABG was performed in 64% of patients, with a mean duration of cardiopulmonary bypass of 79 minutes. The two groups were similar with respect to demographic and clinical characteristics at baseline, the duration of cardiopulmonary bypass, and the number of grafts. At the time of the second interim analysis, the data and safety monitoring board advised that the trial should be stopped for futility. No significant difference between the groups with respect to deaths from any cause was seen at 1 year (2.8% in the volatile anesthetics group and 3.0% in the total intravenous anesthesia group; relative risk, 0.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69 to 1.29; P = 0.71), with data available for 5353 patients (99.1%), or at 30 days (1.4% and 1.3%, respectively; relative risk, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.70 to 1.76), with data available for 5398 patients (99.9%). There were no significant differences between the groups in any of the secondary outcomes or in the incidence of prespecified adverse events, including myocardial infarction.

    CONCLUSIONS: Among patients undergoing elective CABG, anesthesia with a volatile agent did not result in significantly fewer deaths at 1 year than total intravenous anesthesia. (Funded by the Italian Ministry of Health; MYRIAD ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02105610.).

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  18. Pitisuttithum P, Chan WK, Piyachaturawat P, Imajo K, Nakajima A, Seki Y, et al.
    BMC Gastroenterol, 2020 Apr 06;20(1):88.
    PMID: 32252638 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-020-01240-z
    BACKGROUND: The Gut and Obesity in Asia (GOASIA) Workgroup was formed to study obesity and gastrointestinal diseases in the Asia Pacific region. We aimed to 1) compare the characteristics of elderly (i.e. age ≥ 60) vs. non-elderly patients with biopsy-proven nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); 2) identify predictors of advanced fibrosis in elderly patients with NAFLD; and 3) assess the performance of non-invasive fibrosis scores in the prediction of advance fibrosis in the elderly population.

    METHODS: We abstracted the data of 1008 patients with NAFLD from nine centers across eight countries. Characteristics of elderly and non-elderly patients with NAFLD were compared using 1:3 sex-matched analysis.

    RESULTS: Of the 1008 patients, 175 were elderly [age 64 (62-67) years], who were matched with 525 non-elderly patients [46 (36-54) years]. Elderly patients were more likely to have advanced fibrosis (35.4% vs. 13.3%; p 

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  19. Husain NN, Hairon SM, Zain RM, Bakar M, Bee TG, Ismail MS
    Oman Med J, 2020 Mar;35(2):e108.
    PMID: 32257417 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2020.26
    Objectives: Despite being recognized worldwide as an alternative therapy in treating various chronic diseases and pain, the mechanism of wet cupping is still not well understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate fasting blood sugar (FBS), renal function parameters, and endothelial function changes following wet cupping in healthy individuals.

    Methods: We conducted a single-arm intervention study at the Clinical Lab of Community Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, and included 31 healthy individuals aged between 30 and 60 years old. Wet cupping therapy was performed at five treatment points at the beginning of the study and repeated after three months. Health outcomes at baseline, one, three, and four months were assessed for FBS, renal function parameters (urea, creatinine, and uric acid), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and von Willebrand factor (vWF).

    Results: Forty-five percent of participants were female, and the mean age of study participants was 44.9±6.4 years. Wet cupping therapy significantly reduced FBS, serum urea, and serum creatinine at one, three, and four months compared with baseline values. Serum uric acid and SBP showed a significant reduction at one and four months compared with baseline. The vWF (a measure of endothelial function) had a 4.0% reduction at four months compared to baseline, with a mean difference of 5.3 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.20 = 8.55; p = 0.002).

    Conclusions: This study provides preliminary support that repeated wet cupping therapy enhances body health status; thus, it could be an effective complementary medicine in disease prevention.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
  20. Mohd Khairi MD, Shahrjerdi B, Ramiza RR, Normastura R
    Med J Malaysia, 2019 Jun;74(3):205-208.
    PMID: 31256174
    OBJECTIVE: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) usually begins as a spontaneous perforation of tympanic membrane due to an acute infection of the middle ear. This study was aimed to evaluate the association between allergy and CSOM.

    METHODS: A case-control study was carried out among patients with CSOM (cases) and controls were those with no ear pathology. The presence of CSOM was made through a medical history and otoscopic examination. Allergen testing was done by the skin prick test.

    RESULTS: In all 124 subjects were recruited in this study with equal number of the cases and controls. The commonest positive reaction in the skin prick test in both groups was to house dust mites. Among CSOM cases, half (50%) of them had an allergy to Blomia tropicalis and 48.4% to Dermatophagoides while in the control group, 27.4% to Dermatophagoides and 25.8% to B. tropicalis. There were significant associations between CSOM and allergy to B. tropicalis (p=0.005), Dermatophagoides (p=0.016) and Felis domesticus (p=0.040). The prevalence of allergy at 95% confidence interval (95%CI) in CSOM and control groups were demonstrated as 59.7% (95%CI: 47.5, 71.9) and 30.6 % (95%CI: 19.1, 42.1) respectively. There was a significant association between allergy and CSOM (p=0.001).

    CONCLUSION: Indoor allergens are the most prevalent in our environment and therefore good control may difficult to achieve. The hypersensitivity states of the subject are likely to have a role in the pathogenesis of CSOM especially in the tropical countries where allergy occurs perennially.

    Matched MeSH terms: Confidence Intervals
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