Displaying all 15 publications

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  1. Mahmud N
    Asia Pac J Public Health, 2001;13(1):36-9.
    PMID: 12109259
    The data on thyroid volume measurements that determines prevalence of goitre in children is very important for public health consideration as the presence of goitre in children effectively reflects the status of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) in the general population. Ultrasound is an excellent modality to evaluate thyroid size. Local experience in using a portable ultrasound machine to measure thyroid volume is presented. The thyroid anatomy and techniques of ultrasound assessment are highlighted. Proper training of public health doctors to perform thyroid gland ultrasonography is crucial to ensure that the thyroid volume data collected would be more accurate and reliable for the planning of health programmes to eliminate IDD in the particular areas.
  2. Harith SH, Mahmud N
    Iran J Public Health, 2020 Feb;49(2):211-220.
    PMID: 32461928
    Background: Road accident statistics has been seen increasing over the years despite numerous efforts made by the authorities. Human factors have contributed 90% of accident occurrence with risky driving behavior being one of the significant human factors that can be further explained through norms. This review paper aimed to investigate the relationship between norms and drivers' risky driving behavior.

    Methods: A systematic review process was conducted through four academic databases namely Scopus, Wiley Online Library, Emerald and Web of Science of no limitation for date. Overall, 3443 titles were identified and after several screening and reviewing processes, only 27 studies were included.

    Results: The results of the review demonstrated mixed findings between subjective norm and risky driving behavior, whereas the relationship between group norm, moral norm, injunctive norm, descriptive norm and risky driving behavior were observed significant.

    Conclusion: Appropriate educational awareness is required to educate the society in practicing good norms for mutual benefit of the society. Parents also need to set a good example for their children by abiding the traffic rules and regulation.

  3. Mohamad Farok NH, Mahmud N
    Malays J Med Sci, 2023 Aug;30(4):48-60.
    PMID: 37655154 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.4.5
    Suicide cases have increased drastically over the years, while the upsurge has inevitably spiked society's concerns. Suicidal behaviours such as suicidal ideation have received special attention from professionals due to the harmful and irreversible consequences of possible suicide attempts. There is increasing concern that a more complete understanding of suicidal ideation trends is necessary to achieve scientific insights into suicidal behaviours through future integrated advanced research efforts. Thus, this paper aims to observe research patterns through publication outputs and co-authorships among authors and affiliated countries, besides co-occurrences of author keywords from the Scopus database. Using 'suicidal ideation' as the keyword on Scopus, this bibliometric analysis explored the global pattern of suicidal ideation research published between 1960 and 2020 and retrieved 3,061 records. Seven out of 15 most productive universities from the world's top 100 best universities were found in the leading countries lists. The United States was found as dominating the research area with 80% of the publications. In conclusion, the study found that researchers have made significant progress in the research area of suicidal ideation over the years; however, the topic still warrants further analysis to understand suicidality from a broader perspective.
  4. Mahmud N, Kenny DT, Md Zein R, Hassan SN
    Asia Pac J Public Health, 2015 Mar;27(2):NP1652-68.
    PMID: 21878465 DOI: 10.1177/1010539511419199
    This study explored whether musculoskeletal complaints can be reduced by the provision of ergonomics education. A cluster randomized controlled trial study was conducted in which 3 units were randomized to intervention and received training and 3 units were given a leaflet. The effect of intervention on knowledge, workstation practices, musculoskeletal complaints, sickness absence, and psychological well-being were assessed at 6 and 12 months. Although there was no increment of knowledge among workers, significant improvements in workstation practices in the use of monitor, keyboard, and chair were observed. There were significant reductions in neck and upper and lower back complaints among workers but these did not translate into fewer days lost from work. Workers' stress was found to be significantly reduced across the studies. In conclusion, office ergonomics training can be beneficial in reducing musculoskeletal risks and stress among workers.
  5. Lum SG, Mahmud N, Isa N, Mat Baki M
    Medeni Med J, 2020;35(4):349-355.
    PMID: 33717629 DOI: 10.5222/MMJ.2020.83479
    Angiosarcoma is one of the rarest types of malignant vascular tumours that involved the head and neck region. It predominantly affects the scalp and superficial soft tissues. Angiosarcoma arising from the deep cervical soft tissue is extremely rare. There is a limited literature on neck angiosarcoma that occurred simultaneously with papillary thyroid carcinoma. We report a rare case of concurrent papillary thyroid carcinoma and cervical epithelioid angiosarcoma, and postoperative rapid progression of residual angiosarcoma that mimicked a neck haematoma. The diagnostic challenge and possible etiologies have been discussed here.
  6. Mahmud N, Abdul Latif H, Mohd Zaki F, Goh BS
    BMJ Case Rep, 2021 Apr 02;14(4).
    PMID: 33811090 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-236888
    Pfeiffer syndrome is a rare inherited craniofacial disorder. Upper airway obstruction is common among patients with Pfeiffer syndrome due to craniosynostosis. They may also present with lower respiratory tract obstruction due to a rare congenital airway malformation called tracheal cartilaginous sleeve (TCS). We report the case of a patient with Pfeiffer syndrome who presented with recurrent bronchopneumonia, discovered incidentally to have TCS via direct visualisation during tracheostomy. Relevant literature for this rare clinical condition are reviewed and discussed. Clinicians should be aware of TCS when encountering patients with craniosynostosis who present with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections. Careful and meticulous investigations should be performed to look for TCS, especially in patients with craniosynostosis.
  7. Nasharudin MIH, Siew SW, Ahmad HF, Mahmud N
    Mol Biol Rep, 2024 Apr 11;51(1):503.
    PMID: 38600404 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09492-8
    BACKGROUND: Komagataeibacter nataicola (K. nataicola) is a gram-negative acetic acid bacterium that produces natural bacterial cellulose (BC) as a fermentation product under acidic conditions. The goal of this work was to study the complete genome of K. nataicola and gain insight into the functional genes in K. nataicola that are responsible for BC synthesis in acidic environments.

    METHODS AND RESULT: The pure culture of K. nataicola was obtained from yeast-glucose-calcium carbonate (YGC) agar, followed by genomic DNA extraction, and subjected to whole genome sequencing on a Nanopore flongle flow cell. The genome of K. nataicola consists of a 3,767,936 bp chromosome with six contigs and 4,557 protein coding sequences. The maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree and average nucleotide identity analysis confirmed that the bacterial isolate was K. nataicola. The gene annotation via RAST server discovered the presence of cellulose synthase, along with three genes associated with lactate utilization and eight genes involved in lactate fermentation that could potentially contribute to the increase in acid concentration during BC synthesis.

    CONCLUSION: A more comprehensive genome study of K. nataicola may shed light into biological pathway in BC productivity as well as benefit the analysis of metabolites generated and understanding of biological and chemical interactions in BC production later.

  8. Mahmud N, Kenny DT, Md Zein R, Hassan SN
    Malays J Med Sci, 2011 Apr;18(2):16-26.
    PMID: 22135582 MyJurnal
    Musculoskeletal disorders are commonly reported among computer users. This study explored whether these disorders can be reduced by the provision of ergonomics education.
  9. Amran HS, Aziz MA, George E, Mahmud N, Lee TY, Md Noor S
    Malays J Pathol, 2017 Dec;39(3):321-326.
    PMID: 29279598 MyJurnal
    Hb Tak is one of more than 200 high affinity haemoglobin variants reported worldwide. It results from the insertion of two nucleotides (AC) at the termination codon, between codon 146 and codon 147 of the beta-globin gene [Beta 147 (+AC)]. Polycythaemia is the main clinical feature although affected carriers are usually asymptomatic and do not require intervention. Several case studies in this region have reported the co-inheritance of Hb Tak with Hb E, delta beta and beta thalassaemia with one case of homozygous Hb Tak in a Thai boy. In this case report, a cluster of haemoglobin Tak was found in a family of Malay ethnic origin. Cascade family screening was conducted while investigating a 4-year old girl who presented with symptomatic polycythaemia. She had 2 previous Hb analysis done, at 7-month and 2-year-old with the diagnosis of possible Hb Q Thailand and Homozygous Hb D, respectively. Both diagnosis did not fit her clinical presentations. She was plethoric, had reduced exercise tolerance as well as cardiomyopathy. Her parents were consanguineously married and later diagnosed as asymptomatic carriers of Hb Tak. Consequently, re-analysis of the girl's blood sample revealed a homozygous state of Hb Tak. In conclusion, high oxygen affinity haemoglobin like Hb Tak should be considered in the investigation of polycythaemic patients with abnormal Hb analyses. In this case, DNA analysis was crucial in determining the correct diagnosis.
  10. Abd Wahab AT, Mohd Hairon S, Shafei MN, Ibrahim MI, Mahmud N
    Cureus, 2023 Nov;15(11):e49083.
    PMID: 38125210 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49083
    Introduction Job stress is recognized as a significant concern across various occupational settings which have profound implications for both individuals and organizations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, job stress among the public health workforce (PHW) has been a significant concern, as they face a significantly increased risk of infection and mortality due to excessive COVID-19 exposure. This study presents a descriptive exploration of key job stress-related factors among PHW in Terengganu, Malaysia. Methodology This is a cross-sectional study conducted from May 2022 to April 2023, encompassing all eight District Health Offices (DHO) and government health clinics in Terengganu. Data collection involved a Malay version of the Job Content Questionnaire (M-JCQ), which assesses job characteristics based on Karasek's demand-control-support model and consists of four main domains: decision latitude, psychological job demands, physical job demands, and social support. Data was collected from 1044 participants, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Findings Of the 1044 participants, 18.9% experienced job stress. The highest percentage of job stress was observed among nurses (24.3%), followed by medical assistants (18.3%) and physicians (16.0%). In contrast, the public health assistant (PKA) group had the lowest rate of job stress. Job types based on Karasek's model also showed variations, with doctors having the highest percentage of active jobs (46.4%), while medical assistants had the highest percentage of low job strain (17.9%), and PKAs had the highest percentage of passive job types (44.7%). Conclusion This study offers significant insights into the work-related challenges faced by the public health workforce in Terengganu, Malaysia, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Job stress is a substantial concern, and understanding its underlying factors is essential for improving the well-being of PHWs. Decision latitude, job demands, and social support play critical roles in shaping job stress among PHWs. Strategies and interventions are needed to mitigate job stress, improve working conditions, and enhance the effectiveness of PHWs in public health initiatives. This study highlights the importance of addressing job stress in this sector, with potential benefits for both the mental and physical health of PHW.
  11. Muhammad Khir S, Wan Mohd Yunus WMA, Mahmud N, Wang R, Panatik SA, Mohd Sukor MS, et al.
    Psychol Res Behav Manag, 2024;17:345-365.
    PMID: 38322293 DOI: 10.2147/PRBM.S437277
    BACKGROUND: The rise in the prevalence of mental health problems among adults worldwide has raised concerns, highlighting the critical need for evidence-based mental health interventions that are accessible, comprehensive, and effective. Previous research suggests that Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a promising intervention widely used to reduce mental health problems. Nevertheless, the current literature on the efficacy of PMR among adults globally is fragmented, indicating a potential gap in this research area. Hence, this paper aims to systematically compile the research evidence on the efficacy of PMR in adults for stress, anxiety, and depression.

    METHODS: The Scopus, Web of Sciences, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from the earliest available evidence to 28th March 2023. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed, and the protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework. Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tools were used to assess the quality of the included studies.

    RESULTS: A total of forty-six (46) publications from sixteen (16) countries covering more than 3402 adults were included in the review. The results show that PMR are effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression in adults. When PMR is combined with other interventions, the combined techniques have also consistently exhibited enhanced efficacy. Moreover, findings also indicate that the efficacy of PMR is heightened when implemented in conjunction with other interventions, surpassing its standalone efficacy.

    FUNDING AND REGISTRATION: This research was supported/funded by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) under the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) (FRGS/1/2020/SS0/UTM/02/23). The review was registered on Open Science Framework (OSF) on the 7th of March 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/U2HZP.

  12. Mahmud N, Maffei M, Mogni M, Forni GL, Pinto VM, Barberio G, et al.
    Genes (Basel), 2021 11 19;12(11).
    PMID: 34828427 DOI: 10.3390/genes12111821
    BACKGROUND: Hemoglobin A (Hb A) (α2β2) in the normal adult subject constitutes 96-98% of hemoglobin, and Hb F is normally less than 1%, while for hemoglobin A2 (Hb A2) (α2δ2), the normal reference values are between 2.0 and 3.3%. It is important to evaluate the presence of possible delta gene mutations in a population at high risk for globin gene defects in order to correctly diagnose the β-thalassemia carrier.

    METHODS: The most used methods for the quantification of Hb A2 are based on automated high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or capillary electrophoresis (CE). In particular Hb analyses were performed by HPLC on three dedicated devices. DNA analyses were performed according to local standard protocols.

    RESULTS: Here, we described eight new δ-globin gene variants discovered and characterized in some laboratories in Northern Italy in recent years. These new variants were added to the many already known Hb A2 variants that were found with an estimated frequency of about 1-2% during the screening tests in our laboratories.

    CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge recognition of the delta variant on Hb analysis and accurate molecular characterization is crucial to provide an accurate definitive thalassemia diagnosis, particularly in young subjects who would like to ask for a prenatal diagnosis or preimplantation genetic diagnosis.

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