Objectives: Alpha thalassaemia is wide spread in Malaysia and is a public health problem. This study aimed to describe the carrier frequencies of α‒thalassaemia and its distribution among major ethnic groups in three states of Malaysia. Methods: Educational forums were organised and study was explained to students from three schools. Students were invited to take part in the screening with parent consent. A total of 8420 adolescent students aged 16 years volunteered to participate in the study. Peripheral blood samples were analysed for complete blood counts, haemoglobin quantification and typing, and serum ferritin levels. Genomic DNA was used for screening alpha thalassaemia alleles by PCR based molecular methods. Results: We identified seven α‒globin gene defects in 341 (4.08%) students: amongst them α+‒ and α0‒thalassaemias were detected in 232 (2.77%) and 107 (1.28%) students respectively. Genotype ‒α3.7/αα was the most prevalent among sub-populations of Malay, indigenous communities of Sahab and Indian, while ‒‒SEA/αα deletion is more prevalent in Malaysian Chinese. It is estimated that 63 pregnancies annually are at risk of Hb Bart’s hydrops fetalis. Conclusions: We have demonstrated the prevalence and mutation patterns of α‒thalassaemia in the 16 year olds in three states of Malaysia. High α0‒thalassaemia deletions amongst the study subjects place these carriers at an increased risk of conceiving fetuses with HbH disease and Hb Bart’s hydrops fetalis should they choose another heterozygous partner. It is therefore highly recommended to institute community screening programmes and provide prospective carriers with genetic counselling to help them make informed choices.

Ergonomics and design have made the greatest relation in producing an artifact or creating a workplace. A computer table is widely used in classrooms in universities. However, the problems of the current computer table have been detected through the results of RULA analysis. In this project, a survey of the questionnaire was done and the anthropometric data have also been collected. The dimensions of the current computer table are then collected and the deficiencies of the current computer table have been focused on RULA analysis. A new structural design of the computer table has been designed, in order to meet the requirements of ergonomics. A product of the new design of ergonomics computer table is made and has been focused on RULA analysis to define the improvement between both tables. The paper showed a comparison between the current computer table and the new ergonomics computer table were analyzed. The improvement of the new ergonomics computer table was identified and reduced the injuries and disorders. A further investigation on better working posture when using a computer table is required, while further improvement for the product design of a new ergonomics computer table is needed, as well as the application of the ergonomics design aspect in our life.

Keropok lekor is a fish-based snack and traditional food originating from the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, especially in Terengganu. This study was conducted to identify the ingredients and packaging used in the manufacturing of keropok lekor by entrepreneurs in Selangor. This study is a qualitative study that requires in-depth interviews. The Nutritionist Pro application was used to determine the nutrients in keropok lekor. The sampling method for this study is purposive sampling and involves five keropok lekor operators around Selangor. The ingredients used in making keropok lekor are salt, fish filling (fringescale sardine), baking powder, monosodium glutamate (MSG), margarine, and sweet potato flour. Through this study, it was found that the main source of sodium in keropok lekor is salt. For keropok lekor packaging, all keropok lekor operators use the same packaging method, which is vacuum packaging. In addition, the majority of keropok lekor operators (80%) have been introduced to Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). The results of the study show that the average sodium content in keropok lekor is 372.11mg/100g and is categorized as medium-level sodium. Although the majority of keropok lekor operators have been introduced to MAP packaging, further research needs to be conducted to find out whether keropok lekor operators have renewed their packaging methods or vice versa. In conclusion, based on the findings, the content of sodium in the manufacturing of keropok lekor in Selangor is still under control. The results of this study can be used to help the government monitor the sodium content found in keropok lekor around Selangor.