1.Extracted substrate colour as an indicator of fungal growth in solid state fermentation
Musaalbakri Abdul Manan ; Colin Webb
Malaysian Journal of Microbiology 2016;12(6):445-449
Aims: In solid state fermentation (SSF), estimation of biomass is difficult as fungal mycelium penetrates deep and
remains attached to the solid substrate particles. This study examines and evaluates a new technique based on
colour changes of fermented substrates during SSF as an indicator for fungal growth.
Methodology and Results: SSF refers to microbial fermentation, which takes place in the absence or near
absence of free water, thus being close to the natural environment in which the selected microorganisms,
especially fungi, are naturally adapted. Although many promising methods are available, the evaluation of microbial
growth in SSF may sometimes become difficult, impractical, and inaccurate. Essentially, this remains another
critical issue for monitoring growth. In this study, measurements of colour changes of fermented substrates during
SSF are used as indicators for growth and this technique has a potential to be used to quantify growth of microbes.
For the growth of Aspergillus awamori and A. oryzae on wheat bran, soybean hulls, and rapeseed meal, it was
confirmed that colour changes were directly proportional to the fungal growth. This new approach is an important
complementation to the existing techniques, especially for basic studies. The advantages of this method are its
ease of use, fast, non-destructive, cheap, and requires no special and expensive reagents. The key finding is that
the colorimetric technique demonstrated in this study provides good means to estimate growth than that obtained
by visual observation or spores counting.
Biomass
;
Fermentation
2.The Involvement Of Doctors In Research Activities In Two Major Hospitals In Penang, Malaysia
K Abdul Rashid ; S Gomathy ; A Ab Manan
Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine 2012;12(2):24-30
Majority of doctors show no interest in research although research is now a requirement and is being done in every field of medicine. The objective of this survey was to describe the involvement in research activities among doctors in Penang and Seberang Jaya hospitals in Penang. A self-administered questionnaire was used. A total of 302 doctors participated in the survey. The differences in age (p=<0.001), years since graduation (p=0.001), occupation (p=<0.001), post graduate qualification (p=0.001) and career focus (p=0.005) were statistically significant for the involvement in research activities. Respondents who had additional training in statistics (OR 2.86 95% CI 1.76; 4.67), who read journals regularly (OR 3.79 95% CI 2.29; 6.27), who were confident in interpreting medical literature (OR 3.08 95% CI 1.84;5.17), interested in a career in research (OR 7.35 95% CI 4.26;12.68) and who had knowledge in the use of statistical packages (OR 11.10 95% CI 6.29;19.60) were more likely to be involved in research. By hierarchy, having knowledge in statistical packages (aOR 11.57 95% CI 5.49; 24.42), interested in a career in research (aOR 8.54 95% CI 3.99; 18.28) and having a post graduate qualification (aOR 1.48 95% CI 1.01;2.16) were significant associated factors. It is imperative that doctors be given ample opportunity to attend research methodology training programmes to increase their participation in research activities.
3.Therapeutic Potential of the Haruan (Channa striatus): From Food to Medicinal Uses
Mohd Shafri MA ; Abdul Manan MJ
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2012;18(1):125-136
The haruan (Channa striatus) is an indigenous, predatory freshwater fish of Malaysia. It is a common food fish among the local populace with traditionally
identified pharmacological benefits in treating wound and pain and in boosting energy of the sick. Channa striatus is also a subject of renewed interest in Malaysian
folk medicine in the search for a better cure for diseases and ailments. Amino acids and fatty acids, found in high concentrations in the fish, might have contributed to its pharmacological properties. Important amino acids of the fish include glycine, lysine and arginine, while its fatty acids are arachidonic acid, palmitic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. They appear to effect their influence
through the formation of several types of bioactive molecules. Extracts of the fish are produced from whole fish, roe, mucus and skin of the fish. This review
updates research findings on potential uses of Channa striatus, beyond the traditional prescription as a wound healer, pain reliever and energy booster to include its properties as a ACE-inhibitor, anti-depressant and neuroregenerative agent. The fish appears to have wide-ranging medical uses and should be studied more intensively to unearth its other properties and mechanisms of action.
4.Overweight and Obesity among Malay Primary School Children in Kota Bharu, Kelantan: Parental Beliefs, Attitudes and Child Feeding Practices
Wan Abdul Manan WM ; Norazawati AK ; Lee YY
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2012;18(1):27-36
Introduction: The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity among children has become a major public health problem in Malaysia. Parents play an important role in child feeding especially among younger children.
Methods: A study was conducted to evaluate the beliefs, attitudes and practices in child feeding among parents of normal weight, as well as overweight and obese
primary school children in Kelantan using the Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ). This cross-sectional study was carried out on 175 Malay children from three schools in Kota Bharu district in Kelantan.
Results: This study showed that 13.1% of the children were overweight and obese. Scores for perceived parent
weight (p<0.05) and perceived child weight (p<0.001) were significantly higher among parents of overweight and obese children compared to parents of children with normal body weight. However, the score for pressure to eat among parents of overweight and obese children was significantly lower (p<0.05) than parents of normal weight children. The perceived child weight (r=0.468, p<0.01), perceived
parental weight (r=0.190, p<0.05) and food restriction (r=0.179, p<0.05) factors were found to be positively correlated with children’s body mass index (BMI), whereas
pressure to eat factor (r=-0.355, p<0.01) was negatively correlated with children’s body mass index (BMI). Conclusion: The findings showed that parental feeding
practices were linked to children’s weight status and childhood obesity. Therefore parents should be given education and guidance on appropriate child feeding
practices to maintain their child’s nutritional status on a healthy weight range.
5.The Prevalence of Hypertension among the Elderly in Fourteen Villages in Kedah, Malaysia
Abdul rashid Khan ; KA Narayan ; Azizah Hj Ab Manan
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2008;4(2):33-39
Introduction: Currently, there is a dearth of research into the elderly in Malaysia. More data is needed in order to plan services for them. Hypertension is an illness whose prevalance of hypertension among the elderly population of fourteen villages in Kedah. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on all elderly persons who consented to participate, in fourteen villages in the district of Kuala Muda in Kedah. A questionnaire was used for the data collection. Blood pressure was measured and participants were assessed for their activities of daily living using Barthel Index, cognitive impairment using Elderly Cognitive Assessmnet Questionnaire (ECAQ) and depression using Geriatric Depression Scale. Descriptive analysis, using SPSS version 11.0. was done to explore the data. Results: The total population of the villages was 3095 and 336 were 60 and above. A total of 240 elderly individuals agreed to participate giving a response rate of 71.4%. There were 138 females (57.5%) and 102 (42.45) males. Ninety-eight percent of the respondents were Malays (n=236) of which 57.2% were females and 42.8% males; the remaining 4 (1.7%) were Indians, of which 3 were females and 1 male. The prevalence of hypertension was 58.3% (n=140) in the villages. 138 (58.5%) of the Malays were hypertensive compared to 2 (50%) of the Indians. Half (51.4%) of those diagnosed as hypertensive were unaware of their condition and half (48.6%) of those known to have hypertension,the blood pressure was not controlled (p<0.05). Discussion:The results of the study are similar to the National Health and Morbidity Survey, 1996. Though the data is from an opportunistic sample and may not represent a larger population especially by race, the findings offer data for a pooled analysis. It is also very worrying to note that 48.6% of the people knew of their condition but did not do anything to control their blood pressure.
6.Body Somatotype, Anthropometric Characteristics and Physical Activity of College-Age Adults in Selected Institutions of Higher Learning in Kelantan, Malaysia
Wan Abdul Manan WM ; Kum CS ; Lee YY
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2015;21(1):41-55
Introduction: The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the body somatotypes, anthropometric characteristics and physical activity levels of young adults.
Methods: Using a systematic sampling approach, a total of 180 students were recruited from three institutions of higher learning in the state of Kelantan. Body weight, height and other anthropometric dimensions including skinfold, bone breadth and limb girth were measured to determine their body mass index (BMI) and body somatotypes. Physical activity level was determined using the Short Form - International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).
Results: Almost half (49.4%) of the respondents were with a mean age of 21.5 (1.5), and mean BMI of 22.1 (4.5) kg/m2. The proportion of overweight and obese respondents based on the World Health Organisation (WHO) classification was 17.2% and 6.7%, respectively. In terms of body somatotype, 57.2% and 18.3% of them were classified as endomorphic and mesomorphic somatotype groups respectively, while another 24.4% were ectomorphic. The IPAQ scoring protocol indicated that 35.0% of them achieved high physical activity levels, while 19.3% reported low physical activity levels. There were significantly more endomorphic females, whereas the males significantly dominated the mesomorphic somatotype group.
Conclusion: Respondents with mesomorphic body somatotype (relative muscularity) were categorised as obese under the BMI classification although their body weight could be due to higher skeletal/muscle mass. The somatotyping method can be used as an additional tool to the conventional BMI indicators for assessing adiposity.
7.Dietary Practices among Overweight and Obese Chinese Children in Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Soo ; KL ; Wan Abdul Manan WM ; Abdul Manaf H ; Lee ; YY
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2011;17(1):87-95
Intrduction: Obesity and chronic diseases have been increasing since the last few
decades alongside rapid economic development in developed and developing
countries. The alarming increase in the prevalence of childhood obesity had
been shown by many epidemiological studies worldwide. The aims of this study
were to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Chinese
school children in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, and to map the association between
dietary practices and their nutritional status. Methods: A cross-sectional study
was conducted on 278 school children aged 10 to 12 years old (144 boys and 134
girls) studying in a Chinese primary school in Kota Bharu. Results: The survey
revealed that while only 1.4% (n=4) were overweight, 23.4% (n=65) of the children
were obese. A total of 67.7% (n=44) of the obese children were boys. The
overweight and obese children (n=70) were compared with a randomly selected
group of normal weight children (n=70). Dietary assessment showed that protein,
fat and total calorie intake were significantly higher among the overweight
group (p<0.05). A significantly higher proportion of the normal weight children
(85.7%) took breakfast daily or at least 4 days per week compared to the
overweight groups (59.4%) (p<0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of obesity among
school children in the study is a matter of concern. These findings may be useful
in targeting programmes and strategies for prevention and intervention of
childhood obesity.
8.Perceptions and Practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding among Malay Women in Kelantan, Malaysia: A Qualitative Approach
Tengku Alina TI ; Wan Abdul Manan WM ; Zaharah S ; Rohana AJ ; Nik Normanieza NM
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2012;18(1):15-25
Introduction: Despite evidence from various studies on exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) being best for infants, many women do not or are unable to practise EBF.
This study aimed to examine perceptions on EBF and its influencing factors among a sample of Malay women in rural and urban areas in Kelantan, Malaysia.
Methods: A qualitative study using in-depth interviews was conducted to examine respondents’ views about EBF including their beliefs, experiences and feelings. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, followed by discussion and identification of emergent concepts.
Results: Data saturation was achieved after interviewing a total of 30 women. The mean age of the women was about 30 years with most having at least secondary level schooling;
the majority were working women. Thirteen of the 30 women practised EBF. They believed breastfeeding allowed them to fulfill their reproductive role and regarded it as a gift from God. The practice required sacrifice, and was therefore associated with a combination of positive and negative feelings. Differing opinions surfaced with regard to belief in the superiority of breastfeeding and
feasibility of practice. Many women accepted breastfeeding practice but found it challenging to practise EBF especially when confronted with low milk production, perceived low nutritional quality breast milk, and work
commitments. Conclusion: Women should be educated on the importance of EBF with regard to the nutritional adequacy of breast milk and long term benefits for mother and children.
9.Body Mass Index and Body Fat Status of Men Involved in Sports,Exercise, and Sedentary Activites
Wan Nudri Wan Daud ; Wan Abdul Manan Wan Muda ; Mohamed Rusli Abdullah
Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences 2009;16(2):21-26
A cross-sectional study was carried out in Kota Bharu on three groups of men with ages ranging
from 18 to 44 years. The study groups included 83 athletes representing various types of sports and
levels of participation (athlete group), 80 active men who exercised a minimum of 30 minutes per day
at least 3 times per week (exercise group), and 80 inactive men (sedentary group). The objectives of
the study were to compare the body mass indices (BMIs) and body fat statuses among the three groups
with different physical activity levels. The height and weight of respondents were measured using
the Seca weighing balance with height attachment. Skinfold thickness of biceps, triceps, subscapular
regions, and suprailiac regions of each respondent were measured using Harpenden skinfold calipers.
Percentage body fat was calculated as the sum of the four measurements of skinfold thickness. The
results showed that the mean (± SD) BMIs in the athlete, exercise, and sedentary groups were 22.6 ± 2.9,
23.4 ± 3.5, and 24.3 ± 4.6 kg/m2, respectively. The combined prevalence of pre-obese (BMI 25.029.9)
and obese (BMI ³ 30.0) subjects was 21.7% in the athlete group, 29.9% in the exercise group, and 47.5%
in the sedentary group. The mean (± SD) percentage of body fat in athletes was 15.7 ± 5.4%, which was
lower than in the exercise (18.9 ± 5.5%) and sedentary (20.6 ± 5.8%) groups. The study revealed that
individuals who are actively involved in physical activity, particularly in sport activities, have lower
BMIs and percentage body fat values compared to sedentary people. Therefore, to prevent obesity, all
individuals are encouraged to perform regular physical activity, particularly sports activities.
10.Activation Characteristics of the Primary Motor (M1) and Supplementary Motor (SMA) Areas during Robust Unilateral Finger Tapping Task
Ahmad Nazlim Yusoff ; Mazlyfarina Mohamad ; Khairiah Abdul Hamid ; Aini Ismafairus Abd Hamid ; Hanani Abdul Manan ; Mohd Harith Hashim
Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences 2010;8(2):43-49
This study investigated the functional specialisation characteristics of brain in multiple right-hand dominant subjects pertaining to the activation of the cerebral motor cortices evoked by unilateral finger tapping, especially in primary motor (M1) and supplementary motor (SMA) areas. This multiple-subject study used unilateral (UNIright and UNIleft) selfpaced tapping of hand fingers to activate the M1 and SMA. Brain activation characteristics were analysed using statistical parametric mapping (SPM). Activation for UNIright and UNIleft showed the involvement of contralateral and ipsilateral M1 and SMA. A larger activation area but with a lower percentage of signal change (PSC) were observed in the left M1 due to the control on UNIright (4164 voxels at α = 0.001, PSC = 1.650) as compared to the right M1 due to the
control on UNIleft (2012 voxels at α = 0.001, PSC = 2.377). This is due to the influence of the tapping rate effects which is greater than what could be produced by the average effects of the dominant and sub-dominant hands. The significantly higher PSC value observed in the right M1 (p < 0.05) is due to a higher control demand used by the brain in coordinating the tapping of the sub-dominant fingers. The findings obtained from this study showed strong evidence of the existence
of brain functional specialisation and could be used as baseline references in determining the most probable motor
pathways in a sample of subjects.