Publications from 2013

@article{RN15901,

title = {A comparison of hand-arm vibration syndrome between Malaysian and Japanese workers},

author = {A T Su and J Fukumoto and A Darus and V C Hoe and N Miyai and M Isahak and S Takemura and A Bulgiba and K Yoshimasu and S Maeda and K Miyashita},

issn = {1341-9145},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {J Occup Health},

volume = {55},

number = {6},

pages = {468-78},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of HAVS in a tropical environment in comparison with a temperate environment. METHODS: We conducted a series medical examinations among the forestry, construction and automobile industry workers in Malaysia adopting the compulsory medical examination procedure used by Wakayama Medical University for Japanese vibratory tools workers. We matched the duration of vibration exposure and compared our results against the Japanese workers. We also compared the results of the Malaysian tree fellers against a group of symptomatic Japanese tree fellers diagnosed with HAVS. RESULTS: Malaysian subjects reported a similar prevalence of finger tingling, numbness and dullness (Malaysian=25.0%},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14476,

title = {A review on the prevalence and measurement of elder abuse in the community},

author = {R Sooryanarayana and W Y Choo and N N Hairi},

doi = {10.1177/1524838013495963},

issn = {1524-8380},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Trauma Violence Abuse},

volume = {14},

number = {4},

pages = {316-25},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Aging is a rising phenomenon globally and elder abuse is becoming increasingly recognized as a health and social problem. This review aimed to identify the prevalence of elder abuse in community settings, and discuss issues regarding measurement tools and strategies to measure elderly abuse by systematically reviewing all community-based studies conducted worldwide. METHOD: Articles on elder abuse from 1990 to 2011 were reviewed. A total of 1,832 articles referring to elders residing at home either in their own or at relatives' houses were searched via CINAHL and MEDLINE electronic databases, in addition to a hand search of the latest articles in geriatric textbooks and screening references, choosing a total of 26 articles for review. RESULTS: Highest prevalence was reported in developed countries, with Spain having 44.6% overall prevalence of suspicion of abuse and developing countries exhibiting lower estimates, from 13.5% to 28.8%. Physical abuse was among the least encountered, with psychological abuse and financial exploitation being the most common types of maltreatment reported. To date, there is no single gold standard test to ascertain abuse, with numerous tools and different methods employed in various studies, coupled with varying definitions of thresholds for age. CONCLUSION: Current evidences show that elder abuse is a common problem in both developed and developing countries. It is important that social, health care, and legal systems take these findings into consideration in screening for abuse or reforming existing services to protect the health and welfare of the elderly.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN13964,

title = {A systematic review of statistical methods used to test for reliability of medical instruments measuring continuous variables},

author = {R Zaki and A Bulgiba and N Nordin and N Azina Ismail},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3758037/pdf/ijbms-16-803.pdf},

issn = {2008-3866 (Print) 

2008-3866},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Iran J Basic Med Sci},

volume = {16},

number = {6},

pages = {803-7},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE(S): Reliability measures precision or the extent to which test results can be replicated. This is the first ever systematic review to identify statistical methods used to measure reliability of equipment measuring continuous variables. This studyalso aims to highlight the inappropriate statistical method used in the reliability analysis and its implication in the medical practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 2010, five electronic databases were searched between 2007 and 2009 to look for reliability studies. A total of 5,795 titles were initially identified. Only 282 titles were potentially related, and finally 42 fitted the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: The Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) is the most popular method with 25 (60%) studies having used this method followed by the comparing means (8 or 19%). Out of 25 studies using the ICC, only 7 (28%) reported the confidence intervals and types of ICC used. Most studies (71%) also tested the agreement of instruments. CONCLUSION: This study finds that the Intra-class Correlation Coefficient is the most popular method used to assess the reliability of medical instruments measuring continuous outcomes. There are also inappropriate applications and interpretations of statistical methods in some studies. It is important for medical researchers to be aware of this issue, and be able to correctly perform analysis in reliability studies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15939,

title = {A web-based survey of attitudes toward epilepsy in secondary and tertiary students in Malaysia, using the Public Attitudes Toward Epilepsy (PATE) scale},

author = {K S Lim and M D Hills and W Y Choo and M H Wong and C Wu and C T Tan},

url = {http://www.epilepsybehavior.com/article/S1525-5050(12)00749-4/fulltext},

doi = {10.1016/j.yebeh.2012.12.001},

issn = {1525-5050},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Epilepsy Behav},

volume = {26},

number = {2},

pages = {158-61},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Students' attitudes toward epilepsy have been studied in several countries, but none of the studies used a quantitative scale. We aimed to determine the validity and reliability of the Public Attitudes Toward Epilepsy (PATE) scale in a homogenous population consisting of secondary and tertiary students in Malaysia and to quantify their attitudes toward epilepsy, using a web-based survey. RESULTS: A total of 227 respondents with a mean age of 19.6+/-2.07 years, predominantly Chinese (85%), female (62%), and in a pre-university education level (71%) completed the web-based survey. Psychometric testing showed that the PATE is a valid and reliable scale to be applied in a homogenous population. The mean score in the personal domain was significantly higher than that in the general domain (2.73+/-0.61 vs. 2.12+/-0.60, respectively, p\<0.001). Compared with a study previously performed on a general population (Lim et al., 2012 [10]), the mean score in the general domain was significantly lower (p\<0.01), whereas there was no significant difference between the mean scores in the personal domain. The mean scores in the general domain were significantly lower for those with tertiary education (p\<0.001) but did not correlate with gender and ethnicity. CONCLUSION: The attitudes of secondary and tertiary students are more positive than those of the general population in the general domain but not in the personal domain.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14479,

title = {Adapting the Australian system: is an organized screening program feasible in Malaysia?--an overview of cervical cancer screening in both countries},

author = {R M Rashid and M Dahlui and M Mohamed and D Gertig},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {14},

number = {3},

pages = {2141-6},

abstract = {Cervical cancer is the third most common form of cancer that strikes Malaysian women. The National Cancer Registry in 2006 and 2007 reported that the age standardized incidence (ASR) of cervical cancer was 12.2 and 7.8 per 100,000 women, respectively. The cumulative risk of developing cervical cancer for a Malaysian woman is 0.9 for 74 years. Among all ethnic groups, the Chinese experienced the highest incidence rate in 2006, followed by Indians and Malays. The percentage cervical cancer detected at stage I and II was 55% (stage I: 21.0%, stage II: 34.0%, stage III: 26.0% and stage IV: 19.0%). Data from Ministry of Health Malaysia (2006) showed a 58.9% estimated coverage of pap smear screening conducted among those aged 30-49 years. Only a small percentage of women aged 50-59 and 50-65 years old were screened, 14% and 13.8% coverage, respectively. Incidence of cervical cancer was highest (71.6%) among those in the 60-65 age group (MOH, 2003). Currently, there is no organized population-based screening program available for the whole of Malaysia. A pilot project was initiated in 2006, to move from opportunistic cervical screening of women who attend antenatal and postnatal visits to a population based approach to be able to monitor the women through the screening pathway and encourage women at highest risk to be screened. The project was modelled on the screening program in Australia with some modifications to suit the Malaysian setting. Substantial challenges have been identified, particularly in relation to information systems for call and recall of women, as well as laboratory reporting and quality assurance. A cost-effective locally-specific approach to organized screening, that will provide the infrastructure for increasing participation in the cervical cancer screening program, is urgently required.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14482,

title = {Anxiety Status and its Relationship with General Health Related Quality of Life among Prostate Cancer Patients in Two University Hospitals in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia},

author = {M R Isa and F M Moy and A H Abdul Razack and Z Md Zainuddin and N Z Zainal},

issn = {2251-6085 (Print) 

2251-6085},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Iran J Public Health},

volume = {42},

number = {3},

pages = {240-8},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anxiety among prostate cancer patients, and to ascertain the association between stress status, socio-demographic, medical and surgical illness, current urinary problem and cancer status with general health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among these patients. METHODS: A hospital based, cross sectional study was conducted at Surgical Clinic, University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC) using universal sampling. RESULT: A total of 193 patients were recruited. The prevalence of anxiety was 25.4% (95%CI: 19.2 - 31.6). The anxiety ratings were mild anxiety (10.4%), moderate anxiety (13.6%) and severe anxiety (1.6%). The total quality of life among stress group was 59.2 +/- 14.7 and among non-stress group was 73.9 +/- 12.7. There was a significant negative weak correlation between anxiety score and total quality of life (rs=-0.534, P\<0.001). In multivariable analysis, there was a significant difference in the total quality of life (QOL) among anxiety status [adj. mean diff. = -9.1 (95%CI: -15.2, -4.7)]. The adjusted mean difference was associated by age category of the patients (P\<0.001); living partner (P\<0.001); intermittency (P=0.035) and problem of hematuria during micturition (P=0.005). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of anxiety among prostate cancer was moderately high. Treating the urination problem as well as encouraging living with spouse/family may improve the quality of life among anxiety condition of these patients.},

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pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

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@article{RN14487,

title = {Applying the Transtheoretical Model to evaluate the effect of a call-recall program in enhancing Pap smear practice: a cluster randomized trial},

author = {F Abdullah and T T Su},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0091743513000340/1-s2.0-S0091743513000340-main.pdf?_tid=4b6a46b0-9e0f-11e5-92f0-00000aab0f6c\&acdnat=1449622603_4556f7391ee322e15d67cbe7003cf136},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.02.001},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S83-6},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a call-recall approach in enhancing Pap smear practice by changes of motivation stage among non-compliant women. METHODS: A cluster randomized controlled trial with parallel and un-blinded design was conducted between January and November 2010 in 40 public secondary schools in Malaysia among 403 female teachers who never or infrequently attended for a Pap test. A cluster randomization was applied in assigning schools to both groups. An intervention group received an invitation and reminder (call-recall program) for a Pap test (20 schools with 201 participants), while the control group received usual care from the existing cervical screening program (20 schools with 202 participants). Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine the effect of the intervention program on the action stage (Pap smear uptake) at 24 weeks. RESULTS: In both groups, pre-contemplation stage was found as the highest proportion of changes in stages. At 24 weeks, an intervention group showed two times more in the action stage than control group (adjusted odds ratio 2.44, 95% CI 1.29-4.62). CONCLUSION: The positive effect of a call-recall approach in motivating women to change the behavior of screening practice should be appreciated by policy makers and health care providers in developing countries as an intervention to enhance Pap smear uptake.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN11918,

title = {Are Psychosocial Factors Associated With Low Back Pain and Work Absence for Low Back Pain in an Occupational Cohort?},

author = {D M Urquhart and H L Kelsall and V C Hoe and F M Cicuttini and A B Forbes and M R Sim},

doi = {10.1097/AJP.0b013e31827ff0c0},

issn = {1536-5409 (Electronic) 

0749-8047 (Linking)},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Clin J Pain},

volume = {29},

number = {12},

pages = {1015-1020},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES:: To examine the relationship between individual and work-related psychosocial factors and low back pain (LBP) and associated time off work in an occupational cohort. METHODS:: A self-administered questionnaire was completed by nurses working across 3 major public hospitals. Participants provided sociodemographic data and information on the occurrence of LBP, time off work, and psychosocial factors. RESULTS:: One thousand one hundred eleven participants (response rate 38.6%) were included in the study. Fifty-six percent of participants reported LBP in the previous year. When individual psychosocial factors were examined in the same model, the relationship between somatization and LBP persisted [OR 1.64; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.35, 2.01]. Low job security was also significantly associated with LBP independent of the other work-related factors (OR 0.82; 95% CI, 0.69, 0.98). Of those participants with LBP, 30% reported absence from work due to LBP. When absence from work was examined, negative beliefs (OR 0.97; 95% CI, 0.94, 1.00) and pain catastrophizing (OR 1.33; 95% CI, 1.04, 1.71) were independently associated with time off work, along with low job satisfaction (OR 0.71; 95% CI, 0.51, 0.97) and high job support (OR 1.35; 95% CI, 1.04, 1.75). CONCLUSIONS:: Somatization and low job security were found to be independently associated with occupational LBP, whereas negative beliefs, pain catastrophizing, reduced job satisfaction, and high job support were independently related to time off work. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether these individual and work-related psychosocial factors predict, or alternatively, are outcomes of pain and time off work associated with LBP.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15962,

title = {Association of melanocortin-4 receptor gene polymorphisms with obesity-related parameters in Malaysian Malays},

author = {Y D Apalasamy and M F Ming and S Rampal and A Bulgiba and Z Mohamed},

url = {http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/03014460.2012.720709},

doi = {10.3109/03014460.2012.720709},

issn = {0301-4460},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Ann Hum Biol},

volume = {40},

number = {1},

pages = {102-6},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is an important regulator of body weight and energy intake. Genetic polymorphisms of the MC4R gene have been found to be linked to obesity in many recent studies across the globe. AIM: This study aimed to examine the effects of MC4R polymorphisms on obesity parameters, Linkage disequilibrium (LD) pattern and haplotypes in Malaysian Malays. METHODS: The study subjects were 652 Malaysian Malays. Genomic DNA was extracted from buccal swabs. Genotyping was performed using Sequenom MassARRAY(R) iPLEX platform. Anthropometric and blood lipid profiles were measured. RESULTS: MC4R rs571312 SNP was associated with logBMI (p = 0.008) and systolic blood pressure (p = 0.005), while MC4R rs2229616 SNP was associated with total cholesterol (TC) levels (p = 0.016). The MC4R rs7227255 SNP did not show any association with obesity parameters. CONCLUSIONS: The strength of LD of the MC4R gene region is low and the haplotypes were not associated with obesity in Malaysian Malays.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14498,

title = {Associations of occupational, transportation, household and leisure-time physical activity patterns with metabolic risk factors among middle-aged adults in a middle-income country},

author = {A H Chu and F M Moy},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0091743512006287/1-s2.0-S0091743512006287-main.pdf?_tid=127541da-e12f-11e5-9401-00000aacb35d\&acdnat=1457002979_19c638eaab6ce7340fb40aa535f2621a},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.12.011},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S14-7},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study investigates physical activity in different domains and its association with metabolic risk factors among middle-aged adults. METHOD: The study was performed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from August 2010-August 2011. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, systolic/diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose/lipid profile were measured in 686 Malay participants (mean age 45.9 +/- 6.5 years). Self-reported physical activity was obtained with the validated IPAQ (Malay version) and categorized into low-, moderate- and high-activity levels across occupational, transportation, household and leisure-time domains. RESULTS: Participants spent most of their time on household (567.5, 95% CI: 510-630 MET-minutes/week) and occupational activities (297, 95% CI: 245-330 MET-minutes/week). After adjusted for gender and smoking, participants with low-activity levels in occupational, transport and household domains were associated with significantly higher odds for metabolic syndrome (2.02, 95% CI: 1.33-3.05; 1.49, 95% CI: 1.01-2.21; 1.96, 95% CI: 1.33-2.91). Significantly higher odds for obesity and abdominal obesity were consistently reported among those with low-activity levels across all four domains. CONCLUSION: High-activity levels in occupational, transportation and household domains were each negatively associated with metabolic syndrome among our cohort. Increase participation of physical activity across all four domains (including leisure-time activity) should be encouraged.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15910,

title = {Attitudes toward epilepsy among the primary and secondary school teachers in Malaysia, using the public attitudes toward epilepsy (PATE) scale},

author = {K S Lim and M D Hills and W Y Choo and M H Wong and C Wu and C T Tan},

doi = {10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2013.06.014},

issn = {0920-1211},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Epilepsy Res},

volume = {106},

number = {3},

pages = {433-9},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: There is a lack of study comparing the attitudes toward epilepsy between the teachers and general population, teachers and students, using a similar quantitative scale. METHODS: This study was performed in one primary and one secondary school in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, using the Public Attitudes Toward Epilepsy (PATE) scale. RESULTS: A total of 186 teachers aged 39.6+/-10.4 years completed the questionnaire. The mean scores in both personal and general domains of PATE scale were significantly better in the teachers, comparing to the scores in the secondary and college students reported in previous study (Lim et al., 2013; p\<0.001 and \<0.05, respectively). The mean scores in personal domain was significantly better in the teachers, comparing to the general population reported by Lim et al. (2012; p\<0.001). This hold true when comparing teachers with general population with tertiary education, suggesting that the better attitude is specific to the job, rather than tertiary education generally. Subanalysis showed that the attitudes of teachers were significantly better than the general population and the students related to employment and social life, but were equally negative on issues directly related to education, such as placing children with epilepsy in regular classes. CONCLUSION: Teachers had more positive attitudes toward epilepsy as compared with the general population with tertiary education. Attitude to epilepsy may differ specific to types of work.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14458,

title = {Breast cancer awareness of rural women in Malaysia: is it the same as in the cities?},

author = {A A Norlaili and M A Fatihah and N F Daliana and D Maznah},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {14},

number = {12},

pages = {7161-4},

abstract = {Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally. This study was conducted to compare the awareness of breast cancer and the practice of breast self-examination (BSE), clinical breast examination (CBE) and mammography screening among rural females in Pahang and Perak. A cross-sectional study was carried out in five selected rural districts of Pahang and Perak. Two hundred and fifty households were randomly selected and interviewed face to face using a semi-structured questionnaire. The majority of residents from both states were Malay, aged between 50 and 60 years and had a secondary level of education. Malay women aged 40-49 years and women with a higher level of education were significantly more aware of breast cancer (p\<0.05). About half of these women practiced BSE (60.7%) and CBE (56.1%), and 7% had underwent mammography screening. The results of this study suggest that women in Pahang and Perak have good awareness of breast cancer and that more than half practice BSE and CBE. The women's level of education appears to contribute to their level of knowledge and health behaviour. However, more effort is needed to encourage all women in rural areas to acquire further knowledge on breast cancer.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

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@article{RN14497,

title = {Breast screening and health issues among rural females in Malaysia: how much do they know and practice?},

author = {M Dahlui and D E Gan and N A Taib and J N Lim},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0091743512006275/1-s2.0-S0091743512006275-main.pdf?_tid=e3222eaa-e130-11e5-858f-00000aab0f6b\&acdnat=1457003759_ab588b521db3cb6c5491001550f29cb8},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.12.010},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S18-20},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study investigated rural women's knowledge of breast cancer and screening methods by ethnicity and examined the predictors of breast screening methods. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2011 in five rural districts of Perak; 959 women were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. ANOVA and regression analysis were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Women below 50 years old, of Malay ethnicity and who had secondary education scored better than those older, of Chinese ethnicity and had primary education (p\<0.001). The uptake of breast self-examination (BSE), clinical breast examination (CBE) and mammogram was 59%, 51% and 6.8%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed knowledge of breast cancer and CBE as top predictors of BSE, being married and knowledge of breast cancer as top predictors for CBE; and CBE as the top predictor of mammography uptake. Support from husbands and family members for breast cancer screening was a predictor for CBE and BSE. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of breast cancer and its screening uptake varies by ethnicity, location and the type of support received. Efforts and approaches to improve the women's knowledge of breast cancer and its screening uptake therefore should be customized to address the different influencing factors.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

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@article{RN14630,

title = {Cervical screening uptake and its predictors among rural women in Malaysia},

author = {D E Gan and M Dahlui},

issn = {0037-5675 (Print) 

0037-5675},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Singapore Med J},

volume = {54},

number = {3},

pages = {163-8},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer among Malaysian women. However, the uptake of cervical cancer screening--Pap smear--by women in Malaysia has been low and remains a challenge. This study was conducted to assess the cervical screening practices of rural women in Malaysia and to examine the factors associated with such practices. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in five rural districts in Perak, Malaysia. 1,000 households were selected through multistage random sampling. Women aged 20-64 years were interviewed by trained enumerators using structured questionnaires. Binomial logistic regression was used to identify predictors of cervical screening through univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: Among the 959 respondents, only 48.9% had undergone Pap smear at least once in the past three years. Women in the age group 40-49 years (odds ratio 3.027, 95% confidence interval 1.546-5.925; p \< 0.005) were found to be significantly more likely to attend cervical cancer screening as compared to those in the age group 20-29 years. Other significant predictors were being married with children, having knowledge of cervical cancer symptoms, receiving relevant information regarding cervical cancer from health personnel or campaigns, being engaged in family planning and receiving encouragement from husbands. CONCLUSION: Efforts to boost the uptake of Pap smear screening among the rural population should be targeted toward the predictors of positive uptake.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14505,

title = {Chronic pain, impact of pain and pain severity with physical disability in older people--is there a gender difference?},

author = {N N Hairi and R G Cumming and F M Blyth and V Naganathan},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0378512212003349/1-s2.0-S0378512212003349-main.pdf?_tid=f91d0942-e139-11e5-bbc3-00000aacb361\&acdnat=1457007661_43c6a2eedc826f735c36f569bf6c504c},

doi = {10.1016/j.maturitas.2012.10.001},

issn = {0378-5122},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Maturitas},

volume = {74},

number = {1},

pages = {68-73},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To establish if there is any gender difference in associations between chronic pain, impact of pain and pain severity with physical disability. METHODS: Data from the New South Wales Older People's Health Survey (OPHS), a population based survey of 8881 older people aged 65 years and above were used in the analysis. Chronic pain, pain with interference and pain severity and outcome variable of physical disability were all measured and determined by self report. RESULTS: Physical disability were more frequent in respondents reporting chronic pain, pain that interferes with activities and pain that was of moderate and strong to severe severity. Chronic pain was significantly associated with physical disability among men with adjusted prevalence ratio (PR) 1.31 (95% CI 1.19, 1.43) and women with adjusted prevalence ratio (PR) 1.34 (95% CI 1.28, 1.42). The relationships between pain with interference and pain severity with physical disability were similar in older men and older women. However, adjustment for psychological distress and self-rated health led to greater reductions in prevalence ratios for older men than women for all associations. CONCLUSION: There is no gender difference in associations between pain and physical disability among older people. However, psychological distress accounted for more pain-related physical disability in men than in women.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14484,

title = {Clinical Epidemiology (CE) and Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) in the Asia Pacific region (Round Table Forum)},

author = {T T Su and A M Bulgiba and P Sampatanukul and S Sastroasmoro and P Chang and P Tharyan and V Lin and Y L Wong},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.04.009},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S5-7},

abstract = {Clinical Epidemiology (CE) and Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) have become increasingly important in an era of rising costs, patient safety concerns and evidence-based health care. CE and EBM research in the Asia Pacific region have grown significantly. However, there are three main challenges such as linking evidence to practice and policy; developing a strong collaborative network; and a need for resources and technical expertise to produce evidence. The Cochrane Collaboration is a possible solution to resolve above challenges identified, particularly the challenge of transforming evidence to practice. In addition, training can be carried out to enhance technical expertise in the region and there is also the promising potential that collaborations could extend beyond systematic reviews. To improve the adoption of evidence-based health policy, selection of the best evidence for the right audience and focusing on the relevant issues through appropriate methodology are essential. Information on effectiveness and cost effectiveness needs to be highlighted for policy makers. The way forward to strengthen research and capacity building is to establish the Asia Pacific Consortium for CE and EBM. The consortium would help to create mutually rewarding scientific research and collaborations that will augur well for advances in CE and EBM.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15940,

title = {Concordance between hysteroscopic impression and endometrial histopathological diagnosis},

author = {D E Gan and R A Jawan and F M Moy},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091743513000042?via%3Dihub},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.12.026},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S21-3},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of hysteroscopic impression for diagnosing benign and malignant endometrial pathology. METHOD: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study involving case records of 412 patients who underwent hysteroscopy with diagnostic dilatation and curettage (D\&C) at the University of Malaya Medical Centre from January 2009 to August 2011, and cases with records of previous hysteroscopies (2007-2008). Sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values, likelihood ratios (LR) and post-test probabilities of hysteroscopy were calculated. D\&C was set as the 'gold standard'. RESULTS: Hysteroscopy and histology results were concordant in 366 (88.8%) subjects. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV were high exceeding 80%. Moderate sensitivity for endometrial hyperplasia (64.4%, 95% CI=49.8%-76.8%) with moderate PPV for malignancy (62.1%, 95% CI=44.0%-77.3%) due to misdiagnosing hyperplasia as malignant was observed. PPV for leiomyoma was reduced (83.3%, 95% CI=60.8%-94.2%) despite 100% sensitivity, due to D\&C false negatives. High positive LR (\>10) and low negative LR (\<0.2) were observed generally except for endometrial hyperplasia (0.36). Hysteroscopy had moderate positive post-test probability for malignancy (0.62) but effective in ruling out malignancy (negative post-test probability=0.00). CONCLUSION: Hysteroscopy is accurate for diagnosing focal and malignant endometrial pathology but only moderate for hyperplasia. Endometrial sampling is recommended for all cases especially when suspecting hyperplasia or malignancy.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14492,

title = {Correlates between risk perceptions of cervical cancer and screening practice},

author = {Y L Wong and K Chinna and J Mariapun and L P Wong and E M Khoo and W Y Low and R Shuib},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.01.004},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S24-6},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To identify the correlates between risk perceptions and cervical cancer screening among urban Malaysian women. METHOD: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted among 231 women in Petaling Jaya city in 2007. The association of risk perceptions of cervical cancer and screening practice was analyzed using Poisson regression. RESULTS: 56% of the respondents ever had a Pap smear test. Knowledge of signs and symptoms (aPR=1.11, 95% CI=1.03-1.19), age (aPR=1.02, 95% CI=1.01-1.03), number of pregnancies (aPR=1.06, 95% CI=1.01-1.11), marital status, education level and religion were found to be significant correlates of Pap smear screening. Respondents who were never married were less likely to have had a Pap smear. Those who had no education or primary education were less likely to have had a Pap smear compared to those with degree qualification. The prevalence of screening was significantly higher among Christians and others (aPR=1.35; 95% CI=1.01-1.81) and Buddhists (aPR=1.38; 95% CI=1.03-1.84), compared to Muslims. CONCLUSION: Eliminating anecdotal beliefs as risks via targeted knowledge on established risk factors and culturally sensitive screening processes are strategic for increasing and sustaining uptake of Pap smear screening versus current opportunistic screening practices.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14501,

title = {Delays in time to primary treatment after a diagnosis of breast cancer: does it impact survival?},

author = {M Mujar and M Dahlui and C H Yip and N A Taib},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.12.001},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {56},

number = {3-4},

pages = {222-4},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Treatment delays in breast cancer are generally thought to affect prognosis but the impact on survival remains unclear. Indicators for breast cancer care include time to primary treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether time to primary treatment (TPT) in breast cancer impacts survival. METHOD: A total of 648 breast cancer patients treated in the University Malaya Medical Center (UMMC), Malaysia between 2004 and 2005 were included in the study. TPT was calculated from the date of pathological diagnosis to the date of primary treatment. Mortality data was obtained from the National Registry of Births and Deaths. Last date of follow-up was November 2010. RESULTS: Median TPT was 18 days. Majority 508 (69.1%) of the patients received treatment within 30 days after diagnosis. The majority was surgically treated. Ethnicity (p=0.002) and stage at presentation (p=0.007) were significantly associated with delayed TPT. Malay ethnicity had delayed TPT compared to the Chinese; Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.9 (Confidence Interval (CI) 1.237, 2.987). Delayed TPT did not affect overall survival on univariate and multivariate analyses. CONCLUSION: Time to primary treatment after a diagnosis of breast cancer had no impact on overall survival. Further studies on care before diagnosis are important in drawing up meaningful quality indicators.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14521,

title = {Determinants of household direct and indirect costs: an insight for health-seeking behaviour in Burkina Faso},

author = {T T Su and S Flessa},

doi = {10.1007/s10198-011-0354-7},

issn = {1618-7598},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Eur J Health Econ},

volume = {14},

number = {1},

pages = {75-84},

abstract = {The objective of the study is to identify the determinants of household direct and indirect costs in the Nouna District, Burkina Faso. The data used were from a household survey conducted during 2000-2001. The multinominal logit models were applied to investigate the determinants of direct and indirect costs. The respondents who were sick in the rainy season and severity of illness significantly increased the probability of having high direct and indirect household costs. Acute illness occured in an adult was positively associated with magnitude of household indirect costs. Household economic status and utilization of western medical care played an important role in magnitude of direct cost. The information on determinants of household direct and indirect costs is necessary in order to get a complete picture of household costs for seeking health care and identification of vulnerable social groups and households.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14462,

title = {Determinants of sexual intercourse initiation among incarcerated adolescents: a mixed-method study},

author = {N D Nik Farid and S Che' Rus and M Dahlui and N Al-Sadat},

issn = {0037-5675 (Print) 

0037-5675},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Singapore Med J},

volume = {54},

number = {12},

pages = {695-701},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate the determinants of sexual intercourse initiation among incarcerated adolescents aged 12-19 years in Malaysia. METHODS: This was a sequential mixed-method research project that was conducted in two phases. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used in the first and second phases, respectively. Data was collected via a survey using self-reported questionnaires from 1,082 adolescents, and from in-depth interviews and the written essays of 29 participants. The participants were recruited from 22 welfare institutions in peninsular Malaysia. RESULTS: Among the study participants, 483 were male and 599 were female. Overall, 62.3% of the incarcerated adolescents had initiated sexual intercourse at least once. The mean age at first sexual intercourse for both genders was 14.0 years. Individual factors found to be associated with previous sexual intercourse were the female gender (odds ratio [OR] 1.75; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11-2.74), previous alcohol use (OR 1.80; 95% CI 1.10-2.94), previous illicit drug use (OR 1.85; 95% CI 1.07-3.22), permissive attitude toward premarital sex (OR 4.34; 95% CI 2.17-8.70), and sexual abuse during childhood (OR 5.41; 95% CI 3.52-8.32). Qualitative findings revealed that the reasons for initiation of sexual intercourse among these adolescents were partner influence, inability to control sex drive, family issues, and the perception of sex as an expression of love. CONCLUSION: The determinants of sexual intercourse initiation among incarcerated Malaysian adolescents are comparable to those of developed countries. However, in Malaysia, sexual and reproductive health programmes for such adolescents should be tailored to address their specific needs.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14496,

title = {Determinants of unsuccessful tuberculosis treatment outcomes in Malaysian HIV-infected patients},

author = {I Ismail and A Bulgiba},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.12.023},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S27-30},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine predictors of unsuccessful treatment in HIV-infected tuberculosis (TB) patients. METHODS: We reviewed medical records at the time of TB diagnosis and subsequent follow-up of all registered TB patients with HIV co-infection at TB clinics in the Institute of Respiratory Medicine and three public hospitals in Malaysia between January 2010 and September 2010. We reviewed these medical records again twelve months after their initial diagnosis to determine treatment outcomes. Multiple logistic regression was conducted to identify risk factors for unsuccessful TB treatment. RESULTS: Among the 219 patients analyzed, 53.4% achieved successful outcomes (cure, completed treatment) while 46.6% of patients had unsuccessful outcomes (default, treatment failure, died). After adjusting for other factors, unsuccessful outcome was associated with intravenous drug use (OR 2.72; 95% CI 1.44-5.16), not receiving antiretroviral therapy (OR 5.10; 95% CI 2.69-9.69), lymphadenopathy (OR 2.01; 95% CI 1.09-3.72) and low serum albumin (OR 4.61; 95% CI 1.73-12.27). CONCLUSION: Anti-retroviral treatment must be provided to all HIV-infected tuberculosis patients. Good immune and nutritional status needs to be assured in all HIV-infected tuberculosis patients. More studies are required in intravenous drug users to understand why tuberculosis treatment outcomes are poor in this group.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14504,

title = {Do older people with visual impairment and living alone in a rural developing country report greater difficulty in managing stairs?},

author = {N N Hairi and A Bulgiba and D Peramalah and I Mudla},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0091743512005415/1-s2.0-S0091743512005415-main.pdf?_tid=e4ed3226-e139-11e5-a178-00000aacb35f\&acdnat=1457007627_83bfcc8552288665117ec17fc064008f},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.10.016},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {56},

number = {1},

pages = {8-11},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Managing stairs is a challenging activity of daily living (ADL) for older people. This study aims to examine the association between visual impairment and difficulty in managing stairs among older people living alone and those living with others. METHODS: A population-based cross sectional study was conducted in rural Malaysia from 2007 till 2008. Seven hundred and sixty five older people aged 60 years and over underwent eye examination for visual impairment. Visual acuity criteria were used to define visual impairment. Presenting visual acuity was assessed using a standard metric Snellen Chart of E type. Difficulty in managing stairs was measured according to a question drawn from the Barthel Index which asks "do you need help in climbing stairs". RESULTS: Overall, the prevalence of difficulty in managing stairs among older people in our population was 135 (18.3%, 95% CI 15.7-21.2). After adjusting for important confounders the odds ratio (OR) for visual impairment and difficulty in managing stairs among older people living alone was 5.04 (95% CI 2.27, 10.62). Among older people living with others, the adjusted OR for visual impairment and difficulty in managing stairs was 3.10 (95% CI 1.52, 6.80). CONCLUSION: In a sample of older people aged 60 years and over, those living alone with visual impairment had greater difficulty in managing stairs than those living with others. Identification of these groups of older people is useful for targeting interventions.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14506,

title = {Does telephone lactation counselling improve breastfeeding practices? A randomised controlled trial},

author = {N M Tahir and N Al-Sadat},

doi = {10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2012.09.006},

issn = {0020-7489},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Int J Nurs Stud},

volume = {50},

number = {1},

pages = {16-25},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Exclusive breastfeeding rates in Malaysia remains low despite the implementation of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) policy in government hospitals. It has been suggested that any form of postnatal lactation support will lead to an increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates. OBJECTIVE: To study the effectiveness of telephone lactation counselling on breastfeeding practices. DESIGN: Single blinded, randomised controlled trial (RCT). SETTING: Maternity wards in a public hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. PARTICIPANTS: 357 mothers, each of whom had delivered a full term, healthy infant via spontaneous vaginal delivery. METHODS: Mothers were followed up for 6 months. The intervention group (n=179) received lactation counselling via telephone twice monthly by certified lactation counsellors in addition to receiving the current conventional care of postnatal breastfeeding support. The control group (n=178) received the current conventional care of postnatal breastfeeding support. Definitions of breastfeeding practices were according to World Health Organization (WHO) definitions. Participants answered a self-administered questionnaire during recruitment and were later followed up at one, four and 6-month intervals during the postpartum period via a telephone-based questionnaire. RESULTS: At 1 month, a higher percentage of mothers in the intervention group practiced exclusive breastfeeding, compared to the control group (84.3% vs. 74.7%, OR 1.825 95%},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN13992,

title = {Dose-response relationship between hand-transmitted vibration and hand-arm vibration syndrome in a tropical environment},

author = {A T Su and S Maeda and J Fukumoto and A Darus and V C Hoe and N Miyai and M Isahak and S Takemura and A Bulgiba and K Yoshimasu and K Miyashita},

url = {http://oem.bmj.com/content/70/7/498.long},

doi = {10.1136/oemed-2012-101321},

issn = {1351-0711},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Occup Environ Med},

volume = {70},

number = {7},

pages = {498-504},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The dose-response relationship for hand-transmitted vibration has been investigated extensively in temperate environments. Since the clinical features of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) differ between the temperate and tropical environment, we conducted this study to investigate the dose-response relationship of HAVS in a tropical environment. METHODS: A total of 173 male construction, forestry and automobile manufacturing plant workers in Malaysia were recruited into this study between August 2011 and 2012. The participants were interviewed for history of vibration exposure and HAVS symptoms, followed by hand functions evaluation and vibration measurement. Three types of vibration doses-lifetime vibration dose (LVD), total operating time (TOT) and cumulative exposure index (CEI)-were calculated and its log values were regressed against the symptoms of HAVS. The correlation between each vibration exposure dose and the hand function evaluation results was obtained. RESULTS: The adjusted prevalence ratio for finger tingling and numbness was 3.34 (95% CI 1.27 to 8.98) for subjects with lnLVD\>/=20 ln m(2) s(-4) against those \<16 ln m(2) s(-4). Similar dose-response pattern was found for CEI but not for TOT. No subject reported white finger. The prevalence of finger coldness did not increase with any of the vibration doses. Vibrotactile perception thresholds correlated moderately with lnLVD and lnCEI. CONCLUSIONS: The dose-response relationship of HAVS in a tropical environment is valid for finger tingling and numbness. The LVD and CEI are more useful than TOT when evaluating the dose-response pattern of a heterogeneous group of vibratory tools workers.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14335,

title = {Eating behaviour among multi-ethnic adolescents in a middle-income country as measured by the self-reported Children's Eating Behaviour Questionnaire},

author = {D A Loh and F M Moy and N L Zaharan and Z Mohamed},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3857802/pdf/pone.0082885.pdf},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0082885},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {8},

number = {12},

pages = {e82885},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Escalating weight gain among the Malaysian paediatric population necessitates identifying modifiable behaviours in the obesity pathway. OBJECTIVES: This study describes the adaptation and validation of the Children's Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) as a self-report for adolescents, investigates gender and ethnic differences in eating behaviour and examines associations between eating behaviour and body mass index (BMI) z-scores among multi-ethnic Malaysian adolescents. METHODOLOGY: This two-phase study involved validation of the Malay self-reported CEBQ in Phase 1 (n = 362). Principal Axis Factoring with Promax rotation, confirmatory factor analysis and reliability tests were performed. In Phase 2, adolescents completed the questionnaire (n = 646). Weight and height were measured. Gender and ethnic differences in eating behaviour were investigated. Associations between eating behaviour and BMI z-scores were examined with complex samples general linear model (GLM) analyses, adjusted for gender, ethnicity and maternal educational level. RESULTS: Exploratory factor analysis revealed a 35-item, 9-factor structure with 'food fussiness' scale split into two. In confirmatory factor analysis, a 30-item, 8-factor structure yielded an improved model fit. Reliability estimates of the eight factors were acceptable. Eating behaviours did not differ between genders. Malay adolescents reported higher Food Responsiveness, Enjoyment of Food, Emotional Overeating, Slowness in Eating, Emotional Undereating and Food Fussiness 1 scores (p\<0.05) compared to Chinese and Indians. A significant negative association was observed between BMI z-scores and Food Fussiness 1 ('dislike towards food') when adjusted for confounders. CONCLUSION: Although CEBQ is a valuable psychometric instrument, adjustments were required due to age and cultural differences in our sample. With the self-report, our findings present that gender, ethnic and weight status influenced eating behaviours. Obese adolescents were found to display a lack of dislike towards food. Future longitudinal and qualitative studies are warranted to further understand behavioural phenotypes of obesity to guide prevention and intervention strategies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15927,

title = {Effectiveness of a patient self-management programme for breast cancer as a chronic illness: a non-randomised controlled clinical trial},

author = {S Y Loh and T Packer and K Chinna and K F Quek},

url = {https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11764-013-0274-x},

doi = {10.1007/s11764-013-0274-x},

issn = {1932-2259},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {J Cancer Surviv},

volume = {7},

number = {3},

pages = {331-42},

abstract = {PURPOSE: Patient self-management enables living with a chronic disease effectively. This study examines the effectiveness of a 4-week self-management programme to enable self-management of the numerous after-effects and with breast cancer as a chronic disease. METHODS: Upon ethical approval, 147 multiethnic survivors (stages I-III breast cancer) received either a 4-week self-management intervention (n = 68) or usual care (n = 78) on a controlled clinical trial in a medical centre. The facilitator-led group intervention provides self-management support and skills for managing the medical, emotional and role tasks. Survivors completed the pre- and post-intervention measures on quality of life, distress and participation inventory. RESULTS: Multiple analyses of covariance (adjusted for baseline measures) showed significant differences between groups [F(6, 129) = 2.26},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14471,

title = {Evaluation of a worksite cervical screening initiative to increase Pap smear uptake in Malaysia: a cluster randomized controlled trial},

author = {F Abdullah and M O'Rorke and L Murray and T T Su},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3773923/pdf/BMRI2013-572126.pdf},

doi = {10.1155/2013/572126},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Biomed Res Int},

volume = {2013},

pages = {572126},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite the significant burden of cervical cancer, Malaysia like many middle-income countries relies on opportunistic cervical screening as opposed to a more organized population-based program. The aim of this study was to ascertain the effectiveness of a worksite screening initiative upon Papanicolaou smear test (Pap test) uptake among educated working women in Malaysia. METHODS: 403 female teachers who never or infrequently attended for a Pap test from 40 public secondary schools in Kuala Lumpur were recruited into a cluster randomized trial conducted between January and November 2010. The intervention group participated in a worksite cervical screening initiative whilst the control group received usual care from the existing cervical screening program. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine the impact of the intervention program on Pap smear uptake after 24 weeks of followup. RESULTS: The proportion of women attending for a Pap test was significantly higher in the intervention than in the control group (18.1% versus 10.1%, P value \< 0.05) with the worksite screening initiative doubling the Pap smear uptake, adjusted odds ratio 2.44 (95% CI: 1.29-4.62). CONCLUSION: Worksite health promotion interventions can effectively increase cervical smear uptake rates among eligible workers in middle-income countries. Policy makers and health care providers in these countries should include such interventions in strategies for reducing cervical cancer burden. This trial is registered with IRCT201103186088N1.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14477,

title = {Health beliefs and practices related to dengue fever: a focus group study},

author = {L P Wong and S AbuBakar},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pntd.0002310},

issn = {1935-2727},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS Negl Trop Dis},

volume = {7},

number = {7},

pages = {e2310},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: This qualitative study aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the meaning of dengue fever (DF) amongst people living in a dengue endemic region, dengue prevention and treatment-seeking behaviours. The Health Belief Model was used as a framework to explore and understand dengue prevention behaviours. METHODS: A total of 14 focus group discussions were conducted with 84 Malaysian citizens of different socio-demographic backgrounds between 16(th) December, 2011 and 12(th) May, 2012. RESULTS: The study revealed that awareness about DF and prevention measures were high. The pathophysiology of dengue especially dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS) were rarely known; as a result, it was seen as deadly by some but was also perceived as easily curable by others without a basis of understanding. Young adults and elderly participants had a low perception of susceptibility to DF. In general, the low perceived susceptibility emerged as two themes, namely a perceived natural ability to withstand infection and a low risk of being in contact with the dengue virus vector, Aedes spp. mosquitoes. The barriers to sustained self-prevention against dengue prevention that emerged in focus groups were: i) lack of self-efficacy, ii) lack of perceived benefit, iii) low perceived susceptibility, and iv) unsure perceived susceptibility. Low perceived benefit of continued dengue prevention practices was a result of lack of concerted action against dengue in their neighborhood. Traditional medical practices and home remedies were widely perceived and experienced as efficacious in treating DF. CONCLUSION: Behavioural change towards attaining sustainability in dengue preventive practices may be enhanced by fostering comprehensive knowledge of dengue and a change in health beliefs. Wide use of unconventional therapy for DF warrants the need to enlighten the public to limit their reliance on unproven alternative treatments.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14027,

title = {How well does self-reported adherence fare compared to therapeutic drug monitoring in HAART?},

author = {A Bulgiba and U Y Mohammed and Z Chik and C Lee and D Peramalah},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0091743513000066/1-s2.0-S0091743513000066-main.pdf?_tid=0da81456-66a1-11e5-aa7a-00000aacb360\&acdnat=1443527941_4a9a09571fad31747f3158fd1be90c31},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.01.002},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S34-6},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine how well self-reported adherence fares compared to therapeutic drug monitoring in monitoring HAART adherence. METHODS: We administered a validated self-reported adherence (SRA) questionnaire to 925 HIV patients on HAART in a large Malaysian hospital from 2010 to 11. We also performed Therapeutic Drug monitoring (TDM) by concurrently collecting and testing blood samples for Efavirenz, Nevirapine and Lamivudine using Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. We compared the SRA against the TDM results. Sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative predictive (NPV) and diagnostic accuracy values were computed for each drug. RESULTS: Self-reported adherence (SRA) over-estimates adherence by between 6 and 10 percentage points compared to therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). SRA is highly sensitive with sensitivity exceeding 0.90 but is not very specific (0.56-0.63). PPV for SRA ranged between 0.76 (Lamivudine) and 0.84 (Efavirenz) while NPV ranged between 0.78 (Lamivudine) and 0.81 (Efavirenz). Overall diagnostic accuracy ranged between 0.76 (Lamivudine) and 0.84 (Nevirapine). CONCLUSION: Self-reported adherence is a surprisingly accurate instrument for measuring HAART adherence compared to TDM and can be reliably used in practice in resource-poor settings.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15947,

title = {Impact of leptin receptor gene variants on risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its interaction with adiponutrin gene},

author = {S M Zain and Z Mohamed and S Mahadeva and P L Cheah and S Rampal and K F Chin and A S Mahfudz and R C Basu and H L Tan and R Mohamed},

url = {http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgh.12104/abstract?systemMessage=Please+be+advised+that+we+experienced+an+unexpected+issue+that+occurred+on+Saturday+and+Sunday+January+20th+and+21st+that+caused+the+site+to+be+down+for+an+extended+period+of+time+and+affected+the+ability+of+users+to+access+content+on+Wiley+Online+Library.+This+issue+has+now+been+fully+resolved.++We+apologize+for+any+inconvenience+this+may+have+caused+and+are+working+to+ensure+that+we+can+alert+you+immediately+of+any+unplanned+periods+of+downtime+or+disruption+in+the+future.},

doi = {10.1111/jgh.12104},

issn = {0815-9319},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {J Gastroenterol Hepatol},

volume = {28},

number = {5},

pages = {873-9},

abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIM: Genetic polymorphism has been implicated as a factor for the occurrence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study attempted to assess whether polymorphisms in the leptin receptor (LEPR) gene and its combined effect with patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3/adiponutrin) are associated with risk of NAFLD. METHODS: A total of 144 biopsy-proven NAFLD and 198 controls were genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY platform. RESULTS: We observed a significant association between the LEPR rs1137100 and rs1137101 with susceptibility to NAFLD (odds ratio [OR] 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18-2.28},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14461,

title = {Incidence of adverse transition in smoking stages among adolescents of Kinta, Perak},

author = {P D Jeganathan and N N Hairi and N A Sadat and K Chinna},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {14},

number = {11},

pages = {6769-73},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Few local studies have explored the process of adverse transition of smoking stages among adolescents. The present investigation aimed to identify adverse transitions prospectively from the early stages till the escalation of the stages after one year. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected in two waves from a cohort of 2,552 adolescents aged 12-13 years old studying in 15 secondary schools based in Kinta, Perak. A multistage sampling method was used to select the schools and a self-administered structured questionnaire was applied to help categorize the participants into five different smoking stages. Nonsmokers were divided into never smokers and susceptible never smokers. Ever-smokers were categorized as experimenters, current smokers or ex-smokers. RESULTS: Among the participants 46.8% were Malay, 33.5% Chinese and 17.1% Indians. At baseline, we had 85.3% non-smokers and 14.6% ever smokers. Incidence of adverse transition among all our participants was 24.1%, with a higher value among male participants (16.8%). A higher proportion of susceptible never smokers and experimenters progressed to current smoking stage compared to never smokers. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the changes and patterns of adverse transition among adolescents. Male adolescents, those who are susceptible to smoking and those who had already tried experimenting with cigarettes have a higher chance of escalating to a higher smoking stage.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14628,

title = {Influence of lifestyle factors on mammographic density in postmenopausal women},

author = {J S Brand and K Czene and L Eriksson and T Trinh and N Bhoo-Pathy and P Hall and F Celebioglu},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3857226/pdf/pone.0081876.pdf},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0081876},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {8},

number = {12},

pages = {e81876},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mammographic density is a strong risk factor for breast cancer. Apart from hormone replacement therapy (HRT), little is known about lifestyle factors that influence breast density. METHODS: We examined the effect of smoking, alcohol and physical activity on mammographic density in a population-based sample of postmenopausal women without breast cancer. Lifestyle factors were assessed by a questionnaire and percentage and area measures of mammographic density were measured using computer-assisted software. General linear models were used to assess the association between lifestyle factors and mammographic density and effect modification by body mass index (BMI) and HRT was studied. RESULTS: Overall, alcohol intake was positively associated with percent mammographic density (P trend = 0.07). This association was modified by HRT use (P interaction = 0.06): increasing alcohol intake was associated with increasing percent density in current HRT users (P trend = 0.01) but not in non-current users (P trend = 0.82). A similar interaction between alcohol and HRT was found for the absolute dense area, with a positive association being present in current HRT users only (P interaction = 0.04). No differences in mammographic density were observed across categories of smoking and physical activity, neither overall nor in stratified analyses by BMI and HRT use. CONCLUSIONS: Increasing alcohol intake is associated with an increase in mammography density, whereas smoking and physical activity do not seem to influence density. The observed interaction between alcohol and HRT may pose an opportunity for HRT users to lower their mammographic density and breast cancer risk.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14478,

title = {Intake of coffee, decaffeinated coffee, or tea does not affect risk for pancreatic cancer: results from the European Prospective Investigation into Nutrition and Cancer Study},

author = {N Bhoo-Pathy and C S Uiterwaal and V K Dik and S M Jeurnink and B H Bech and K Overvad and J Halkjaer and A Tjonneland and M C Boutron-Ruault and G Fagherazzi and A Racine and V A Katzke and K Li and H Boeing and A Floegel and A Androulidaki and C Bamia and A Trichopoulou and G Masala and S Panico and P Crosignani and R Tumino and P Vineis and P H Peeters and O Gavrilyuk and G Skeie and E Weiderpass and E J Duell and M Arguelles and E Molina-Montes and C Navarro and E Ardanaz and M Dorronsoro and B Lindkvist and P Wallstrom and M Sund and W Ye and K T Khaw and N Wareham and T J Key and R C Travis and T Duarte-Salles and H Freisling and I Licaj and V Gallo and D S Michaud and E Riboli and H B Bueno-De-Mesquita},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S154235651300774X/1-s2.0-S154235651300774X-main.pdf?_tid=87a5bf70-9e13-11e5-a5f2-00000aacb361\&acdnat=1449624422_43524e7d28609201d3f73490f4619ff9},

doi = {10.1016/j.cgh.2013.05.029},

issn = {1542-3565},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol},

volume = {11},

number = {11},

pages = {1486-92},

abstract = {BACKGROUND \& AIMS: Few modifiable risk factors have been implicated in the etiology of pancreatic cancer. There is little evidence for the effects of caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, or tea intake on risk of pancreatic cancer. We investigated the association of total coffee, caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and tea consumption with risk of pancreatic cancer. METHODS: This study was conducted within the European Prospective Investigation into Nutrition and Cancer cohort, comprising male and female participants from 10 European countries. Between 1992 and 2000, there were 477,312 participants without cancer who completed a dietary questionnaire and were followed up to determine pancreatic cancer incidence. Coffee and tea intake was calibrated with a 24-hour dietary recall. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were computed using multivariable Cox regression. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up period of 11.6 y, 865 first incidences of pancreatic cancers were reported. When divided into fourths, neither total intake of coffee (HR, 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83-1.27; high vs low intake), decaffeinated coffee (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.76-1.63; high vs low intake), nor tea were associated with risk of pancreatic cancer (HR, 1.22, 95% CI, 0.95-1.56; high vs low intake). Moderately low intake of caffeinated coffee was associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer (HR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.02-1.74), compared with low intake. However, no graded dose response was observed, and the association attenuated after restriction to histologically confirmed pancreatic cancers. CONCLUSIONS: Based on an analysis of data from the European Prospective Investigation into Nutrition and Cancer cohort, total coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and tea consumption are not related to the risk of pancreatic cancer.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14466,

title = {Is the phone call the most effective method for recall in cervical cancer screening?--results from a randomised control trial},

author = {R M Abdul Rashid and M Mohamed and Z A Hamid and M Dahlui},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {14},

number = {10},

pages = {5901-4},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of different methods of recall for repeat Pap smear among women who had normal smears in the previous screening. DESIGN: Prospective randomized controlled study. SETTING: All community clinics in Klang under the Ministry of Health Malaysia. PARTICIPANTS: Women of Klang who attended cervical screening and had a normal Pap smear in the previous year, and were due for a repeat smear were recruited and randomly assigned to four different methods of recall for repeat smear. INTERVENTION: The recall methods given to the women to remind them for a repeat smear were either by postal letter, registered letter, short message by phone (SMS) or phone call. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Number and percentage of women who responded to the recall within 8 weeks after they had received the recall, irrespective whether they had Pap test conducted. Also the numbers of women in each recall method that came for repeat Pap smear. RESULTS: The rates of recall messages reaching the women when using letter, registered letter, SMS and phone calls were 79%, 87%, 66% and 68%, respectively. However, the positive responses to recall by letter, registered letter, phone messages and telephone call were 23.9%, 23.0%, 32.9% and 50.9%, respectively (p\<0.05). Furthermore, more women who received recall by phone call had been screened (p\<0.05) compared to those who received recall by postal letter (OR=2.38},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN13995,

title = {Joint association of sitting time and physical activity with metabolic risk factors among middle-aged Malays in a developing country: a cross-sectional study},

author = {A H Chu and F M Moy},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3629118/pdf/pone.0061723.pdf},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0061723},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {8},

number = {4},

pages = {e61723},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prolonged sitting is associated with increased weight and higher risks for abdominal obesity, dyslipidaemia, hyperglycaemia and hypertension among the adult population. This has been well documented in the West, but studies on these associations are lacking in developing countries, including Malaysia. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the joint association of sitting time and physical activity with metabolic risk factors among middle-aged working adults. METHODOLOGY: A total of 686 Malay men and women participated (mean age 45.9 +/- 6.5 years). Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed from the modified NCEP ATP III criteria. Self-reported sitting time was obtained with the validated Malay version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Participants were asked about their time spent sitting during travel in a motor vehicle, e.g., car, motorcycle or bus, over the preceding 7 days. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio with the confidence interval for the combined effects of sitting quartiles and physical activity categories with metabolic risk factors. RESULTS/SIGNIFICANCE: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome among our participants was 31.9%. Their average total sitting time (including transportation) was 7.6 +/- 2.4 h/day. After we adjusted for gender and educational level, higher sitting quartiles and physically inactive groups were associated with higher odds for metabolic syndrome compared with the referent group (sitting \<6 h/day and physically active). In the physically active stratum, the odds for metabolic syndrome in participants who sat \>/= 9.3 h/day was 3.8 times that of participants who sat \<6 h/day. Both higher sitting quartiles and insufficient physical activity were associated with adverse effects on abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia and hyperglycaemia. CONCLUSION: In joint analyses of sitting time and physical activity, higher sitting time and insufficient physical activity were deleteriously associated with odds for metabolic risk factors in middle-aged Malay men and women.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN13969,

title = {Level of colorectal cancer awareness: a cross sectional exploratory study among multi-ethnic rural population in Malaysia},

author = {T T Su and J Y Goh and J Tan and A R Muhaimah and Y Pigeneswaren and N S Khairun and A W Normazidah and D K Tharisini and H A Majid},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3750380/pdf/1471-2407-13-376.pdf},

doi = {10.1186/1471-2407-13-376},

issn = {1471-2407},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {BMC Cancer},

volume = {13},

pages = {376},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: This paper presents the level of colorectal cancer awareness among multi-ethnic rural population in Malaysia. METHODS: A rural-based cross sectional survey was carried out in Perak state in Peninsular Malaysia in March 2011. The survey recruited a population-representative sample using multistage sampling. Altogether 2379 participants were included in this study. Validated bowel/colorectal cancer awareness measure questionnaire was used to assess the level of colorectal cancer awareness among study population. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was done to identify socio-demographic variance of knowledge score on warning signs and risk factors of colorectal cancer. RESULTS: Among respondents, 38% and 32% had zero knowledge score for warning signs and risk factors respectively. Mean knowledge score for warning signs and risk factors were 2.89 (SD 2.96) and 3.49 (SD 3.17) respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between the knowledge score of warning signs and level of confidence in detecting a warning sign. Socio-demographic characteristics and having cancer in family and friends play important role in level of awareness. CONCLUSIONS: Level of awareness on colorectal cancer warning signs and risk factors in the rural population of Malaysia is very low. Therefore, it warrants an extensive health education campaign on colorectal cancer awareness as it is one of the commonest cancer in Malaysia. Health education campaign is urgently needed because respondents would seek medical attention sooner if they are aware of this problem.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15933,

title = {Low nocturnal ocular perfusion pressure as a risk factor for normal tension glaucoma},

author = {N Ramli and B S Nurull and N N Hairi and Z Mimiwati},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091743513000200?via%3Dihub},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.01.007},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S47-9},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: In the absence of raised intraocular pressure (IOP), haemodynamic parameters have been implicated in the development of normal tension glaucoma (NTG). The purpose of this study is to compare 24-hour IOP and haemodynamic parameters in NTG patients and non-glaucoma patients. METHODS: This is a cross sectional study involving 72 NTG patients from University of Malaya Medical Centre eye clinic glaucoma registry. The non-glaucoma patients were volunteers selected from eye clinic patients. All enrolled patients underwent 24-hour IOP and blood pressure monitoring via 2-hourly IOP and blood pressure (BP) measurements. All readings were taken in the sitting position during the diurnal period and in the supine position during the nocturnal period RESULTS: Comparison of the haemodynamic parameters, the nocturnal mean systolic BP, nocturnal mean diastolic BP and nocturnal mean arterial pressure (MAP) were significantly lower in the NTG group. The systemic ocular perfusion pressures (OPP), diastolic OPP and mean OPP taken at night were also significantly lower in the NTG group. The differences between the groups were still manifest after controlling for age and presence of hypertension. CONCLUSION: Our findings show that the nocturnal supine blood pressure parameters (systolic, diastolic and mean) and OPP were significantly lower in the NTG group compared to normals. This may reflect defective autoregulatory mechanisms in NTG patients.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15904,

title = {Malay public attitudes toward epilepsy (PATE) scale: translation and psychometric evaluation},

author = {K S Lim and W Y Choo and C Wu and C T Tan},

doi = {10.1016/j.yebeh.2013.08.027},

issn = {1525-5050},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Epilepsy Behav},

volume = {29},

number = {2},

pages = {395-9},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: None of the quantitative scales for public attitudes toward epilepsy had been translated to Malay language. This study aimed to translate and test the validity and reliability of a Malay version of the Public Attitudes Toward Epilepsy (PATE) scale. METHOD: The translation was performed according to standard principles and tested in 140 Malay-speaking adults aged more than 18 years for psychometric validation. RESULTS: The items in each domain had similar standard deviations (equal item variance), ranging from 0.90 to 1.00 in the personal domain and from 0.87 to 1.23 in the general domain. The correlation between an item and its domain was 0.4 and above for all items and was higher than the correlation with the other domain. Multitrait analysis showed that the Malay PATE had a similar variance, floor and ceiling effects, and relative relationship between the domains as the original PATE. The Malay PATE scale showed a similar correlation with almost all demographic variables except age. Item means were generally clustered in the factor analysis as the hypothesized domains, except those for items 1 and 2. The Cronbach's alpha values were within acceptable range (0.757 and 0.716 for the general and personal domains, respectively). CONCLUSION: The Malay PATE scale is a validated and reliable translated version for measuring public attitudes toward epilepsy.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14491,

title = {Metabolic syndrome and antipsychotic monotherapy treatment among schizophrenia patients in Malaysia},

author = {M A Said and A Hatim and M H Habil and W Zafidah and M Y Haslina and Y Badiah and M A Ramli and S Ananjit and Y Sapini and M Shah and B Mahmud and A Bulgiba and N N Hairi},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.01.005},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S50-3},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among schizophrenia patients receiving antipsychotic monotherapy in Malaysia. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted at multiple centres between June 2008 and September 2011. Two hundred and five patients who fulfilled the DSM IV-TR diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia and who had been on antipsychotic medication for at least one year, were screened for metabolic syndrome. Patients receiving a mood stabilizer were excluded from the study. Metabolic syndrome was defined by using the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults Treatment Panel III (ATP III) modified for Asian waist circumference. RESULTS: In the first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) group, the highest prevalence of metabolic syndrome was among patients treated with trifluoperazine and flupenthixol decanoate (66.7% each). For the second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) group, the highest prevalence of metabolic syndrome was among patients treated with clozapine (66.7%). The component with the highest prevalence in metabolic syndrome was waist circumference in both FGA and SGA groups except for aripiprazole in SGA. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in schizophrenia patients receiving antipsychotic monotherapy in Malaysia was very high. Intervention measures are urgently needed to combat these problems.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14488,

title = {Multi-ethnic perspective of uptake of HIV testing and HIV-related stigma: a cross-sectional population-based study},

author = {L P Wong},

doi = {10.1080/09540121.2013.766302},

issn = {0954-0121},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {AIDS Care},

volume = {25},

number = {11},

pages = {1356-69},

abstract = {The objective of this study was to identify demographic characteristics and correlates of the uptake of HIV testing, willingness to be tested and perceived HIV-related stigma of Malaysian lay public. A cross-sectional computer-assisted telephone interview survey of a representative sample of multiracial Malaysians aged 18 years and above was conducted between December and July 2011. The survey collected information on demographics, knowledge about HIV transmission and religious beliefs on attitudes to HIV/AIDS. A total of 2271 households were successfully interviewed. The response rate was 48.65%. The HIV transmission knowledge score ranged from 0 to 15 (mean =10.56; SD+/-2.42). Three of the most common misconceptions about HIV transmission were mosquito bite (42.8%), eating in a restaurant where the cook is HIV positive (20.4%) and using a public toilet (20.1%). Only 20.6% reported ever having been tested for HIV, 49.1% reported a willingness to be tested for HIV and 30.3% had no intention of getting an HIV test. Low-risk perception (63.7%) constitutes a major barrier to HIV testing. Being Malay and Chinese (relative to Indian) were the strongest predictors of low-risk perception. Other significant predictors of low-risk perception were being male, being married and living in an urban locality. Perceived self-stigma if tested positive for HIV was prevalent (78.8%). Multivariate findings showed that being female, Malay, low income, living in rural localities and public stigma were significant correlates of self-stigma. These findings warrant interventions to reduce the disproportionate HIV transmission misconception, barriers to HIV testing and stigma and discriminative attitudes to involve considerations of sociocultural economic and demographic characteristics.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14473,

title = {Predictors of death during tuberculosis treatment in TB/HIV co-infected patients in Malaysia},

author = {I Ismail and A Bulgiba},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0073250},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {8},

number = {8},

pages = {e73250},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mortality among TB/HIV co-infected patients is still high particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to determine the predictors of death in TB/HIV co-infected patients during TB treatment. METHODS: We reviewed medical records at the time of TB diagnosis and subsequent follow-up of all newly registered TB patients with HIV co-infection at TB clinics in the Institute of Respiratory Medicine and three public hospitals in the Klang Valley between January 2010 and September 2010. We reviewed these medical records again twelve months after their initial diagnosis to determine treatment outcomes and survival. We analysed using Kaplan-Meier and conducted multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis to identify predictors of death during TB treatment in TB/HIV co-infected patients. RESULTS: Of the 227 patients studied, 53 (23.3%) had died at the end of the study with 40% of deaths within two months of TB diagnosis. Survival at 2, 6 and 12 months after initiating TB treatment were 90.7%, 82.8% and 78.8% respectively. After adjusting for other factors, death in TB/HIV co-infected patients was associated with being Malay (aHR 4.48; 95%CI 1.73-11.64), CD4 T-lymphocytes count \< 200 cells/microl (aHR 3.89; 95% CI 1.20-12.63), three or more opportunistic infections (aHR 3.61; 95% CI 1.04-12.55), not receiving antiretroviral therapy (aHR 3.21; 95% CI 1.76-5.85) and increase per 10(3) total white blood cell count per microliter (aHR 1.12; 95% CI 1.05-1.20). CONCLUSION: TB/HIV co-infected patients had a high case fatality rate during TB treatment. Initiation of antiretroviral therapy in these patients can improve survival by restoring immune function and preventing opportunistic infections.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14490,

title = {Predictors of death in Malaysian HIV-infected patients on anti-retroviral therapy},

author = {R Lubis and A Bulgiba and A Kamarulzaman and N N Hairi and M Dahlui and D Peramalah},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.01.006},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S54-6},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the predictors of death in Malaysian HIV-infected patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART). METHODS: Data from 845 HIV-infected patients aged \>/= 20 years on ART in a large teaching hospital in Malaysia from 1989 to 2009 were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses. RESULTS: 72.7% of the patients survived. Multivariate Cox regression showed that significant predictors of death were age \>/= 50 years (HR 1.76; 95% CI 1.18-2.64), secondary education (HR 3.57; 95% CI 1.12-11.37), tertiary education (HR 3.57; 95% CI 1.09-11.70), being unemployed (HR 1.49; 95% CI 1.07-2.09), AIDS on initial presentation (HR 5.75; 95% CI 3.29-10.07), single-drug ART (HR 1.84; 95% CI 1.27, 2.66), double-drug ART (HR 1.63; 95% CI 1.19-2.25) and inability to achieve viral load \</= 50 copies/ml (HR 10.22; 95% CI 7.26-14.37). CONCLUSION: Every effort needs to be made to ensure that all HIV patients have access to triple drug ART, to lower viral load to \</= 50 copies/ml and to treat HIV patients before they progress to AIDS as these are significant modifiable predictors of death in Malaysian HIV patients.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14632,

title = {Prevalence and associated factors of stress in the Malaysian Police Force},

author = {R Masilamani and A Bulgiba and K Chinna and A Darus and M Isahak and S Kandiben and D Koh},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0091743513000212/1-s2.0-S0091743513000212-main.pdf?_tid=d739446c-673b-11e5-833c-00000aab0f6c\&acdnat=1443594421_ba7b10755199f034df5aff44c980ba2e},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.01.008},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S57-9},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine the prevalence of stress and the associated socio-demographic and work factors among police personnel in Metropolitan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two randomly selected police districts in Kuala Lumpur from 2009 to 2011. A total of 579 police officers from 11 police stations and two headquarters participated in this study. The 21-item Depression, Anxiety and Stress questionnaire was used. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were carried out to examine the effect of socio-demographic and work factors on stress. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of stress was 38.8% (95% CI 34.2, 43.6) with 5.9% (3.9, 8.8), 14.9% (11.6, 18.8) and 18.0% (14.5, 22.2) for severe, moderate and mild stress, respectively. Inspectors were more likely to suffer from severe stress (aOR 10.68, 95% CI 3.51, 32.53) compared to junior officers. Those who complained that their salaries were not commensurate with their jobs were more likely to suffer from moderate levels of stress (aOR 2.73, 95% CI 1.43, 5.22) compared to those who were happy with their salaries. CONCLUSIONS: This study strengthens findings that police job is stressful. Special attention needs to be paid to Inspector-level ranks and the remuneration structure of police officers to address this issue.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14486,

title = {Prevalence and factors associated with HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discriminatory attitudes: a cross-sectional nationwide study},

author = {L P Wong},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.03.013},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S60-3},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The prime purpose of this study is to assess HIV/AIDS-related self-stigma and discrimination (S\&D) attitudes and associated factors using multivariate analysis of data from the 2010-11 National Survey of Understanding the Root of HIV/AIDS Related Stigma and Discrimination. METHOD: A national telephone survey was carried out with 2271 of the Malaysian public aged 18-60 years. The sample was contacted by random digit dialing covering the whole of Peninsular Malaysia from December 2010 to May 2011. The HIV-transmission knowledge, HIV-related self-stigma, and public stigma were investigated. RESULTS: Despite high level of HIV-transmission knowledge [mean (SD)=10.56 (2.42), mean score at 70th percentile] the respondents in this study had moderate levels (mean scores near midpoints) of self-stigma and public stigma attitudes. HIV-transmission knowledge score was not significantly correlated with self-stigma score, but showed a significantly small positive effect (r\<0.2) for public stigma scores. Ethnicity is the strongest correlate of HIV-transmission knowledge, self-stigma, and public stigma attitudes in the multivariate analyses. Other significant correlates were age, socioeconomic group, and urban-rural setting. CONCLUSIONS: The root causes of HIV stigma and discriminatory attitudes were not associated with knowledge deficiency. Interventions should be oriented towards promoting de-stigmatization of HIV/AIDS, and tailored socio-culturally.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15946,

title = {Prevalence and predictors of patient adherence to health recommendations after acute coronary syndrome: data for targeted interventions?},

author = {W L Lee and K L Abdullah and A M Bulgiba and I Zainal Abidin},

url = {http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1474515112470056?url_ver=Z39.88-2003\&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org\&rfr_dat=cr_pub%3dpubmed},

doi = {10.1177/1474515112470056},

issn = {1474-5151},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs},

volume = {12},

number = {6},

pages = {512-20},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Poor adherence is a significant nursing and public health concern because it affects patients' quality of life. It compounds the disease burden of the growing coronary heart disease population. Promoting optimal patient adherence to cardiac-health enhancing recommendations by healthcare providers can reduce mortality and morbidity risk after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). AIM: This paper sought to examine rates and predictors of patient adherence to health recommendations after ACS. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of 210 Malaysian patients using consecutive sampling was conducted in early 2009 at a tertiary teaching hospital. The Medical Outcome Study Specific Adherence Scale (MOSSAS) questionnaire was adapted to measure the extent of patient adherence to recalled health recommendations. Logistic regression modelling was applied to determine odds ratio and factors of suboptimal adherence. RESULTS: The suboptimal adherence rate was 65.2% (95% CI 58.8-71.7%). Recall of recommendation rates varied from 38.1% to 95.3%, whereas the adherence rates varied from 22.1% to 95.1% across the six aspects of health recommendation namely medication taking, dietary modification, regular physical exercise, stress reduction, gathering social support and avoidance of substance abuse. Those who had to adhere to more than three aspects of recommendations, active smokers and the Malay ethnic race had higher odds of suboptimal adherence. CONCLUSION: Monitoring of patient recall and adherence rate may provide information on the effectiveness of patient care management and outcomes. Identifying patients with higher risk for poor adherence is recommended for more targeted interventions.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15944,

title = {Psychometric properties of DAPonDEN: definitions, attitudes and practices in relation to diarrhea during enteral nutrition questionnaire},

author = {H A Majid and M A Bin Sidek and K Chinna},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S009174351200638X?via%3Dihub},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.12.021},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S64-6},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate the psychometric properties of the developed 21 item questionnaire to measure definitions, attitudes and management practices in relation to diarrhea during enteral nutrition (DAPonDEN). METHODS: Data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis from a cross sectional study of 102 nurses aged 18 and over, conducted from December 2011 to February 2012 in Malaysia. Face and content validity of DAPonDEN were first evaluated by few expert panels and patients. For this study, adult nurses were recruited from the adult wards. RESULTS: In the final model, three items in DAPonDEN were dropped. In the exploratory factor analysis, five factors were extracted that explained a total of 55% of the variation in the remaining 18 items. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value was 0.723. For definition, there were two underlying factors: 'Key items in defining diarrhea' and 'non-key items in defining diarrhea'. For attitude there was a single factor. For practice, there were two underlying factors: 'enteral nutrition (EN) related' and 'awareness related'. CONCLUSION: The items in each of the underlying dimensions seem to measure the respective concepts for definition, attitude and practices adequately. The 18-items DAPonDEN instrument can be a suitable education tool to be used in relation to diarrhea during EN.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15919,

title = {Rhazinilam-Leuconolam-Leuconoxine Alkaloids from Leuconotis griffithii},

author = {C Y Gan and Y Y Low and N F Thomas and T S Kam},

doi = {10.1021/np400214y},

issn = {0163-3864},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {J Nat Prod},

volume = {76},

number = {5},

pages = {957-64},

abstract = {Eight new indole alkaloids (1-8) belonging to the rhazinilam-leuconolam-leuconoxine group, in addition to 52 other alkaloids, were isolated from the stem-bark extract of Leuconotis griffithii, viz., nor-rhazinicine (1), 5,21-dihydrorhazinilam-N-oxide (2), 3,14-dehydroleuconolam (3), and leuconodines A-E (4-8). The structures of these alkaloids were determined using NMR and MS analyses and in some instances confirmed by X-ray diffraction analyses. Alkaloids 1, 5, and 7 showed only moderate to weak cytotoxicity toward KB cells (IC50 12-18 mug/mL), while 8 showed moderate activity in reversing MDR in vincristine-resistant KB cells.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14475,

title = {Smoking stage relations to peer, school and parental factors among secondary school students in Kinta, Perak},

author = {P D Jeganathan and N N Hairi and N Al Sadat and K Chinna},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {14},

number = {6},

pages = {3483-9},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: To identify the prevalence of different stages of smoking and differences in associated risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thos longitudinal study started in February 2011 and the subjects were 2552 form one students aged between twelve to thirteen years of from 15 government secondary schools of Kinta, Perak. Data on demographic, parental, school and peer factors were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. We examined the effects of peer, school and parental factors on the five stages of smoking; never smokers, susceptible never smokers, experimenters, current smokers and ex-smokers, at baseline. RESULTS: In the sample, 19.3% were susceptible never smokers, 5.5% were current smokers 6% were experimenters and 3.1% were ex-smokers. Gender, ethnicity, best friends' smoking status, high peer pressure, higher number of relatives who smoked and parental monitoring were found to be associated with smoking stages. Presence of parent-teen conflict was only associated with susceptible never smokers and experimenters whereas absence of home discussion on smoking hazards was associated with susceptible never smokers and current smokers. CONCLUSIONS: We identified variations in the factors associated with the different stages of smoking. Our results highlight that anti-smoking strategies should be tailored according to the different smoking stages.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15911,

title = {Sociodemographic predictors of recall and recognition of colorectal cancer symptoms and anticipated delay in help- seeking in a multiethnic Asian population},

author = {K W Loh and H A Majid and M Dahlui and A C Roslani and T T Su},

issn = {1513-7368},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {14},

number = {6},

pages = {3799-804},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in Malaysia. The prognosis of the disease is excellent if detected at an early stage, but the majority of Malaysian patients present at late stages. We aimed to assess the awareness of cancer warning signs and anticipated delay in help-seeking as possible contributors to this phenomenon. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional survey using the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Measure was initiated in Perak, Malaysia. A total of 2,379 respondents aged 18 years and above were recruited using a multi-stage sampling in five locations. Analysis of covariance was used to examine independent sociodemographic predictors of scores for symptom awareness. RESULTS: Younger age, being female, a higher education, and higher income were significantly associated with better scores for both recall and recognition of warning symptoms. Among the ethnic groups, Malays had better recognition of symptoms whereas Chinese recalled the most symptoms. Passing bloody stool was associated with the least anticipated delay and unexplained anal pain had the highest anticipated delay. CONCLUSIONS: The level of awareness across all ethnicities in Malaysia is generally low, especially among minorities. Targeted public education, which is culturally and linguistically appropriate, should be developed to encourage early help-seeking and improve clinical outcomes.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14493,

title = {Socioeconomic consequences of the 2004 tsunami: policy implications for natural disaster management},

author = {T T Su and B I Saimy and A M Bulgiba},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.12.024},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S74-6},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study is to assess the socioeconomic status of the households affected by the tsunami of 2004 \& to determine the factors associated with the recovery of household economic status. METHODS: The study was conducted in tsunami-affected areas in Malaysia in 2010-2011. A total of 193 households were included in the survey. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine the factors related to the recovery of households' economic status. FINDINGS: Among 193 households, 37% were in a better condition, 40% were unchanged and 22% had not recovered. It took 2.2 years to get back to pre-disaster economic status. Factors leading to successful household economic recovery were "household resided in Sungai Petani", "belong to highest income quartile" and "age of household head". In contrast, "extended family type" and "unemployed household head" reduced the odds of recovery. Households which lost their fishing boats during the tsunami had less chance to recover their previous status. CONCLUSION: The findings of our study would be useful for policy consideration and planning of post disaster management in order to enhance the recovery of household economic status in the short period.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14467,

title = {Study protocol for the most effective recall method in a cervical cancer screening program in Klang, Malaysia},

author = {R M Abdul Rashid and M Dahlui},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {14},

number = {10},

pages = {5867-70},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Malaysian women with an ASR of 17.9 and a mortality rate of 5.6 per 100,000 population in 2008 (GLOBOCAN, 2008). The 5 year prevalence was estimated to be 14.5 per 100,000 population. As the second most common cancer affecting productive females, cervical cancer imposes an impact to the socioeconomic aspect of the country. However, the poor uptake of cervical cancer screening is a major problem in detecting early pre-cancerous lesions and thus, delay in initiating treatment for cervical cancer. Realizing the urgency to increase the uptake of PAP smear, besides enhancing the promotion of PAP smear screening for women above 35 years old, the call-recall system for pap smear screening had been piloted in one of the suburban districts which aimed to improve regular participation of women for cervical and breast cancer screening. This is of public health importance as identifying the best feasible option to increase patient's respond to participate in the screening program effectively in our setting will be helpful in implementing an organized regular population based screening program tailored to our setting. The pilot program of cervical cancer screening in Klang was an opportunity to assess different options in recalling patients for a repeat pap smear to increase their participation and adherence to the program. METHODS AND RESULTS: This was a population based randomized control trial. Women aged 20-65 years in the population that matched the inclusion and exclusion criteria were re-called for a repeat smear. There are four different intervention groups; letter, registered letters, short messages services (SMS) and phone calls where 250 subjects were recruited into each group. Samples were generated randomly from the same population in Klang into four different groups. The first group received a recall letter for a repeat smear similar to the one that has been given during the first invitation. The intervention groups were either be given a registered letter, an SMS or a phone call to re-call them. The socio-demographic data of the patients who came for uptake were collected for further analysis. All the groups were followed up after 8 weeks to assess their compliance to the recall. CONCLUSIONS: The study will provide recommendations about the most effective methods for recall in a population based pap smear screening program on two outcomes: i) patients response; ii) uptake for repeat pap smear.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14483,

title = {Study protocol: the effect of vitamin D supplements on cardiometabolic risk factors among urban premenopausal women in a tropical country -- a randomized controlled trial},

author = {M Ramly and F M Moy and R Pendek and S Suboh and A Tan Tong Boon},

doi = {10.1186/1471-2458-13-416},

issn = {1471-2458},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {BMC Public Health},

volume = {13},

pages = {416},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Besides its classical role in musculoskeletal diseases, vitamin D deficiency has recently been found to be associated with cardiometabolic risks such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolemia. Although Malaysia is a sunshine-abundant country, recent studies found that vitamin D deficiency prevalence was significantly high. However, few published studies that measured its effect on cardiometabolic risk factors were found in Malaysia. There are also limited clinical trials carried out globally that tried to establish the causality of vitamin D and cardiometabolic risks. Therefore, a double blind, parallel, randomized controlled trial on vitamin D and cardiometabolic risks is planned to be carried out.The objective of this study is to investigate whether vitamin D supplements can reduce the cardiometabolic risk and improve the quality of life in urban premenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency. METHODS/DESIGN: Three hundred and twenty premenopausal women working in a public university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia will be randomized to receive either vitamin D supplement (50,000 IU weekly for 8 weeks and 50,000 IU monthly for 10 months) or placebo for 12 months. At baseline, all participants are vitamin D deficient (\</= 20 ng/ml or 50 nmol/l). Both participants and researchers will be blinded. The serum vitamin D levels of all participants collected at various time points will only be analysed at the end of the trial. Outcome measures such as 25(OH) D3, HOMA-IR, blood pressure, full lipid profiles will be taken at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. Health related quality of life will be measured at baseline and 12 months. The placebo group will be given delayed treatment for six months after the trial. DISCUSSION: This trial will be the first study investigating the effect of vitamin D supplements on both the cardiometabolic risk and quality of life among urban premenopausal women in Malaysia. Our findings will contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the role of vitamin D supplements in the primary prevention for cardiometabolic disease. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ACTRN12612000452897.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15928,

title = {Susceptibility and gene interaction study of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1) gene polymorphisms with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in a multi-ethnic population},

author = {S M Zain and Z Mohamed and S Mahadeva and S Rampal and R C Basu and P L Cheah and A Salim and R Mohamed},

url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3590220/pdf/pone.0058538.pdf},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0058538},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {8},

number = {3},

pages = {e58538},

abstract = {Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1) has been reported to play a fibrogenic role in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this study, five variants of the AGTR1 gene (rs3772622, rs3772627, rs3772630, rs3772633, and rs2276736) were examined for their association with susceptibility to NAFLD. Subjects made up of 144 biopsy-proven NAFLD patients and 198 controls were genotyped using TaqMan assays. The liver biopsy specimens were histologically graded and scored according to the method of Brunt. Single locus analysis in pooled subjects revealed no association between each of the five variants with susceptibility to NAFLD. In the Indian ethnic group, the rs2276736, rs3772630 and rs3772627 appear to be protective against NAFLD (p = 0.010},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15965,

title = {Teacher Reporting Attitudes Scale (TRAS): confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses with a Malaysian sample},

author = {W Y Choo and K Walsh and K Chinna and N P Tey},

url = {http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0886260512454720},

doi = {10.1177/0886260512454720},

issn = {0886-2605},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {J Interpers Violence},

volume = {28},

number = {2},

pages = {231-53},

abstract = {The Teacher Reporting Attitude Scale (TRAS) is a newly developed tool to assess teachers' attitudes toward reporting child abuse and neglect. This article reports on an investigation of the factor structure and psychometric properties of the short form Malay version of the TRAS. A self-report cross-sectional survey was conducted with 667 teachers in 14 randomly selected schools in Selangor state, Malaysia. Analyses were conducted in a 3-stage process using both confirmatory (stages 1 and 3) and exploratory factor analyses (stage 2) to test, modify, and confirm the underlying factor structure of the TRAS in a non-Western teacher sample. Confirmatory factor analysis did not support a 3-factor model previously reported in the original TRAS study. Exploratory factor analysis revealed an 8-item, 4-factor structure. Further confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated appropriateness of the 4-factor structure. Reliability estimates for the four factors-commitment, value, concern, and confidence-were moderate. The modified short form TRAS (Malay version) has potential to be used as a simple tool for relatively quick assessment of teachers' attitudes toward reporting child abuse and neglect. Cross-cultural differences in attitudes toward reporting may exist and the transferability of newly developed instruments to other populations should be evaluated.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14026,

title = {Testing the agreement of medical instruments: overestimation of bias in the Bland-Altman analysis},

author = {R Zaki and A Bulgiba and N A Ismail},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0091743513000078/1-s2.0-S0091743513000078-main.pdf?_tid=21f35562-66a4-11e5-bd5a-00000aacb35e\&acdnat=1443529263_f29ce2608845e12e056ffc837aa5f25f},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2013.01.003},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {57 Suppl},

pages = {S80-2},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The Bland-Altman method is the most popular method used to assess the agreement of medical instruments. The main concern about this method is the presence of proportional bias. The slope of the regression line fitted to the Bland-Altman plot should be tested to exclude proportional bias. The aim of this study was to determine whether the overestimation of bias in the Bland-Altman analysis is still present even when the proportional bias has been excluded. METHODS: Data were collected from participants attending a workplace health screening program in a public university in Malaysia between 2009 and 2010. Variables collected were blood glucose level, body weight and systolic blood pressure (n=300 per variable). Readings from the original clinical dataset were compared with twenty randomly generated datasets for each variable. The Bland-Altman limits of agreement was used to determine the agreement. The presence of proportional bias was excluded for all datasets using the recommended method. RESULTS: The range of predicted bias was higher than the simulated bias for all datasets. The overestimation of bias increased as the range of actual bias increased. CONCLUSION: Testing the slope of regression line of the Bland-Altman plot does not remove the artifactual bias in the prediction.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14470,

title = {The association between risk factors and hypertension in perak, malaysia},

author = {K W Loh and F Rani and T C Chan and H Y Loh and C W Ng and F M Moy},

issn = {0300-5283 (Print) 

0300-5283},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Med J Malaysia},

volume = {68},

number = {4},

pages = {291-6},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Hypertension is a major public health problem in Malaysia. A survey was initiated to examine the association of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for hypertension in Perak, Malaysia. METHODS: A total of 2025 respondents aged 30 years and above were recruited using a multi-stage sampling method. Hypertension was defined as self-reported hypertension and/or average of two blood pressure readings at single occasion with SBP \>/= 140mmHg or DBP \>/= 90 mmHg. Body mass index (BMI) was defined using the Asian criteria and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to evaluate physical activity. Body weight, height and blood pressure were obtained using standard procedures. Univariate analyses were conducted to examine the associations between risk factors and hypertension. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine each significant risk factor on hypertension after adjusted for confounders. RESULTS: In total, 1076 (54.9%) respondents were found to be hypertensive. Significant associations (p \<0.001) with hypertension were noted for increasing age, low physical activity, obese BMI, no education background and positive family history of hypertension. After adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, education background, family history, BMI, physical activity, smoking and diet, respondents who were obese and had positive family history had higher odds for hypertension (OR:2.34; 95% CI:1.84-3.17 and 1.96 (1.59-2.42) respectively. A significant increase (p \<0.001) in risk for hypertension was noted for age. Those with moderate physical activities were 1.40 (1.04-1.78) times more of having hypertension than those active. Poor diet score and smoking were not significantly associated with increased risk for hypertension. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, modifiable risk factors such as BMI and physical activity are important risk factors to target in reducing the risk for hypertension.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14463,

title = {The correlates of body composition with heart rate recovery after step test: an exploratory study of Malaysian adolescents},

author = {R Abu Hanifah and M N Mohamed and Z Jaafar and N A Mohsein and M Y Jalaludin and H A Majid and L Murray and M Cantwell and T T Su},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3857804/pdf/pone.0082893.pdf},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0082893},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {8},

number = {12},

pages = {e82893},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: In adults, heart rate recovery is a predictor of mortality, while in adolescents it is associated with cardio-metabolic risk factors. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between body composition measures and heart rate recovery (HRR) after step test in Malaysian secondary school students. METHODS: In the Malaysian Health and Adolescents Longitudinal Research Team (MyHEART) study, 1071 healthy secondary school students, aged 13 years old, participated in the step test. Parameters for body composition measures were body mass index z-score, body fat percentage, waist circumference, and waist height ratio. The step test was conducted by using a modified Harvard step test. Heart rate recovery of 1 minute (HRR1min) and heart rate recovery of 2 minutes (HRR2min) were calculated by the difference between the peak pulse rate during exercise and the resting pulse rate at 1 and 2 minutes, respectively. Analysis was done separately based on gender. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the association between the HRR parameters with body composition measures, while multiple regression analysis was used to determine which body composition measures was the strongest predictor for HRR. RESULTS: For both gender groups, all body composition measures were inversely correlated with HRR1min. In girls, all body composition measures were inversely correlated with HRR2min, while in boys all body composition measures, except BMI z-score, were associated with HRR2min. In multiple regression, only waist circumference was inversely associated with HRR2min (p=0.024) in boys, while in girls it was body fat percentage for HRR2min (p=0.008). CONCLUSION: There was an inverse association between body composition measurements and HRR among apparently healthy adolescents. Therefore, it is important to identify cardio-metabolic risk factors in adolescent as an early prevention of consequent adulthood morbidity. This reiterates the importance of healthy living which should start from young.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15907,

title = {Voatinggine and tabertinggine, pentacyclic indole alkaloids derived from an iboga precursor via a common cleavamine-type intermediate},

author = {C E Nge and C Y Gan and Y Y Low and N F Thomas and T S Kam},

doi = {10.1021/ol4021404},

issn = {1523-7052},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Org Lett},

volume = {15},

number = {18},

pages = {4774-7},

abstract = {Two new indole alkaloids, voatinggine (1) and tabertinggine (2), which are characterized by previously unencountered natural product skeletons, were isolated from a Malayan Tabernaemontana species. The structures and absolute configuration of these alkaloids were determined using NMR and MS analysis, and X-ray diffraction analysis. A possible biogenetic pathway to these novel alkaloids from an iboga precursor, and via a common cleavamine-type intermediate, is presented.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}