Showing papers by "University of Malaya published in 1987"

Effects of fasting in Ramadan on tropical Asiatic Moslems.

Abstract: 1. Anthropometric variables, resting heart rate and respiratory gas exchange were measured in twelve male and nine female Asiatic adult Moslems during the month of Ramadan, the week before and the month after Ramadan. 2. Energy intakes were estimated from dietary recall during fasting and non-fasting conditions. 3. Both male and female subjects experienced a decrease in body mass with the reduction in energy intake during fasting. Males experienced a greater reduction than females in resting heart rate; females lost more bodyweight and subcutaneous fat than males. 4. Urine output and fluid intake were measured in twelve male subjects for 1 d during each week of fasting and 1 d during the pre-fasting control period. Among the subjects examined, the Ramadan regimen did not result in changes in the pattern of fluid exchange. Residents of Malaysia include Moslems who practise abstention from food and drink between dawn and sunset during the month of Ramadan. Preliminary studies on Moslems in Sudan have examined the effects of fasting on serum triglyceride and uric acid levels (Gumaa et al. 1978) and body-fluid balance (Mustafa et al. 1978). However, the biological effects of changes in activity and feeding patterns during the fasting month of Ramadan on Asiatic Moslems in Malaysia have not been studied. The present investigation examines changes in anthropometric and physiological variables which may be associated with the fasting month. Twelve males and nine females volunteered for the study. A representative 24 h activity pattern for the subjects (Fig. 1) during the non-fasting months consists of 15 h of wakefulness (06.30-21.30 hours) and 9 h of sleep (21.3046.30 hours) with four or five meals consumed at 3-4 h intervals (between 0.700 and 19.00 hours). In contrast, the general pattern during the fasting month consists of 20 h of wakefulness (04.00-24.00 hours), 4 h of sleep, a 14.5 h fasting period with complete fluid and energy deprivation (05.00-19.30 hours), and three sessions of refeeding and rehydration at approximately 5 h intervals occurring at night between 19.30 and 04.00 hours. Therefore, the month of Ramadan is associated with a prolonged period of fluid and energy deprivation during the day and a reduction in sleeping time. The 28-d fasting situation is also accompanied by heightened religious dedication which may result in an altered mental state which may affect physiological function. METHODS Studies were made on healthy adults (aged 20-45 years) engaged in indoor sedentary occupations who observed fasting during the month of Ramadan. The subjects gave their informed consent to the experimental procedures of the investigation. They reported to the laboratory for anthropometric and cardiorespiratory measurements at the same time of day (between 09.00 and 11.00 hours) according to the following schedule : once during the week before Ramadan (pre-fasting control), once during the 5th week after Ramadan (post-fasting control) and twice during each week of fasting. Representative waking and feeding schedules are as presented in Fig. 1. The average of biweekly * For reprints.

Detection of specific IgM in dengue infection.

Abstract: A modification of the IgM-capture ELISA which can provide an early diagnosis for dengue infection is presented. The test is technically simple compared to HI and appears to be more sensitive. It has the advantage over HIT for the detection of specific IgM in that it is more sensitive and the reading of the result is not subjective. There is the possibility of the test being able to replace HI and HIT in the future.

Nitrogen fixation (acetylene reduction) associated with the living coral Acropora variabilis

Abstract: To estimate N2-fixation, acetylene reduction assays were carried out on portions of the branches of the coral Acropora variabilis from the west coast of Malaysia. In some experiments, a sub-surface incubation apparatus was employed that was designed to keep the coral fragments near to their natural depth of occurrence. Other shipboard experiments used metabolic inhibitors to investigate the class of organism reducing acetylene. Stumps of coral gave the highest rates of activity, probably attributable to loosely associated cyanophytes. Coral tips also reduced acetylene at relatively high rates; reduction was enhanced in light by increased CO2 concentration and decreased O2 tensions indicative of photosynthetic bacteria. Algal material was not obvious on the tip surfaces and so the active organism was probably more integral to the coral structure than it was in the stumps. Maximum rates of acetylene reduction measured translated to 2.5 mg N2 fixed per outcrop per day.

Tumor-associated tissue eosinophilia in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A pathologic study of 422 primary and 138 metastatic tumors.

Abstract: A study of biopsy specimens from 422 consecutive primary nasopharyngeal carcinomas (NPCs) revealed tumor-associated tissue eosinophilia (TATE) in a large proportion (26%) of the tumors. TATE occurred more frequently in nonkeratinizing carcinomas (NKC, 38%) than in the squamous (21%) or undifferentiated (23%) types. There was no sex predilection and no association with the presence of intratumor amyloid deposits. Stromal eosinophilia was also observed in 53 (38%) of 138 metastatic NPCs in lymph nodes, where it had occasionally led to confusion with Hodgkin's disease. TATE may be a feature of diagnostic importance in NPC, although its prognostic significance remains to be ascertained.

Forest composition and inferred dynamics in Jengka Forest Reserve, Malaysia

Abstract: trees of 3 ft (0.91 m) girth or more were enumerated in 288 1-ch2 (about 400 mi2) quadrats forming a 11.7 ha plot on the mainly Segamat soil series, Jengka Forest Reserve, Peninsular Malaysia, in 1964. Of the 261 taxa, 84% were identified to species. Five per cent of the area was of the permanently wetter Akob soil series. The plot was topographi- cally flat and lay about 3 km west of the plot on the Batu Anam soil series, described in an earlier paper. Data on the chemical composition of the three soils are summarized here from a survey in 1967. The vegetation on the Segamat series is of the Shorea-Dipterocarpus type of lowland dip- terocarp forest. It has an unusually high abundance of the Euphorbiaceae (25% of trees) and a clear dominant species, Elateriospermum tapos. E. tapos, which regenerates profusely in the shade, grows up in small gaps and is strongly clumped, and appears well suited to the very friable, relatively nutrient-rich soil of the Segamat series, with lower soil-water holding capacity especially in dry periods. Forest on the Segamat series is floristically very different from that on the Batu Anam series. This is most likely due to large differences in soil properties, the latter being of lower clay content, less nutrient-rich and, having a greater soil-water holding capacity at least in dry periods. It was dominated by Dipterocarpaceae. Classification of quadrats on the Segamat series highlighted four classes; vegetation of the main E. tapos-dominated type on relatively dry soil (54% of plot area), vegetation on the wet Akob soil (21%), an association of shade-tolerant, mainly understorey trees beneath non-E. tapos-associated emergents (11%), and an association of long-lived, light-demanding pioneer trees of late-successional stages (11%); 3% of plot had no enumerated trees. Ordination showed that the plot was largely homogeneous with respect to edaphic factors but clearly displayed stages in forest succession. The possible dynamics of the Segamat forest are inferred in terms of species autecology. Two hypotheses are advanced to explain the composition of the Segamat forest: (a) a dynamic equilibirum, (b) a non-equilibrium recovery from a recent catastrophe. The latter was thought more likely. Compared with the more benign Batu Anam environment, where co-dominants might be 'ecologically equivalent', the more selective soil conditions on the Segamat leads to reduced equivalence, with accidents of regeneration playing a smaller role in the local distri- bution of the most abundant species.

Cryptococcus meningitis, clinical--CT scan considerations.

Abstract: Twenty adult cases of cryptococcus meningitis and their cranial CT scan findings were reviewed. Ten patients had abnormal CT scans. The findings were hydrocephalus, gyral enhancement, focal nodules, decreased attenuation in the white matter, and patchy increased uptake of contrast. The CT scan appearance often failed to correspond with symptoms. None of the appearances was specific to the cryptococcal infection. Fourteen patients developed papilloedema during the course of the illness. The majority of the patients who developed papilloedema did not have demonstrable hydrocephalus.

General criteria for redundant and nonredundant linear inequalities

Abstract: A system of linear inequalities subject to nonnegativity restrictions is considered. General criteria which are necessary and sufficient for a linear inequality to be redundant are derived. This general characterization provides a basis for unifying some of the existing techniques. After taking into consideration the existence of redundant linear inequalities, general necessary and sufficient criteria for a linear inequality to be nonredundant are also obtained. An example is given to illustrate the application of these new criteria.

A technique to reinforce weakened roots with post canals.

Abstract: A method to strengthen the weakened coronal portion of roots with post canals is described. The apical portion of the root canal is prepared using a Dormer twist drill to fit a matching Wiptam wire post. After removal of the Wiptam wire, the root canal of the weakened coronal portion of the root is prepared and acid-etched. The Wiptam wire, lubricated with petroleum jelly, is repositioned into the root canal, and after painting the coronal root den tin with bonding agent, radiopaque composite resin is syringed around the wire into the coronal defect. Following polymerization of the composite material, the wire is removed, leaving a reinforced root with a patent post canal. Preparation of the root face is completed for restoration with a post crown.

Photosynthetic and respiratory characteristics of malayan sun and shade ferns

Abstract: Summary A comparative study of four Malayan ferns, Christensenia aesculifolia (Bl.) Maxon, Tectaria singaporeana (Wall.) Ching, Abacopteris multilineata (Wall.) Ching and Hymenophyllum polyanthos Sw. from shady habitats and another four, Dicranopteris linearis (Burm.) Und., Lygodium scandens (L.) Sw., Blechnum orientate Linn, and Stenochlaena palustris (Burm.) Bedd. from sunlit habitats showed that the total chlorophyll content expressed on a gram fresh weight basis was greater in the shade ferns. There was little difference in the chlorophyll content between the sun and shade ferns when it was expressed on a per unit leaf area basis. The protein and protohaem content was greater in the sun ferns. Measurements of the in vitro photochemical activities of the photosystems I and II in isolated chloroplasts by means of an oxygen electrode showed higher rates in the sun ferns. As determined by spectrophotometric analysis, the photosynthetic cytochrome content from isolated chloroplasts was greater in the sun ferns. The results indicate that the sun ferns have physiological characteristics favouring greater capacity for photosynthesis. Mitochondria isolated from the sun ferns showed faster rates of electron transport using exogenous NADH as substrate.

Margin quality and microleakage of Class II composite resin restorations

Abstract: A comparison using various composite resins and placement techniques is made of the margin quality and isotope microleakage of Class II composite resin restorations placed in extracted molars. Margin quality and isotope microleakage analyses of Class II restorations placed in extracted human molars were compared using various composite resins and placement techniques. At occlusal margins, the traditional (experimental) composite resin restoration placed by the incremental technique showed less microleakage than did the experimental (commercial) composite resin restoration placed by the bulk technique. In each group, the occlusal and proximal adaptations had significantly higher “excellent margin” than did the cervical adaptation. Thus, the marginal adaptation at the cervical aspect of conventional Class II composite resin restorations may present a problem with respect to microleakage.

Liver abscess in the tropics: experience in the University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur.

Abstract: We reviewed 204 cases of liver abscess seen between 1970 and 1985. Ninety were found to be amoebic, 24 pyogenic and one tuberculous. The cause of the abscesses in the remaining 89 patients was not established. The patients were predominantly male, Indians, and in the 30-60 age group. The majority of patients presented with fever and right hypochondrial pain. The most common laboratory findings were leucocytosis, hypoalbuminaemia and an elevated serum alkaline phosphatase. Amoebic abscesses were mainly solitary while pyogenic abscesses were mainly multiple. Complications were few in our patients and included rupture into the pleural and peritoneal cavities and septicaemic shock. An overall mortality of 2.9% was recorded. The difficulty in diagnosing the abscess type is highlighted. The single most important test in helping us diagnose amoebic abscess, presumably the most common type of abscess in the tropics, is the Entamoeba histolytica antibody assay. This test should be used more frequently in the tropics.

Sanskritization and Indian Ethnicity in Malaysia

Abstract: M. N. Srinivas (1952) first introduced the concept of ‘Sanskritization’ for describing cultural and social change among the Coorgs of South India. More specifically, the term was used to explain the integration of Coorgs into Indian society through their adoption of various Sanskritbased beliefs and practices. It also referred to caste mobility, a process whereby the Coorgs attempted to raise their caste status by observing various rules of behavior as defined in Sanskritic scriptures and practiced by Brahmins. In elaborating this concept, Srinivas (1956, 1967) has sought to extend it to Indian society as a whole, focusing particularly on the problem of caste relations. He has emphasized that the extent of Sanskritization among the jātis of a region depends upon the character of the locally dominant caste. The latter provides an immediate model for the lower castes to emulate. In generalizing this concept, Srinivas has also attempted to assess the compatibility (and to some degree, conflict) between Sanskritization and Westernization.

The unwelcome guests: Indonesian immigrants and Malaysian public responses.

Abstract: The author examines attitudes among different sections of the Malaysian population toward the presence of immigrants from Indonesia many of whom are illegal migrants. Data are from a review of Malaysian newspaper articles and from a survey conducted in 1985 in two squatter settlements in Kuala Lumpur. The author concludes that in recent years the mood of the general public has turned against Indonesian migrants. (ANNOTATION)

Autopsy findings in 35 cases of leprosy in Malaysia.

Abstract: The findings of autopsies performed on 35 leprosy subjects in the University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, between January 1981 and December 1985 are presented. This is the first report based on autopsy findings from Malaysia. The patients were elderly subjects with a mean age of 74 years. Sixty-six percent had lepromatous leprosy. None had active skin lesions. The most common cause of death was pyogenic infection, particularly bronchopneumonia. Tuberculosis was noted in 25% of the cases. The other important causes of death included cardiac and renal failure. Renal lesions were evident in 71% of the cases, and the most common pathology was interstitial nephritis. Generalized amyloidosis complicated six (17%) patients.

A new approach to the reduction of acute dislocation of the temporomandibular joint: a report of three cases.

Abstract: Various methods of reduction of temporomandibular joint dislocation are reviewed. The utilisation of the gag reflex provides a new alternative treatment of acute dislocation. This method is simple, rapid and safe and can be advocated in all cases of acute dislocation. The advantages and the rationale of this approach are discussed. Three cases of acute dislocation treated by this method are presented.

Dental needs, demands and patterns of service utilization in a selected Malaysian urban population

Abstract: The dental needs, demands and patterns of service utilization were assessed in a randomly selected sample of 750 subjects attending the Dental Faculty, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. Toothache accounted for the most frequent overall dental complaint. However, the most common motives for seeking dental care varied among children (2-12 yr), adolescents (13-18 yr) and adults (19 + yr). The attendance behavior of women is more preventively orientated and more inclined towards rehabilitation compared to that of men. The proportion of normative needs of the patients varies from 7.5% for dentures to 66% for dental caries. About 50% of service utilization for the first visit consisted primarily of extractions in the oral surgery department.

Inhibition of Mitochondrial Functions by Margosa Oil: Possible Implications in the Pathogenesis of Reye's Syndrome

Abstract: . Margosa oil (MO), a fatty acid-rich extract of the seeds of the neem tree and a reported cause of Reye's syndrome, has been used in the induction of an experimental model of Reye's syndrome in rats. It has been reported that MO causes a decrease in in vivo mitochondrial enzyme activity similar to that seen in Reye's syndrome. We have attempted to uncover some of the biochemical mechanisms of MO's toxicity by examining its effect in vitro on isolated rat liver mitochondria. Male rat liver mitochondria were isolated by centrifugation; oxygen uptake, reduced forms of cytochrome b, c + C1, a + a3, and flavoprotein, intramitochondrial concentrations of acetyl coA, acid-soluble coA, acid-insoluble coA, and ATP content were measured after incubation with and without MO. Our results reveal that MO is a mitochondrial uncoupler. State 4 respiration was increased while the respiratory control ratio was decreased. The intramitochondrial content of ATP was also decreased. There were substantial changes in the reduction of the respiratory chain components after incubation of mitochondria with MO. This decelerative effect on mitochondrial electron transport was alleviated by the addition of coenzyme Q and/or carnitine. These effects of MO on mitochondrial respiration may be due to changes in fatty acid metabolism caused by MO as MO caused a shift in the proportion of acid-soluble or acid-insoluble coA esters. Supplementary therapy with L-carnitine and coenzyme Q may be useful in the management of MO-induced Reye's syndrome.

A typology of bilingual education in Malaysia

Abstract: Bilingual education has been practised in Malaysia at least since the sixteenth century. Since that era, bilingualism has carried with it prestige and opoportunities denied to the monolingual. During the British colonial era, rural children were kept monolingual while urban children were given the opportunity to become bilingual. The result was social stratification along ethnic and geographic lines. Since education is linked to upward social mobility, it has become the task of the education system to enable pupils to function in more than one language. This would give pupils equality of access to educational and job opportunities. The national curriculum for schools therefore encourages bilingualism and a number of forms of bilingual education have emerged. This article offers a typology of bilingual education in Malaysia. It identifies four main types of ‘transfer’ varieties of bilingual education, and the subtypes within them. These forms of bilingual education present an overview of choices i...