Browse publications by year: 2024

  1. Mehmood R, Jakarni FM, Muniandy R, Hassim S, Nik Daud NN, Ansari AH
    Heliyon, 2024 Dec 15;10(23):e40737.
    PMID: 39687189 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40737
    The significant growth in road infrastructure worldwide over the last decade has resulted in a notable increase in the demand for asphalt binder. However, the utilization of asphalt binder in the road industry poses challenges to environmental sustainability and economic standpoints. The application of vehicular loads and exposure to environmental factors throughout the service life of roads contribute to the deterioration of binder properties, such as hardening and aging, ultimately leading to premature road failure. Therefore, researchers have strived to explore further alternative materials to overcome these challenges, to improve the performance of flexible pavements. Waste Engine Oil (WEO) is one such material that has shown promising effects on asphalt binder. This review aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of previous literature to explore the potential utilization of WEO as a modifier and rejuvenator for asphalt binders. WEO effectively rejuvenates aged asphalt binders, however, the required quantity for rejuvenation varies depending on asphalt characteristics. It was found that the inclusion of the WEO as asphalt modifier significantly affects the high-temperature properties of the WEO-modified asphalt binder. Conversely, WEO addition enhances lower temperature properties, improving thermal and fatigue resistance. Furthermore, the compromise properties of WEO-modified asphalt are enhanced by incorporating various additional additives such as lignin, SBS, polyphosphoric acid and crumb rubber. It was revealed that composite modification can partially substitute 8-15 % asphalt binder, which would be a way forward in cost-effective sustainable construction in the pavement industry. However, additional research is necessary to explore futuristic advancements in WEO modification technology.
  2. Khawaja AW, Kamari NAM, Mohd Zainuri MAA, Abd Halim S, Zulkifley MA, Ansari S, et al.
    Heliyon, 2024 Oct 15;10(19):e38944.
    PMID: 39687439 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e38944
    Load inconsistency has disrupted the power system, causing rotor angle fluctuation that leads to angle instability in the system. This research suggests an innovative proportional integral derivative with filter (PIDF)-based thyristor-controlled series compensator (TCSC) controller that utilise an evolutionary programming sine cosine algorithm (EPSCA) for hybrid optimisation to increase the angle stability of the power system. The challenge of the PIDF-TCSC design is transformed into an optimal control problem with respect to performance indices, such as the maximum imaginary part of system eigenvalues, damping ratio and damping factor, where another multi-objective function is utilised to determine the best stabiliser settings. Eigenvalue analysis is used to conduct the stability study in a linearised paradigm of the single-machine infinite-bus (SMIB) network. The resilience of the PIDF controller was tested using a SMIB power network under various operating circumstances. Simulation results are used to evaluate the system's effectiveness with the proposed optimised PIDF-TCSC controller to that of the system using the proportional integral derivative, proportional integral, and base case PIDF-TCSC approaches. The research findings demonstrate the efficacy of EPSCA in implementing PIDF-TCSC motif and its excellent resilient performance for improving power system stability as related to other strategies in various situations.
  3. Foo XY, Abdul Rahim NA, Lee LK
    MethodsX, 2024 Dec;13:103069.
    PMID: 39687598 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2024.103069
    Mental health is a state of mind influences one thinking, feeling and acting from inside and outside that are vital for children's normal growth and development. Psychological distress may results in serious mental health problem if left untreated. Hence, early diagnosis can largely improve the condition from being deteriorating. This study determined the prevalence of psychological distress and its associated risk factors among children in Penang, Malaysia. The study applied stratified multistage cluster sampling for the recruitment of children, and their socio-demographics background, health and lifestyle practices, and the prevalence and risk factors of psychological distress were succinctly studied. The study provides a fundamental platform for informing parents and policy makers about psychological distress, and the need to strategize potential health intervention for achieving optimum human well-being.•Stratified multistage cluster sampling was useful to study the prevalence and risk factors of psychological distress in a children population.•DASS-Y is robust for brief dimensional measure of depression, anxiety and stress among children.
  4. Al-Kamali U, Zangana G, Al-Rawas M
    Cureus, 2024 Nov;16(11):e73816.
    PMID: 39687833 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.73816
    The United Kingdom, particularly Scotland, is a key destination for international medical graduates (IMGs), who now make up a substantial part of the National Health Service (NHS) workforce. These IMGs encounter several challenges when integrating into the NHS, with language barriers being especially significant. Although many IMGs are educated in English, they frequently struggle with the intricacies of Scottish languages and dialects, which are vital for good patient care. This review examines Scotland's linguistic environment, focusing on the roles of Gaelic and Scots languages in cultural distinctiveness and patient communication. By means of a literature review and focus group interviews with IMGs, the authors ascertained commonly utilised Scottish colloquialisms and their connotations, highlighting their importance in clinical contexts. The findings indicate that comprehending such colloquialisms can greatly improve doctor-patient communication, decrease misunderstandings, and enhance health outcomes. The article advocates for the formulation of formal training programs to better equip IMGs for the linguistic challenges they will encounter, thus improving their assimilation into the NHS and enhancing patient care. While the Scottish Government's efforts to support international recruitment and workforce assimilation have been exemplary, there remains a pressing need for targeted language orientation to close the communication gap and warrant high-quality healthcare delivery.
  5. Johansyah MD, Sambas A, Zheng S, Qureshi S, Abed-Elhameed TM, Vaidyanathan S
    Heliyon, 2024 Aug 15;10(15):e34703.
    PMID: 39687899 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34703
    Supply Chain Management (SCM) is a critical business function that involves the planning, coordination, and control of the flow of goods, information, and finances as they move from the manufacturer to the wholesaler to the retailer and finally to the end customer. SCM is a holistic approach to managing the entire process of delivering products or services to consumers. In this study, we will enhance the findings as outlined in Anne et al. (2009). While certain attributes of these systems will have been investigated, numerous aspects of these systems will still require further scrutiny. This calls for additional research studies on these systems. This paper examines a Fractional-Order Supply Chain Management (FOSCM) model utilizing the Adomian Decomposition Method (ADM) and explores qualitative aspects through an approach that addresses existence and uniqueness. By using Arzelà-Ascoli's principle, this system proves that the Caputo FOSCM model has at least one solution. Furthermore, we investigate the dynamics of the system by using the Lyapunov Exponent (LE), Bifurcation Diagram (BD), Complexity Analysis (CA) and 0-1 test. Finally, we introduce the control for FOSCM model using the Linear Feedback Control (LFC) method. We verify the correctness of our analysis by using numerical simulations.
  6. Afzal S, Wu YS, Manap ASA, Attiq A, Albokhadaim I, Appalaraju V, et al.
    Indian J Pharmacol, 2024 Sep 01;56(5):329-334.
    PMID: 39687956 DOI: 10.4103/ijp.ijp_564_24
    BACKGROUND: Sansevieria trifasciata, common name, mother-in-law's tongue, is a member of the Agavaceae family. We undertook this study to evaluate the cytotoxicity of S. trifasciata leaf extract against two cancer cell lines as well as its antibacterial activities against six bacterial strains.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: The investigated cell lines include primary colon epithelial (PCE) cells and human colorectal cancer cells; the studied bacterial strains are Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Using the agar well-diffusion method, various doses (5, 10, and 20 mg/mL) of plant extracts (ethanol and petroleum ether) were evaluated against each kind of bacterial strain. The minimal inhibitory doses were found using the two-fold serial dilution approach, with a range of 0.156-5 mg/mL.

    RESULTS: Comparing extracts of S. trifasciata leaves to tetracycline (0.05 mg/mL), a common antibiotic, revealed a wide range of antibacterial activity. P. vulgaris and S. aureus were the most sensitive bacterial strains to ethanol and petroleum ether extracts, respectively. The MTT test was employed to ascertain the viable cell count of PCE cells and HCT-116. When various ethanol extract concentrations (7.8, 15.63, 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250, 500, and 1000 μg/mL) were tested against the cell lines, HCT-116's IC50, values were lower as compared to PCE. The IC50 values for HCT-116 and PCE cells ranged from 10.0 to 14.07 μg/mL and 92.9-216.9 μg/mL, respectively.

    CONCLUSIONS: Ethanolic extract of S. trifasciata showed promising antibacterial and anticancer properties.

    MeSH terms: Ethanol/chemistry; Cell Survival/drug effects; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Humans; Microbial Sensitivity Tests*; HCT116 Cells; Cell Line, Tumor
  7. Jiang X, Nik Nabil WN, Ze Y, Dai R, Xi Z, Xu H
    Phytother Res, 2024 Dec 17.
    PMID: 39688127 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8407
    Natural compound-derived chemotherapies remain central to cancer treatment, however, they often cause off-target side effects that negatively impact patients' quality of life. In contrast, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) combine cytotoxic payloads with antibodies to specifically target cancer cells. Most approved and clinically investigated ADCs utilize naturally derived payloads, while those with conventional synthetic molecular payloads remain limited. This review focuses on approved ADCs that enhance the efficacy of naturally derived payloads by linking them with antibodies. We provide an overview of the core components of ADCs, their working mechanisms, and FDA-approved ADCs featuring naturally derived payloads, such as calicheamicin, camptothecin, dolastatin 10, maytansine, pyrrolbenzodiazepine (PBD), and the immunotoxin Pseudomonas exotoxin A. This review also explores recent clinical advancements aimed at broadening the therapeutic potential of ADCs, their applicability in treating heterogeneously composed tumors and their potential use beyond oncology. Additionally, this review highlights naturally derived payloads that are currently being clinically investigated but have not yet received approval. By summarizing the current landscape, this review provides insights into promising avenues for exploration and contributes to the refinement of treatment protocols for improved patient outcomes.
  8. Khazaal Kadhim Almansoori A, Reddy NS, Abdulfattah M, Ismail SS, Abdul Rahim R
    PLoS One, 2024;19(12):e0314556.
    PMID: 39689112 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0314556
    This study focuses on a novel lipase from Bacillus licheniformis IBRL-CHS2. The lipase gene was cloned into the pGEM-T Easy vector, and its sequences were registered in GenBank (KU984433 and AOT80658). It was identified as a member of the bacterial lipase subfamily 1.4. The pCold I vector and E. coli BL21 (DE3) host were utilized for expression, with the best results obtained by removing the enzyme's signal peptide. Optimal conditions were found to be 15°C for 24 h, using 0.2 mM Isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). The His-tagged lipase was purified 13-fold with a 68% recovery and a specific activity of 331.3 U/mg using affinity purification. The lipase demonstrated optimal activity at 35°C and pH 7. It remained stable after 24 h in 25% (v/v) organic solvents such as isooctane, n-hexane, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and methanol, which enhanced its activity. Chloroform and diethyl ether inhibited the lipase. The enzyme exhibited the highest affinity for p-nitrophenol laurate (C12:0) with a Km of 0.36 mM and a Vmax of 357 μmol min-1 mg-1. Among natural oils, it performed best with coconut oil and worst with olive oil. The lipase was stable in the presence of 1 mM and 5 mM Ca2⁺, K⁺, Na⁺, Mg2⁺, and Ba2⁺, but its activity decreased with Zn2⁺ and Al3⁺. Non-ionic surfactants like Triton X-100, Nonidet P40, Tween 20, and Tween 40 boosted activity, while Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) inhibited it. This lipase's unique properties, particularly its stability in organic solvents, make it suitable for applications in organic synthesis and various industries.
    MeSH terms: Amino Acid Sequence; Bacterial Proteins/genetics; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism; Bacterial Proteins/chemistry; Cloning, Molecular*; Enzyme Stability; Escherichia coli/genetics; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Kinetics; Recombinant Proteins/genetics; Recombinant Proteins/isolation & purification; Recombinant Proteins/metabolism; Recombinant Proteins/chemistry; Substrate Specificity; Temperature
  9. Mathialagan S, Lau PL
    J Obes Metab Syndr, 2024 Dec 30;33(4):314-325.
    PMID: 39689897 DOI: 10.7570/jomes24033
    Weightism, also known as weight-related discrimination, is pervasive and believed to be one of the socially accepted types of discrimination in Asia. Weightism is pervasive, impactful, and has significant repercussions on individuals grappling with excess weight. Despite being a major risk factor for obesity, excess weight is not well documented in the Asian literature. This narrative review explores compelling evidence indicating that weightism adversely affects both physical and psychological well-being across various aspects of life. Research findings suggest that weightism be deemed socially unacceptable in Asia to mitigate the obesity epidemic and enhance overall well-being. Consequently, several recommendations for reducing weight stigma in Asian culture are proposed to support a healthier future.
  10. Wei XL, Mo SY, Ali-Saeed R, Zeng H
    Curr Microbiol, 2024 Dec 18;82(1):45.
    PMID: 39690296 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-024-03999-w
    In recent years, exopolysaccharides (EPSs) from actinomycetes have become a significant focus of research due to their diverse biological activities, including antitumor, antiviral, and immunoregulatory effects. This article reviews recent advancements in the study of EPSs from actinomycetes, summarizing findings from existing literature on extraction methods, structural characteristics, and biological activities. Various extraction methods can impact the purity and quality of EPSs obtained from actinomycetes. In addition, EPSs produced by different species of actinomycetes exhibit diverse structures, leading to variations in their biological activities. Future research should focus on optimizing current extraction methods or developing new techniques, exploring the relationship between structural characteristics and biological activities of EPSs, and elucidating their molecular mechanisms of action. Such efforts are essential for the comprehensive study and potential applications of EPSs from actinomycetes.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Antineoplastic Agents/isolation & purification; Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology; Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry; Antiviral Agents/isolation & purification; Antiviral Agents/pharmacology; Antiviral Agents/chemistry; Humans; Immunologic Factors/isolation & purification; Immunologic Factors/pharmacology; Immunologic Factors/chemistry
  11. Rafeh MA, Abbasi AZ, Hollebeek LD, Ali MA, Ting DH
    Health Mark Q, 2024;41(4):375-406.
    PMID: 38832765 DOI: 10.1080/07359683.2024.2355378
    Though the pandemic has passed, social media-based messaging continues to exhibit COVID-19-related cues (e.g., wearing a face mask to stay safe), continuing to foster consumers' health-protective behavior. However, it remains unclear how social media communications (e.g., advertising) affect such behavior, exposing an important literature-based gap. Addressing this gap, we deploy Ducoffe's advertising value model to examine how pandemic-related advertisements (e.g., those urging consumers to stay safe, including post-the pandemic) impact their health-protective behavior. We also examine how consumer engagement (CE) mediates these associations. To explore these issues, we collected data from a sample of 301 Gen Z consumers, which was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). We find that informative, credible, irritating, and obtrusive ads raise consumer engagement and health-protective behavior. Engagement was also found to strengthen these associations, revealing their strategic value. We conclude by outlining important theoretical and practical implications that arise from our analyses.
    MeSH terms: Adult; Consumer Behavior; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Health Behavior*; Social Media
  12. Muhamad Jamil NK, Naina Mohamed I, Mokhtar SA, Leong JF, Kamudin NAF, Muhammad N
    Arch Osteoporos, 2024 Jun 12;19(1):49.
    PMID: 38864939 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-024-01407-1
    This study compares osteoporosis management between tertiary East Coast hospitals and a FLS-accredited hospital in Malaysia. It identifies significant barriers and highlights the superior performance of FLS in areas like timely treatment initiation and treatment monitoring. The insights are crucial for improving osteoporosis management strategies.

    INTRODUCTION: Osteoporosis management poses a substantial healthcare challenge, necessitating effective strategies and Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) adherence.

    METHODS: The study employed a self-administered online questionnaire via Google Forms. Orthopedic clinicians from all study sites were invited to participate via messaging platforms. A total of 135 participants completed the questionnaire and the data was proceeded to statistical analyses.

    RESULTS: The study identified significant barriers, including inadequate knowledge of current osteoporosis guidelines and medications (p = 0.014), limited choice of anti-osteoporosis medication (p 

    MeSH terms: Female; Humans; Malaysia; Male; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Bone Density Conservation Agents/therapeutic use; Osteoporotic Fractures/prevention & control; Osteoporotic Fractures/therapy; Tertiary Care Centers
  13. Cheah MH, Lai PSM, Ong T
    Arch Osteoporos, 2024 Aug 03;19(1):70.
    PMID: 39096395 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-024-01427-x
    Fracture Liaison Service is a coordinator-based model effective in addressing the fragility fracture care gap. This study found that the service was feasible in Malaysia and could improve the delivery of secondary fracture prevention. Local adaptations and reactive responses addressed challenges, enhancing feasibility.

    PURPOSE: To assess the feasibility of a Fracture Liaison Service in Malaysia and to benchmark our service against the International Osteoporosis Foundation Best Practice Framework.

    METHODS: This feasibility study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Malaysia from March 2021 to March 2022. Patients aged ≥ 50 years admitted with fragility fractures were recruited. Excluded were those with poor prognosis or transferred out from the hospital during admission. Patients were screened, assessed, and followed up at months 4 and 12 post-fracture presentations. Data was collected using Microsoft Excel and the REDCap database. The feasibility of the Fracture Liaison Service was evaluated using the typology of feasibility.

    RESULTS: A total of 140 patients (female (93/140, 66.4%), median age 77 (IQR 72, 83), hip fractures (100/140, 65.8%)) were recruited into the Fracture Liaison Service. The recruitment rate was (140/215, 65.1%), as some patients were "missed" due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The completion rate was high (101/114, 88.6%). Among those indicated for antiosteoporosis medication, 82/100 (82%) were initiated on treatment. Various "Best Practice Standards," such as patient evaluation (140/140, 100%), fall prevention (130/140, 92.9%), and medication review standards (15/15, 100%) were high. Complicated referral pathways, inexperienced staff, lack of resources, and communication issues were some of the barriers identified while implementing the Fracture Liaison Service. Challenges were overcome by modifying the service workflow and coordinating with different departments.

    CONCLUSION: The Fracture Liaison Service was found to be feasible in Malaysia. It demonstrated promise in improving bone health management; however, several changes were needed to adapt the service to suit our environment.

    MeSH terms: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Feasibility Studies*; Female; Hip Fractures; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Male; Middle Aged; Osteoporosis
  14. Lee JK, Leong JF, Thong FY, Sharifudin MA, Abbas AA, Kamudin NAF, et al.
    Arch Osteoporos, 2024 Sep 21;19(1):88.
    PMID: 39304537 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-024-01448-6
    This position paper aims to establish and standardise Bone Health Optimization (BHO) strategies for older patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgeries in Malaysia. It emphasises pre-, intra-, and post-operative assessments and tailored management. Adopting the "5IQ" approach, it proposes clinical standards and a registry to improve surgical outcomes and patient care.

    PURPOSE: Osteoporosis and osteopenia are highly prevalent among older patients scheduled for elective arthroplasties and spinal surgeries. This position paper aims to establish, promote, and standardise effective Bone Health Optimization (BHO) strategies for such patients within orthopaedic practices in Malaysia. It emphasises the need for bone health assessments to be undertaken at the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative stages, with tailored management strategies to meet individual patient needs.

    METHODOLOGY: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on articles published from 2019 to 2024. Twelve broad themes were defined including definitions and importance of BHO, epidemiological data, assessment techniques, risk stratification, management strategies, and outcome metrics.

    RESULTS: Elective surgeries on patients with poor bone health are associated with adverse outcomes, such as periprosthetic fractures, aseptic loosening of implants, and complications after spinal surgeries. This position paper advocates for routine bone health assessments and monitoring during the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative phases. It provides summaries of imaging modalities, risk assessment tools, and techniques for each phase. By adapting the successful "5IQ" approach from secondary fracture prevention, we propose 5IQ-based Clinical Standards for BHO, including 18 Key Performance Indicators. A Malaysian BHO Registry is proposed to benchmark care in real-time and support a national quality improvement programme. Practical resources, such as a BHO algorithm and key practice points, are included.

    CONCLUSION: This position paper proposes a paradigm shift in the management of bone health for patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery in Malaysia, aiming to improve surgical outcomes and patient care through standardised BHO strategies.

    MeSH terms: Aged; Bone Diseases, Metabolic; Humans; Malaysia; Osteoporosis*; Bone Density; Elective Surgical Procedures/standards; Orthopedic Procedures/standards
  15. Farook NAM, Argimón S, Samat MNA, Salleh SA, Sulaiman S, Tan TL, et al.
    Int J Med Microbiol, 2024 Dec;317:151638.
    PMID: 39437562 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2024.151638
    Molecular surveillance of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), a Malaysian teaching hospital revealed clonal replacement events of SCCmec type III-SCCmercury to SCCmec type IV strains before the year 2017; however, the reasons behind this phenomenon are still unclear. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the clonal replacement using genomic sequencing and phenotypic investigations (antibiogram profiling, growth rate and desiccation tolerance determination, survival in vancomycin sub-minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination) of representative HCTM MRSA strains isolated in four-year intervals from 2005 - 2017 (n = 16). HCTM Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) policies were also reviewed. Phylogenetic analyses revealed the presence of 3 major MRSA lineages: ST239-III, ST22-IV and ST6-IV; MRSAs with the same STs shared similar core and accessory genomes. Majority of the ST239-III strains isolated in earlier years of the surveillance (2005, 2009 and 2013) were resistant to many antibiotics and harboured multiple AMR and virulence genes compared to ST22-IV and ST6-IV strains (isolated in 2013 and 2017). Interestingly, ST22-IV and ST6-IV MRSAs grew significantly faster and were more resistant to desiccation than ST239-III (p < 0.05), even though the later clone survived better post-vancomycin exposure. Intriguingly, ST22-IV was outcompeted by ST239-III in broth co-cultures; though it survived better when desiccated together with ST239-III. Higher desiccation tolerance and fewer carriage of AMR genes by ST22-IV, together with reduction of antibiotic selection pressure in HCTM (due to AMS and IPC policies) during 2005 - 2017 may have provided the clone a competitive edge in replacing the previously dominant ST239-III in HCTM. This study highlights the importance of MRSA surveillance for a clearer picture of circulating clones and clonal changes. To our knowledge, this is the first genomic epidemiology study of MRSA in Malaysia, which will serve as baseline genomic data for future surveillance.
    MeSH terms: Desiccation; Hospitals, Teaching*; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Microbial Sensitivity Tests*; Phylogeny*; Vancomycin/pharmacology; Genome, Bacterial; Virulence Factors/genetics
  16. Masiran R, Abdul Latib FAM
    BMJ Case Rep, 2024 Dec 15;17(12).
    PMID: 39675799 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2024-259974
    We present a case of a woman in her early 30s who developed severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms following exposure to news reports about instant noodles allegedly contaminated with a carcinogenic substance. The news triggered an overwhelming fear of ingesting harmful food associated with persistent and intrusive thoughts about contamination in this patient. As a result, she adopted extreme food avoidance behaviours and restricted her oral intake for 2 weeks, causing significant weight loss and anxiety. Following a visit to her psychiatrist and a prescription for a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, her eating behaviours improved, and she could take her food without overwhelming fear. This case shows how OCD may mimic eating disorders and highlights how food-related obsessions can have a severe impact on health.
    MeSH terms: Adult; Female; Food Contamination*; Humans; Mass Media; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder*
  17. Sia T, Wong TC, Ong YC
    PMID: 39676572 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trae134
    Dengue is a vector-borne infection, which contributes to significant morbidity and mortality in endemic areas. It manifests rapidly within 2 wk from febrile, critical to recovery phase. The point-of-care test (POCT) comprises the non-structural protein 1 (NS1) antigen, IgM and IgG, which aids rapid diagnosis, leading to timely treatment. Despite the high specificity of various POCTs, a few false-positive NS1 cases have been reported. We report the first case of false-positive NS1 antigen in pregnancy. A 24-y-old female in her second trimester of pregnancy presented with fever and chills for 9 d and a non-productive cough for 3 d. The dengue POCT showed NS1 antigen positive, IgM and IgG negative. Her symptoms were resolved with treatment of urinary tract infection with cefuroxime. Urine culture subsequently yielded Escherichia coli. Her recovery and delivery were uneventful. Her NS1 antigen was persistently positive for 18 d. The confirmatory real time-PCR for dengue and pan-Flaviviruses was negative.
  18. Kamaruzaman HF, Ku Abd Rahim KN, Izzuna MMG
    GMS Health Innov Technol, 2024;18:Doc03.
    PMID: 39676884 DOI: 10.3205/hta000140
    Disinvestment in healthcare allows for strategic reallocation of resources from low-value care to higher-value areas, particularly in promoting clinical effectiveness, improving patient outcomes, and long-term cost savings. The Malaysian Health Technology Assessment Section (MaHTAS) is investigating the incorporation of a disinvestment framework into the health technology life cycle, in accordance with the Ministry of Health Malaysia's recent healthcare transformation strategy. Several health technology assessment (HTA) reports by MaHTAS have integrated concepts of health technology reassessment, with an emphasis on effectiveness and adverse effects. However, the need for additional funds and implementation strategies has impeded the impactful and timely execution of HTA recommendations. This article highlights ongoing efforts to promote disinvestment activities in the Malaysian healthcare system by raising early awareness and engaging with healthcare stakeholders during the planning phase. The journey from the possibility to the reality of implementing healthcare disinvestment initiatives in Malaysia requires addressing both facilitators and challenges. Facilitators identified include strong political will and the presence of global support for collaboration and knowledge sharing, among others. Some of the recognized challenges are getting the trust of the stakeholders, the need for additional funding to support disinvestment programs, and the lack of expertise as well as guideline to carry out the disinvestment process. By highlighting the steps taken and the strategic planning required, this article sheds light on the potential for disinvestment to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery in Malaysia, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable healthcare system.
  19. Kurniawati ND, Dewi YS, Wahyuni ED, Arifin H, Poddar S, AlFaruq MF, et al.
    SAGE Open Nurs, 2024;10:23779608241288716.
    PMID: 39676899 DOI: 10.1177/23779608241288716
    INTRODUCTION: Nurses in intensive care units (ICUs) are vulnerable to sick building syndrome (SBS), which can affect their health, performance, and patient safety. Understanding SBS is crucial in healthcare to protect both staff and patients. However, many ICU nurses lack knowledge about this condition and the necessary detection tools.

    OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to describe ICU nurses' knowledge about SBS and the need of an instrument to detect the signs and symptoms of SBS.

    METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 100 ICU nurses, recruited through simple random sampling from the Critical Care Indonesia Nurse Association. The study focused on nurses' knowledge of SBS and the need for an instrument to detect it. Research instruments included basic respondent characteristics, nurses' knowledge, and the need for an SBS detection tool. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

    RESULTS: The majority of respondents exhibited a good level of knowledge (66%), yet many answered questions incorrectly regarding SBS etiology, symptoms, and effects. This was exemplified by incorrect responses attributing noise and chemicals as causes of SBS, overlooking fatigue as a symptom, and inaccurately assessing the physical effects of SBS. Notably, nurses demonstrated strong knowledge regarding SBS prevention (71%) and treatment (94%). Respondents unanimously supported the necessity of an instrument capable of detecting SBS among ICU nurses (71%), with an electronic instrument being the preferred option over other forms.

    CONCLUSION: ICU nurses possess a good level of knowledge about SBS. It is recommended to develop and investigate an electronic-based instrument for detecting SBS. Additionally, implementing an e-learning educational program could further enhance the knowledge and management of SBS among healthcare professionals.

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