Displaying publications 41 - 60 of 1139 in total

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  1. Muhammad Zul Fayyadh Azizo Rahman, Chong, Hui Wen, Lim, Vuanghao
    MyJurnal
    Adulterated premixed coffees have turned into an issue in Malaysia lately and have caught the eye of the authorities due to death reports linked to these products. The major cause of this issue is reported that these premixed coffees have passed food inspection test and eventually released to the market for public consumption. These coffees were claimed to be spiked with several sexual enhancers like sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafill, which are common drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction. Methods: Chemometrics approach using UV-Vis spectroscopy was developed to detect the selected sexual enhancer drugs found in commercial coffees by employing SIMCA-P software for the multivariate statistical analysis. Seven brands of coffee samples were purchased from local stores, and 30 sachets each were tested, hence totalling to 210 samples. Each sample was named H, J, G, W, N, T, and K, respectively. Results: Three multivariate models were generated, namely principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). OPLS-DA was selected as the best model for the overall results as it displayed minimal discriminate. Sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil were detected in sample H, while vardenafil in brand J, and none in samples G, W, N, T, and K. Conclusion: OPLS-DA analysis showed discrimination for the sexual enhancer drugs in two brands of premixed coffee. The UV-Vis spectroscopy-based chemometrics method proved to be reliable and efficient in determining the selected drugs, as well as in saving time and cost.
  2. Anusha Achuthan, Goh Xing You, Hazwani Binti Ahmad Yusof @ Hanafi
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Exergames is defined as a technology-driven physical activity, which is an innovative way of physical activity that integrates interactive gameplay in the exercise process. The exergames may provide enjoyable expe- riences that could motivate people to participate and continue playing the game play, while also exercising at the same time. Methods: This article presents a treasure hunt-based walking exergames on android platform with the implementation of intelligence-based image recognition. The exergame, termed USM ExerHunt uses images of Universiti Sains Malaysia buildings as the hints. The participant of the game supposes to find a building shown in the hint, and once reaching the destination captures the image of the building. Then, the application will calculate the total steps taken and calories burnt by the participant using an implementation of accelerometer from the mobile phone. Results: The developed USM ExerHunt application is able to achieve accurate image recognition of USM building, with the accuracy rate of 92%. Besides that, the application is capable of calculating the number of total steps and calories burnt after an exercise routine is completed. Conclusion: This android application has shown a proof of concept in incorporating machine intelligence into an exergame application, with pilot study within the USM community.
  3. Patricia Sator, Jummaiyah Md Tahir, Elvinna Maria Joannes, Nafisah Mokti
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Social media have been used widely by majority of population around the world and have been proved to be useful for sharing information as well as gain knowledge. For student, media social plays a huge role especially during learning session. Recently, a lot of issues regarding nursing services flooded social media, which gave a negative impression about nurses profession. This study aims to identify the awareness on the impact of social media in regards to nursing services among Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS), UMS nursing students. Methods: Descriptive quantitative cross-sectional study using modified questionnaire for data collection was con- ducted in FMHS, UMS. A total of 100 nursing student, year 3 (37%), year 2 (40%) and year 1 (23%) participated in the study. Results: Overall, 51% respondents agree and 45% strongly agree that social media is a powerful tool to connect among individuals. 63% agree and 34% strongly agree that social media can make jobs more efficient and innovative. 63% agree and 32% strongly agree that social media can be an agent of providing clinical education to nurses by facilitating conversations with colleagues about best practice and advanced healthcare. 51% agree and 22% strongly that social media can be trace and legal action can be taken towards nurses. 54% agree and 20% strongly agree that social media can be used to reveal malpractice among nurses. 45% agree and 40% strongly agree that social media can be misuse by the non-healthcare provider. Conclusion: Based on this study’s result, the respon- dents are well aware with the positive and negative impact of social media on nursing profession. There may has a small number of unaware or unsure about the impact among the respondents, with that the recommendation for this study is to ensure the UMS nursing students to abide with the professional and personal etiquettes and use common sense and caution while communicating on social media.
  4. Le Low, Darman Shah N. S., Mohd Noh M., Y. Y. Chong
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Biologic patients are at increased risk of tuberculosis (TB) infection, especially in TB prevalent areas like Sabah. We present three cases of rheumatology patients who developed tuberculosis infection while on bi-ologics. Case description: Case1: 47 year old lady with active rheumatoid arthritis despite being on four disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS) was given subcutaneous Etanercept after prescreening with mantoux test and interferon gamma release assay (IGRA). Due to poor response, she was switched to Tofacitinib with a repeat pre-screening done except IGRA. Three months after biologics, she developed pulmonary tuberculosis and Tofacitinib was stopped. Case2: 50 year old male with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis and seroconverted hepatitis B. He was worked up for biologic treatment after failing multiple DMARDS; mantoux was 10mm, IGRA not done. He was start-ed on subcutaneous Etanercept for disabling arthritis while being treated for latent TB but developed TB Lymphadeni-tis on his third month of biologic therapy which was withheld thereafter. Case3:48 year old teacher with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis and old pulmonary TB, had intolerance to methotrexate, was initiated on three DMARDS but symptoms remained uncontrolled. Prescreening with IGRA was negative and Adalimumab commenced. Following two years of biologic, she developed reactivation of TB. Rituximab was commenced a year after for persistent active arthritis but withheld due to dermatitis. Conclusion: All patients had mantoux test done routinely but not IGRA due to its cost and limited availability. A follow up study to analyze the effectiveness of IGRA versus Mantoux in detecting latent TB in such patients would be beneficial.
  5. Eusni, R.M.T., Leong, C.F., Salwa, S.
    MyJurnal
    We reported a young patient with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with eosinophilia, in which her chromosomal analysis revealed the presence of trisomy X and a marker chromosome at chromosome 11. The technique used to detect the chromosomal abnormalities is a multicoloured –fluorescent in situ hybridization technique (M-FISH). Our observation suggested that these underlying chromosomal abnormalities were probably responsible for her development of MDS with eosinophilia.
    Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a condition whereby there is ineffective production of haematopoietic stem cells and poor quality of cells produced. The cause can either be a primary bone marrow problem, de novo or therapy related. Most MDS cases are secondary rather than primary. Many chromosomal abnormalities have been found in cases of myelodysplastic syndrome. We described a case of MDS with eosinophilia in association with presence of trisomy X and a marker chromosome in chromosome 11.
  6. Ezamin Abdul Rahim, Ahmad Sobri Muda, Hariati Jamil
    MyJurnal
    Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is the mainstay treatment for massive haemoptysis. Herein we briefly discuss the tips and tricks of super-selective embolization of bronchial artery using N-butyl-2 cyanoacrylate (NBCA). Based on our experience, this technique produces a better resolution and exhibit high non- recurrence rate in the treatment of massive haemoptysis.
  7. Vanitha Krishnan, Hazreen Abdul Majid, Rafdzah Ahmad Zaki, Muhammad Yazid Jalaludin
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Anaemia is a significant public health problem among adolescents globally but there is limited data in many countries, including Malaysia. This study aims to investigate the 5-years incidence of anemia among Malaysian adolescents by gender, ethnicity, locality of schools, Body Mass Index, stature and diet intake. Methods: A secondary analysis of existing data from MyHeART study was conducted within a closed cohort of 528 adolescents (aged 13 years) attended 15 public secondary schools from Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Perak. The adolescents who were followed up at 15 and 17 years old had completed haemoglobin assessment, anthropometric measurements and -days diet history. The data was cleaned and missingness was handled accordingly with multiple imputation. SPSS Software version 21 was used to analyse the data, with Generalised Estimating Equation (GEE) showing the effect of time on the trajectory of prevalence of anaemia over the 5 years. Results: The prevalence or incidence? of anaemia in 2012, 2014 and 2016 was 7.9% (95%CI: 5.0-12.3), 13.9% (95%CI: 10.0-19.0) and 15.8% (95%CI:11.3-21.7). In females, anaemia increased from 11.1% (95%CI:6.7-18.7) to 15.7% (11.4-21.3) and 23.1%(95%CI: 16.8-31.0); the change was significant from 13 to 15 years old. Similar trend was noticed in those who are stunted, overweight/obese, in both urban/rural schools and didn’t meet their daily recommended nutrient intake for total calorie, protein and iron. Conclusion: Anaemia is increasing in trend among the adolescents over the years and deems attention from the relevant stakeholders to create a robust anemia prevention program.
  8. Suresh Ponnusamy
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: The causes of obesity is caloric intake that, over time, is greater than the caloric expenditure. Factors that are associated with this energy imbalance include genetic predisposition, behavioural dynamics, hormonal disturbances, and environmental circumstances. Results: Food Intake: Increased portion sizes, the energy density of today’s commonly eaten foods, and the trend in consuming meals outside the home contribute to the increase in calorie consumption. Satiety helps determine food intake and is partially determined by the volume and weight of the food consumed. Foods that are high in calorie content for a given volume, such as highly processed, low-fiber foods, can lead to excessive calorie intake. Many factors contribute to overeating, including stress, boredom, nutritional insufficiencies, emotional lability, access to food, and the changing of our diet to one that is highly processed. Movement and Physical Activity: In a recent review, Denham et al. (2013) summarized the ability of physical activity to influence epigenetic modifications of histones or DNA in the brain, skeletal muscle, and peripheral blood. Aerobic exercise over many weeks was the primary variable studied that led to activity-induced benefits. Several of the studies found benefits with 30 minutes of daily moderate activity. Yoga is an effective type of movement activity for improving weight and mental well-being. Sleep: There is an association between too little or too much sleep and overweight and obesity. In a survey of more than 54,000 U.S. adults age 45 years or older, sleeping too little (≤6 hours) and sleeping too much (≥10 hours) were significantly associated with obesity. Sleep deprivation is associated with elevated ghrelin, elevated cortisol, elevated insulin, decreased leptin, and increased hunger (Patel and Hu, 2008). Psychosocial Stress: In addition to the negative influences of physiological stress from poor nutrition, insufficient appropriate activity, and inadequate sleep, psychosocial stress can also contribute to excess weight. Psychosocial stress can arise from a wide variety of environmental stressors, such as change in routine, difficult decisions, depression, chronic health issues, lack of access to health care, economic challenges, inadequate social support, abusive relationships, illiteracy, job dissatisfaction, poor adjustment to life-cycle transitions such as retirement, and legal problems. This type of stress is often associated with weight gain, elevated BMI, and poor food choices. Increased cortisol levels can lead to weight gain around the abdominal region (central adiposity). Conclusion: It is important to screen for emotional stress with patients, identify how this stress may be negatively impacting their weight, and help them incorporate stress reduction programs to achieve their weight loss goals.
  9. Noorhaire Sumarlie Nordin, Abdul Shukor Salha, Don Ismail Mohamed,, Saidatul Norbaya Buang
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Learning disability (LD) is a neurologically related processing problem which can interfere with basic and higher learning skill. The prevalence of learning disability was estimated to be ranging from 5 and 9 percent in general population. The aim of this study was to describe the trend of LD among lower primary school children particularly among Year 3 school children from 2013 to 2018. Methods: Data were taken from the Ministry of Health database on LD among lower primary school children particularly among Year 3 school children in Malaysia from 2013 until 2018. These data were collected from the assessment of LD school children who were referred from schools nationwide to the government medical practitioners. Results: There were approximately 2.6 million Year 3 school children in Malaysia from 2013 until 2018. Of these, a total of 9,063 school children were diagnosed to have LD. There was an increase trend in the incidence of LD from 13 per 10,000 school children in 2013 to 77 per 10,000 school children in 2016. From 2017 onwards there was a reduction in the incidence which consistently remained at 35 per 10,000 school children. Of these, the highest incidence was seen in school children with Intellectual Disabil-ity (ranging from 18 to 36 per 10,000 school children) followed by those with Specific Learning Disability (ranging from 1 to 23 per 10,000 school children) from 2013 until 2018. Conclusion: Learning disability although not as common as other disabilities in general population is still an important issue that need to be tackled to improve the well-being of those affected.
  10. Aziemah Zulkifli, Emilia Zainal Abidin
    MyJurnal
    Introduction of electronic cigarette (EC) in the global market posed a new challenge to public health experts
    in terms of controlling the widespread use of the device among general population. This systematic review aimed
    to explore the trend of EC use among population of adults reported in literature across multiple regions. Using
    Scopus search engine and several screening strategies, specific keywords were applied in the advanced search
    field and the search have yielded a total of 33 articles. The key findings include i) the existence of dual users of EC
    and conventional cigarette smokers and ii) the emergence of EC users who previously never smoked reported
    among adult populations. The present study suggests that future tobacco control strategies should be strengthen
    in preventing the initiation of nicotine addiction among non-smoking population and established nicotine
    replacement therapy instead of EC should be further promoted smokers as a method to quit smoking.
  11. Patricia Ann John, Sylves Patrick, Mohtar Ibrahim, Adil Hussein
    MyJurnal
    A 64-year-old Malay gentleman alleged occupational injury when a malfunctioned metal hydraulic door hit on his face while unloading sand from his tipper-truck. Post-trauma, he complained of right eye (RE) pain and total loss of vision. On examination, noted RE visual acuity was unable to be assessed and left eye (LE) was 6/24 with pinhole 6/9. No eyeball could be seen in the right socket with superior orbital rim step deformity and left periorbital haema- toma. Computed tomography scan of the brain and orbit confirmed displaced right eye globe into the right anterior cranial fossa with right and left multiple orbital wall fractures. He then underwent successful right eye globe reposi- tioning. Traumatic orbital roof fracture is a rare condition. Repositioning of the eye globe was done to salvage the eye globe for a cosmetic reason and to avoid localised inflammatory reaction at the anterior cranial fossa.
  12. Muneera A. S. Yahya, Husni A. Al- Goshae, Hameed M. Aklan, Maha Abdul-aziz, Abdullah A. Al-Mikhlafy
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Estimation of gestational age (GA) is clinically crucial for managing pregnancy and assessing the foetal anatomy, growth and development. Transverse cerebellar diameter (TCD) has been reported as an accurate tool for dating the pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the accuracy of foetal TCD for dating the pregnancy and to con- struct a reference chart for GA of Yemeni foetuses. Methods: We conducted this prospective cross-sectional study among 400 Yemeni pregnant women between 18 and 40 weeks of gestation provided that they were with known last menstrual period and singleton normal pregnancies. Sonographic TCDs were measured for each foetus. The mean TCD was measured for gestational weeks separately, and a polynomial regression model was then used to predict the GA by TCD. Results: There was a robust correlation between GA and TCD (r = 0.995, p
  13. Meryl Grace Lansing, Liew Sat Lin Constance, Chang Chee Keong, Pradip Subramaniam
    MyJurnal
    Introduction:Light’s criteria for pleural fluid analysis has long been the standard for distinguishing transudates from exudates. In pleural tuberculosis, the resulting pleural fluids are usually exudates. We present a case of presumed transudative effusion which was eventually diagnosed as pleural tuberculosis. Case description: A 59-year-old man with end-stage renal failure (ESRF) on regular haemodialysis presented with a one-day history of acute onset dys-pnoea associated with pleuritic chest pain and cough. Chest radiograph revealed bilateral pleural effusions and thoracentesis was done. The pleural fluid result was interpreted as transudative effusion according to Light’s criteria because his pleural fluid to serum protein ratio was less than 0.5. AFB 1+ was seen in the pleural fluid with negative gram stain and culture. This resulted in conflicting opinions on whether to start this patient on anti-tuberculous ther-apy (ATT) and there was even a suggestion to get a second opinion for the possibility of AFB fluid contamination. The initial diagnosis was written as fluid overload secondary to ESRF but ATT was started anyway to cover for pleural TB. On further analysis of his pleural fluid, the pleural protein 32 g/L which on its own is a marker of exudative effusion. Subsequent investigations revealed the presence of exudative ascitic fluid which further raised the suspicion for a concomitant peritoneal TB. Conclusion: Premature conclusion that the pleural fluid was transudative occurred prob-ably due to the bilateral nature of the pleural effusion associated with a known tendency for the patient to develop pulmonary overload secondary to his ESRF. This case is a reminder that Light’s criteria also requires serum and fluid LDH measurement for the diagnosis of transudative pleural effusion. More importantly, a high level of suspicion for TB is important when evaluating patients from areas where TB is prevalent and a positive AFB result should not be taken lightly.
  14. Rafidah Bahari, Muhammad Najib Mohd Alwi, Muhammad Radhi Ahmad
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly occur following exposure to traumatic events. Since its formal introduction into the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 3rd Edition (DSM-III) in 1980, it has seen a few changes to its criteria. Currently in DSM-5, major changes was made and tools such as the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) were developed to reflect those changes. Tools to screen and diagnose PTSD is invalu- able to properly manage the condition, but to date no measure, in keeping with the DSM-5, has been produced for the Malaysian population. The objective was to translate the PCL-5 into Malay and validate it for use in the Malaysian population. Methods: The PCL-5 was translated according to guidelines. A convenient sample of subject were re- cruited from those attending the Orthopaedic Ward and Outpatient Departments due to injuries from motor vehicle accidents (MVA). Subjects completed the Malay PCL-5 (MPCL-5) on the day of recruitment and were then inter- viewed using the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5). Two weeks later they were followed-up to again complete the MPCL-5. Results: 204 subjects participated in the study. The MPCL-5 was found to have good face, content and construct validity. It also demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha = .89) and inter-rater reliability (r = .81). Conclusion: The MPCL-5 is a valid and reliable measure for PTSD to be used in the Malaysian population.
  15. Nur Aliaa Anuar, Nik Hafidzah Nik Mustapha, Zainina Seman
    MyJurnal
    Blood safety is a major global issue. Transfusion transmitted parasitic infections (TTPI) like malaria are rare and possibly under-reported, a situation which could be attributed to lack of awareness of the mosquito-borne transmission of infection. Such infections are still considered potential health hazards, as they can pose a significant threat especially in immunocompromised patients, where they have proven to be fatal. Prevention of the transmission depends solely on the donor’s questionnaire which addresses previous or current infection with aetiologic agents. Donor deferral is effective however clear guidelines are needed. This case report features the transfusion-transmitted of Plasmodium Falciparum in a 15-year-old splenectomised patient with underlying beta thalassaemia major.
  16. Ahmad Khaldun Ismai, Suzaily Wahab, Rosdinom Razali, Mohammad Arif Kamarudin, Noorlaili Mohd Tohit, Rajen Durai, Ruth Packiavathy, et al.
    MyJurnal
    Simulated/ standardized patients (SPs) have become one of the significant components in today’s medical education and students’ assessment. Some differences exist in the training method of SPs for psychiatry examinations compared to other medical disciplines. This brief report highlights the challenges encountered in the training process and methods to overcome those challenges. A wellstructured, intensive training remains as one of the most important factors in ensuring standardization of SPs for psychiatric examinations.
  17. Nur Hazirah Hisamuddin, Juliana Jalaludin
    MyJurnal
    Exposure to traffic related air pollution (TRAP) is a public health concern particularly in children, who are one of the most susceptible groups of the population. Children are more vulnerable to such exposure by virtue of their increased susceptibility and the higher doses received. The materials for this review was obtained from several online databas- es; PubMed, Proquest, Scopus, Springerlink and Science Direct (year 1990 to 2018). In this review, we emphasized several relevant studies on respiratory health effects among children living in the proximity to heavy traffic area and focus on the factors, which contributed to the severity of the health outcomes. Short term TRAP exposure reduces lung function, increases respiratory symptoms and incidence of asthma and allergic diseases especially for those who living within 75 m from the heavy traffic area. Preventive measures must be taken in order to protect children from exposure to traffic air pollutants.
  18. Salihah Yusoff, Siti Aishah Hassan, Wan Norhayati Wan Othman
    MyJurnal
    Although the modern medicine has progressed for a long time, there are empirical studies shows the effectiveness of traditional and complementary treatments (TCT) in curing chronic diseases. In Malaysia, TCT is often related to the use of herbs and meditation that vary according to ethnicity. Each ethnic group has its own beliefs system in curing diseases. This study mainly aims to provide an overview on the perceptions of the effectiveness TCT in curing chronic diseases. The authors used electronic database to select 10 journal articles according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings show the highest statistic among Sabah natives and followed by Malay ethnic on believing in the effectiveness of TCT. Price and encouragement from family and friends are the main influencing factors of taking TCT. We suggest that counsellors need to be aware of the TCT practices on particular culture in order to increase respect and trust in the helping relationships.
  19. Putri Yubbu, Johan Aref Jamaluddin, Lydia Chang Mun Yin, Geetha Kandavello, Mazeni Alwi, Hasri Samion, et al.
    MyJurnal
    The present study aims to determine the limitations of traditional Jones criteria during the first episode of acute rheu- matic fever (ARF) at the initial referral hospital, in a cohort of patients below 18 years old who had undergone mitral valve repair in National Heart Institute (IJN) from 2011 to 2016. Carditis followed by fever and joint involvement were the most frequent manifestations at first diagnosis. Of the 50 patients, only seven (14%) fulfilled the traditional Jones criteria for the diagnosis of the first episode of ARF. When compulsory evidence of a previous group A Beta he- molytic streptococcus (GABHS) was disregarded, this figure rose to 54%. Therefore, strict adherence to Jones criteria with absolute documentation of GABHS will lead to underdiagnoses of ARF. The application of echocardiographic diagnostic criteria of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) needs to be emphasized to allow early diagnosis and adminis- tration of secondary prophylaxis to prevent progression to severe valvular disease.
  20. Wan Omar Abdullah
    MyJurnal
    Toxoplasmosis, caused by an intracellular protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, is widespread throughout the world. The disease is of major medical and veterinary importance, being a cause of congenital disease and abortion in humans and in domestic animals.[1] In addition, it has gained importance recently due to toxoplasma encephalitis in AIDS patients.[2] T. gondii was discovered 100 years ago. Its identification was rapidly followed by the recognition that it was a human pathogen. During the past 100 years, the spectrum of diseases caused by this ubiquitous pathogen has expanded to include both congenital and acute infections as well as the recognition of diseases caused by this pathogen in the immune-compromised host. Recent data on behavioural changes in animals due to chronic toxoplasmosis is leading to research on the effect of this pathogen on the behaviour of humans.[3] Experimental studies on T. gondii have resulted in it becoming a model organism for studies on host pathogen interactions. Integration of clinical and experimental data on T. gondii should continue to lead to important insights into improvements in diagnosis for clinical management and vaccine development for control of toxoplasmosis.
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