Borneo Journal of Medical Sciences (BJMS)

Designing a PCR-Based Genotyping Technique for the LEP A19G Polymorphism: Method Development and Optimization

2024-10-18T13:59:56+08:00

The LEP gene is a protein-encoding gene for the satiety hormone called leptin, which stimulates appetite, impeding food intake and anorexigenic peptide upregulation. This research aims to develop a genotyping method to detect the LEP gene variant A19G, known for its association with appetite and eating preference. Convenience random sampling was performed by disseminating the subject's recruitment on social media among the students of Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA. A total of 51 undergraduates (mean age, 23.20 (Standard Deviation, SD 1.56) years old; 41 females, 10 males) from the faculty were recruited. Questionnaires have been provided to assess the subjects' meal preferences and food intake frequency. A19G genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequent agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE). The analysis confirmed the successful development of the A19G genotyping method. The variant allele frequency (VAF) for A19G was 0.13. This approach provides a reliable genotyping tool for LEP A19G in future investigations despite data suggesting that A19G may not be a marker for appetite differences in this subject group. Further research with a larger, more diverse population is warranted to confirm these results and explore the influence of other LEP gene variants on appetite and eating preferences.

Factors Influencing Occupational Health Practices and Hypertension Among Security Personnel in a Public University

2025-02-16T21:09:01+08:00

Introduction: The noncommunicable disease has emerged as a major epidemic for decades and hypertension has been reported as a disease that has a high association with the occupational factors of security personnel. The duty routines of security personnel such as doing patrols, post-guards and the need to stay alert have made them vulnerable to occupational health and safety hazards. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the factors influencing occupational health practices and hypertension among security personnel in a public university in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the security personnel of a public university in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, using a convenient sampling technique. Questionnaires adapted from NHMS 2019 have been distributed among the security personnel of the selected public university. Data analysis was conducted by using the SPSS version 28. Descriptive analysis and cross-tabulations were conducted. Pearson Chi-square/Fisher exact test was used to find the association. Statistical significance was considered at p<.05. Results: Of the total respondents, 77.7% were male and 22.3% of them were female. The mean age of the respondents was 35.5 years with a standard deviation of 8.5. The proportion of annual cardiovascular screenings was 68%, and type of residence (p=.013) and previous employment factors (p=.013) were found to be statistically significant. Alternately, the proportion of recent cancer screenings was 16.5%, and gender (p=<.001), marital status (p=.004) and year of services (p=.034) were found to be statistically significant. The prevalence of hypertension was 21.4%, and age (p=.001) and year of services (p=.010), were found to be statistically significant. Conclusion: Early detection of underlying disease will contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Subsequently, annual health screening activities are essential in guaranteeing the quality of health and a life sustenance fundamental practice among security personnel.

Educational Experiences and Career Aspirations of Final-Year Nursing Students at International Islamic University Malaysia

2025-02-17T21:02:23+08:00

Recognizing the career aspirations of nursing students is essential for designing educational programs that develop skilled healthcare practitioners. Personal choices in career fields, development opportunities, and education all influence these aspirations. This study explores final-year nursing students’ educational experiences and career aspirations at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). A qualitative descriptive approach was employed to conduct personal interviews with purposefully selected participants from the Kulliyyah of Nursing. The findings reveal that while students are keen to specialise in paediatrics and critical care, they encounter challenges such as academic pressure and a lack of clinical practice hours. Mentorship and clinical placements play a vital role in shaping their professional aspirations. Participants stressed the necessity for enhanced clinical practice and academic support to better equip them for their future roles. These findings underscore the importance of aligning nursing education with students’ career goals and addressing their challenges to improve their readiness for specialised healthcare positions. This study enhances the literature on nursing education by emphasising the importance of robust mentorship programmes that support students in their academic and professional growth. By focusing on these elements, nursing curricula can be refined to facilitate specialisation, thereby advancing the field of nursing education.

Prevalence of Dental Anomalies in Cleft Lip and Palate Patients Referred for Orthodontic Treatment

2024-10-14T09:54:54+08:00

This cross-sectional study of the cleft lip and palate (CLP) patients referred for orthodontic treatment from year 2010 to 2021, reviewed the dental records retrospectively. The demographic data, the pattern of CLP, and the dental anomalies were recorded. All variables were analysed descriptively. The differences between the gender with respect of the dental anomalies were tested using Fisher’s exact test. The mean age of the patients at the time of referral was 12.12 ± 0.48 years. There were 84 (98.82%) patients presented with at least one dental anomaly. More than one-third of the patients presented with more than a type of dental anomaly (n=39, 45.88%). The most common dental anomalies were hypodontia (n=58, 68.24%), peg-shaped lateral incisor (n=29, 34.12%), impacted tooth (n=27, 31.76%), supernumerary (n=10, 11.76%), and transposition (n=8, 9.41%). The prevalence of hypodontia was higher in females. The prevalence of impacted tooth, supernumerary, and transposition were higher in males. The prevalence of peg-shaped lateral incisor was about the same in males and females. In conclusion, almost all of the CLP patients referred for orthodontic treatment had at least one dental anomaly, with the prevalence of 98.82%. Multiple dental anomalies affected more than one-third of the patients. Hypodontia was the most common dental anomaly. Other dental anomalies were peg-shaped lateral incisor, impacted tooth, supernumerary, and transposition.

Prospective, Non-randomized Study of Clinical Outcome in Patients With Primary Versus Delayed Ureteroscopy for Proximal Ureteric Stone (PRIDE Study)

2025-05-01T11:10:52+08:00

Introduction: Conventionally, proximal ureteric stone is managed with stenting followed by a definitive delayed treatment. This approach requires multiple hospital visits. Primary ureteroscopy has been employed to expedite the treatment as a single-stage procedure. Methodology: This prospective, non-randomized, cohort study assessed the efficacy and safety of primary (P-URS) versus delayed ureteroscopy (D-URS) in the management of proximal ureteric stone. A total of 176 consecutive patients with unilateral proximal ureteric stone >3mm were included in the final data analysis (95 P-URS and 81 D-URS). The decision to proceed with P-URS or D-URS was based on initial presentation and surgeon’s expertise. Stone free was defined as no visible residual fragments on the kidney, ureter and bladder (KUB) radiograph which was performed 6 weeks post-operatively. Primary outcome was stone free rate. Secondary outcomes include operative duration, length of hospital stay and rate of complications. Results: D-URS had a higher stone free rate (96.3%) compared to P-URS (74.7%) but overall operative duration, length of stay and rate of complications were comparable between these 2 groups. All complications from D-URS were UTI-related (8.6%) Conclusion: P-URS for proximal ureteric stone is a safe and feasible option accepting the lower stone free rate compared to D-URS.

Exploring the Bacteriophage in Malaysia: An Overview of Applications and Challenges

2025-03-03T21:49:34+08:00

Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide concern as more drugs are losing efficacy and fewer candidates are being developed in the pipeline. As a result, there is growing attention towards alternative applications of microbial control, and bacteriophages have come to the forefront of research. However, there is limited data and experimental studies in Malaysia. The well-documented use of these viruses to overcome the problem of antimicrobial resistance and multi-drug resistance is still scarce in the country and warrants exploration. Here, we discuss the potential of bacteriophage applications in healthcare, animal husbandry, aquaculture and agriculture in Malaysia. The challenges faced in doing so and reception among the country’s researchers, clinicians and healthcare authorities are also discussed. Although the use of bacteriophages in this capacity is just beginning to unfold, it is hoped that there will be a shift in perception towards a positive reception, especially with the looming threat of antibiotic resistance.

Overview of Exercise Addiction - Early Detection for Early Intervention

2025-05-01T11:37:32+08:00

Exercise has been proven to have many significant positive physical, mental and social effects. It makes our body healthier, reduces stress levels and improves relationships with others. However, not much is known about the negative effects of exercise as the benefits of exercise are more visible. In excess, some people who could develop one of the substantial negative effects of exercise called exercise addiction. The complications of exercise addiction can be seen in the form of injuries, stress, anxiety and social relationship problems. Early detection of a person with high risk of exercise addiction can prevent its complications by instituting an early intervention. This review aims to examine the available literature on exercise addiction as well as to elicit available psychometric tools that can be used to detect exercise addiction.

Vehicles for antibiotic formulation in endodontic treatment: A narrative review

2024-11-13T13:15:51+08:00

Triple antibiotic paste (TAP) has been widely utilized in endodontic therapy to treat bacterial infections within the root canal system. The efficacy and biocompatibility of TAP largely depend on the choice of vehicle used for its preparation. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the various vehicles employed in TAP formulations and their impact on clinical outcomes, effective dissolution, uniform distribution within the paste, and long-term stability. Propylene glycol, macrogol (polyethylene glycol), chlorhexidine, and antibiotic-eluting fibers are among the used vehicles for TAP preparation. Each vehicle possesses unique properties affecting the paste's antimicrobial activity, physical characteristics, and biocompatibility. The choice of vehicle in TAP formulations should be guided by considerations such as antimicrobial spectrum requirements, paste consistency preferences, and patient-specific factors. Optimal treatment outcomes with minimal side effects can be achieved when clinicians carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of each vehicle.

Further research exploring the comparative efficacy and safety profiles of different TAP vehicles is warranted to refine clinical guidelines and enhance treatment protocols in endodontic therapy.

From paralytic ileus to Guillain-Barre Syndrome: A diagnostic puzzle

2024-10-14T09:37:37+08:00

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare, acute neuro-immunological disorder that affects the peripheral nerves, characterised by rapid, ascending symmetrical limb weakness and sensory deficits. Autonomic dysfunction is reported in 40-45% of GBS cases, typically manifesting in the later stages. However, it is uncommon for paralytic ileus to be the initial presenting symptom before motor and sensory deficits become apparent. We report a case of GBS in a young man who had paralytic ileus as his primary presenting complaint. The patient was managed supportively, but showed minimal improvement. A subsequent neurological assessment revealed proximal myopathy of 4 limbs with generalised areflexia. Nerve conduction study showed electrophysiological evidence of diffuse sensory motor axonal neuropathy affecting the lower limb more than the upper limb. He underwent plasma exchange therapy, in his fourth week of illness. With plasma exchange, his abdominal symptoms resolved, but neurological recovery remained partial. The delayed diagnosis likely affected his outcome, highlighting the importance of early GBS recognition for timely treatment to achieve better recovery.

Metastatic Breast Carcinoma Masquerading as Eyelid Swelling: A Case Report

2024-11-02T20:06:20+08:00

Eye metastases are rare, with breast carcinoma being the most prevalent primary tumour among all metastatic tumours to the eye. Eyelid metastases have been very rarely reported. This case report details the presentation of a 51-year-old Malay woman with underlying Diabetes Mellitus, who presented with persistent left lower eyelid swelling for two months, initially resembling a small pimple, progressively increased in size, accompanied by erythema. Previous consultations with a private ophthalmologist were treated as preseptal cellulitis. Notably, the patient had a one-year history of progressive swelling of the right breast, however, didn't seek medical attention previously. Examination of the left eye revealed a lower lid mass, moderate to firm in nature, erythematous nasally. Systemic examination revealed a right breast lump, firm to hard consistency, adhered to the underlying chest wall and overlying skin, peau d’ orange skin changes, with nipple retracted. CECT orbit demonstrated features suggestive of eyelid malignancy. An incisional biopsy was done, and HPE results revealed metastatic carcinoma, likely of breast origin, subsequently planned for chemotherapy. Patients presenting with eyelid swelling should be evaluated for possible metastases, a detailed systemic examination is necessary for establishing the diagnosis. Initiating early treatment enhances patient outcomes and quality of life.