Introduction: Medicinal plant use among indigenous people in Malaysia is commonly influenced by cultural beliefs, accessibility to traditional plants, and modern medicine availability. This study explores the usage, knowledge, and perceptions of medicinal plants among the Bateq people in Taman Negara National Park, Pahang. Materials and methods: A qualitative study conducted in June 2022 interviewed 12 adult Orang Asli from the Bateq tribe in Kuala Sat, Taman Negara. The qualitative study using face-to-face semi-structured interviews was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Universiti Teknologi MARA and explored medicinal plant knowledge and usage among the participants. Thematic content analysis was employed for data analysis. Results: All participants, aged 18-60, utilized medicinal plants for various health purposes, including chronic diseases and general health maintenance. Older individuals possessed more traditional knowledge, acquired from their elders. Accessibility to medicinal plants in the local environment was emphasized. Despite diverse applications, challenges in obtaining plants in remote areas and the convenience of modern medicine contributed to a decline in traditional plant use. Perceptions varied, with some favoring traditional plants, while others expressed skepticism. Conclusion: This study offers insights into medicinal plant use, knowledge, and perceptions among the Bateq community in Taman Negara National Park, Pahang. It emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, understanding diverse perceptions, and promoting collaboration between traditional and modern healthcare systems. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of healthcare practices among indigenous communities in Malaysia

Introduction: Assessing radiation exposure is a vital step in determining the potential health risks associated with radiation and identifying the necessity for protective measures. The study assesses the occupational radiation dose encountered by undergraduate students specializing in diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy (DIR) during their clinical training in the radiology department. Materials and methods: An analysis was conducted to compare individual exposure doses with the dose limits established by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), concurrently assessing the variations in mean effective doses among distinct student cohorts. Optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLD) were employed to monitor 143 students across five cohorts from 2017 to 2022. The electronic Secondary Standard Dosimetry Laboratory (e-SSDL) information security management system tracked the deep (Hp(10)) and shallow (Hp(0.07)) dose equivalents of DIR students. Results: The mean values for accumulated Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) were found to be 0.51 and 0.50 mSv, respectively, averaged over 800 hours of clinical training. The highest recorded exposure was 1.30 mSv, signifying that the radiation exposure experienced by DIR students was well below the threshold. The mean annual effective radiation dose per student amounted to 0.17 mSv. Small but significant difference (p < 0.001) in the radiation exposure between five cohorts was observed with increments over a 5-year period. Conclusion: The students' radiation dose was notably below the ICRP dose limit of 6 mSv/ year designated for trainees. These results indicate the efficacy of the existing radiation protection measures during clinical training, reducing the likelihood of overexposure

Introduction: Early identification of patients at risk for severe multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is essential for favourable clinical outcomes. This study aims to identify the clinical characteristics, factors and outcomes associated with severe MIS-C. Materials and methods: In this retrospective cohort study involving 14 major hospitals in Malaysia, children <15 years who met the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention case definition for MIS-C were included. Severe MIS-C was defined as children who required inotropic support, ventilatory support (invasive or non-invasive ventilation), or left ventricular ejection fraction of <55%. The factors investigated for severe MIS-C were demographic characteristics, the presence of comorbidities, clinical characteristics, and laboratory measures. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compute the adjusted odds ratio (aORs) of factors associated with severe MIS-C. Results: Among the 155 patients, 91 (58.7%) presented with severe MIS-C. Severe MIS-C was more likely in patients aged ≥5 years old (aOR 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-4.21), with dehydration (aOR 3.80, 95% CI 1.53-9.45), lethargy (aOR 2.02, 95% CI 0.97-4.18), tachycardia (aOR 8.33, 95% CI 3.27-21.22), albumin <30g/L (aOR 3.36, 95% CI 1.58-7.13), creatine kinase >200U/L (aOR 3.68, 95% CI 1.57-8.64), D-dimer >3.0µg/mL (aOR 2.11, 95% CI 1.08-4.13), ferritin >500ng/mL (aOR 3.77, 95% CI 1.88-7.55), prothrombin time >12.7 seconds (aOR 3.22, 95% CI 1.61-6.43), and urea >6mmol/L (aOR 5.09, 95% CI 2.04-12.71). Conclusion: Identification of these associated factors of severity in MIS-C could aid in early recognition and prompt escalation of care, leading to better outcomes.

Introduction: Throughout the school day, teachers often endure extended periods of standing, resulting in frequent experiences of pain and muscle fatigue by day's end. The purpose of this study was to identify the effectiveness of a prototype of vibrating insole on muscular activity on teachers. Materials and methods: A total of 124 female school teachers participated in this study. During a one-hour classroom teaching session, school teachers were randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the control group. Throughout the hour-long session, wireless surface electromyography (sEMG) sensors were used to continually monitor the muscles in the right and left legs. Results: During the one-hour prototype testing, compared to control group, participants in the experimental group showed a reduction in muscle activity exertion ranging from 13% to 16% in both the tibialis anterior and peroneus longus muscles of the right and left legs. Moreover, there were significant changes of muscle activity exertion among school teachers, X2 (15) = 289.94, p<0.001 within testing period. Conclusion: The study revealed a significant decrease in muscle activities, especially the feet, demonstrating a gradual adaptation to the vibration effects from the insole prototype. This contributed significantly to lower leg comfort during teaching sessions. As a result, the vibrating insole prototype was well-received by school teachers and had a positive impact on their feet comfort throughout the experimental testing session.

Introduction: Emergency contraception (EC) is an important method for preventing unintended pregnancies. By being knowledgeable and readily available to dispense this medication, pharmacists play a crucial role in preventing unintended pregnancies, which can have significant social, economic, and health repercussions. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perception of EC among undergraduate pharmacy students in Malaysia, examining the socio-demographic factors associated with these dependent variables. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 355 pharmacy students from 20 institutions offering a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons.) program. The data was collected from April to June 2022. The questionnaire was formatted as a web-based questionnaire consisting of 33 questions divided into three sections. Independent t-test and one-way ANOVA was used to compare the means in student’s knowledge and perception. Chi-square test was used to identify the association between the demographic variables and the knowledge and perception. Results: Three hundred and fifty-five students participated in the survey. Participants' mean (SD) knowledge score was 5.31(2.94) of 10 items. Factors affecting the mean knowledge of participants include academic year (P<0.001), institution type (P<0.001), race (P<0.001), religion (P<0.001), residence area (P=0.013), and prior knowledge of EC (P<0.001). The mean (SD) score of perception was 36.8 (4.9) from 50. Most of the students had an average perception of EC. Conclusion: The findings indicate that the majority of students held average perceptions but lacked sufficient knowledge about EC, highlighting the need to address these knowledge gaps for the development of an effective educational program.

Introduction: Perinatal depression and anxiety are prevalent, but professional mental health help-seeking remains low, resulting in a lack of utilization of mental health services. We aimed to determine the prevalence of positive mental health help-seeking behaviour (MHHSB) among pregnant women and its associated factors. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at an urban public maternal and child health clinic (MCHC) in Selangor, Klang Valley between August and November 2022. 296 pregnant women were recruited. The Malay version of Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Self-Stigma of Seeking Psychological Help (SSOSH), Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) and MHHSB questionnaires were used for data collection. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors. Results: The mean age was 30.06 (±5.14) years and more than two-third (61%, n=181) were multiparous. More than half (57.4%, n=170) were in their second trimester, while 15.9% (n=47) and 21.3% (n=63) had probable depression and anxiety, respectively. The prevalence of positive MHHSB was 73.6% (95% CI: 0.68, 0.78), yet the prevalence of probable getting professional assistance was 22.6% (95% CI: 0.18, 0.28). Two factors were associated with positive MHHSB. These were probable anxiety [odds ratio (OR)3.86, 95% CI: 1.80, 9.15] and MHLS [OR 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.08]. Conclusion: Positive MHHSB was prevalent among pregnant women, yet the possibility of seeking professional assistance is low. Having anxiety was likely to influence MHHSB, hence efforts to improve mental health literacy and training staff to recognize symptoms and cultivating supportive environment for pregnant women will ensure timely interventions.

Introduction: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving emergency that must be addressed immediately in cases of cardiac arrest to increase survival rates. Bystander CPR is critical for maximising the chances of survival before qualified medical personnel arrive. This study aims to identify the community's knowledge, perception, and attitude towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia. Materials and methods: : A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted among the population of Ipoh, Perak. This study included a non-medical background group of people aged 18 and above. Data were reported in frequency and percentage for descriptive analysis, and the inferential statistic was analysed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: A total of 380 people completed the survey. Most responders, 54.7% (n=208), have inadequate knowledge of CPR. Even though 63.4% of respondents were not confident in performing CPR, 88.7% consented to participate in CPR training. Most respondents (n=261, 69%) had no formal Basic life support (BLS) training, and 79.7% (n=208) needed help knowing where to get training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Worrying about being sued (n=333, 87.6%) and injuring the sufferer (n=313, 82.4%) are also barriers to commencing CPR. The majority of respondents (n=307, 208.8%) are willing to conduct CPR on members of their immediate relatives. With a P value of 0.05, only knowledge of CPR was related to demographic data (age). Conclusion: In this study, the population of Ipoh, Perak demonstrated insufficient awareness and a reasonable opinion and attitude towards CPR practice. Therefore, increasing BLS training should be considered in all organisations.

Introduction: A bone graft is a bone replacement material that is widely used in grafting damaged bone. The bone graft material being developed is a combination of hydroxyapatite (HAp) gypsum puger and cassava starch scaffold. Bone graft material must have the characteristics of the material according to standards, osteogenesis and not cause an immunogenic response. This study aimed to analyze characteristics and responses immunogenic from a combination HAp gypsum puger scaffold cassava starch as a bone graft material. Materials and methods: Scaffold HAp gypsum puger and Cassava starch were tested using XRD, compressive test, and immunogenic assay. Application of scaffolds to rats for 7 and 14 days. Blood samples were taken and tested for IgG levels using Elisa. Results: XRD test results, obtained high peaks in HAp gypsum puger scaffold and cassava starch. compressive strength test of HAp gypsum puger scaffold and cassava starch (50:50) of 2.07 MPa. The results of Ig G on day 14 on HAp scaffolding gypsum puger and cassava starch did not cause immunogenic reactions. Conclusion: In the XRD test, high peaks are produced indicating the purity of HAp. In the compressive strength test of the HAp gypsum scaffold group Cassava starch Puger 50:50 obtained 2.07 MPa.. immunogenic test analysis of scaffold HAp gypsum puger cassava starch in rats on day 14 did not cause immunogenic reactions.

Introduction: Numerous novel systemic treatments have emerged for patients with primary metastatic prostate cancer (mPC), addressing both hormone-sensitive (mHSPC) and castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). However, limited understanding exists in integrating these therapies into clinical practice. This study provides an overview of mPC, presenting baseline disease characteristics, treatment profiles, and outcomes of mPC specifically in Sarawak. Materials and methods: Our study focused on registered male patients diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer at Sarawak General Hospital between 2016 and 2023, aged over 18. Surveys were carried out during routine clinical practice, covering patient demographics, clinical parameters, primary treatments, follow-up, and outcomes. The study described treatment patterns following diagnosis. Results: Demographic and tumor profiles of 212 patients with metastatic prostate cancer in Sarawak General Hospital from 2016- 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with mPC was notably prevalent among individuals of Chinese ethnicity, accounting for 43.4% of cases, with over 50% of patients presenting with high-volume disease irrespective of ethnicity. The primary treatment modality for the majority of mPC patients was androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone. Among the cohort, 19.3% (n=41) experienced disease progression to metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) since 2016. Novel hormonal therapy (NHT) emerged as the predominant first-line treatment for mCRPC, administered to 53.7% of patients. Conclusion: The majority of prostate cancer patients in Sarawak are diagnosed in the metastatic stage and were of high volume at diagnosis. Aggressive treatment was initiated early in an attempt to improve treatment outcomes and overall survival.

Introduction: A nonconducive and at-risk work environment provides an opportunity for the occurrence of significant Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs), affecting the physical, psychological, and social aspects of workers' health. This study aims to analyze differences in individual characteristics, such as gender, age, work experience, work duration, and marital status. Materials and methods: This study was a quantitative observational study with a population of laundry workers in Tomohon and Tondano, Minahasa, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. A sample of 225 people was selected using an incidental sampling technique with inclusion criteria aged 19-60 years. The instrument used the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) to measure musculoskeletal disorders, with statistical analysis involving Spearman rank and Mann-Whitney tests. Results: There is a significant positive relationship between age and the risk of WMSDs with a correlation coefficient (R = 0.226, p = 0.001) for age, with male and married workers exhibiting higher susceptibility (R = 0.242, p = 0.000; R = 0.257, p = 0.000, respectively). Surprisingly, work experience demonstrated a negative association, indicating increased vulnerability in new workers (<2 years) compared to seasoned counterparts (R = -0.317, p = 0.000). Mann-Whitney analysis confirmed significant disparities between genders, work experience durations, and marital statuses. However, age and work duration showed no significant differences between those experiencing WMSDs and those who did not (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings found that age, gender, and marital status were significantly associated with the risk of WMSDs, with findings that older, male, and married workers were at higher risk. In contrast, work experience showed a negative association with WMSDs, suggesting that new workers are more vulnerable. Although BMI, education level, and work duration were not significant. Limitations: Some variables that may affect musculoskeletal complaints, such as personal medical history, physical activity outside work, and psychosocial factors, were not controlled or measured in this study. This may affect the interpretation of the study results