1.A Systematic Literature Review on ICU Nurses’ Experience and Family Interactions during Death and Dying from an Islamic Perspective
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2026;25(No. 2):9-19
The growing complexity of death and dying in Intensive Care Units highlights nurses'
critical role, particularly concerning family interactions and spiritual needs from an
Islamic perspective. However, there is a gap in understanding the nuances of these
interactions, how nurses can best facilitate them, and how potential conflicts arising
from differing interpretations of religious beliefs may impact care; this area remains
underexplored. This systematic literature review aims to synthesize existing studies
on ICU nurses' experiences with critically ill patients during death and dying, focusing
on Islamic perspectives or spiritual care, employing a qualitative synthesis approach.
The Scopus database was used to retrieve relevant documents published between
2005 and 2024. The review followed PRISMA guidelines for identification, screening,
exclusion, and inclusion. Qualitative, quantitative, mixed-method studies, and review
articles were included, with only qualitative papers appraised using the Joanna Briggs
Institute’s criteria. Initially, 378 records were identified. After removing unavailable
files and screening, 113 titles and abstracts were assessed. Of 84 reports reviewed for
eligibility, 68 were excluded, leaving 14 studies that met the inclusion criteria for the
final review. This review emphasizes the crucial need for better training, policies, and
institutional support for ICU nurses. Such measures would enable them to manage the
complexities of culturally sensitive care for family members during loved ones' death
and dying. Implementing standardized guidelines addressing Islamic perspectives can
significantly improve care quality and patient-family satisfaction.
2.A Bibliometric Analysis of Chatbot or ChatGPT in Nursing Fields from 2022 to 2024
Ab Razak NI ; Muhammad Yusoff MF ; Nasharuddin NA ; Soh KL ; O.K. Rahmat O.K. Rahmat RW
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2026;25(No. 2):20-30
Nursing education has undergone a significant transformation as a result of artificial
intelligence (AI). Chatbots, specifically ChatGPT, have emerged as vital AI
technologies within the nursing domain as it is a computer program designed to
simulate human conversation through text or voice interactions. This study aims to
conduct a bibliometric analysis to gain insights into the publication trends, citation
impact, and thematic evolution in nursing education and practice concerning ChatGPT
and chatbots. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was performed using
VOSViewer, concentrating on citation networks for data analysis and visualisation. A
review of LENS.org identified 344 relevant research publications regarding chatbots
and ChatGPT within the nursing discipline, all of which were utilised in the study. The
study examined various aspects, including types of publications, prominent authors,
leading journals, participating nations, institutions, and the impact of ChatGPT on
nursing practice. The primary objectives included categorising the papers, identifying
the most influential authors, delineating the prominent areas and institutions in the
field, and examining the impact of ChatGPT on nursing education and practice. The
findings indicate that ChatGPT positively impacts nursing education by enhancing
learning experiences, improving communication, and aiding clinical decision-making.
The findings indicate that journal articles accounted for 76% of publications, with the
U.S. leading in research output. The findings indicate that ChatGPT positively impacts
nursing education by enhancing learning experiences, improving communication, and
aiding clinical decision-making. Future research should focus on establishing
frameworks for integrating ChatGPT into nursing education, addressing ethical
implications, and assessing the long-term impacts on patient care.
3.Recent Updates on the Mechanism of Action of Spirulina as an Anticancer Agent Against Breast Cancer
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2026;25(No. 2):31-37
Spirulina, a small blue-green algae that lives in warm, alkaline seas, is one of the world's
oldest life forms. With century-old history, this nutrient-rich organism has received a
lot of interest in recent years for its possible health benefits and sustainable production
practices. Studies have indicated its antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory
qualities are contributed by its bioactive compounds, mainly phycocyanin. Other
compounds or elements include phycocyanobilin, carotenoids, unsaturated fatty acids,
selenium, and amino acids. Breast cancer is one of the major causes of cancer related
death in women. As some of the cancer therapies are highly associated with side
effects, nutraceuticals such as Spirulina could be an alternative therapeutic intervention.
Although some research has been conducted to investigate the anti-breast cancer
effects of Spirulina in the past, its mechanism of action is not entirely understood.
Previous studies suggest that it may trigger apoptosis and autophagy via modifying
signalling pathways such as NF-κB and Bcl-2/Bax ratio. It also has anti-proliferative
properties, inhibits cell migration, causes cell cycle arrest, and lowers cancer cells'
capacity to form colonies. Phycocyanin has been shown to produce reactive oxygen
species (ROS) and down-regulate anti-apoptotic molecules, which contribute to its
anticancer capabilities. These findings show that Spirulina fights cancer by targeting a
variety of cellular mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. While these data imply
potential benefits, more clinical trials and research into the exact mechanisms of
Spirulina in cancer treatments are needed to fully demonstrate its efficacy in treating
breast cancer in humans.
4.Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction and Its Associated Factors among Non-Diabetic Overweight & Obese Patients Attending Government Health Clinics in Kuantan, Pahang
Che&rsquo ; Man M ; Mohd Zainal AZAR ; Yusof MZ
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2026;25(No. 2):38-46
INTRODUCTION: In the clinical setting, erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant issue
that should not be neglected, as it can adversely impact the quality of life of patients
and their partners, especially among overweight and obese populations. This study
aims to determine the prevalence of ED and its associated factors among non-diabetic,
overweight, and obese patients who attend a government health clinic in Kuantan,
Pahang, Malaysia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A six-month cross-sectional study
was conducted from February 2024 to August 2024 at twelve health clinics in
Kuantan, Pahang. The selected respondents were married men over 18 years old, and
those with diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, psychiatric illness, or illiteracy were
excluded. Data were collected using the validated Malay version of the International
Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). ED was defined as an IIEF-5 score of less than
22. Descriptive analysis and simple and multiple logistic regression were performed
using SPSS. RESULTS: All 221 eligible patients in the study responded (100% response
rate). The prevalence of ED was 66.1% (n=146). Multiple logistic regression
showed that ED was significantly associated with dyslipidemia [AOR (95% CI): 2.42
(1.06–5.52); p-value=0.036], anxiety [AOR (95% CI): 3.99 (1.44–11.01);
p-value=0.008] and older age [AOR (95% CI): 1.07 (1.02–1.12); p-value=0.009].
CONCLUSION: The study revealed a high prevalence of ED among non-diabetic
overweight and obese patients, potentially linked to increasing age, dyslipidemia, and
anxiety. Increasing awareness among the public and healthcare providers could
improve detection rates in primary care.
5.Factors Affecting Triple Elimination Testing Participation by the Pregnant Women During Their First Visit (K1) at Harapan Baru Health Center, East Kalimantan
Tuti Meihartat ; Prita Maharani ; Sumiat ; Aries Abiyoga ; Leny Suzana Suddin
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2026;25(No. 2):47-54
INTRODUCTION: Mother-to-child-transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis
B is a significant public health issue in Indonesia. Triple elimination screening,
which tests these three infections, is a crucial strategy for early detection and
prevention, ideally conducted during the first antenatal visit (K1). However,
the coverage of this screening remains suboptimal in several regions, including
the Harapan Baru Health Center. This study aimed to test factors affecting
participation in the triple elimination screening during the first antenatal visit
among pregnant women in the service area of the Harapan Baru Health
Center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted
involving 50 pregnant women who attended their K1 visit in June 2025.
Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data were gathered
through structured questionnaires and maternal and child health (MCH)
books and analysed using the Pearson chi-square test. RESULTS: Respondents’
knowledge (OR=5.4, p=0.023) and health worker support (OR=10.7,
p=0.002;) were significantly associated with screening participation. However,
the education level was not significantly associated. CONCLUSION: Good
knowledge level and positive support from health workers could increase the
likelihood of pregnant women undergoing triple elimination screening during
their first antenatal visit.
6.Development of Components for A Glaucoma Screening Programme in Malaysia: A Qualitative Study
Hui WX WX ; Sharanjeet-Kaur S ; Hairol M M ; Abd Rahman MH ; Nasaruddin RA ; Md Isa Z ; Ismail R ; Che Hamzah J
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2026;25(No. 2):55-63
INTRODUCTION: Glaucoma is a leading cause of permanent blindness, often going
undetected in its early, asymptomatic stages, especially in older age groups. In
Malaysia, glaucoma is a growing public health issue due to an increase in the ageing
population. While screening is essential for early glaucoma detection, the most
suitable strategy for Malaysia's healthcare system remains unclear. This study
explored the perspectives of eye healthcare professionals on the most suitable
glaucoma screening strategies for Malaysia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This
qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with 19 eye health professionals
(ophthalmologists, optometrists, nurses, ophthalmic technicians, and assistant
medical officers) practicing in the Klang Valley. The interviews were conducted
face-to-face in their workplace or via a video conferencing platform. All interviews
were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Six
major themes were identified: types of glaucoma screening programmes, accessible
screening locations, target screening population, instruments and use of digital
technology, trained personnel, and referral criteria. Opportunistic case finding and
population-based programmes were identified as the glaucoma screening
programmes in which trained personnel conducted screening at accessible
locations. Glaucoma screening for high-risk individuals was recommended,
focusing on visual acuity testing, tonometry, anterior chamber angle assessment,
funduscopy, perimetry, and retinal nerve fibre assessment. A lack of clear referral
criteria due to low awareness and poor implementation of existing guidelines was
observed. CONCLUSION: Further investigations are required to identify the best
combination of components for glaucoma screening. This will enable policymakers
to develop an effective glaucoma screening programme in Malaysia.
7.Application of Three Dimensional Geometric Morphometric Analysis for Sexual Dimorphism of Human Skull: A Systematic Review
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2019;18(1):131-144
The present systematic review explores the most sexually dimorphic parameters by using geometric
morphometric analysis of human skull. An extended search was conducted in Google Scholars and PubMed
(published between 2005 and 2017). The main inclusion criteria were research articles published in English,
and studies that used geometric morphometric analysis for classification of human skull. The literature
search identified 54 potential relevant articles whereby, five had met the inclusion criteria. Most studies
reported positive contribution of geometric morphometric as an alternative and accurate tool for
classification of unknown human crania. Geometric morphometric method resulted in a high classification
accuracy of sexual dimorphism among different populations. Further studies are required to approach the
best method used for varied types of postcranial bones equipped with a more advanced meta-analysis of the
results.
8.Comparison of Heart Rate Variability among Young Malay Male Adult with Different BMI and Level of Adiposity
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2019;18(1):73-80
INTRODUCTION: Subclinical changes that occur in the heart at an early age may provide valuable
information to outline prevention strategies for cardiovascular diseases. Heart rate variability (HRV) reflects
regulation of autonomic balance, heart, and vascular tone, which are the determinants of blood pressure.
Therefore, this study aimed to determine the difference in heart rate variability (HRV) of Malay male young
adult with their BMI and adiposity level.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 201 Malay male young adult
aged between 19 to 24 years old were screened and their BMI and adiposity level were measured. Three non
-invasive tests; Valsalva Manoeuvre, orthostatic response and 30/15 ratio of heart rate were performed.
Short term HRV time and frequency domains were recorded.
RESULTS: Despite few significant differences in
HRV parameters of overweight/obese subjects, the result is inconclusive to conclude any reduced
variability. However, those with high adiposity regardless of their BMI reported significantly lower mean of R
-R SD in time domain and lower mean of LF/HF ratio in frequency domain. The orthostatic reflex results
revealed that high adiposity subjects had significantly lower mean of LF and HF. A decrement of -0.28 ms2
HF/LF during Valsalva manoeuvre, -0.35 LF ms2
in orthostatic reflex and 0.33 ms2
in orthostatic reflex per
1% of body fat percentage were observed.
CONCLUSION: HRV parameters were inversely proportional to the
adiposity level which was suggestive of modulation of sympathetic function can occur at an early age.
9.Derivation of A New Bioscore for Predicting Mortality in Sepsis
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2019;18(1):81-88
Introduction: Currently, there is a lack of clinically feasible and reliable method for discriminating
outcome in sepsis. We aimed to derive a new bioscore for predicting mortality in critically ill patients with
sepsis using a combination of biomarkers and clinical indexes. Materials and Methods: This was a secondary
analysis from a prospective study involving 159 patients with sepsis admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU).
Data for key variables considered for possible inclusion in the score were collected, which included: age,
sex, source of admission, comorbidities, microorganism, bacteraemia, site of infection, septic shock status,
baseline Simplified Acute Physiological Score II, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (total and
organ sub-scores), C-reactive protein, procalcitonin and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Approximate quintiles of each
variable were given points as per the strength of their association with 30-day mortality. Results: In
accordance with the statistical significance in the logistic regression analysis, the final score utilised
candidate variables of age, central nervous system and liver SOFA sub-scores and IL-6. The bioscore
predicted 30-day mortality with a very good performance [area under the receiver operating characteristic
curve 0.814 (95% confidence interval 0.745-0.871, p <0.0001)] in our sepsis cohort. A bioscore greater than 4
predicted 30-day mortality with 80.4% sensitivity, 69.9% specificity, 2.67 positive likelihood ratio and 0.28
negative likelihood ratio. As the score increased, so did mortality rate. Conclusion: A new bioscore
combining age, central nervous system and liver SOFA sub-scores and IL-6 measured on ICU admission
potentially improves prediction of mortality in sepsis. Further study is warranted to prospectively validate
the clinical utility of this bioscore in risk-stratifying patients with suspected sepsis.
10.Development of A Disaster Kit Based on A Cultural Context for Flood Disaster Relief and Preparedness
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2019;18(1):89-96
Introduction: Flood disaster is a natural disaster that has unexpectedly occurred again. Community
cooperation in terms of managing flood and focusing on families’ needs has become more systematic. It is
important for a household to be prepared in any disaster. One of the preparations that should be done is the
stockpiling of emergency supplies or flood supply kits during evacuation. This study aimed to develop a
specific disaster kit for households for evacuation during a flood disaster based on cultural context. Methods:
Data were collected from 75 key informants from every level of households that really have a great
experience during the flood disaster that helping family packing for a living needs before evacuation. The
development of the disaster kit based on cultural needs and all their views, needs, experiences, challenges,
frustration and happiness was obtained from the interview sessions. Results: There are five themes that
emerged from this research related to developing a disaster kit. The themes are community preparedness in
dealing with flood disaster, hygiene issues during the flood, inadequate food supply, how the community
responds to insufficient water supply, and coping method with illness. After being finalized, there are seven
kits: a general supplies kit, documentation kit, emergency food and water supply kit, prayer kit, hygiene kit,
basic first aid kit, and baby kit. Conclusion: The development disaster kit was created to help the
communities to be more aware and prepared before disaster strikes.


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