MR. NABEEL ABDULLAH, MD

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This study looked at how internet addiction is related to feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness among students at public universities in Malaysia. Out of 7,278 students, 38.6% showed signs of internet addiction, and many also reported high levels of psychological distress: 24.8% had depressive symptoms, 32.4% felt anxious, and 35.5% experienced loneliness. These findings highlight the need for support programs that address mental health and internet use among university students to help reduce addiction risks. Who this helps: This helps students struggling with mental health issues and internet addiction.

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This study looked at a new way to protect audio data by using a mix of complex behaviors from a special electronic device and DNA-like processes. The researchers found that their method generated highly secure encryption keys with strong random patterns, achieving excellent results in protecting the audio data against attacks. Specifically, the encryption showed high randomness and allowed for perfect recovery of the audio with minimal error, ensuring security without losing any quality. Who this helps: This helps audio data security for businesses, content creators, and anyone needing to protect sensitive audio information.

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This study explored a mathematical method to improve image encryption by creating special components called S-Boxes. The researchers found that their new S-Boxes had impressive security qualities, including a high level of nonlinearity and a very low chance of differential attacks, which are both important for protecting data. The S-Boxes showed strong performance in tests, making them a reliable option for encrypting images. Who this helps: This benefits companies and individuals who need to secure sensitive images, such as in healthcare or banking.

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This study focused on improving a special type of filter made from aluminum that contains tiny particles of zirconia in order to remove organic pollutants from water. Researchers found that their modified filter could remove 99.8% of humic acid from water, allowing 42.4 liters of clean water to pass through per hour. This is important because it can help create more effective water purification systems that remove harmful substances. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need clean water, as well as environmental scientists working on water quality.

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This study looked at how various factors impact the severity of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients in Kuala Lumpur. Researchers found that 25.5% of the patients required intensive care, and those in the most severe category were 204 times more likely to need ICU care and 13 times more likely to die compared to those with milder cases. Older patients and those infected with the Delta variant were at greater risk of severe outcomes, highlighting the need for targeted care and monitoring for high-risk individuals. Who this helps: This helps patients, healthcare providers, and hospitals in managing COVID-19 treatment strategies.

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The study looked at why paramedics pursue further education after their initial training. Researchers interviewed 51 paramedics and found that their motivations varied widely: some were driven by external factors like money and job advancement, while others wanted personal growth and alignment with their values. This variation means educational programs should be tailored to individual motivations, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, to better support paramedics in their educational journeys. Who this helps: This benefits paramedics seeking further education and the educational institutions that support them.

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This study looked at how the experience and the number of times emergency medical practitioners in South Africa have performed intubations affect their success rate when doing this life-saving procedure. Out of 236 intubations, the overall success rate was 80.9%. The research found that the more intubations a practitioner had performed, the higher their chance of success, while their total years of experience didn’t seem to make a difference. Who this helps: This information helps patients by ensuring that emergency medical practitioners are better trained and more effective in critical situations.

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This study looked at the relationship between prescription medications and false-positive results in fecal blood tests, which are used for colorectal cancer screening. Out of 438 participants, 49.3% received false-positive results despite having no cancer or related diseases. The researchers found that while some medications appeared to affect false-positive rates, age and sex were more significant factors influencing these results. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors and patients undergoing colorectal cancer screening, as it clarifies the impact of medications on test accuracy.

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This study looked at a rare case of a 65-year-old man whose diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) came back as painless lumps in his abdominal wall muscles. Normally, DLBCL usually affects lymph nodes, with only 5% of cases involving other areas like muscles, and previous reports mostly described painful masses. This case is important because it highlights the need for careful diagnosis using imaging and tissue tests to accurately identify unusual cases of cancer. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients by improving understanding of how DLBCL can relapse in uncommon ways.

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This study looked at how the creatinine-to-body weight (Cre/BW) ratio might be linked to the risk of developing diabetes among a diverse group of people in Malaysia. Out of over 13,000 participants, 750 developed diabetes over about 5 years, and those with higher Cre/BW ratios had a lower chance of getting diabetes (a risk reduction of about 60% compared to lower ratios). This is important because understanding this relationship can help identify who is at risk for diabetes and how body composition plays a role in it. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those at risk for diabetes, and doctors who want to better understand diabetes risk factors.

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This study looks at plant-based materials that are mixed with plastics to create strong, lightweight composites used in various industries. Researchers found that while these natural fiber-reinforced plastics are cost-effective and sustainable, they have a serious problem with catching fire. The paper reviews methods to make these materials more fire-resistant, which is important for their use in fields like automotive and construction, where safety is crucial. Who this helps: This helps manufacturers, engineers, and consumers who need safer materials in products and construction.

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This study looked at the risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a diverse group of 3,160 people in Malaysia. Researchers found that gender, ethnicity, physical activity, fat levels in the blood, and high blood pressure were linked to CKD. Specifically, men with high fat levels were more likely to have CKD, highlighting the importance of these factors for identifying at-risk individuals and preventing disease progression. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of CKD, especially men with high fat levels in their blood.

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This study examined the differences in metabolic substances in the blood of obese and lean individuals to better understand how obesity affects health. Researchers found 85 key metabolites that were different between the two groups, particularly focusing on lipids, which are fats found in the body. Three metabolites were linked to a higher risk of obesity, while three others were associated with a lower risk; the ability to predict obesity risk using these markers was highly accurate, with a strong performance rating of 0.95. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving obesity risk assessment and potential treatment strategies.

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This study examined the impact of technostress—stress caused by using technology—on burnout and fatigue among healthcare workers in Malaysian state hospitals. Out of 1,620 healthcare workers surveyed, 15% reported high levels of technostress, 67% had moderate technostress, and 18% had low technostress, with higher stress linked to increased burnout and fatigue. This is important because many healthcare workers are facing significant mental strain due to technology use, especially after the changes brought on by the pandemic, highlighting the need for supportive measures to help them cope. Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare workers who experience high levels of stress and burnout due to technology in their jobs.

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Researchers studied new chemical compounds called phthalimide derivatives to see if they could effectively treat Alzheimer’s disease by inhibiting two important enzymes: cholinesterase and monoamine oxidase. They found that one compound had a strong ability to inhibit cholinesterase with a concentration needed for effective treatment at just 0.24 micromolar and another compound proved to be highly effective against monoamine oxidase with a concentration of 0.09 micromolar. This is significant because developing effective dual inhibitors can lead to improved treatments for Alzheimer's, which currently has limited options. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer's disease.

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This study looked at gut-brain disorders in Malaysia, finding that 19.3% of participants were affected. The most common issues were functional constipation (5.1%), functional dyspepsia (3.4%), and functional diarrhea (1.6%). People with these disorders experienced more psychological distress, visited healthcare providers more often, changed their diets, and reported more problems with sleep and work. Who this helps: This research benefits patients experiencing gut-brain disorders and healthcare providers managing their care.

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This study focused on improving hydration for older adults in the hospital, aiming to increase the number of patients drinking at least 1 liter of fluid per day from 15% to 60%. After implementing various strategies like hydration charts and staff training, the percentage of patients meeting this hydration goal rose by 45%, highlighting the importance of better hydration practices for older patients. Proper hydration can prevent serious health issues and improve patient safety. Who this helps: This benefits hospitalized older adults and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at rickettsial diseases, which are infections caused by certain bacteria, in Kashmir, North India, by testing blood samples from 476 patients. The researchers found that about 15.5% had scrub typhus, 14.9% had spotted fever, and 12.6% had typhus, with scrub typhus being more common in urban areas. These findings are important because they highlight that rickettsial infections are present in this region and need to be considered in diagnosing patients with fever. Who this helps: Patients with febrile illnesses in Kashmir and healthcare providers diagnosing these conditions.

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This study looked at the Traditional Asian Diet (TAD) and its impact on dietary fiber intake and gut health in healthy Asian women over four weeks. The TAD group significantly increased their dietary fiber intake (over 30 grams), had improved stool consistency, and saw a boost in beneficial gut bacteria compared to the control group. These changes matter because they indicate that following a TAD can lead to better gut health and potentially reduce harmful substances in the body. Who this helps: This helps patients looking to improve their gut health through diet.

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This study examined how well water-based hybrid nanofluids, which are fluids made by mixing water with tiny particles, can conduct heat and remain stable over time. The research found that improving the stability of these fluids is essential because it directly affects their ability to transfer heat effectively. By testing different combinations of nanoparticles, like metals and natural materials, researchers identified methods to enhance both stability and conductivity, which could lead to better performance in heating and cooling systems. Who this helps: This research benefits engineers and scientists working on more efficient heat transfer systems in various industries.

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This study looked at how well people in low-income urban areas of Cheras, Malaysia, understand colorectal cancer (CRC) risks and symptoms, and how effectively they participate in screening using a quick blood test. Out of 321 eligible participants, 30% tested positive for CRC, with 4.35% actually diagnosed with the disease. The findings show that many in this group had a lower understanding of CRC after the educational program, making it harder to promote effective screening in these communities. Who this helps: This benefits patients in urban-poor communities by improving awareness and screening for colorectal cancer.

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This study examined how emergency medical crews in the Western Cape, South Africa, handle situations where people are trapped in vehicles after road traffic crashes. Out of over 2.5 million emergency calls, only about 24,000 required specialized rescuers, with 719 cases needing vehicle extrication. Most of these cases involved light vehicles, and the busiest times for rescues were between 8 AM and 8 PM. The research highlights important differences in rescue needs and techniques, which can help improve training and resources for emergency medical services. Who this helps: This benefits patients involved in road traffic accidents and the emergency medical teams responding to them.

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This study looked at how effective additional treatments (adjuvant therapy) are for patients with a specific early stage of breast cancer (HER2-positive T1aN0M0). Researchers reviewed 13 studies involving 2,089 patients and found that those who did not get chemotherapy or anti-HER2 treatment had a high chance of surviving without disease (92% to 99%). The benefit of adjuvant therapy appeared to provide some improved survival, but the difference was small (between 2% and 15%) and not statistically significant, meaning it's unclear if the treatment really makes a difference. Who this helps: This information benefits patients and doctors who are making decisions about treatment options for early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer.

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This study looked at a protein called NUB1 and its potential role in predicting how breast cancer patients respond to chemotherapy with FEC (a combination of drugs). Researchers found that higher levels of NUB1 after treatment were linked to better outcomes, while lower levels of NUB1 were associated with poorer survival rates. Specifically, patients with low NUB1 and estrogen receptor expression had the worst survival rates. Who this helps: This information benefits breast cancer patients and their doctors in predicting treatment outcomes.

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This study looked at how bacteria in the mouth affect titanium dental implants, which are commonly used to replace missing teeth. Researchers found that these implants attracted harmful bacteria, leading to a thick layer of biofilm that can damage the implants. Specifically, there was a significant increase in biofilm formation on titanium implants compared to others, which raises concerns about the 1.9-11% failure rate of these implants. Who this helps: This information benefits patients receiving dental implants and their dentists.

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This study looked at a type of mushroom, Schizophyllum commune, to see how it affects cholesterol and heart health in rats with high cholesterol. Researchers found that the mushroom helped lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), which could be beneficial for heart health. It also supported the rats' liver function and antioxidant levels, showing potential for preventing heart disease. Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk for heart disease and doctors looking for new treatment options.

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This study looked at trends in pediatric COVID-19 hospitalizations from March 2020 to September 2023, focusing on how rates varied by race and ethnicity. It found that Black children were 2.15 times and Hispanic children were 2.06 times more likely to be hospitalized than Asian or Pacific Islander children, with a significant portion of hospitalized Black (61.4%) and Hispanic (45.5%) patients having underlying health conditions. The results highlight the ongoing health disparities and emphasize the need for better healthcare access and targeted interventions for vulnerable populations. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially Black and Hispanic children with COVID-19 and underlying health issues.

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This study focused on creating new materials from cellulose, which comes from oil palm waste, to improve energy efficiency in heat transfer applications. Researchers found that combining cellulose with metal oxide nanoparticles significantly increased thermal conductivity, with the best results showing a 129% improvement in heat transfer at 45°C. This is important because it could lead to more effective materials for various uses, including water treatment and electronics. Who this helps: This helps engineers and manufacturers looking for better materials for heat transfer technologies.

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This study looks at how effective the medication naltrexone is for helping people in Malaysia who struggle with stimulant use disorder (StUD). Researchers will compare recovery rates, specifically how many people stay sober, between those who received naltrexone and those who received standard treatment from 2011 to 2023. Their goal is to see if naltrexone can significantly improve abstinence rates, providing valuable insights since no specific medication exists for treating stimulant addictions. Who this helps: Patients dealing with stimulant use disorders will benefit from the findings.

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This study explored the presence of potentially harmful tiny organisms called dinophytes in shrimp aquaculture ponds in Southeast Asia. Researchers found a rich variety of these organisms, including several known to be harmful, with one new species named Malayana penaeicida, which reached a density of 10 cells per liter. Understanding the presence and diversity of these harmful dinophytes is crucial for improving shrimp farming practices and preventing mass die-offs, which can threaten food security and the economy. Who this helps: This helps shrimp farmers and the seafood industry.

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This study looked at how fresh fruit juices, especially lime and pineapple, affect dental enamel in Malaysian adults. It found that both lime and pineapple juices can cause significant damage to enamel, with lime juice being the worst, leading to a serious reduction in enamel hardness and an increase in roughness. The study highlighted that many people aren’t aware of the harmful effects of these juices on their teeth and often consume sweetened versions while practicing only moderate oral hygiene. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, especially those who frequently consume fruit juices and may be at risk for dental problems.

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This study looked at new three-dimensional (3D) imaging technologies to measure and monitor chronic wounds, which are a significant health issue. Researchers reviewed 11 studies involving 734 wounds and 307 patients, finding that most 3D imaging methods reliably measured the surface area of wounds, but struggled with depth and volume accuracy. Improving how we assess wounds with these technologies could lead to better treatment plans and tracking of healing progress. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with chronic wounds and their healthcare providers by improving wound assessment methods.

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This study looked at the antibacterial properties of extracts from the leaves of the Carissa opaca plant. Researchers found that the methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts were the most effective against several harmful bacteria, inhibiting growth by 14.2 to 23.4 millimeters. The study also identified specific compounds, like scopoletin, which showed strong potential as antibacterial agents. Who this helps: This benefits patients by providing new options for treating bacterial infections.

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This study looked at the most important research needs for care after traffic accidents in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Researchers found that the top priority is ensuring the safety of emergency medical services, followed by improving communication among responders and raising public awareness about road safety. These findings are crucial because they highlight the specific challenges faced in low-income regions, helping to direct future research and resources where they are most needed. Who this helps: This helps patients involved in traffic accidents and the emergency responders who care for them.

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This study examined a new way to deliver medication using a special material made from cellulose, chitosan, and polylactic acid without the need for needles. Researchers found that using specific amounts of cellulose improved how well the new drug delivery system worked; for example, with the right mix, the material released the medication in three distinct phases while also breaking down safely in the body. This is important because it provides a more efficient way to deliver drugs over time without risking harm to the patient. Who this helps: Patients needing long-term medication management.

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Researchers studied a new type of compound called 4-quinolone derivatives to see if they could kill breast cancer and leukemia cells. They found that one particular compound, number 65, was especially effective at stopping the growth of triple-negative breast cancer cells, needing just a very low concentration of 7.10-83.2 micromolar to do this, while harming non-cancerous cells much less. This is important because it shows potential for developing new cancer treatments that are both effective and safer for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with triple-negative breast cancer and leukemia.

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This study focused on creating a reliable method to measure vitamins A and E in blood samples, which are important for human health. Researchers developed a special lab technique that effectively detects these vitamins, achieving high accuracy (with over 99.5% reliability) and testing it on blood from patients, including those with and without colorectal cancer. This method is significant because it helps doctors better assess nutritional statuses and diseases related to these vitamins. Who this helps: Patients needing vitamin assessments and doctors diagnosing related health issues.

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Researchers studied the genetic diversity of oil palm plants from Tanzania, Angola, and Ghana, examining 349 palms selected from over 1,000 based on visible traits. They discovered that the genetic variety within populations was moderate, with Tanzania and Angola showing more diversity than Ghana, which had a unique and narrower genetic makeup. Understanding this diversity is important as it can help improve breeding programs and conservation efforts for oil palms. Who this helps: This helps plant breeders and conservationists working with oil palms.

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This study looked at how common depression is among pregnant and new mothers visiting government health clinics in Selangor, Malaysia. Researchers will assess the levels of depression in these women using a specific screening tool and analyze factors that may influence mental health, like age and support networks, from August 2024 to December 2026. They aim to highlight the prevalence of depression, with a score of 12 or higher indicating depression, to help improve mental health support for these women. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant and new mothers experiencing mental health challenges.

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This study looked at how quercetin, a natural compound found in some fruits and vegetables, affects cholesterol levels and inflammation in rabbits that had high cholesterol due to a fatty diet. The researchers found that while quercetin reduced total cholesterol and bad LDL cholesterol, it didn't change body weight or levels of inflammation markers after 12 weeks. This is important because it shows that quercetin can help lower cholesterol without affecting inflammation, offering a potential natural option alongside traditional medications. Who this helps: Patients struggling with high cholesterol and looking for alternative treatments.

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This study looked at how common allergic reactions to a specific dust mite, Blomia tropicalis, are among people in Malaysia and how these reactions relate to allergic symptoms. The research found that 55% of the 329 people tested were sensitized to this mite, with sensitivity rates for its specific proteins ranging from about 57% to 83%. This information is important because it highlights that sensitization to Blomia tropicalis is a significant risk factor for developing allergies, particularly in certain areas of Malaysia. Who this helps: This helps patients with allergies and their doctors by providing insights into the causes of allergic reactions.