Apolipoprotien E (apoE) polymorphism is a human genetic risk factor and has been well-established to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease, lipid abnormalities, and cardiovascular disease (CVD). ApoE gene polymorphism is re- ported to correlate with lipid metabolism disturbances and coronary artery stenosis. Furthermore, ε4 allele carriers were found to have poor prognosis in survival rates of post-myocardial infarction. The purpose of the review is to distinguish the possible of apoE gene polymorphism as a determinant for CVD and its association. Preliminary data suggest ε4 allele carrier identification could be beneficial for risk stratification of CVD and initiation of statin therapy as primary intervention. Numerous studies have been done, however, results varied between studies as well as in different population. The evidence presented herein can help describe the risk prediction based on apoE gene poly- morphism.
There are only few cases of Eosinophilic Collitis(EC) have been reported worldwide. The mechanism and aetiology of EC are still unclear. We describe a 35 years old man presented with chief complaints of gastrointestinal symptoms. In blood examination, his total IgE and specific IgE to house dust mites were very high. Colonoscopy was done and histological examination from biopsy specimens reported infiltration of lymphoplasmacytic cells and eosinophils, compatible with Eosinophilic colitis. The patient was treated with antihistamine and short course of antibiotics. He was been advised to avoid house dust mites. He was then remained asymptomatic. Our report suggests house dust mites allergy as the causes of EC. Combination of antihistamine, antibiotics and avoidance of house dust mites are helpful in treating EC in this particular case.
Introduction: Nurses are generally trained on the procedures of blood transfusion during their years of service. However, the level of knowledge varies among individuals and healthcare centres. Thus, this study addresses a knowledge gap regarding nurses’ knowledge and transfusion safety in the local clinical setting. Objectives: This study aimed to determine nurses’ level of knowledge of various phases of blood transfusion and associate this knowledge with their socio-professional details. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, quantitative study. The target population was in-patient ward nurses at Hospital Pulau Pinang. The systematic random sampling method was used to select 185 nurses to participate in this study. Data were collected using a validated research questionnaire that consisted of 31 items (9 items related to socio-professional factors and 22 knowledge items). Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential analyses. Results: The overall knowledge score was moderate (mean = 70.44%, SD = 11.35). None of the nurses was able to answer all of the knowledge questions correctly. Of the participants, 72.29%, 71.75%, and 67.14% exhibited knowledge of blood bag collection and patient preparation; pre-transfusion nursing activities; and during and post-transfusion nursing responsibilities and management of transfusion reactions, respectively. Factors such as age, years of service, department, and availability of the transfusion policy in the ward significantly affected the mean knowledge scores. Conclusion: Nurses’ knowledge of blood transfusion at Hospital Pulau Pinang was moderate. More training and courses should be provided to improve their knowledge.
Introduction: Transfusion Medicine is an evolving filed which integrates multidisciplinary science in providing safe blood and blood products for patients. With an increasing demand for Transfusion Medicine training in Malaysia, a formal survey is needed to evaluate the postgraduate Transfusion Medicine programme offered by Advanced Med- ical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia to identify areas of deficiency based on the alumni experiences. Methods: An English language survey form was developed specifically to assess the programme contents (overall contents, learning experience in each year, and support in research), the alumni perception on soft-skills gained during the study, and the outcome of the programme. The survey forms were distributed to all alumni between March 2018 and October 2018 via e-mail or hand-delivered. Results: The survey response rate was 79% (37 of 47). A ma- jority (97%) of the transfusion medicine specialists (TMS) in this study reported that the course offered in the program was relevant to their current job. The learning experience which includes course content, student’s placement, facili- ties, and support in research) were rated between satisfactory and good. Communicating effectively through speaking was the highest reported soft-skill gained during the programme, whereas communicating effectively in writing was the lowest soft-skill gained. On the programme outcome, all TMS agreed that this programme will produce qualified and well trained specialists for current working market. Conclusion: Some improvement in the programme contents and teaching activities are needed to equip the future TMS for the nation.