Introduction/Objective Outlier detection is a fundamental component of data preprocessing that aims to identify anomalies that may arise from measurement errors, data entry errors, system failures, fraudulent activities, or rare but meaningful events. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of outlier detection methods, ranging from traditional statistical and visualization techniques to advanced machine learning and deep learning approaches. Methods This review presents a structured taxonomy of outlier detection methodologies, progressing from fundamental visual methods (box plots, scatter plots, histograms) through statistical methods (parametric: Z-score, regression-based; non-parametric: kernel density estimation), distance-based methods (local neighborhood, kNN-distance), density-based techniques (LOF, COF, INFLO, MDEF), and clustering-based approaches (k-means, hierarchical, DBSCAN). We extend coverage to advanced algorithms including Isolation Forest, Feature Bagging, and deep learning-based autoencoders, with a simulated medical case study and reproducible R code. Results No universally superior method exists; performance is highly context-dependent. Advanced algorithms demonstrate superior scalability and effectiveness in high-dimensional and complex data environments, albeit with increased computational requirements and reduced interpretability. In our simulated medical case study, Isolation Forest achieved the highest sensitivity (0.97) for detecting injected anomalies. Discussion This study shows that no single outlier detection technique is suitable for all scenarios. The selection of an appropriate method should be done considering the data structure, dimensions, and specific requirements for reliable anomaly detection. Conclusion Methodological selection requires careful consideration of data properties, computational constraints, and analytical goals. We provide a practical, reproducible framework integrating domain expertise with modern algorithmic approaches.
Obesity is a major global public health challenge that adversely affects both physical and psychological well-being. In Malaysia, the prevalence of obesity has increased steadily over the past decades, posing significant concerns for healthcare systems and society. While substantial attention has been devoted to understanding the causes, prevention, and health consequences of obesity, weight stigma remains an important yet underexplored issue within the Malaysian context. Weight stigma refers to the negative attitudes, stereotypes, prejudice, and discriminatory behaviours directed toward individuals because of their body weight. Such stigma can contribute to adverse psychological outcomes, including low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, body dissatisfaction, social isolation, and maladaptive eating behaviours. In Malaysia, weight stigma is pervasive and can be observed across various domains of life, including family interactions, educational settings, workplaces, healthcare environments, and intimate relationships. These experiences not only affect psychological well-being but may also discourage individuals from seeking healthcare, engaging in physical activity, or participating in weight management programmes, ultimately exacerbating health inequalities. This article aims to examine the presence of weight stigma in Malaysia and discuss its implications for individuals living with obesity. Furthermore, it proposes several recommendations for reducing weight stigma, including the adoption of non-stigmatising language, public education and awareness campaigns, training for healthcare professionals, and initiatives that promote empathy and help-seeking behaviours. Given the strong influence of cultural values on health-related attitudes and behaviours, culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate approaches are essential for addressing obesity and reducing weight stigma in Malaysia and similar multicultural settings.
Introduction HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis (TB) cases in Indonesia, including Gorontalo City, have shown a continued increase and present multifaceted health challenges that extend beyond medical issues to psychological aspects. TB patients living with HIV are particularly vulnerable to mental distress due to long-term illness and persistent social stigma. In this context, resilience plays an important role in supporting treatment adherence and overall well-being. Methods An analytical survey with a cross-sectional design was employed, involving 70 respondents. Respondents were recruited using a total sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using the Chi-Square test. The analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between HIV/AIDS status and resilience levels ( p = 0.025). Results Interestingly, the findings indicate that TB patients with HIV-positive status tend to demonstrate higher levels of resilience compared to those who are HIV-negative, suggesting the presence of adaptive psychological mechanisms developed through prolonged engagement with healthcare services. The analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between HIV/AIDS status and resilience levels ( p = 0.025). Discussion These findings suggest that HIV-positive TB patients may benefit from stronger psychosocial support systems, including counseling and continuous interaction with health workers during the VCT process. Conclusion TB patients with HIV-positive status appear to exhibit better psychological adaptability and resilience, which may be influenced by family support, healthcare assistance, and counseling services. Therefore, VCT programs should be strengthened not only in terms of clinical care but also through comprehensive psychosocial interventions aimed at enhancing patient resilience.
Introduction/objectives Infertility constitutes a major public health concern in the world. The present study sought to examine the association between health literacy and quality of life among infertile women. Methods This cross-sectional study was done in the Professor Ghavaamzadeh Infertility Center in Arak during the winter of 2024. A total of 258 infertile women were recruited via convenience sampling. Participants were administered a demographic questionnaire alongside the WHOQOL-BREF instrument to assess quality of life and the Health Literacy for Iranian Adults (HELIA) questionnaire to evaluate health literacy. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficients, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results Significant positive correlations emerged between various health literacy domains and quality of life measures, including reading educational materials (r = 0.30, p = 0.001), information accessibility (r = 0.40, p = 0.001), comprehension of health concepts (r = 0.65, p = 0.046), decision-making abilities (r = 0.47, p = 0.030), and overall health literacy (r = 0.222, p = 0.035). Discussion The results underscore the importance of enhanced health literacy as a determinant of improved quality of life among women experiencing infertility. Conclusion The findings suggest that implementing strategies to improve health literacy should be considered a fundamental component of infertility care.
Introduction Tobacco use remains one of the most pressing global public health challenges, contributing substantially to the incidence of preventable diseases and premature mortality. In Saudi Arabia, tobacco consumption continues to rise, with an estimated 21.4% of adults identified as smokers and approximately 70,000 tobacco-related deaths reported annually. Methods This cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines developed by the National Institute for Health. A structured questionnaire comprising 26 items was administered and divided into two main sections: Section A focused on participants’ demographic characteristics, while Section B assessed the knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists regarding the provision of smoking cessation services. A total of 206 community pharmacists participated in this study. Results The findings revealed that 89.8% (n = 185) of the respondents felt confident in advising customers who smoke to quit, indicating a high level of professional self-assurance in delivering smoking cessation counseling. Moreover, approximately 80% (n = 166) of the pharmacists reported awareness of the availability of smoking cessation clinics in Saudi Arabia and acknowledged the possibility of referring smokers to these specialized facilities for further treatment. Discussion Most pharmacists (89.8%) felt confident in advising smokers to quit, and about 80% were aware of smoking cessation clinics in Saudi Arabia and could refer smokers for further treatment. Conclusion Overall, the study demonstrated that community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia possess considerable knowledge and confidence in promoting smoking cessation initiatives. Nonetheless, the results also suggest that further evaluation and enhancement of pharmacists’ understanding of smoking cessation therapies are necessary to optimize their role in tobacco control and patient support.
