bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FROM DEPRESSION TO HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS – A CASE REPORT
Authors: Sapira Violeta , Lungu Mihaiela , Baciu Alexandru Paul , Telehuz Anca , Marcu Constantin , Chiscop Iulia , Gavrila Carmen , Dinu Ciprian , Baciu Ginel , Ciubara Anamaria
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is often preceded or accompanied by neuropsychiatric symptoms, including depression. This fact has been evaluated in most of the clinical studies to date as associated with HIV infection already diagnosed. Case report: We report a case of a 46-year-old woman patient with no prior diagnosed pathology, suffering from depressive disorder for roughly 6 months, with a progressive evolution under treatment. Blood tests showed a moderate normochromic normocytic anemic syndrome of unspecified origin. Given the fact that depressive syndrome has not improved under treatment, a cerebral computed tomography (CT) scan and a cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are decided, revealing an expansive cerebral process which in turn recommends performing stereotactic biopsy, but the family of the patient refuses the procedure. The patient is neurologically evaluated and after considering the cerebral MRI pattern and the presence of anemia, an HIV and syphilis detection test is decided, revealing a positive result for HIV infection. An antiretroviral therapy has been initiated, resulting in favorable clinical and imaging outcomes. Conclusions: Each patient and each case are individual and is to be approached as such. Depression in a progressive evolution under treatment requires imaging evaluation (cerebral CT scan, ideally cerebral MRI).
DUAL DIAGNOSIS. ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION ASSOCIATED WITH DEPRESSIVE SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Authors: Darie Cristina , Terpan Mihai , Balta Alexia , Baciu Alexandru Paul , Gavrila Carmen , Fulga Ana , Ciubara Anamaria
Published: January 2023

Introduction: According to the studies, a quarter of people who drink alcohol suffer at least one depressive episode in their lifetime. It has also been found that one-third of people who suffer from depression, abusively consume psychoactive substances, such as alcohol, as a form of self-healing. Aim: In this retrospective study, we propose to statistically quantify the relationship between alcohol-related mental and behavioural illnesses and depression spectrum disorders. Method: The retrospective study was conducted on a group of hospitalized patients, between January 1st and June 30th, 2018, at "Elisabeta Doamna" Psychiatric Hospital, in Galati, Romania. For diagnosis we used the ICD-10 (The ICD-10 Classification of Mental and Behavioral Disorders. (Clinical description, diagnostic guidelines and psychometric tests, such as HAM-D (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale)), AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test). Patients were selected among those who had a combination of mental and behavioural disorders due to alcohol and depressive spectrum disorders. Results: Between January 1st and June 30th, 2018, a quarter of total 6316 hospitalized patients, or 24.79% (1566 patients) were diagnosed with alcohol-related disorders, and 5.4% (341 cases) had a dual diagnosis, with alcohol-related disorders associated with depressive elements. During this 6-month period, of all cases of alcohol-related disorders, it was found that approximately 22% had a dual diagnosis, respectively, the combination of alcohol-related disorders with depressive spectrum disorders or depressive elements. Conclusions: Unfortunately, it is estimated that depression will become a secondary cause of disability worldwide after cardiovascular disease. According to the WHO (World Health Organization), this disease affects more than 320 million people worldwide, and its combination with alcohol abuse is alarming. Therefore, patients with dual diagnosis require a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach to reduce or even neutralize the adverse consequences that may occur in the psycho-social, medical, family, economic, or behavioural context.
FACTITIOUS DISORDERS – CHALLENGES IN PSYCHIATRIC DIAGNOSIS
Authors: Rosu Ioana , Voinea Alina Ioana , Nechita Petronela
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Factitious disorders is a group of psychiatric pathologies in which a person acts as if he has an illness by deliberately producing or exaggerating symptoms on them, or sometimes they use a “victim” in order to catch the attention of the others. Usually, the real causes for this kind of behavior are emotional impairments and personality disorders. Munchausen syndrome and Munchausen by proxy syndrome are the most known of these disorders. Aim: The aim of this paper is to raise awareness for this kind of disorder because they are an extensive problem for the medical system and in many cases, they are hard to diagnose and manage. Method: We started by observing and documenting an unusual case of Munchausen syndrome at a patient from Infantile Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Psychiatry Institute “Socola”, Iasi and her mother with Munchausen by proxy syndrome. We compered this pair of cases with data reviews on the subject to see what are the challenges that are common for this kind of pathologies and how we can manage them. Conclusions: We concluded that factitious disorders are more common that is thought they are. Doctors tend to let this diagnose on the last place because the priority is to resolve the somatic symptoms of the patient. That is why we must acknowledge and understand how to manage this kind of mental disorder.
PHARMACOLOGICAL ADD-ON TREATMENTS IN MANAGING ANTIPSYCHOTIC-INDUCED WEIGHT GAIN
Authors: Rădulescu Ionuţ Dragoș , Mirona Letiția Dobri , Moraru Codrina , Nechita Petronela , Vlad Ciprian , Bichescu Cezar
Published: January 2023

Introduction: One of the most common antipsychotic (AP) related adverse drug reactions is weight gain, with a large proportion of patients started on AP even from the onset of schizophrenia, ending up gaining considerable weight. Aim: The study was designed to research current evidence for reducing weight gain through pharmacological supplementation or other practical interventions, in patients treated with APs. Method: A review of the published works found on MEDLINE and PubMed from 2015 to 2019 was done, concentrating mostly on research that specifically examined changes in body weight in individuals taking AP medications along with various pharmaceutical supplements. There were 14 major eligible articles found and examined. We have concentrated on many meta-analyses that evaluated various pharmacological classes, including appetite suppressants, anti-obesity medications, anti-diabetics, gastrointestinal medicines, and anticonvulsants, in avoiding or lowering weight gain in patients receiving AP. Conclusions: Maintaining a balanced weight has a major impact on the patient’s quality of life. In addition to having a detrimental effect on the patient's physical and mental health, weight increase makes it more challenging for them to adhere to their treatment schedule. Antipsychotics can cause weight gain, however, there are numerous effective treatments for this condition. Given that they are both well tolerated in the short term, we found topiramate and metformin to be the most effective among them when compared to a placebo. To advance this topic, larger and more comprehensive investigations are required.
MINDFULNESS: A PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC METHOD OF ACCEPTANCE AND CENTERING OF THE MENTAL FRAMEWORK
Authors: Dobri Mirona Letitia , Voinea Alina-Ioana , Marcu Constantin , Elkan Eva Maria , Rădulescu Ionuț-Dragoș , Nechita Petronela
Published: January 2023

Mindfulness as a term comes from Buddhist traditions, translating as awareness, concentration or remembrance. Western neuroscientists define mindfulness practices as a combination of emotional and attentional training regimes that help cultivate physical and psychological well-being and improve emotional regulation while noting neurobiological changes in the brain. The formal introduction of oriental ways of thinking into western philosophy, psychology and medicine happened decades ago, generating a large spectrum of discussions and scientific works concerning the therapeutic applications of mindfulness practice. Basing our presentation on a thorough study of scientific papers, we propose a synthesis of the theoretical aspects related to mindfulness and a new perspective regarding its applications in clinical psychiatric care. The modern occidental approaches of the practice are adapted into methods used in cognitive therapy based on mindfulness. The benefits of formal practice proven from the neurological perspective are the result of a less reactive autonomic nervous system. Regulation of attention, body awareness, regulation of emotions, increased capacity of adaptation is just a few of the mechanisms involved. Therefore, it is integrated into western psychotherapy as an adjunctive or alternative method of treatment for several psychiatric disorders among which are depression, anxiety, substance use, smoking cessation, insomnia. In conclusion, mindfulness has shown to have great promise in clinical application, and the hope is to be used in the future with the purpose of improving mental and physical wellbeing and quality of life.
BURNOUT RISK EVALUATION IN MEDICAL ONCOLOGY – RADIOTHERAPY PERSONNEL
Authors: Rebegea Laura , Tarlungianu Camelia , Anghel Rodica , Firescu Dorel , Corobcean Nadejda , Gales Laurentia
Published: January 2023

Europäische Wissenschaftliche Gesellschaft Home About the Journal Peer Review Editorial Board For Authors Reviewer Recognition Archiv Kontakt Impressum EWG e.V. indexing in the Clarivate Analytics indexing in the Emerging Sources Citation Index Crossref Member Badge Erfolgreich durch internationale Zusammenarbeit PUBLIC HEALTH DOI 10.35630/2022/12/psy.ro.5 Received 14 December 2022; Published 6 January 2023 BURNOUT RISK EVALUATION IN MEDICAL ONCOLOGY – RADIOTHERAPY PERSONNEL Laura Rebegea1,2 orcid id logo, Camelia Tarlungianu1 , Rodica Anghel3 orcid id logo , Dorel Firescu4,5, Nadejda Corobcean1,6, Laurentia Gales3 orcid id logo 1 Department of Medical Oncology - Radiotherapy, „Sf. Ap. Andrei” Emergency Clinical Hospital, Galati, Romania 2 Medical Clinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, „Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati, Romania 3 „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy”, Bucharest, Romania 4 IInd Clinic of Surgery, „Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency Clinical Hospital, Galati, Romania 5 Surgical Clinical Department, „Dunarea de Jos” University, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Galati, Romania 6 „Nicolae Testemitanu”State University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Chisinau, Moldova download article (pdf) laura_rebegea@yahoo.com, tarlungianucamelia@yahoo.com ABSTRACT Introduction: Even if, all studies evidenced that Burnout syndrome affects medical personnel from all medical specialties, the highest prevalence is in surgical, oncological and emergency medical specialties. Scope: Burnout syndrome evaluation in Medical Oncology and Radiotherapy personnel. Method and material: This study has involved 50 persons employee in Medical Oncology and Radiotherapy Department, from all categories: 11 superiors personal (medical doctors, physicists, psychologist), 31 nurses, and 8 auxiliary personnel (stretcher-bearer). The following questionnaires were used: professional exhaustion level questionnaire (with 25 items), questionnaire for attitude and adaptation in stressed and difficulties situations, BRIEF COPE and SES scale. Results: After professional exhaustion level questionnaire for superior personnel, emotional exhaustion prevalence, followed by reduced personal achievement and an accentuated increasing of affecting grade after first year of activity, with a pick around 10 years of activity were revealed. For nurses, share of depersonalization is relative homogenous, in moderate - low limits. The results revealed that 56% of personnel from this study have risk for burnout syndrome developing, without any prevention methods and 12% has already burnout syndrome. Conclusions: In general, this syndrome is under-evaluated and under-diagnosed, and its incidence can be diminishing by using the techniques of stress resistance, psychological counseling, cresting a friendly and tolerant professional climate.
DREAMING AND PARASOMNIAS FROM A CEREBRAL STRUCTURAL VIEW
Authors: Elkan Eva-Maria , Papuc Ana-Maria , Goroftei Roxana Elena Bogdan , Banu Elena Ariela , Zlati Monica Laura , Albeanu Adriana Gabriela , Condratovici Alina Pleșea
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Parasomnias are disorders that may appear during sleep with and/or without dreams. To describe them we must take in account a subjective description by the patient and his relatives. Objective measurement of this phenomenology is made with Polysomnography, Electromyography and Holter EKG. Material and Methods: We searched the recent data about parasomnia in the Medline, Pubmed, Google academic databases as also in classic books and reviews. Results: The clinical picture is various from motor and neurological signs to autonomic signs as also sleep related hallucinations. There are more rare presentations with associated disorders due to excretion and involuntary urinary emission during sleep disorders. Parasomnias are often preceded by a traumatic event for the patient and his family members which can be a head trauma or an infection or an intoxication which can be accompanied by psycho vulnerable events. On the other part parasomnias can be themselves a preamble announcing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson disease, Lewy Body Dementia or some synucleopathies. Conclusions: The fluctuations of neurotransmitters (Dopamine, Serotonine or Acetylcholine) due to specific neurologic pathology can lead to particular parasomnias, their evolution corresponding to each impairment. The knowledge of accompanying parasomnias of neurologic disorders like those from Parkinson disease helps manage diseases of neurological patients already known with Parkinson's disease or other neurological diseases, leading to increased quality of life for these patients as a result of specialized intervention.
THE PREVALENCE OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN PATIENTS WITH PROXIMAL FEMORAL FRACTURES
Authors: Gogulescu Bogdan Adrian
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Fractures of the proximal femur are becoming more common. Through the data, this medical problem became a humanitarian, economic and social has imposed the first evidence-based review in our clinic. It is necessary to find out if there is a causal relationship between postural instability, hip fractures and cognitiv impairment. Methods: Clinical data were recorded, removing any information about personal identity. Consecutive patients aged over 65 years were included in the study. They were admitted during the period 01.01.2021-31.12.2021 and had primary fractures of the proximal femur caused by low energy trauma produced by falling from the same level. Results: 360 cases with a mean age of 78.73 years and having a proximal femoral fracture were analyzed. The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 27.22%, significantly undifferentiated by the type of fracture or age group. The relatively small age of the batch of 72-100000 indicates the existance of a socio-economic problem besides the high medical problems raised by a major fracture occurring in the context of comorbidity of 86.36%. Conclusions: The existence of proximal femur fractures in elderly people with certain cognitive involution creates personal dramas and socio-medical problems that require complex studies.
COMPLICATIONS OF HIP HEMIARTHROPLASTY IN PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Bradeanu Andrei Vlad , Pascu Loredana , Ciubara Alexandru Bogdan , Voicu Dragos Cristian
Published: January 2023

ge is one of the most important parameters influencing the occurrence of hip fractures in patients over the age of 65, whereas their mental state is a decisive factor. Older adults have eight times higher risk of dying of a hip fracture if we compared to those people without a hip fracture. The risk of death is very high in the first three months and it remains in first ten years. High incidence of hip fracture and dementia worldwide includes Europe and Middle East part of Europe, South America, Canada, United States and Asia. There is a very high probability that patients with hip fractures and dementia may develop delirium that will result in prolonged hospitalization and poor mobility. Death is a rare complication of hip arthroplasty. Less than 1% patients in United States died, however in the first 90 days the postoperative mortality rate is somewhat higher than 1%. Otherwise, after revision surgery this rate increases. The most common complications of hip hemiarthroplasty that can be avoided by surgeons are: dislocation (posterior approach), and infection (the most common are Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus- MRSA and Gram-negative bacillus). In one year the mortality rates will be over than half in the patients with deep infection and approximately 65% of patients with dislocation prosthesis in 6 months but also depends by type of prosthesis: monobloc (Austin Moore) or bipolar, cemented or uncemented. Other patient-related complications in the order in which they appear are pulmonary embolism, hematoma formation, unusual ossification, thromboembolism, nerve injury, fracture (periprosthetic). In patients who receive antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, or anticoagulant therapy, it is necessary to stop the preoperative medication and to perform intraoperative hemostasis. During surgery, there is a risk to damage obturator vessels, perforating branch of femoralis artery and injury iliac vessels when drilling medial acetabular wall. In the last two decades thromboembolism has been prevented by physical therapy and socks with gradual compression. Depending on the type of surgeon's preferred type of proceedings, the following nerves may be injured: femoral nerve, sciatic nerve, and superior gluteal nerves.
ROLE OF THE SCHOOL IN CULTIVATION OF THE READING CULTURE AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN SUBURB AREA
Authors: Saleng Adam Zulkarnain , Abu Bakar Noor Insyiraah , Dawi Amir Hasan , Harun Azhar
Published: January 2023

This study aims to identify the role of the school in cultivation of the reading culture among students in primary school. The objective of this study is to identify the role of schools in cultivate the reading culture of primary school students and to identify factors that hinder the development of the reading culture among primary school students. A qualitative approach was chosen by using a case study as a research methodology. The observation method was used in this study. The findings of this study show that the role of schools in cultivating a reading culture among students can still be improved to make reading culture one of the school cultures. The lack of attention to the aspect of interest in reading will cause school institutions unable to develop reading culture among students. The school needs to look in various angles to forming a reading culture in the school. Students' reading habits require change through various approaches including continuous reading programs, provide reading material collections, teacher efforts and better information access facilities.
THE MALAYSIAN JOB MARKET: EXPLORING SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES (SNSS) AS AN ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION METHOD BETWEEN EMPLOYERS AND JOB SEEKERS
Authors: Azmi Elijah Noor , Abdul Rahman Nik Adzrieman
Published: January 2023

Interpersonal communication refers to the exchange of information, ideas, and feelings between two or more individuals. It is propounded as an essential component of human life; however, rapid technological advances have been changing the nature of interpersonal communication. As a result, the use of technology-oriented mediums like social networking sites (SNSs) has gained a prominent role in communication, particularly in the recruitment process. This subsequently alters the way employers and job seekers communicate with one another, which sparks the interest of researchers to further investigate the phenomenon. As an effort to contribute to the discussion, this paper reports an empirical study that investigated the use of SNSs in the communication between employers and job seekers. The objective is to understand the conceptualization of SNSs between employers and job seekers, the communication activities that occurred, the antecedents of choosing job advertisements from the job seekers’ perspective, and the consequences of using SNS platforms. This was achieved by adopting the Users and Gratification Theory as the underlying principle of the investigation. Purposive sampling was used to select 19 informants from various states in Malaysia. In-depth interviews were conducted to elicit data from these informants and it was later evaluated and combined in a thematic data analysis using the NVivo 12 software. The findings showed that the concept of quality communication comprises six (6) categories, namely data quality, reliability, matching and bridging, job security, opportunities for advancement, and transparency.
UNDERSTANDING MICRO FARMERS’ MOTIVATIONS AND DECISIONS ON CHALLENGES FACED IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Othman Akmal Aini , Md Dahlan Jaslin , Mat Din Syaidatul Zarina , Abd Ghani@Ismail Rosmah , Mohd Ali Norfariza
Published: January 2023

Despite years of industrialisation, Johor is still a leader in agriculture. The state is Peninsular Malaysia's major agricultural producer, and it has the third-highest official agricultural productivity in Malaysia. The growing of oil palms, various fruits and vegetables, poultry, pigs, cut flowers, and ornamental fish are among Johor's top agricultural strengths. This study brings new understanding to the existing literature, highlights new ways of looking at Malaysian micro farmers. Through this study, a better understanding of the challenges faced by micro farmers. Several sessions of semi-structured interviews were conducted with the selected farmers. Due to the Controlled Movement Order, we had to carry out the interviews via Google Meet. That was a great challenge in our data collection. The problems identified from this study are market price of crops, ownership of land, quality of crops, latex yield, pest infestation and workforce. Unlike the larger plantations, they depend on government subsidies and assistance during the trying times. They also made suggestions to overcome day-to-day farming challenges that may help them improve their economic and personal life for themselves and their families.
REVERSAL OF DEBT IN MURĀBAḤAH FINANCING RESTRUCTURING IN TANZANIA: A WAY FORWARD
Authors: Mapeyo Ramadhani Salim , Othman Ahmad Azam , Salleh Safinar , Ibrahim Uzaimah
Published: January 2023

In Tanzania, murābaḥah is one of the contracts which is used to be offered by the banks offering Islamic banking business on various consumer use and trade financing products. One of the matters which arises in the practice of murābaḥah is restructuring of the financing. Therefore, this paper deliberates and analyses the aspect of restructuring in murābaḥah financing in banking practices in Tanzania. In doing so, this discussion focuses on the Sharīʿah discourse on the concept of qalb al-dayn (reversal of debt). The aim of the study is to reveal the issues which are associated with murābaḥah financing restructuring in Tanzania and to propose the ways forward. The findings of this paper reveal that there is a regulatory issue which has impact on Sharīʿah compliance. This is the regulatory requirement to banking institutions to charge extra amount in respect of restructuring arrangement which results to ribā. The methodology adopted in this study is based on qualitative and descriptive approaches. It encompasses documentary review which involves authoritative and non-authoritative legal and Sharīʿah sources. The study recommends introduction of regulations for murābaḥah financing. Also, financial institutions are advised to adopt acceptable forms of qalb al-dayn when they are restructuring the financing.
A BAD IDEA OF USING MODE IMPUTATION METHOD
Authors: Md Soom Afiqah Bazlla , Mat Jasin Aisyah , Asmat Aszila , Canda Roger , Ismail Juhaida
Published: January 2023

Missing data is a recurring issue in psychology questionnaire when a respondent does not respond to questions due to personal reasons. In general, two types of imputation techniques are used to replace missing data: single imputation and multiple imputation (MI). The single imputation technique generates a single value to impute each missing data. The simplest methods of single imputation are mean, mode and median. In contrast, the multiple imputation technique imputes each missing data several times resulting in multiple complete datasets. The most popular method in MI that can deal with numerical and categorical data type is the predictive mean matching (PMM). The aim of this article is to compare and visualize how the mode imputation method in the single imputation technique will lead to a biased data distribution and the PMM method in the MI techniques will reduce this issue. Both methods, mode imputation and PMM are often considered when dealing with categorical data types. The mode imputation replaces a missing data with the most frequent value of an item in a survey. Meanwhile, the predictive mean matching is an extension of regression model that apply donor selection strategy to replace a missing data. Results from bar charts visualize the multiple imputation shows less discrepancy between the original distribution and imputed distribution. Thus, in this research, it can be concluded that the PMM method in MI technique shows a less biased distribution than implementing the mode imputation method. A comparison of imputation methods with different missing rates on a survey dataset should be considered for future work.
DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS AFFECTING ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION AMONG ASNAF IPT STUDENTS
Authors: Zaini Bahtiar Jamili , Sarkawi Mohammad Nizam , Mansor Rosnalini , Bohari Abdul Manaf , Mustaffa Mohd Adil
Published: January 2023

is very important and needs to be focused on to reduce the poverty rate in our country. Knowledge and exposure related to the field of entrepreneurship must be applied from the beginning of school education because it greatly helps the development of successful entrepreneurs among asnaf families. Many of the asnaf families send their children to study at Institutions of Higher Education (IPT) and have been given an education in the field of entrepreneurship. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the demographic factors that influence the entrepreneurial intention of asnaf students in the field of entrepreneurship through an online questionnaire. This study involved a total of 369 students in the asnaf category at Universiti Utara Malaysia. The study results show that these asnaf students have a high entrepreneurial intention with an average of 4.67 and a standard deviation of 1.46. This demonstrates that asnaf students have a significant favourable intention toward the entrepreneurship. Male students had stronger entrepreneurial intentions than female students. Diploma graduate students are more entrepreneurial intentions than STPM graduate students, who are followed by SPM graduate students. The survey also discovered that individuals with business experience, their own firm, and aim to be entrepreneurs after graduation have higher entrepreneurial intentions.
HOW DOES THE MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCE KNOWLEDGE INFLUENCE ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL) INSTRUCTORS’ TEACHING STRATEGIES?
Authors: Ismail Iziana Hani , Abd Latip Nur Anneliza , Din Wardatul Akmam , Swanto Suyansah
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study is to identify the level of Multiple Intelligence knowledge among the English language instructors in Sabah. 32 respondents from four educational institutions in Kota Kinabalu participated in this research. The data was obtained through a set of questionnaire that was modified and adapted from Thomas Armstrong (1994) to suit the objectives of this research. The modification and adaptation of the research instruments was done to meet the research objectives and the situation of the research. The set of questionnaire comprises of three parts. Part A touches on the demographic characteristics of the English language instructors, part B focuses on the knowledge level of the theory, and Part C targets on the teaching strategies in the English language classrooms. The marks were counted manually to find the connection between the knowledge level of Multiple Intelligences and the teaching strategies of the instructors in the classrooms. The finding of this research indicates that the English language teachers with excellent level of Multiple Intelligence knowledge do not necessarily have excellent varieties of teaching strategies, and vice versa.
ALTERNATIVE PRE-LAB ASSESSMENT FOR PRACTICAL CHEMISTRY COURSES IN PRE-UNIVERSITY: IMPLEMENTATION OF JOTTER BOOK
Authors: Nasrullah Ayu Afiqah , Bakri Sitty Nur Syafa , Abdul Rajak Mohd Azrul , Lasaraiya Suriana
Published: January 2023

The jotter book concept is not a novel method in scientific research. This practice is common not only among undergraduate students but also among postgraduate students, scientists, and researchers who use it to understand theories, concepts, and newly learned experimental procedures since it is important and significant pre-laboratory (pre-lab) preparation before an experiment is conducted. However, using a jotter book as one component of alternative pre-laboratory (pre-lab) assessment in assessing student achievement at pre-University level is something that has never been done before. In this paper, we proposed the rationale in implementation of the jotter book as one of the alternative assessments for the Chemistry course (SK0011-Practical Chemistry I and SK0021-Practical Chemistry II) for the foundation of science students in the Preparatory Centre for Science and Technology (PPST), Universiti Malaysia Sabah. Sample of 353 students from the intake session 2020/2021 are involved in this study. The improvement in the student grade from semester 1 to semester 2 will be discuss in this paper as the preliminary study.
INVESTIGATE STUDENTS' ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS IN MATHEMATICS COURSE THROUGH E-LEARNING APPROACHES
Authors: Che Hussin Che Haziqah , Juhan Nurliyana , Lasaraiya Suriana , Nasrullah Ayu Afiqah
Published: January 2023

This paper investigates students’ academic achievements through e-learning approaches based on students’ preference. E-learning approaches can be considered as asynchronous, synchronous and blended learning. Asynchronous learning happens when there is no set time for it to occur. Allows students to learn whenever and wherever they want, at their own pace. Web conferencing and chatting are used to deliver organised and time-bound activities characterise synchronous e-learning. Due to the Movement Control Order (MCO), which went into effect on March 18, 2020, lecturers at the Preparatory Centre for Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (PPST, UMS) could teach either synchronous or asynchronous classes. The independent sample t-test will be used, and the outcomes reveal statistically significant difference in the mean of both online learning strategies. Therefore, from the results we can conclude that students that prefer asynchronous learning approach improves the academic performance of students. However, higher end-of-course grades in asynchronous courses do not necessarily indicate that the asynchronous mode of instruction was more effective. This is because based on students’ preference for both methods that asked in questionnaires. The results also can be affected by various factors such as blended learning that is implemented for learning.
FROM OPPOSING SPACES TO FUZZY BOUNDARIES: EXPLORATION OF VISUAL IMAGES OF CYBERSPACE FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF PRODUCTION DESIGN
Authors: Liu Guangquan , Md Hashim Azhari , Yusoff Norman
Published: January 2023

With the continuous expansion of art boundaries, Cyberspace has gradually shifted from philosophy and the computer field to visual design. More and more artists and designers are exploring different visual possibilities in Cyberspace. As the film has led the visual representation of Cyberspace in recent decades, the visual designer of film—production designers has become the main designer of the visual image of Cyberspace. During the decades of visual development of Cyberspace, this study selects three typical films in different eras for analysis, and it mainly explores the visual images of Cyberspace from the perspective of production design and considers that the development of visual images of Cyberspace has changed from opposing space to fuzzy boundaries.
DESIGNING AND DEVELOPING A PERSUASIVE MOBILE APPLICATION FOR ORAL HEALTH PROMOTION: A METHODOLOGY
Authors: Sarif Siti Mahfuzah , Idris Siti Izani
Published: January 2023

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene could be very challenging, but it can be aided by employing appropriate motivational approaches. Flossing is one of the critical oral hygiene habits. This paper discusses the design and development of mobile application that could motivate user to learn, perform, and maintain optimal oral hygiene. Applying persuasive design in the development of oral health-related mobile applications could promote this good habit. Thus, the primary focus of this paper is to elaborate on the methodology of finding out a set of design principles under persuasive design for developing a mobile application that could engage user in maintaining good oral hygiene in general. The mobile application also aims to motivate user to take care of their oral hygiene through flossing activities. This paper discusses the design solution through a human-centred process; Design Thinking method. There are five phases in Design Thinking; however, this paper focuses on elaborating the first four phases: Empathy, Define, Ideate, and Prototype. 44 respondents were involved in the process of acquiring the requirements for design and development of a persuasive mobile application for promoting oral health. Finally, a high-fidelity prototype of the mobile application was produced and named as the FlossDance App.
TOURIST SELECTION FACTORS ON SELECTED SERVICE SECTORS WHEN VISITING THE CITY OF KINABALU, SABAH
Authors: Yusoh Mohamad Pirdaus , Ismail Nurul Izzah , Ang Kean Hua , Kumalah Mohd Jirey
Published: January 2023

This study discusses the determination of tourist selection factors for selected service sectors when visiting Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. There are four selected service sectors that are the focus of tourists including the accommodation sector, the transport sector, the food and beverage sector and the shopping sector. In general, studies on the selection factors of tourists towards this service sector are still lacking and very limited in being studied by researchers. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the characteristics of tourist selection in Kota Kinabalu. The research method used is quantitative. The respondents in this study consisted of 280 domestic tourists who visited Kota Kinabalu. The results of the study found that the most important factor influencing tourists in choosing the service sector is the price or cost factor which is the cheapest and worthwhile which is as much as 24 percent. While the service factor recorded a moderate value with 10 percent and the privacy factor recorded the lowest value with only 6 percent. This clearly shows that price or cost is the main factor influencing the choice of domestic tourists in Kota Kinabalu. The issue of increasing prices of goods at the moment has also reduced the purchasing power of households, especially involving the B40 group and some of the M40 group. This at the same time causes them to have to change their spending patterns such as choosing or using cheap goods or services because they now have to make plans before spending. Determining these factors allows stakeholders in the tourism sector to determine which packages or services are suitable for tourists, especially domestic tourists. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of tourists' selection of the service sector is important in the development of the tourism industry.
IMPLICATIONS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON MICRO-SCALE TOURISM ENTREPRENEURS IN RANAU DISTRICT, SABAH
Authors: Peter Thaddeus , Ang Kean Hua , Jamru Lindah Roziani , Abd Gafor Ridzuan
Published: January 2023

Tourism in Malaysia is still the third largest contributor of income after the manufacturing and petroleum industries. Tourism can be said to be the only alternative industry sector that can introduce something interesting that is hidden somewhere to the world level. Indirectly, this situation is able to generate income and reduce the poverty gap among the local population. This research study was conducted with the aim of examining the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on micro-scale tourism in the Ranau district, Sabah. This study uses a qualitative method that is through the interview method that took place from October to December 2021. The findings of the study show that among the micro tourism operators in the Ranau district, most of them are greatly affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic. In addition, this study also managed to collect and find some important findings regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on micro-scale tourism entrepreneurs in Ranau, Sabah. In conclusion, despite the various constraints that the researcher has to face, the researcher does not give up, especially in getting informants who are willing to be interviewed online by the researcher.
THE CHALLENGES AND INITIATIVES OF MICRO-SCALE TOURISM ENTREPRENEURS IN FACING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN RANAU DISTRICT, SABAH
Authors: Peter Thaddeus , Ang Kean Hua , Yusoh Mohamad Pirdaus , Abd Gafor Ridzuan
Published: January 2023

Tourism can be said to be one of the alternative industrial sectors that contribute income to Malaysia and have the ability to introduce something interesting that is hidden somewhere to the world level. Indirectly, this situation can reduce the poverty gap among the local population. This research study was conducted with the aim of studying the initiatives of micro-scale tourism entrepreneurs in dealing with it in Ranau District, Sabah. This study uses a qualitative method that is through the interview method. The findings of the study show that among the micro tourism operators in the Ranau district, most of them are greatly affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic. In addition, this study also managed to collect and find some important findings in relation to the challenges and initiatives that micro-scale tourism entrepreneurs have to face in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic in Ranau District, Sabah. In conclusion, despite the various constraints that the researcher has to face, the researcher does not give up, especially in getting informants who are willing to be interviewed online by the researcher.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CULTURE AND CUSTOMS IN THE PRODUCTION OF HANDCRAFTS IN SABAH
Authors: Sharif Adam Sharifah Darmia , Mokhtar Saifulazry , Marinsah Syamsul Azizul , Hajimin Mohd Nur Hidayat Hasbollah
Published: January 2023

This article discusses the importance of culture and customs in the production of handicrafts in Sabah. The population density in the state of Sabah which consists of approximately 41 ethnic groups and ethnic sub-groups that use almost 50 languages and speak them in 80 dialects, have different religions and traditional customs make it a state with its own special features. In addition, the plurality of ethnicities in Sabah also makes the state rich in various art treasures of cultural heritage. The importance of the culture and customs of various ethnicities in Sabah can be seen through the production of various handicrafts with artistic characteristics that symbolize the ethnic identity. Therefore, the discussion in this paper is focused on the extent of the importance of culture and customs in the production of ethnic handicrafts in Sabah. The writing of this article is one of the efforts to appreciate the production of various handicrafts that are closely related to the culture and customs that have been inherited by the various ethnic communities in Sabah. The rapid advancement of technology nowadays has had an impact on the heritage art of handicrafts in Sabah. Therefore, the writing of this article will produce an analysis that can be used as a reference to improve or formulate better policies, especially in matters that benefit the conservation of the art of handcraft heritage so that it continues to last and can be inherited by the young generation in Sabah in the future.
BEHIND THE IDEA AND INFLUENCE OF MUSEOLOGY IN THE WORLD AND MALAYSIAN MUSEUM INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Zaini Mohd Syafiq , Esa Mohd Sohaimi , Mokhtar Saifulazry , Othman Irma Wani
Published: January 2023

Museology is basically a field of study referring to museum institutions. From the historical aspect as well as their basic philosophy, their goals and policies and functions either from the point of view of education, politics or even social roles. Museology can be said to be a relatively new discipline whose prevalence is largely an intellectual product of the 20th century. However, it is certain that the concept of Museology has existed at least since the 17th century, where the development of the idea of museology appears to have developed along with the early development of the museum. During that period of time, museology has helped the development of museum institutions either in terms of concept or in terms of museum management. The change of museums from institutions that are only focused on the conservation and restoration of artefact collections, now they are community-oriented (community-oriented), becoming exhibition spaces and platforms for dialogue and communication in general with visitors. This study uses a qualitative method by analysing the data of studies on the development of museology in the field of museology. The focus of the study focuses on the definition, background and what is the significance and influence of museology in museum institutions in Malaysia. The results of the study show that the museum provides significant theoretical and practical museum aspects. Practical practice is a priority in the management of museum work to produce professionals in the field of museums while the existing theoretical will play a role as criticism needed to implement improvements and guidance to museum management because the museum's function as a treasure heritage institution can be implemented well. In addition, museology has also applied critical thinking to social and political issues. In the context of Malaysia, museology has called for the removal of all colonial influences in museum institutions through the implementation of decolonization after the country achieved independence. Then it changed the museum from colonialism, now it has been used as a tool for nation building in uniting a multi-ethnic and cultural society.
THE ART OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENT SYMBOL OF THE MALAY TRADITION OF BRUNEI MEMBAKUT, SABAH
Authors: Abdul Rahman Nurfarain , Esa Mohd Sohaimi , Mokhtar Saifulazry , Sharif Adam Sharifah Darmia
Published: January 2023

This article discusses the art of traditional musical instruments of the Bruneian Malays on the west coast, Sabah. Touching on the artistic aspect, it is part of a culture rich in homogeneity and beauty. These tribes have their own arts according to their respective cultures and religions. For people who are Muslims, they use the art of musical instruments for purposes that do not conflict with religion and thus symbolize the life traditions of a race, especially the Bruneian Malays on the west coast of Sabah. Kulintangan and gambus have been considered as a traditional musical instrument for the people. This musical instrument has long been known by other races, and it is often played during weddings, festivals and so on. The musical instruments of Brunei's Malays have similarities and differences from other races in Sabah. However, the scope of the study is focused on the west coast of Sabah because this area still preserves musical instruments as a traditional art form of Brunei Malays. In this study, a qualitative method approach was applied as a methodology to obtain findings. Therefore, this article will discuss the perception of the Malays in accepting the art of musical instruments as a tradition and the efforts made by the Malays of Brunei as well as the efforts of the Malays of Brunei and stakeholders to preserve the tradition of kulintangan and gambus as an art of musical instruments.
THE IMPLICATION OF COVID 19 PANDEMIC ON KIOSK ENTREPRENEURS IN 1 BORNEO SHOPPING COMPLEX
Authors: Subi Chentia , Jamru Lindah Roziani , Zakaria Zulayti , Ang Kean Hua
Published: January 2023

As we know, world have been shocked by the corona virus that spreading all over the whole world. The challenges that have been faced by all the countries in whole world shows that COVID-19 pandemic is a global scale crisis. It gave a huge impact on world socio-economy. In Malaysia, small and medium enterprises (SME) which is one of the biggest contributors in gross domestic product (GDP) are highly affected by this crisis. This is due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) implemented by the government following the COVID-19 pandemic which has caused various industrial sectors to stop business. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on kiosk entrepreneurs in 1 Borneo shopping complex by using quantitative and observational methods. The result of the study shows that the COVID-19 pandemic has gave an impact on kiosk entrepreneurs due to the lack of customers when the MCO was implemented (min score = 4.64), majority of the sales decreased to below RM3000 per month (min score = 4.54), and daily sales collections also could not reach the required capital (min score = 4.12). Therefore, based on the study of the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), the government need to take action and strategies to help those affected by providing various initiatives that are more effective and comprehensive in dealing with this situation.
JOURNALISM FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM: A POLITICAL ECONOMY DISCOURSE OF WEST NUSA TENGGARA LOCAL MEDIA ON THE RINJANI ECOTOURISM ISSUES
Authors: Teluma Aurelius Rofinus Lolong , Nur Muhammad Jamiluddin , Muhlis Muhlis
Published: January 2023

The practices of eco-journalism in West Nusa Tenggara local media have not been sufficient in journalistic performance in favor of environmental sustainability. This study aims to describe and analyze the news construction of West Nusa Tenggara or NTB local media in reporting the Mount Rinjani ecotourism industry during 2020. The study focuses on describing the pattern of power relations between the political-economic components of the West Nusa Tenggara local media institutions in reporting the issue of the Rinjani ecotourism business developments. The method used in this research is a case study. Using media-political analysis of news construction and the dynamics of power relations, the data were analyzed. Data collection uses related news clippings and in-depth interviews. The results show that in terms of quantity, the contents of Suara NTB, Lombok Post, and Kicknewstoday.com do not make Rinjani Ecotourism be the central issue in daily news headlines. Meanwhile, on the side of the discourse aspect, West Nusa Tenggara local media tend to describe government policies about Rinjani ecotourism as they are normal. West Nusa Tenggara local media lack in providing the news with critical notes on various aspects of Rinjani's ecotourism development. In addition, the results of the political-economic analysis reveal that the West Nusa Tenggara local media structurally tend to build a synergy of power with the local government regarding the development of Rinjani ecotourism.