bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Gamification-Based E-Learning on Web Design Topic
Authors: Pradana Fajar , Setyosari Punaji , Ulfa Saida , Hirashima Tsukasa
Published: February 2023

Conventional learnings have given way to methods aided by technological advances. The approach known as Student-Centered Learning (SCL) is the foundation of e-learning. Furthermore, SCL demands students to be self-motivated to complete courses and engage with the offered learning content. Programming is one of the most important subjects to study independently and with the aid of an instructor. The need for graduates with programming and computational skills in the field of web design continues to receive widespread attention from the industry. However, problems such as low student engagement are often encountered in learning about programming concepts and syntax. Gamification is an instructional approach to facilitate learning and boost motivation through game elements, mechanics, and thinking. Therefore, this research aims to discuss the development of Gamification-based e-learning to increase student engagement and motivation, especially in HTML and CSS web design. This system was tested with 3 methods, including unit, system, and user testing. In user testing, this study involved 264 students from computer backgrounds to validate the system. The results show that the e-learning system can perform well according to the expected specifications.
A Journey Into CLIL-Friendly Pedagogies to Inform Teacher Professional Development
Authors: Salvador-García Celina
Published: February 2023

CLIL effective pedagogy has been uncovered during the last two decades, and literature points to a number of considerations that CLIL teachers should take into account if they aspire to ensure optimal teaching and learning practices. Among other aspects, CLIL effective pedagogy may bear in mind a range of issues such as multimodal communication, oral communication, pedagogical translanguaging, collaborative teaching, critical thinking, and cooperative learning. In the present chapter, these will be described and justified from a theoretical perspective as relevant pedagogical ideas that CLIL professional development should consider. In addition, each of these CLIL-friendly pedagogical practices will be accompanied by an illustrative exemplification settled in a primary education context to facilitate their understanding and let readers clearly perceive how they may be operationalized at the classroom level.
“English in the Kindergarten: Towards Multilingual Education”
Authors: Gkaintartzi Anastasia , Kostoulas Achilleas , Vitsou Magda
Published: February 2023

This chapter presents a teacher education program that aimed to prepare early childhood educators and English language teachers to collaboratively introduce multilingual learning opportunities in pre-school education in Greece using English as a bridge-language among students' languages and cultures. The program, which was designed to support education policy that introduced the English language into the curriculum of Greek state preschools, had four goals. Firstly, it aimed to approach English as a bridge-language that can help promote multilingual meaning-making. Secondly, it encouraged the use of pedagogical translanguaging in order to support teachers to challenge prevalent monolingual instruction patterns and build upon the children's entire linguistic repertoires. Teachers were also trained in experimenting with and employing arts-based learning and creativity. These learning outcomes are illustrated in the chapter by drawing on teacher training materials and participant output, which provide useful data on the implementation and overall impact of the program.
Applications of Chatbots in Education
Authors: Ghayoomi Masood
Published: February 2023

This chapter mainly concerns the application of artificial intelligence (AI) based chatbots in education (in the general sense). Three general applications of such systems are studied: a) language learning, b) teaching a course, and c) assistive for educational purposes (in the narrow sense). There are advantages and disadvantages for using chatbots in education. Their interaction with the students, human-like conversation simulation, 24/7 availability, and easy accessibility are some of the key advantages of using AI-based chatbots in education. The main disadvantage of such systems is their knowledge-bases (KB) requirement. A KB plays as the brain of a chatbot. However, their development is labor intensive and expensive in terms of time and effort. In this chapter, the main research studies on chatbots for the educational domain are reviewed and general construction of a chatbot as well as the evaluation metrics of chatbots are explained; and the available chatbot tools and systems used in education, in the general sense, are collected.
Edubot
Authors: Hammad Rawad , Bhaja Mohammed , Patel Jinal
Published: February 2023

Recently, chatbots have been used in various domains including health care and entertainment. Despite the impact of using chatbots on student engagement, there is little investment in how to develop and use chatbots in education. Such use of advanced technologies supports student learning, both individually and collaboratively. The effective use of chatbots in education depends on different factors, including the learning process, teaching methods, communications, etc. In this paper, the authors focus on the systematic utilization of chatbots in education. A proof of concept has been developed and tested using two MSc module, i.e., cloud computing and software engineering. The authors have used AWS Services to build the backend of Chatbot and integrate it with Facebook Messenger to allow students to learn via an additional venue, i.e., social media. The use of EDUBOT proved that chatbot can improve student learning and engagement especially at the time of COVID-19 where higher education is moving towards online teaching. Extending EDUBOT framework will help to support students' admin and other queries.
KalaamBot and KalimaBot
Authors: Issa Elsayed , Hammond Michael
Published: February 2023

Chatbot technology is a subfield of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that deals with text-based or speech-based conversational agents. In general terms, a chatbot enables a user to have a conversational interaction with a computer. Chatbots have applications in several fields including trade, tourism, customer care, health services, education, et cetera. This chapter describes two chatbot systems that we are developing for learning Arabic as a foreign language. KalaamBot is a speech-based chatbot that converses with learners and teaches them the language in a conversational setting. KalimaBot is a text-based personal vocabulary assistant that enables students to search for the meaning of words, synonyms, antonyms, and word usage in context. This chapter provides extensive discussion of the several challenges second language researchers and chatbot practitioners encounter when designing chatbots for language learning. Then, it concludes with recommendations and future research.
4D Printing of Shape Memory Polymers: A Concise Review of Photopolymerized Acrylate-Based Materials
Authors: Sosa Rhaye Stephen B. , Baldos Davison T. , Basilia Blessie A.
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a concise review on 4D printing of shape memory polymers that focuses on the use of acrylate-based materials using photopolymerization. Stereolithography (SLA), Digital Light Processing (DLP), Inkjet Printing (IJP), and UV assisted Direct ink Writing (UV-DIW) are the photopolymerization printing techniques that uses acrylate-based materials. These acrylate-based feedstocks will be polymerized during printing by the presence of UV light to form shape memory polymers (SMPs). Acrylate-based SMPs will change their shape in response to heat, water, light, and pH. Demonstrated applications of these 4D printed acrylate-bases SMPs are in biomedical, soft robotics, flexible electronics, and structural materials. However, 4D printing is still in the early stage and there are a lot of challenges like enhancing mechanical properties, biocompatibility, limited kind of SMPs, high cost of 4D printing system, and many more that needs to be addressed before a viable product can be produced.
In memoriam of Prof. Stan Fakan
Authors: Biggiogera Marco , Malatesta Manuela
Published: February 2023

In memoriam of Prof. Stan Fakan
A Case of Reversible Dementia? Dementia vs Delirium in Lyme Disease
Authors: Sanchini Chiara , Papia Chiara , Cutaia Chiara , Poloni Tino Emanuele , Cesari Matteo
Published: February 2023

Lyme disease is an uncommon cause of reversible dementia. A 75-year-old male patient, with a personal history of mild memory deficit, was admitted to Alzheimer’s Disease Care Unit due to hallucinations, confusion and aggressive behavior unresponsive to antipsychotic therapy. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain was negative, while blood exams showed a rise in inflammatory parameters. A complete screening of infective diseases showed a positive serology for Borrelia burgdorferi, confirmed at Western blot. Even though the patient refused cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) exam, the brilliant clinical improvement after the appropriate antimicrobial therapy is strongly suggestive for a diagnosis of neuroborreliosis. This case report underlines the importance of a diagnostic approach to dementia, as to find out and treat the reversible causes.
Food Hygiene and Fecal Contamination on the Household Compound are Associated with Increased Pediatric Diarrhea in Urban Bangladesh (CHoBI7 Program)
Authors: Uddin Ismat Minhaj , Endres Kelly , Parvin Tahmina , Bhuyian Md Sazzadul Islam , Zohura Fatema , Masud Jahed , Monira Shirajum , Hasan M. Tasdik , Biswas Shwapon Kumar , Sultana Marzia , Thomas Elizabeth D. , Perin Jamie , Sack David A. , Faruque A.S.G. , Alam Munirul , George Christine Marie
Published: February 2023

In this prospective cohort study, we explored individual- and household-level risk factors associated with diarrheal diseases among 251 children younger than 5 years in slum areas of urban Dhaka, Bangladesh. During the 3-month study period, diarrhea surveillance was conducted monthly, and spot checks of the household compound were performed at baseline to assess the presence of feces (animal or human) in the household compound and in cooking and food storage areas, and to assess whether cooked food was covered and refrigerated. We also collected caregiver reports on child mouthing behaviors. Children living in households with feces within 10 steps of cooking and food storage areas (odds ratio [OR], 8.43; 95% CI, 1.01–70.18), those with visible feces found on the ground of the household compound (OR, 4.05; 95% CI, 1.24–13.22), and those in households found to keep cooked food uncovered and without refrigeration (OR, 6.16; 95% CI, 1.11–34.25) during spot checks had a significantly greater odds of diarrhea. There was no significant association between pediatric diarrhea and caregiver-reported child mouthing behaviors or presence of animals in the cooking area. These study findings demonstrate that presence of visible feces in the household compound and near cooking and food storage areas, and poor household food hygiene practices, were significant risk factors for diarrheal disease among young children in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Health communication programs are needed to target these exposure pathways to fecal pathogens.
Participation of Representatives of the German Diaspora in the Economy of Turkestan
Authors: Inoyatova Dilaram M.
Published: February 2023

The mass resettlement of Germans, among other Russian peoples, from Russia, Germany and other European countries and the formation of a diaspora on the territory of Turkestan began in the second half of the 19th century after its conquest by the Russian Empire. Having successfully adapted to the new lands, Germans, along with other peoples, took an active part in the political, cultural and economic life of Turkestan. This article is devoted to the representatives of the German diaspora who were directly involved in the economy of Turkestan. The goal is to analyze the economic activity of the Germans in Turkestan in the second half of the 19th – early 20th centuries. In this study, both general scientific and specialized methods are used, which allowed for a consistent analysis.

We have identified various areas of German entrepreneurship in the spheres of the economy of Turkestan. In particular, urban Germans were directly employed in the field of service personnel, in industrial, commercial and entrepreneurial activities; they acted both as independent merchants and as managers of firms. Rural peasants, German settlers, became one of the main driving forces of the agrarian development of the region. They became owners of farms, contributed to the development of agriculture, irrigation and animal husbandry. An analysis of the economic activities of the German diaspora in Turkestan showed that, despite their relatively small number in the region, they had a very noticeable impact on the socio-economic development of the region, which had a positive value for Turkestan. The article may be useful to scientific and practical workers, graduate students and all those who are interested in the history of the German diaspora and the development of the economy in the Turkestan period.
Developing rapid and effective communications testing: background and methodology
Authors:   IPSOS, Aimes Ashley , Ginnis Steven , Garrett Cameron , Di Antonio Elena
Published: February 2023

In November 2021, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) commissioned Ipsos to build on previous research and guidance to establish a process to rapidly test communication pieces. We achieved this by piloting different survey tools and testing existing communication pieces. The FSA wanted to identify features that make their communications most effective. This report presents the learnings from the pilot, which can be used to aid the development of future communications. This report is split into five sections: 1 Executive summary 2 How the pieces of communication landed: including initial reactions and engagement. 3 Reputation indicators: exploring how exposure to materials impacts awareness, familiarity, favourability, and trust in the FSA. 4 Topic specific indicators: exploring the impact exposure to materials has on people’s familiarity and attitudes towards the specific topics covered by them. 5 Testing different best before/use by dates messages: findings from the AB testing using Ipsos DUEL.
Perbandingan Metode Klasifikasi Sentimen Analisis Penggunaan E-Wallet Menggunakan Algoritma Naïve Bayes dan K-Nearest Neighbor
Authors: Delta Maharani Fatmanisa Mumpuni , Lia Hananto April , Shofia Hilabi Shofa , Nur Apriani Fitria , Hananto Agustia , Huda Baenil
Published: February 2023

Dompet digital atau yang sering disebut dengan e-wallet dalam kurun waktu belakangan ini semakin meningkat dalam penggunaannya. Hasil survei Jakpat, dalam melakukan pembayaran digital sebanyak 94% responden menggunakan dompet digital (e-wallet). Banyak sekali masyarakat yang mulai merasakan manfaat dari e-wallet sendiri. Didalamnya, e-wallet menawarkan berbagai fitur yang salah satunya kepraktisan dan efisiensi dalam bertransaksi dan keamanan dalam transaksi. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mencari algoritma terbaik dalam menentukan klasifikasi sentimen analisis penggunaan e-wallet dengan membandingkan dua algoritma yaitu Naïve Bayes (NB) dan K-Nearest Neighbor (k-NN). Sebanyak 1292 data menggunakan  kata kunci yang sesuai dengan e-wallet yang akan digunakan, diambil pada tanggal 17 Oktober – 11 November 2022 melalui proses crawling data twitter. Proses tersebut dimulai pada tahap pengumpulan dataset twitter, pelabelan data, Text Processing, Cross Validation model klasifikasi, evaluasi accuracy hingga didapatkan hasil akhir yaitu  dibandingkan dengan model klasifikasi Naïve Bayes, hasil akurasi algoritma k-NN lebih tinggi. Hasil accuracy dari masing-masing model klasifikasi yaitu NB sebesar 73.03% dan k-NN sebesar 89.44%, precision NB sebesar 21.40% dan k-NN sebesar 65.45%, dan recall NB sebesar 48.32% dan k-NN sebesar 22.25%. Dari hasil perbandingan metode membuktikan bahwa algoritma k-NN dengan accuracy terbaik yaitu sebesar 89.44%.
Analisis Sentimen Masyarakat Terhadap Konflik Rusia dan Ukraina Menggunakan Metode Naïve Bayes pada Media Sosial Twitter
Authors: Muriyatmoko Dihin , Taufiqurrahman Taufiqurrahman , Humam Asad
Published: February 2023

Konflik antara dua negara yaitu Rusia dan Ukraina telah dimulai sejak tahun 2014, konflik antara 2 negara tetangga yang mempertemukan antara Rusia dan Ukraina diakibatkan karena kepentingan dan perebutan sumber daya alam. Kemudia konflik antara Rusia dan Ukraina Kembali meningkat pada awal Februari 2022 setelah armada tempur Rusia menunjukan kekuatan tempurnya di perbatasan Belarusia dan Ukraina. Pada penelitian yang akan dilakukan kali ini memiliki tujuan untuk memperoleh pengembangan model untuk mengetahui sejauh mana sentiment public mengenai konflik yang terjadi antara Rusia dan Ukraina di dua topik yaitu Rusia Ukraina, Ukraina Rusia menggunakan Bahasa Rusia. Metode klasifikasi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode Naïve Bayes. Hasil yang didapat dari model ini mendapatkan hasil yang cukup memuaskan. Jumlah data  tweet yang akan digunakan  dari Twitter berjumlah 5216. Model yang digunakan dalam pengujian kali ini untuk membaca sentiment public di media sosial twitter sejak tanggal 04 Juli 2022 sampai  22 Juli 2022. Model mendapatkan hasil untuk menyimpulkan bahwa opini public mengenai konflik Rusia dan Ukraina memiliki  kecenderung Tidak Setuju. Untuk penelitian selanjutnya bisa dikembangkan dengan perbaikan label pada dataset dan penambahan dataset.
Segmentasi Citra Menggunakan Algoritma K-Means Berbasis Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Rachmat Rachmat , Yusuf Muhammad , Abbas Irfan , Basmar Muh. Fahmi
Published: February 2023

Citra merupakan hasil transformasi dari gambar yang digunakan dalam mengidentifikasi suautu objek, sehingga objek tersebut dapat dilihat lebih jelas dari objek aslinya sehingga dalam penelitian ini penulis menggunakan Algoritma k-means sehingga segmentasi citra dapat dilihat dengan jelas serta meningkatkan kualitas citra maka penulis menggunakan PSO ini terlihat dari hasil uji coba citra yang berwarna skala keabuan dengan nilai segementasi sebesar 0,6056 menggunakan k-means setelah menggunakan PSO naik menjadi 0,6124 atau sebesar 8,456%, ini menandakan penggunaan PSO ada kenaikan terhadap segmentasi citra.
Perbandingan Algoritma C4.5 dan Naïve Bayes dalam Menentukan Persediaan Stok
Authors: Rian Pratama  , Huda Baenil , Novalia Elfina , Kabir Huban
Published: February 2023

Dalam bisnis ritel, persediaan merupakan faktor penting yang perlu diperhitungkan. Jumlah persediaan yang keluar masuk harus dipeerhitungkan. Alasannya adalah agar stok persediaan tetap stabil dan juga untuk menghindari kerugian yang disebabkan oleh kadaluarsa. Masalahnya adalah setiap item memiliki pembelian yang berbeda. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan perhitungan untuk memprediksi item apa saja yang perlu ditambah atau dikurangi di gudang. Berdasarkan permasalah tersebut, metode klasifikasi data mining digunakan dalam menentukan algoritma yang cocok untuk prediksi persediaan. Dua algoritma yang digunakan adalah algoritma C4.5 dan Naive Bayes. Setelah dilakukan pengujian kedua algoritma tersebut menggunakan tools RapidMiner, didapatkan hasil bahwa algoritme C4.5 memberikan nilai akurasi sebesar 96.80%, sedangkan algoritma Naive Bayes memberikan hasil sebesar 91.20%. Kesimpulannya adalah algoritma C4.5 baik untuk prediksi persediaan.
Pengelompokkan Peminatan Selera Terhadap Keterkaitan Bahan Masakan Menggunakan Metode K-Means
Authors: Rachmat Rachmat , Yusuf Muhammad , Abbas Irfan , Basmar Muh. Fahmi
Published: February 2023

Bahan masakan merupakan minat terhadap selera makan dalam memilih makanan bagi setiap orang yang akan merasakan bahan masakan tersebut, sehingga betapa pentingnya bahan masakan ini untuk digunakan dalam memasak makanan, maka perlu diketahui keterkaitan selera seseorang dengan bahan masakan sejauh mana hubungan keterkaitannya dengan menggunakan metode k-means ini.  Sehingga dilakukan pengelompokkan bahan masakan berdasarkan negara satu dengan negara lainnya. Digunakan metode Knowledge Discovery in Database atau disingkat KDD dalam data mining. Terdapat 6 negara yang akan dianalisis yaitu Vietnam, Cina, Thailand, Indonesia, Jepang, dan Korea yang dikelompokkan berdasarkan 2 (dua) entitas bahan masakan yaitu bawang putih dan cabai. Sehingga terdapat keterkaitan antara bahan masakan negara Cina, Thailand, dan Korea.
Monitoring Ketinggian Permukaan Air Menggunkan Telegram Bot Berbasis NODEMCU ESP8266
Authors: Safii Muhammad , Rosita Isa , Jamal Jamal , Pamungkas Wisnu Hera , Atma Yeyen Dwi , Idris Nasruddin Bin , Daffa Anis
Published: February 2023

Ketinggian air adalah ukuran air dari bawah ke atas. Kebanyakan tracking saat ini menggunakan cara konvensional atau menggunakan bandul, namun hal ini memakan banyak tenaga dan waktu serta terbatas jika hujan. Untuk mengatasi permasalahan tersebut digunakan teknologi Internet of Things yang mampu melakukan pemantauan jarak jauh. Metode yang digunakan adalah metode eksperimen, dimana untuk melakukan hal ini dilakukan beberapa eksperimen terhadap instrumen yang akan digunakan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membuat alat monitoring pengukuran ketinggian air berbasis social media menggunakan esp8266 nodemcu. Adapun sensor yang digunakan untuk mengukur jarak ketinggian level air adalah ultrasonic HC-SR04. skema penelitian kali ini adalah skema penelitian hibah internal yang di adakan oleh LPPM Universitas mulia. Konsep metodologi penelitian yang dilakukan adalah melakukan pendekatan solusi berbasis tujuan (Studi literatur), identifikasi masalah dan motivasi, penentuan fokus dari penelitian, perancangan dan pengembangan solusi, pembuatan simulasi, pengujian, pembahasan. Luaran wajib Hasil penelitian ini adalah dokumen engineering feasibility study, dan akan dipublikasikan ke jurnal nasional Metik 2022.
Ertapenem for Treatment of Extended-spectrum Beta-lactamase-producing and Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative Bacteraemia
Authors: Lye David Chien , Wijaya Limin , Chan Joey , Teng Chew Ping , Leo Yee Sin
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Imipenem and meropenem are treatment of choice for extended-spectrum betalactamase (ESBL)-positive gram-negative bacteraemia. They may select for carbapenemresistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa; ertapenem may not do so as it is inactive against these bacteria. Clinical efficacy of ertapenem in ESBL-producing gramnegative bacteraemia is limited.

Materials and Methods: Retrospective study of patients with ESBL-positive gram-negative bacteraemia treated with ertapenem was undertaken.

Results: Forty-seven patients with multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteraemia (79% produced ESBL) were treated with ertapenem for a median duration of 11 days. The median age was 70 years. Septic shock occurred in 19% and mechanical ventilation was needed in 17%. Klebsiella pneumoniae comprised 53% and Escherichia coli 26%. Urinary infection accounted for 61% and hepatobiliary 15%. Favourable clinical response occurred in 96%. Attributable mortality was 4%.

Conclusion: Ertapenem is promising in culture-guided step-down therapy of ESBL-positive gram-negative bacteraemia.

Key words: Bloodstream infection, Carbapenem resistance, Klebsiella pneumoniae
Hamstring Injuries: Risk Assessment and Injury Prevention
Authors: Clarke Ross A
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries associated with sports participation. The aim of this review is to outline identified risk factors and examine preventative strategies for reducing the occurrence of this form of injury.

Methods: An electronic search of Medline and SCOPUS was carried out for key words related to the area.
Results: A number of risk factors, including both intrinsic and modifiable, were identified. Important aspects of an exercise programme were then outlined based on these risk factors.
Conclusion: A programme specifically designed to reduce the risk of hamstring injury by taking a strategised approach to exercise prescription may reduce the risk of hamstring injury. However, further research is required to determine the optimal programme for reducing the risk of injury.

Key words: Muscle, Rehabilitation, Strain
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor versus Angiotensin 2 Receptor Antagonist Therapy and the Influence of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Gene Polymorphism in IgA Nephritis
Authors: Woo Keng-Thye , Lau Yeow-Kok , Chan Choong-Meng , Wong Kok-Seng
Published: February 2023

Introduction: In this study of 109 patients with IgA nephritis (IgAN), we compared the long term effects on patients treated with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or angiotensin receptor antagonist (ATRA) alone with respect to renal outcome in terms of ESRF from 1995 to 2006. The renal outcome is also correlated with the ACE gene ID polymorphism to study its influence on response to ACEI/ATRA therapy.

Materials and Methods: Seventy-seven patients were on treatment with ACEI/ATRA (22 on ACEI alone, 47 on ATRA alone and 8 on both). The other 32 patients were on no treatment (control group).
Results: Compared to controls, treated patients had lower serum creatinine (P<0.001), lower proteinuria (P<0.001) and fewer number progressing to ESRF (P<0.001). For those with the II and ID genotype there were significantly fewer patients with ESRF in the treatment group. With the DD genotype, treatment did not change the poor renal outcome with regard to ESRF. Patients on ACEI therapy had a higher incidence of ESRF compared to those on ATRA (P<0.001). For the control group, the projected number of years-to-ESRF was 10 years. For those on ACEI therapy it was 11 years, and for those on ATRA therapy it was 24 years. Among patients with the II genotype, those treated with ATRA had significantly less incidence of ESRF compared to those treated with ACEI (P<0.001).
Conclusion: ATRA therapy was found to be effective in retarding disease progression to ESRF in IgAN compared to ACEI therapy. Genotyping showed better response to ATRA therapy only for those with the II genotype.

Key words: End-stage renal failure, Genotyping, Reciprocal creatinine plots
Twentieth Century Influenza Pandemics in Singapore
Authors: Lee Vernon J , Wong Chia Siong , Tambyah Paul A , Cutter Jeffery , Chen Mark I , Goh Kee Tai
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Singapore was substantially affected by three 20th Century pandemics. This study describes the course of the pandemics, and the preventive measures adopted.

Materials and Methods: We reviewed and researched a wide range of material including peer-reviewed journal articles, Ministry of Health reports, Straits Settlements reports and newspaper articles. Monthly mortality data were obtained from various official sources in Singapore.
Results: The 1918 epidemic in Singapore occurred in 2 waves – June to July, and October to November – resulting in up to 3500 deaths. The 1957 epidemic occurred in May, and resulted in widespread morbidity, with 77,000 outpatient attendances in government clinics alone. The 1968 epidemic occurred in August and lasted a few weeks, with outpatient attendances increasing by more than 65%. The preventive measures instituted by the Singapore government during the pandemics included the closure of schools, promulgation of public health messages, setting up of influenza treatment centres, and screening at ports. Students, businessmen and healthcare workers were all severely affected by the pandemics.
Conclusions: Tropical cities should be prepared in case of a future pandemic. Some of the preventive measures used in previous pandemics may be applicable during the next pandemic.
A Global Perspective on Avian Influenza
Authors: Ong Adrian , Kindhauser Mary , Smith Ian , Chan Margaret
Published: February 2023

Global public health security is both a collective aspiration and a mutual responsibility that demands cooperative action at all levels. The expansion of the current H5N1 avian influenza enzootic and its incursion into human health presents a real and significant threat of an influenza pandemic. The world has for the first time an unprecedented opportunity for pandemic preparation. Current global efforts to tackle the H5N1 pandemic threat are centred around the framework of the International Health Regulations (2005) that requires countries to openly share disease intelligence including clinical samples, viruses and epidemiological information. Present international initiatives also seek to establish more equitable allocation and sharing mechanisms for developing countries, of therapeutic resources, public health interventions and other broad-based support in the event of a pandemic. To be sustainable, country preparatory efforts need to be integrated within wider national emergency preparedness frameworks and emphasise the strengthening of basic capacities in disease surveillance, outbreak response and health systems that can respond to a range of public health emergencies. Such capacity building represents permanent investments in health that will have enduring benefits beyond a pandemic. Preparations must also go beyond the health sector; greater promotion of intersectoral cooperation and an adoption of a whole-of-society approach to preparation is recommended. Broad collaboration is vital in addressing the complex challenge posed by influenza to our collective security.

Key words: H5N1, Health security, Pandemic, Public health
Risk Communications: In Search of a Pandemic
Authors: Menon K U
Published: February 2023

This paper explores the difficulties in managing risk communications in the face of uncertainty of an avian flu pandemic over a protracted period. The communications effort has also been made more difficult by the confusion and cacophony in the media and claims by experts and politicians worldwide. While Singapore secured much praise for its handling of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) just 4 years earlier which threatened its very existence as a nation-state, it also had to “unlearn” and “unfix” assumptions and mindsets that grew out of that experience. A protracted crisis of uncertainty has also raised difficult questions of sustaining public awareness and alertness. Compounding these problems is the seemingly high reliance of Singaporeans on Government to manage the crisis at all stages. Risk communications has become a crucial necessity in an increasingly troubled world and evokes contradictions for many in medicine and public health – calling on Governments to raise the alarm whilst also calming fears at the same time. It is hoped that Singapore’s experience throws up some useful lessons for other countries. The basic principles of risk communications employed are in line with the best practices adopted by many other countries. The experience may also contribute to the ongoing and somewhat contentious debate on whether the manner in which Singapore manages the information flow can be replicated or applied by other states and cultures.

Key words: Information, Pandemic, Risk communications, SARS, Trust
Phase II Trial of Gemcitabine in Combination with Cisplatin in Inoperable or Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chia Whay Kuang , Ong Simon , Toh Han Chong , Hee Siew Wan , Choo Su Pin , Poon Donald YH , Tay Miah Hiang , Tan Chee Kiat , Koo Wen Hsin , Foo Kian Fong
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a dismal prognosis and is notoriously chemo-resistant. We conducted a Phase II prospective study to evaluate the activity and tolerability of gemcitabine and cisplatin in chemo-naïve advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. The trial considered a “no further interest” response rate of 10% and a target response rate of 30%. Utilising a Simon’s minimax two-stage design with a type I error of 0.05 and power of 80%, 25 subjects would be required. Fifteen patients would be needed in stage 1 and if fewer than 2 responses were observed, the trial would be stopped and lack of efficacy claimed.

Materials and Methods: Patients with advanced HCC, diagnosed based on histology or by World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, were administered gemcitabine 1000 mg/m2 and cisplatin 25 mg/ m2 on day 1 and day 8 of a 21-day schedule. Assessment of response based on computer tomography was performed after every 2 cycles of chemotherapy.

Results: The trial was stopped early due to a lack of efficacy. A total of 15 patients were accrued. Twelve patients were hepatitis B positive and the other 3 patients were negative for both hepatitis B and C. Only 1 patient had a history of prior heavy alcohol use. Two patients had Child C liver cirrhosis, 5 patients had Child B cirrhosis, and the remaining 8 patients had Child A cirrhosis. This regime was well tolerated and there was only 1 patient who experienced grade IV toxicities. Only 5 of 15 patients experienced grade III toxicities (nausea and emesis, 1 patient; anemia, 1 patient; thrombocytopenia, 1 patient; and neutropaenia, 2 patients). Only 1 patient experienced a partial response to the combination of gemcitabine and cisplatin. A further 3 patients experienced stable disease and 11 patients progressed on chemotherapy. The median time to progression was 6 weeks. The progression-free curve showed a sharp descent in the initial part of the study, suggesting that many patients had disease progression after enrolment. The median overall survival was 18 weeks.

Conclusion: The progression-free survival and overall survival in our study were extremely short. Based on the results of our phase 2 study, we are unable to recommend further studies utilising gemcitabine and cisplatin combination in patients with advanced HCC.

Key words: Cisplatin, Gemcitabine, Hepatitis B, Hepatocellular carcinoma
Effects on the Contralateral Eye After Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Ranibizumab Injections: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Ziqiang , Srinivas R Srinivas R
Published: February 2023

Introduction: We report a case in which intravitreal bevacizumab and ranibizumab appeared to have effects in the contralateral, uninjected eye.
Clinical Picture: An 83-year-old man with macular oedema from branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in the right eye developed neovascular macular degeneration in the left eye. Intravitreal bevacizumab in the left eye improved macular oedema in the right eye temporarily before it recurred. Subsequently, intravitreal ranibizumab in the left eye also resulted in significant reduction of macular oedema in the right eye.

Outcome: Vision and macular oedema in the right eye improved.

Conclusion: Bevacizumab and ranibizumab may have therapeutic effects in the uninjected eye, possibly because they may escape from the eye into the systemic circulation.

Key words: Side effects, Uninjected eye
Hypnotherapy for Sleep Disorders
Authors: Ng Beng-Yeong , Lee Tih-Shih
Published: February 2023

Hypnosis can be defined as a procedure during which changes in sensations, perceptions, thoughts, feelings or behaviour are suggested. Hypnosis can be used to amplify whatever it is about therapy that makes it therapeutic. It permits a wide range of choices regarding where and how to intervene in the patient’s problems. In this paper, we set out to examine the rationale of using hypnotherapy to manage various types of sleep disorders, and to explore the techniques, strategies and hypnotic scripts employed by various hypnotherapists. We also examine the research data available on the efficacy of hypnosis in the treatment of sleep disorders. Acute and chronic insomnia often respond to relaxation and hypnotherapy approaches, along with sleep hygiene instructions. Hypnotherapy has also helped with nightmares and sleep terrors. There are several reports of successful use of hypnotherapy for parasomnias, specifically for head and body rocking, bedwetting and sleepwalking. Hypnosis is a specialised technique, not a therapy itself, and should be used as an adjunctive intervention within a complete psychological and medical treatment package. Most of the literature is limited to case reports or studies with such a small sample that at times it is very difficult to interpret the results. There is a major placebo effect, so uncontrolled trials are of limited value. It is hard to perform a randomised, double-blind, controlled trial to evaluate hypnotherapy given that cooperation and rapport between patient and therapist is needed to achieve a receptive trance state.

Key words: Insomnia, Nightmares, Nocturnal enuresis, Parasomnias
Stock Valuation and Financial Performance of Nickel Mining Company in Indonesia (Case Study: PT Vale Indonesia Tbk)
Authors:   School of Business Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia, Biantoro Reyhan Akbar ,   School of Business Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia, Rahadi Raden Aswin
Published: February 2023

Indonesia is home to 22% of the world’s nickel deposits, and its restriction on nickel ore exports since 2020 has resulted in significant changes to the supply chains of vital items such as electric vehicles and the stainless steel sector. Approximately 75% of nickel is used in the manufacturing of stainless steel, the most common use of nickel. However, nickel is also essential for the fabrication of electric vehicle (EV) battery cathodes, which are required for the shift to green energy. Current EV battery demand accounts for around 7% of worldwide output, but anticipated increases in EV demand will result in an exponential increase in nickel demand. The exponential increase in nickel demand led to volatility in global nickel prices. Volatility in global nickel prices is affecting companies that operate nickel mining businesses. PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (INCO) is listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange as one of the nickel mining firms operating in the nickel mining business (IDX). The volatility of the global nickel price is both a breath of fresh air and a problem for the firm. INCO may also participate in and benefit from the rising worldwide demand for nickel in the foreseeable future. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the intrinsic value of a nickel mining company in order to assist investors in making decisions in the current market environment. Evaluation of financial performance over the last five years and projections for the next five years using absolute and relative valuation methodologies. The author suggests investors to purchase this stock using a risk-reward assessment suited to each investor’s circumstances and the potential return earned. Referring to the stock valuation evaluation, investors are recommended to purchase if the price of INCO falls below the range of IDR 6,051 to IDR 6,335. When the market price is inside and above the intended range, it is not advisable for an investor to purchase INCO.
Political Knowledge and Involvement in Public Affairs of College Students at St. Paul University Surigao, Philippines
Authors:   Director, Quality Assurance and Management, St. Paul University Surigao, Surigao City, Ederio Nikko T.
Published: February 2023

The study is aimed to assess College Students' Political Knowledge and their Political Involvement in Public Affairs. It was conducted to the 320 college students across all college departments at St. Paul University Surigao, Surigao City, during the second semester of AY 2021-2022. The study employed a descriptive quantitative survey method. The findings revealed that there is no significant degree of relationship between the students’ Political Knowledge and their Political Involvement which means that the student’s level of political involvement is not dependent on the level of their political knowledge. Political knowledge in this study is measured according to public policies, political leaders, political processes, and political issues while political involvement is measured from the perspective of voting, public forums, and political activism. Students were rated highly knowledgeable in all dimensions; however, they were rated seldom and not involved in voting, public forum, and political activism.
Spa Therapy as a Way of Improvement of the Quality of Life for People with Muscellaneous Problems
Authors:   Democritus University of Thrace, Faculty of Science of Physical Education and Sports, 69100 Komotini, M. Ioannidou , P. Malliou, ,   Democritus University of Thrace, Faculty of Science of Physical Education and Sports, 69100 Komotini, G. Costa, ,   Democritus University of Thrace, Faculty of Science of Physical Education and Sports, 69100 Komotini, K. Taxildaris, ,   Democritus University of Thrace, Faculty of Science of Physical Education and Sports, 69100 Komotini
Published: February 2023

his research focused on the study of the effect of spa therapy on improving the quality of life, in particular in terms of the areas of physical functionality, psychological functionality, as well as sociality, in people who have problems with the spine (lumbar spine). The dysfunction of people due to their musculoskeletal problems and the ways to deal with them is a challenge for physical therapy. Method: The sample consisted of people with musculoskeletal problems, who were recipients of spa therapy services. Questionnaires were used that record the functionality of individuals in relation to the musculoskeletal problem they face, in this case, the lumbar spine. Results: From the study of the completed questionnaires, information was obtained on gender, age, occupation, health problems and the reasons that prompted the sample to use spa treatments, and the frequency of visits to spa towns. There are clear indications that the use of thermal water with a frequency of at least ten visits per year, favors people with lumbar problems. There is an improvement in mobility (better functionality in the spine), but also in the bathers' quality of life as they perceive a reduction in pain, reduced irritability, and a better mental mood. The professional action of the physical education scientist can play a decisive role in maximizing the effectiveness of the intervention through spa therapy. Conclusions: Physical education can and should have an active role in the development of Bath Therapy. Organization and appropriate actions are required to utilize the results of the research so that it takes its rightful place.
Effects of Foreign Direct Investment on Total Factor Productivity in CEMAC
Authors:   Teacher-Researcher, Marien Ngouabi University, Faculty of Economics, MOUSSAVOU Ferdinand
Published: February 2023

his article aims to analyze the effects of foreign direct investment (IDE) on total factor productivity (PTF) in the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC). Using annual data for the period 1990-2020, the methodology was based on the Generalized Moments Method (MMG). The results of this research indicate that three variables positively influence total factor production. These are total factor productivity lagged one period, foreign direct investment and human capital. On the other hand, trade openness, labor force, gross fixed capital formation and political stability negatively explain total factor production. This suggests a series of policy recommendations.
PERKIRAAN ULANG CADANGAN MUNGKIN PANAS BUMI TEMPERATUR MENENGAH DI INDONESIA
Authors: Nugraha Husin , Wahyuningsih Rina , Rahadinata Tony
Published: February 2023

Informasi tentang nilai dan karakteristik sumber daya dan cadangan energi panas bumi yang akurat dibutuhkan dalam perencanaan kebijakan energi yang tepat dalam rangka optimalisasi pemanfaatan sumber daya panas bumi di Indonesia. Selain itu, perbedaan hasil perhitungan sumber daya dan/atau cadangan energi panas bumi yang dilakukan pengembang dan pemerintah menyebabkan perhitungan keekonomian proyek pengembangan panas bumi suatu area prospek juga berbeda. Studi ini melakukan perhitungan ulang sumber daya panas bumi kategori temperatur menengah kelas cadangan mungkin dengan mengganti asumsi beberapa parameter dengan asumsi parameter best practice yang digunakan dalam beberapa literatur. Kelima parameter tersebut yaitu perhitungan termal yang terkandung dalam fluida, temperatur akhir, saturasi air, faktor konversi listrik dan faktor kapasitas pembangkit. Hasil perhitungan ulang pada studi ini menghasilkan nilai sumber daya panas bumi yang berbeda dari hasil perhitungan Badan Geologi. Persentase perbedaan perhitungan Badan Geologi dan studi ini terdapat indikasi korelasi kuat dengan temperatur reservoir ditunjukkan dengan nilai R2 sebesar 85%. Korelasi yang kuat ini mengindikasikan adanya perbedaan yang sistematik, yang diduga karena dalam perhitungan Badan Geologi diasumsikan adanya perubahan fasa air dari fasa cair (liquid) ke fasa uap (vapor). Hasil perhitungan ulang dengan menggunakan persamaan korelasi tersebut dengan input temperatur reservoir menghasilkan pengurangan nilai sumber daya panas bumi sebesar 27% atau sebesar 940 MWe dari hasil perhitungan Badan Geologi. Hal tersebut mengakibatkan nilai sumber daya temperatur menengah kelas cadangan mungkin yang sebelumnya mencapai 3.482 MWe berkurang menjadi total 2.541 MWe.
Implementation Analysis of Management Covid-19 Patients in Accordance with Standard Operating Procedures and Religious Approach
Authors: Efendy Ismail , Purba Nur Harini , Nuraini Nuraini
Published: February 2023

The goal to be achieved in this study is to analyze the implementation of the management of COVID-19 patients based on Standard Operating Procedures and a Religious Approach at Pancur Batu General Hospital, Deliserdang Regency. This type of research is qualitative research with a phenomenological approach. Data collection techniques using interviews, observations, and surveys. Informants consisted of the Director of Nursing and Medical Services, the Head of Nursing, the Head of the COVID-19 Isolation Room, Nurses, doctors, chaplains. Qualitative data collection techniques using the Triangulation method. Data analysis used descriptive qualitative with technical triangulation data stages, sources and time. The results showed that policy standards and targets, resources, communication, and the duties and responsibilities of spiritual services at Pancur Batu General Hospital had been going well. the research of Pancur Batu General Hospital has policy standards and targets regarding the management of COVID-19 patients. Good available resources. Socialization and communication is done well, to patients and their families. Spiritual services are carried out virtually. Not only for patients, also for staff. It is hoped that this will provide an overview of the implementation of the management of COVID-19 patients in accordance with standard operating procedures and a religious approach so that it can be used as a basis for taking a further policy and increasing the satisfaction of every patient who comes.