To fight anxiety and lead a good life, let’s tame that imaginary shrew
Senior Associate Professor Dr. Jayita Poduval from the ENT Unit at the Faculty of Medicine has shared details regarding anxiety and ways to overcome it in an article titled 'To fight anxiety and lead a good life, let's tame that imaginary shrew.' The article got featured in the columnist section of NST on December 4, 2022. Click here to read.
Which Branches of Computer Science are in the Highest Demand?
Computer science is one of the most diverse fields in the world. It has an array of subjects within one name. There are different areas of computer science where one can specialize and get recognized.
What is Computer Science
Usually, when one refers to Computer Science, the fields that immediately come up are development of software, games and applications, and servers with the fancy equipment that one sees in Science Fiction movies. Overall, the major degrees that are associated with Computer Science are Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Management Information Systems. Let us look a little deeper into what these programs have to offer. Bachelor of Computer Science covers the theoretical and mathematical underpinnings of computing. Several schools also offer interdisciplinary bachelor’s degrees that allow computer science students to combine interests like a Bachelor of Computer Science, a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science, or a Bachelor of Management Information Systems.Course Content of Computer Science
Most Bachelor of Computer Science programs include core coursework in computer architecture and programming, data structures, algorithms, and logic and computation. However, given the breadth of the Computer Science discipline, bachelor's programs can differ significantly in terms of focus and available specializations. For example, some programs may heavily emphasize math, requiring courses in areas such as calculus, statistics, probability, and discrete mathematics. There are a variety of electives and specializations in the areas of data communications, operating systems, software testing, and computer networking. For the theoretically minded students, there are areas like investigations into the computation theory, information theory, or human-computer interaction. More deep specializations include artificial intelligence, real-time computing or computer graphics. Bachelor of Computer Science is extremely versatile and prepares students for diverse Computer Science and IT careers. The Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems (BIS) degree will provide students with the educational background to pursue an exciting career in applying computers in business and government to process data and solve a wide variety of business problems.
What is Management Information Systems
Management Information Systems (MIS) is a challenging field of study focused on integrating computer-based information technology solutions and business processes to meet the information needs of businesses and other enterprises. Bachelor’s in management information systems is a good major for any undergraduate studies. Jobs in the computer and information technology fields are projected to grow at a steep rate in the next 10 years. The field of management information systems deals with solving the problems at the intersection of business and technology. The bachelors’ in management information systems study how technology can be used to access, store and share information. Here are three things that you can do with a bachelor’s degree in management information systems:- Computer and Information Systems Manager - They deal with computer and information systems managers with computer related activities in an organization. They plan, coordinate and direct everything that is related to computers within the organization.
- Computer Network Architect - They work with data communication networks. They design, and build the computer networks within an organization. This includes the Local Area Networks, intranets, and Wide Area Networks.
- Database Administrator - They store and organize data using specialized software. They can also work in industries that have large databases that store huge bytes of information, like insurance companies, educational institutions.
How Does a Computer Science Degree Help?
With the Bachelors in Computer Science, one can apply for a range of computational and mathematical jobs in the creative industries, business, finance, education, medicine, engineering and science. Typical job titles include application programmer, software engineer, creative coder, video game developer and systems analyst. Bachelors in Computer Science is a bit hard to learn, since you have to learn programming languages. One has to be motivated and must devote sufficient time to studying the disciplines. The Bachelors of Computer Science program, emphasizes the mathematical and theoretical foundations of computing. Some of the top jobs with a Bachelors in Computer Science degree are:- Data Scientist
- Information Systems Manager
- Mobile Application Developer
- Cloud Solutions Architect
- Database Administrator
- Software Engineer
Conclusion
Computer science is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after fields in today’s time. If one has a curious mind, critical thinking, and complex problem-solving abilities needed to be a computer scientist, they can choose from any of the high paying Computer Science jobs. In fact, all the aforementioned branches of computer science are in high demand. Therefore, it is recommended to choose the branch that truly interests and inspires you.What are the Types of Healthcare Facilities in the Medical Field?
When considering a career in the healthcare sector, one will discover there is a diverse array of options and specialties within the medical field. Based on the fields, there are separate degrees that cater to them. Let’s look at some of them to understand the specialties a bit deeper.
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
Bachelor of Dental Surgery is a five year undergraduate program. It is a compulsory course for students aspiring to work as dentists at government or private hospitals. Researchers have discovered that unhealthy mouth may increase the serious risk of health problems like heart disease and diabetic complications. Hence, the care that dentists provide greatly improves the quality of life of patients. Besides filling and pulling out teeth, a dentist's tasks include restoring functions to badly decayed, broken teeth, replacing missing teeth with dentures, treatment of oral inflammatory diseases of the gums and supporting tissues, oral care during cancer treatments along with aligning and straightening of teeth. The Bachelor of Dental Surgery students will receive their degrees from the respective universities where they are enrolled.Bachelor of Pharmacy
As the global population grows and ages, and with medicines becoming more complex, the need for pharmacists will increase. Pharmacists are the experts on medicines and the way they interact with the body. They play a vital role in improving the health of their communities. A Bachelor of Pharmacy degree gives one the knowledge, experience and expertise needed to make a difference from the moment one graduates as a medicine expert and healthcare professional. The courseware for the Bachelor of Pharmacy covers applied pharmaceutical sciences, enabling sciences, clinical sciences, therapeutic sciences and pharmacy practice, along with the professional skills and attributes needed to be a pharmacist. Students will understand the use of medicines and will contribute to new drug research, development and innovation.
Diploma in Nursing
The Diploma in Nursing is a three year programme designed to prepare students to be competent Registered Nurses. Nursing refers to the act of giving care to those who are unwell, whether they are mentally or physically. Nurses play a large and very crucial role in health care and are often responsible for administering medication, treating wounds, and monitoring vital signs. Nurses are the ones that help the recovery process of patients. Diploma in Nursing has the below specializations:- Accident and emergency
- Paediatrics
- Obstetrics
- Oncology
- Ophthalmology
- OPD
- Gynaecology
Bachelor of Medicine
The Bachelor of Medicine, or commonly called MBBS, is a long and challenging role. It is a selfless calling, dedicated to the service of others. This degree relates to diagnosing, treating and preventing a sickness, disease or injury. It involves utilizing healthcare practices to maintain and restore the health and wellbeing of a person. As a part of the Bachelor of Medicine, one could gain extensive knowledge in medical sciences and the right clinical skills to provide efficient patient care. This includes being able to accurately diagnose and treat patients, explain treatment to patients, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals. The Bachelor of Medicine, has many specialties like,- Anaesthesiology
- Internal Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology
- Orthopaedics
- Paediatrics
- Surgery
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Applied Mathematics or Mathematics
All of these fields of Medicine contribute to making the lives of patients easier. Hospitals these days can have the below specialized departments or facilities to provide complete focus and care to patients:
- Outpatient Surgical Facilities - provide surgical procedures outside of a hospital.
- Birth Centers - for child birth with care provided in the midwifery and wellness model.
- Blood Banks - where blood and platelets are donated and stored for use.
- Clinics and Medical Offices
- Diabetes Education Centers - classes, resources and support groups to help those who have diabetes.
- Dialysis Centers - provides dialysis, a process to filter and clean the blood, for patients with kidney diseases.
- Imaging and Radiology Centers
- Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers
- Nursing Centers
- Orthopaedic Centers
- Telehealth - digital or remote health care.
- Long Term Healthcare - for patients with serious conditions that need constant care.
All in All
When it comes to a career in healthcare, it is paramount to understand the different kinds of health care facilities one could work in. The Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Bachelor of Medicine, Diploma in Nursing, and Bachelor of Pharmacy are courses that build in their students the confidence and credentials to work directly with patients and doctors or behind the scenes in policy and management. The opportunities for healthcare professionals are endless. It’s up to an individual to invest in studies and specialise in one that interests him.What are the Differences Between Medicine and Biomedical Science?
The study of diseases that affect human beings, their diagnosis, treatment, and prevention are the constituents of medicine. While biomedical students focus on how the cells, organs, and different systems function in the human body, which feeds the understanding and treatment of human diseases. Medicine is about diagnosing diseases and treating patients, while biomedical science is about research for treatment. Both these fields are related to improving human life and saving humans from deadly diseases. However, the paths these fields take are different. Medicine is the use of science and knowledge of the human body to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases and injuries. Biomedical science, on the other hand, is concerned with researching and studying the human body to advance in the medical field. Biomedical researchers conduct experiments and research to study various conditions, which can then be used in the development of new drugs and identifying better ways of treatment. The curriculum for a Medical degree is more extensive compared to the one for Biomedical Sciences. Degrees in Medical sciences would be Bachelor of Medicine and MBBS, while a Biomedical Degree would be Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences. The decision on which degree to pursue, a Bachelor of Medicine, MBBS, or a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences, can be difficult.
Bachelor of Medicine, MBBS in Malaysia
Medicine is all about health and healing. This involves medical research, disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention among other areas. For Bachelor of Medicine, or MBBS in Malaysia, programs are long and rigorous, requiring five years of dedicated study in undergraduate schools. The first two years of MBBS are spent in classrooms, learning about the anatomy of humans, the build-up of cells, and the various systems that work together in the human body. Towards the last three years, the students of MBBS or Bachelor of Medicine, move into clinical settings, working with patients and learning how to diagnose and treat illnesses.
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences, study a combination of biology and medicine to understand both human and animal health. A Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences degree has numerous different disciplines in the field. These include biochemistry; cell and tissue biology, immunology, microbiology; and pharmacology. Every specialization has its own area of focus. These disciplines are important to understanding how the body works and how diseases are caused and treated. A Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree is a three year undergraduate programme that ends with a research project during the final year. The research projects for the Bachelor of Biomedical Science are usually a set of experiments and a detailed write-up on the work done and observations made. It can also act as a portfolio and work registration, depending on the institute and the programme. After completion of the Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree course, students can register themselves as Biomedical Scientists.The Job Prospects for Each of These Degrees
After passing the Bachelor of Medicine, MBBS or Bachelor of Biomedical Science degrees, there are different career paths that the students can pursue. Some of these paths are similar, while some are unique to the Bachelor of Medicine, MBBS or Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences. Being a doctor is one of the most common careers for someone who has a Bachelor of Medicine or MBBS degree. They can then work in a hospital, a clinic, or have a private practice. This is unique to doctors alone, and biomedical students who wish to become doctors can do so after they have graduated from medical school. Likewise, graduates with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree attend an accredited biomedical science programme and achieve a working portfolio signed by an accredited laboratory. Someone with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree can also choose to be an assistant at a biomedical laboratory. They help scientists conduct research, develop new treatments and identify the right medicines. Health researchers are another important player in the medical field and are roles that can be played both by doctors and biomedical science graduates.
Conclusion: Difficulties for Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences Vs Bachelor of Medicines, MBBS
Since both these degrees have different educational goals and aims, it is not easy to compare the difficulties of both these areas. Medical degrees are extremely focused on patient interactions, while biomedical students have very little or no patient contact at all. Biomedical students may have a better depth of knowledge than medical students in areas like biochemistry, structure of proteins, etc., but medical students need to have a large breadth of knowledge across different disciplines, making their degree more challenging.How Has the Covid-19 Pandemic Changed Biotechnology?
To understand the changes to this field, let us understand what Biotechnology is. Biotechnology is a field that makes use of biological organisms and systems to engineer new products. These products help in improving our lifestyles and in maintaining a healthy environment around us, thereby protecting our planet. A degree like Bachelor of Biotechnology, teaches about science that has been around for thousands of years. The Bachelor of Biotechnology, Bachelor of science in Biotechnology, and Bachelor of biotechnology, focuses on the usages of biotechnology that dates back to ancient times.
Biotechnology Process and Products
An example of this could be the production of beer using fermentation techniques. This process involves the use of living organisms such as yeast, in its natural form, to induce a biochemical reaction in food products. In fact, the process has remained unchanged till date. Biotechnology engineered products make use of scientifically modified versions of living systems like bacteria and viruses. It has found many applications in the fields of agriculture, environmental usage, biofuels, self degrading plastic and many more. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of biotechnology. Let us look at how the scope has changed with biotech and Covid-19. Biotechnology has played a vital role in understanding the spread of diseases and their potential fatalities among humans. The inter-field connection has helped speed up the identification process, which generally cannot be solved by one particular field. During the Covid-19 pandemic, it was Artificial Intelligence that associated the drugs with the pathogens that caused Covid-19. Various fields in the Bachelor of Biotechnology, have helped in the various stages involved during the development of vaccines.What are Vaccines?
Vaccines are actually weakened versions of the viruses or copies of the proteins that form the outer covering of the viruses. These vaccines and the studies made in undergraduate courses like Bachelor of Biotechnology, are used to protect humans from the possible infections caused by these viruses and bacteria. This helped in the accelerated development of the vaccines provided to the public as protection from Covid-19. Identifying the right vaccines was formed by how to understand how the vaccines work on the SARS-Covid-2 virus. During the initial days of identifying the right vaccines, the laboratory activities were brought to a standstill as no one was quite clear about the situation. Most of the researchers working from their homes, analyzing data and documentation, had limitations. For the vaccines to work, it is important to believe that the vaccines work.
Career Options with Biotechnology
Bachelor of Biotechnology, Bachelor of science in biotechnology, Diploma in Biotechnology, are some of the undergraduate and diploma degrees awarded in the field of biotechnology. These courses specialize in biostatistics, biophysics, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and immunology, among the basics. These graduates often get into bio-technical roles as microbiologist, immunologist, virologist, epidemiologist, biochemist, etc. Biostatistics deals with developing statistical methods for different biological processes. Biophysics makes use of methods in physics to understand and study biological mechanisms. Immunologists study the immune systems of organisms and try to find the connection between disease-causing pathogens and diseases. This is a very important study to identify the right strain of viruses, and their extracts for the vaccines. Virologists study the various viruses and manage the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infectious diseases. Virologists are one of the most sought-after medical professionals during the current pandemic as their experience provides valuable insights into how COVID-19 can be brought under control.Important Changes in Biotechnology
What has majorly changed after the pandemic is the disruptions in clinical research that have a long-lasting impact on drug and vaccine development timelines and procedures. Clinical trials were impacted in a way, Bio Scientist had ever imagined. Covid-19 got into completely unrelated trials with infections that side-lined patients and also changed results for the whole batch. Prior infections were also identified to affect patient selections for years to come in trial testing for medicines for respiratory illnesses.
The Side Effects of the Covid Virus
Another side effect of the Covid-19 pandemic was the renewed interest in vaccines. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies learned new ways to swiftly move vaccines through the clinical trial and regulatory process, which otherwise took years to finalize. This period also saw the rise of a few biotech companies focused only on Covid-19 and SARs. On the other hand, Covid-19 had been brutal to small sized bio-techs. Many smaller companies joined the effort to find vaccines, medicines, or treatments, testing theories that were unproven. They wanted to see if those theories actually worked, only to watch the attempts flame out and literally empty out the coffers.In Closing
It is important for governments to encourage scientific research and practices while improvising on campaigns to improve awareness among the masses. Post the Covid-19 pandemic, virologists are the most sought after professionals as their experience provides valuable insights into how the mutations of the SARS Covid virus, can be brought under control, and many other areas.Multidisciplinary approach nurtures adept problem solvers
A multidisciplinary education system that makes knowledge relevant and applicable to solving life's challenges and nurtures creativity will serve society well. Accordingly, the Vice-Chancellor of AIMST University, Professor Datuk Dr. John Antony Xavier, has enlisted strategies for the Education Ministry to advance its agenda to improve the education system in an article titled 'Multidisciplinary approach nurtures adept problem solvers.' The article got featured in the columnist section of NST on 31 October 2022. Click here to read.
Tackle mental health by giving hope to others
Dr. Shivali Shamsher, Senior Lecturer at the Unit of Anaesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, has contributed a write-up on mental illness which features NGOs' role in supporting those suffering silently from the illness. The write-up titled 'Tackle mental health by giving hope to others' got featured in the columnist section of NST on 27 October 2022. Click here to read.
Heed warning signs of stroke
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Malaysia. It also threatens one's physical, psychological and economic status, making stroke a substantial national burden. Learn more about the disease in an article titled 'Heed warning signs of stroke' by Dr. Kallyan K. Debnath from the Medical Education Unit of AIMST University. The article got featured in the 'Letters to the Editor' column of NST on 22 October 2022. Click here to read.
Let’s sleep our way to good health
Sleeping is a basic human need, like breathing, eating and drinking. Yet many of us consider sleeping a luxury. Dr. Madhumita Sen, Deputy Director of the Clinical Skills Centre at AIMST University's Faculty of Medicine, has enlisted several damaging effects caused by sleep deprivation in an article titled 'Let's sleep our way to good health.' The article got featured in the columnist section of NST on 22 October 2022. Click here to read.
Life’s Simple 7
Dr. Madhumita Sen from the Clinical Skills Centre (CSC) of AIMST University has enlisted seven rules for boosting cardiovascular health based on the 'Life's Simple 7' plan. The plan uses seven important domains for cardiovascular health. Learn more about it in a concise write-up featured in the 'Letters to the Editor' column of NST on 12 October 2022. Click here to read.
Budget tightening will have to wait
The 2023 budget presented by Finance Minister YB Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz allocated RM372 billion for the year ahead. As predicted, the budget is an expansionary one and the second biggest in the annals of Malaysia's budgeting. Learn more on the four key purposes of the 2023 budget in an article by the Vice-Chancellor of AIMST University, Professor Datuk Dr. John Antony Xavier. The article, 'Budget tightening will have to wait,' got featured in the columnist section of NST on 11 October 2022. Click here to read.
What Technologies are Used in Dentistry?
Modern dental technology has made it possible to find modern solutions to traditional dental problems.
The Bachelor of Dental Surgery and other dentistry courses offered by dental university in Malaysia provide people with cutting-edge dental treatment that may be completed in a more effective and efficient manner.
It could seem that not much has changed in dental technology to a casual observer. However, the area of dentistry is undergoing constant change because of advancements in dental technology.
As newer technologies emerge and develop, an emphasis is placed on producing aids and equipment along with developing methods that a dentist may employ to aid in the early detection, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental problems and illnesses.
A modern dentistry course provides access to a wide range of dental technologies, many of which have advantages that can make the treatment more comfortable and easier for patients.
A list of dental technology aids taught as part of dentistry courses is below.
1. Air-Abrasion
An air-abrasion device is used as an alternative to a conventional dental drill to treat tiny cavities while sparing good tooth tissue and avoiding the need for local anaesthesia. By blasting pellets made of air and aluminium oxide, air abrasion enables the exact elimination of deterioration. Through access to challenging locations like those in between teeth, air-abrasion dental technology can also be utilized to assist in restoring outdated dental restorations.2. CAD/CAM
Dental restorations may be made using computerized dental technology thanks to CAD/CAM (computer-aided design, computer-assisted manufacture) technology. A dentist may use CAD/CAM in the office to finish dental restorations that would typically take two visits to complete in one appointment. Inlays, onlays, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and dental bridges are a few examples of these procedures.Solutions for caries detection:
To ensure that all tooth decay has been treated from an afflicted region, a liquid red dye known as a caries detection solution is spread on the tooth. The plaque-disclosing tablets that are used after brushing to show if any places were missed or weren't properly cleaned are quite similar to this solution.3. CAT Scan
Implantologists (dentists who have a Bachelor of Dental Surgery) can inspect and manipulate the jawbone or surrounding bone structure more precisely with the use of 3-D CAT scan dental technology. With developments in dental technology, implants have replaced dentures as the treatment of choice for tooth replacement.Implants in the Teeth
This dental technology is constantly evolving. Dentists who have undergone a dentistry course have the ability to use mini implants to support small or minor tooth replacements.
4. Digital X-rays
Dental pictures can be captured using digital radiography using a sensor that projects the image onto a computer screen. In addition to reducing radiation exposure, digital X-rays can be more comfortable than traditional X-rays. One "paper" X-ray is about equivalent to four digital radiographs.5. Handpieces with Electricity
Electric handpieces can be used with rotary cutting tools and can help with cleanliness measures. Smooth material distribution provided by electric handpieces reduces stress on the sound tooth structure. They are frequently quieter.6. Intra-Oral Camera
A precise picture of your teeth and their supporting structures may be created with intra-oral cameras. This dental technology makes it possible for people, dentists, and any potential dental technology technician to work on one tooth flaw at a time. One may learn more about dental hygiene procedures, such as where to concentrate when cleaning the teeth, with the use of intra-oral cameras.7. VELscope
VELscope is a revolutionary new FDA-approved oral cancer screening dental technology that employs incandescent light to detect abnormalities that would otherwise be invisible to the human eye. Oral surgeons also utilize VELscope to assist in locating unhealthy tissue near lesions and establishing the ideal margin for surgical excision.
