Cat and Diabetes

This is clearly a random blog. Something that people nowadays can relate to. 

January 2025

A few days before the end of 2024, my cat suddenly looked down, unwell and having a high fever of 40.2'c. On the first visit to the clinic, the vet suggested a blood test fearing the worst. Somehow the result was fine except for the glucose reading of 12.3 (XXXX). The young vet mentioned that it might be due to the stress of commuting to the clinic. Let me tell you that fella, my cat, hates car rides to the core. So okay, we returned with a fever shot, anti-inflammation meds, and a thick black vitamin. 

For the next two days, my cat had on and off fever, specifically an hour after meal time. Do note that he refused to eat so I had to force-feed him with a syringe. I lost one kitten years back because I did not know that whatever happened, cats need to eat even if they refused or else their liver might fail. So with this one, I forced him to eat even a bit. 

After two days, he was getting weaker and I was somehow seeing a slight yellowish color on his ears, I rushed him to the clinic despite my dad saying it was nothing. Throughout this time, I seriously wonder how the previous generation can have the mind of " Let the cat be and he'll be fine"? *facepalm*

Now, at the clinic, with another senior vet, she clearly mentioned she was actually worried about the previous Glucose reading of my cat. Because it clearly high. So she requested to proceed with another comprehensive blood test. And I actually agreed with it. My dad, and it was the second time he came to any vet clinic in his life, formerly told me not to do any test on the cat, cause it seemed wasteful. As the only child yet the first-born daughter, and granddaughter of the family which clearly had enough with all the adults' minds, of course, I just turned deaf for whatever he said.

Back to the cat, eventually, after a day leaving him at the vet for the tests, my cat was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. I was dumbfounded. And God knows how my anxiety skyrocketed. After having a deep conversation with our vet, I was still worried but it calmed me a bit. Yet, the vet suggested that insulin to be administered. Like being struck by the second lightning, I was dumbfounded, again.

Food picture: Mee Udang Pulau Sayak

Nearby the area that got hit by the tsunami 2006. 

Usop Mee Udang Pulau Sayak or in English Pulau Sayak (the place's name) Prawn Noodle. Lol.

AI Showdown: ChatGPT, Claude, & Google Gemini Battle for Everyday Brilliance!

In the fast-paced world of artificial intelligence, three standout contenders are making waves: ChatGPT by OpenAI, Claude by Anthropic, and Google Gemini. These AIs aren’t just tools; they’ve become essential companions, each with its own superpowers. 

ChatGPT is your go-to for creative brainstorming, whipping up anything from witty articles to functional code. Claude, on the other hand, is like the responsible friend—focused on keeping things ethical and under control. Meanwhile, Google Gemini flexes its versatility, seamlessly handling tasks that mix text, code, and visuals.

Whether you need a digital wordsmith, an ethical advisor, or a multitasking powerhouse, these AI models bring something unique to the table, making everyday tasks smoother and smarter.

The table below shows brief comparison between three leading AI chatbots—ChatGPT, Claude, and Google Gemini—against each other, showcasing their strengths in different areas. ChatGPT excels in creativity and versatile content creation, while Claude focuses on ethics and safety. Google Gemini stands out with its multimodal capabilities, seamlessly handling text, code, and images. Each model caters to unique needs, from writing and coding to ethical AI solutions. Whether you're seeking creative content, ethical AI, or powerful multitasking, this table highlights what makes each chatbot shine.

Feature	ChatGPT (OpenAI)	Claude (Anthropic)	Google Gemini (Google)
Developer	OpenAI	Anthropic	Google
Primary Strength	Strong conversational fluency and adaptability	Safety-oriented with a focus on ethical AI	Multimodal abilities (text, code, audio, images)
Best Prompt Example	"Write a detailed blog post about the latest AI trends."	"Analyze the potential ethical implications of using AI in healthcare."	"Generate a step-by-step guide on how to integrate text, code, and images in a single AI project."
Training Data	Trained on a wide variety of internet data	Focus on safe and ethical AI, large datasets	Trained using Google's large knowledge base
Best Prompt Example	"Explain how GPT-4 improves on previous AI models."	"Describe how ethical considerations were integrated into AI training."	"Compare Google’s AI training data with OpenAI's approach."
Natural Language Processing	Excellent conversational skills and fluency	Strong on reasoning tasks, deeper understanding	Excellent at understanding and generating natural language
Best Prompt Example	"Hold a casual conversation about the future of space exploration."	"Debate the pros and cons of universal basic income."	"Summarize a complex legal document in simple language."
Code Writing Ability	Very proficient, especially in GPT-4	Good, but slightly behind ChatGPT	Excels at structured code and logic tasks
Best Prompt Example	"Write Python code for a web scraper that extracts data from a news site."	"Suggest ways to optimize this piece of JavaScript code for performance."	"Generate a structured SQL query that retrieves customer orders from a database."
Accuracy vs. Creativity	High creativity in text generation	Leans toward accuracy and safety	Balanced, with a tilt toward accuracy
Best Prompt Example	"Create a fictional short story set in a futuristic world where humans live underwater."	"Provide a factual report on the benefits and risks of AI in education."	"Produce an accurate analysis of current AI trends and potential future applications."
Supported Languages	Over 25 languages	Supports over 95 languages	Multilingual, extensive support (exact count varies)
Best Prompt Example	"Translate a business proposal from English to French."	"Explain the cultural nuances of translating medical texts into multiple languages."	"Generate a multilingual product manual that covers text in English, Spanish, and Mandarin."
Pricing	Free tier with ChatGPT-3.5, paid tier for GPT-4	Flexible pricing (typically cheaper)	Free and paid options available
Unique Features	Integrates with third-party apps, strong multimodal support (DALL-E, code interpreter)	Ethical AI with guardrails for safety	Designed to handle a wide variety of tasks beyond just chat (text, code, image, etc.)
Best Prompt Example	"Create an image of a futuristic city with DALL-E and explain its design."	"Suggest steps to ensure AI adheres to ethical safety guidelines in public services."	"Combine text, code, and image generation to create a cohesive AI-driven presentation."
Best For	Versatile use, content creation, code generation	Ethical AI tasks, reasoning, customer service	Multimodal use, enterprise-level tasks
Best Prompt Example	"Write a news article and generate a code to analyze reader engagement."	"Propose ethical solutions for AI in surveillance."	"Create an interactive AI tool that processes images and provides live feedback."

In the battle of AI chatbots, each model brings something unique to the table. ChatGPT is your go-to for creativity, Claude excels in ethical and safe AI, while Google Gemini dominates with its versatile, multimodal capabilities. Choose based on your specific needs, as all three shine in their own way.

Strengthening Surveillance and Public Awareness: Malaysia's Response to the Global mpox Emergency

The Malaysian Ministry of Health (MOH) is bolstering its preparedness in response to the World Health Organization's (WHO) recent declaration of mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for the second time on August 14, 2024. This declaration emphasizes the growing global concern over the spread of the mpox virus, particularly with the emergence of a new strain, clade 1b, which has been rapidly spreading in parts of Africa.

Heightened Surveillance at International Entry Points

In line with WHO’s declaration, Malaysia is intensifying its surveillance efforts, particularly at all international entry points. The MOH has mandated that all travelers arriving from countries with reported mpox cases must monitor their health daily for 21 days following their arrival. This includes being vigilant for symptoms commonly associated with mpox, such as skin rashes and blisters.

Travelers are urged to seek immediate medical attention if they develop any symptoms, as early detection and isolation are crucial in preventing the spread of the virus. The MOH’s proactive stance reflects its commitment to safeguarding public health and preventing any potential outbreak within the country.

Public Health Advisory and Clinical Notifications

The Ministry has issued a public health advisory, particularly targeting individuals with a history of high-risk activities. Those experiencing symptoms like rashes or blisters are strongly advised to seek immediate medical examination at the nearest healthcare facility. Furthermore, they are encouraged to avoid close contact with others to minimize the risk of transmission.

Healthcare professionals, both in government and private facilities, have been instructed to promptly report any suspected or confirmed mpox cases to the nearest District Health Office. This measure is critical for enabling timely intervention, including the implementation of necessary prevention and control strategies.

Preparedness of Diagnostic Laboratories

Malaysia’s readiness to handle a potential outbreak is further supported by the availability of diagnostic laboratories equipped to conduct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which are essential for confirming mpox diagnoses. The MOH has confirmed that there are currently 10 laboratories, including two private labs, capable of conducting these tests.

Mpox strain (source:WHO)

In addition to testing capabilities, the Ministry is working to raise public awareness about mpox, particularly among high-risk groups. This includes distributing educational materials and collaborating with non-governmental organizations to reach at-risk populations, such as those frequenting spas and saunas, where skin-to-skin contact is more likely.

Ensuring Hygiene in High-Risk Premises

The MOH has also placed emphasis on maintaining hygiene standards in premises that involve skin-to-skin contact with customers, such as spas and massage parlors. These establishments are required to ensure that both staff and clients are symptom-free before providing services. The Ministry has advised that any individual displaying symptoms like rashes or blisters should seek medical attention immediately.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to prevent any potential spread of the virus within Malaysia, particularly in environments where close contact is common.

Collaboration with Government and Non-Governmental Agencies

The Ministry of Health is committed to a collaborative approach in its response to the mpox threat. It continues to work closely with various government agencies and non-governmental organizations, as well as public and private healthcare providers, to monitor, detect, and manage mpox cases effectively. This coordinated effort is crucial in ensuring that all potential cases are promptly identified and managed, thereby reducing the risk of a widespread outbreak.

The Ministry also remains vigilant in monitoring the global situation, particularly in regions where mpox is spreading rapidly. This includes the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has reported a significant increase in cases, with over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths in 2024 alone. The MOH is also keeping a close eye on the situation in East Africa, where countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda have reported mpox cases for the first time.

Global Context and Malaysia’s Response

The WHO’s second declaration of mpox as a PHEIC underscores the seriousness of the current global situation. The first declaration, made on July 23, 2022, remained in effect until May 11, 2023. The resurgence of the virus, particularly the rapid spread of the new clade 1b strain, has prompted renewed international concern.

In response to these developments, Malaysia has recorded nine cases of mpox since the first case was detected on July 26, 2023. All reported cases in the country have been linked to individuals with a history of high-risk activities. Fortunately, all the patients have recovered, and no deaths have been reported to date.

Despite the relatively low number of cases, the MOH remains on high alert, recognizing the importance of early detection and rapid response in preventing a larger outbreak. The Ministry’s proactive measures, combined with public cooperation, are key to ensuring that Malaysia remains prepared in the face of this global health challenge.

Expert Opinions and Future Outlook

Commenting on the situation, Professor Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, a health economics and public health specialist at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Faculty of Medicine, emphasized the importance of monitoring individuals who have engaged in sexual activities with partners from countries where mpox is present, including those where the disease is endemic. Her remarks highlight the ongoing need for vigilance, particularly in identifying and managing cases that may arise from international travel or high-risk activities.

As the global situation continues to evolve, the MOH is committed to staying informed and adapting its strategies as necessary. The Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance surveillance, increase public awareness, and ensure a robust response infrastructure reflect its dedication to protecting public health in Malaysia.

In conclusion, while Malaysia has thus far managed to contain the spread of mpox, the Ministry of Health’s continued vigilance and comprehensive response strategy will be essential in maintaining this success. By working together with international health authorities, other government agencies, and the public, Malaysia is well-positioned to manage the risks associated with this ongoing global health emergency.

Fueling Focus: Delicious Foods to Calm Your Adult ADHD

Living with ADHD can be challenging, but your diet can play a role in managing symptoms and supporting your focus. Here are some tasty options to consider:

Omega-3 Rich Foods

• What: Think salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds.
• Why: These goodies are packed with omega-3 fatty acids like brain fuel—they support focus and cognitive function.

Protein-Packed Goodies

• What: Try lean meats (chicken, turkey), eggs, fish, beans, and tofu.
• Why: Protein gives you steady energy and helps stabilize mood swings—perfect for keeping you on an even keel.

Smart Carbs

• What: Load up on whole grains (like oats and brown rice), fruits, veggies, and beans.
• Why: Complex carbs release energy slowly, helping you stay focused without the sugar rollercoaster.

   

                                   

Vibrant Fruits and Veggies

• What: Berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and colorful veggies like bell peppers and carrots.
• Why: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these foods support overall brain health and keep you feeling sharp.

Magnesium Heroes

• What: Snack on spinach, almonds, cashews, peanuts, and whole grains.
• Why: Magnesium helps your brain work better by regulating neurotransmitters, which can improve attention and calm hyperactivity.

                                         

Stay Hydrated with Water:

• Why: Water keeps you hydrated and focused. Dehydration can make ADHD symptoms like irritability and fatigue worse.

Tips for a ADHD-Supportive Diet:

• Keep it Regular: Eating balanced meals and snacks regularly keeps your energy levels stable throughout the day.

• Watch the Sweets: Limit sugary snacks and processed foods—they can lead to energy crashes and mood swings.

• Supplement Smart: Consider talking to your healthcare provider about supplements like omega-3s or magnesium if you need an extra boost.

• Plan Ahead: Meal planning can take the guesswork out of what to eat, reducing stress and making healthy choices easier.

• Eat Mindfully: Pay attention to your body's hunger cues and savor each bite—it helps you make better food choices.

Adding these ADHD-friendly foods to your diet can make a real difference in how you feel and function. Remember, everyone’s body is different, so find what works best for you through trial and delicious error!

Malaysian Duo Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei Stun World No. 2 to Reach Paris 2024 Olympic Quarter-Finals

Paris Olympic 2024 - Malaysian mixed doubles shuttlers Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei have defied the odds to storm into the Olympic Games quarter-finals as group champions.

(Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei. credit pic: nst)

On Monday (July 29), they achieved a notable victory in their final Group D match at Adidas Arena in Port de la Chapelle:

• Match Result: Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei defeated China's Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping with scores of 17-21, 21-15, 21-16.
• Significance: Huang Dongping, a gold medalist in the 2021 Tokyo Games, and her partner Yanzhe were heavily favored, but Tang Jie and Ee Wei delivered a stunning performance.

This victory marked the Malaysian pair's second win over Yanzhe and Dongping in four encounters and their first success this year. As group champions, they will avoid facing other group winners in the quarter-final draw, which could provide a smoother path to the semi-finals. They will face one of the runners-up from the other groups in the quarter-finals.

The Malaysians’ triumph at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is another highlight for their badminton squad. Their win took 70 minutes and captivated the 8,000-strong crowd at Porte de La Chapelle Arena.

Earlier in their campaign:

• Match 1: They defeated Singapore’s Terry Hee and Jessica Tan with scores of 23-21, 21-12.
• Match 2: They secured their place in the quarter-finals by beating Vinson Chiu and Jennie Gai of the United States, 21-15, 24-22.

As they advance to the knockout stage, Tang Jie and Ee Wei will be closely watching the draw to determine their next opponents. The draw is expected to be made tomorrow after all the doubles group matches have concluded.

Singapore Airlines Reveals Major Boost in In-Flight Recycling After New Catering Data

Singapore Airlines Ltd. recently announced a significant increase in its in-flight waste recycling rate for the 2023/24 financial year. Initially, the airline reported recycling only 1.7% of its waste. However, after further investigation and receiving updated data from its local catering company, they revised this figure to an impressive 11%, which translates to 393 metric tons.

The correction came after Bloomberg News inquired about the airline’s recycling practices. Upon closer examination, Singapore Airlines discovered it had severely understated the amount of glass waste recycled—368.1 metric tons instead of the previously reported 29.6 metric tons. This adjustment brought the total recycling figure for the fiscal year up significantly.

Recycling and broader environmental initiatives have become increasingly crucial for airlines and their investors. As the aviation industry strives to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, the focus has turned to sustainable practices, including the use of cleaner fuels and more environmentally friendly aircraft. While measures like reducing single-use plastics and lightening planes by removing heavy items are essential, the most significant progress will come from adopting sustainable aviation fuel and greener jets.

Interestingly, Singapore Airlines also revised its recycling figures for previous years. For the 2019/20 fiscal year, the recycling volume was adjusted to 670 metric tons from 388 metric tons once glass waste data was included. Despite these improvements, the airline’s recycling rate still trails behind some of its competitors. United Airlines reported a recycling rate of about 16% in 2023, Korean Air Lines achieved around 68%, and Qantas Airways reported approximately 23%.

Singapore Airlines has faced criticism for its sustainability efforts before. A trial of paper boxes for economy-class meals on medium- and long-haul flights was not widely adopted after negative feedback on social media for appearing too cost-cutting. However, the airline continues to use paper boxes and bamboo cutlery for short-haul economy flights.

Recycling efforts and sustainable practices remain a significant focus for the airline as it works to enhance its environmental impact and meet industry goals.