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The increasing number of road accidents and deaths among children in Malaysia is a concern. One of the main causes stems from lack of knowledge and skills in dealing with the complexity and condition of the road system. Recognizing the significance of road safety among students, road safety education has been introduced to primary schoolsby the Ministry of Education in 2008. Initially it was blended into the Malay language subject with the goal to equip the children withthe knowledge and skills about road safety.However, road safety teaching and learning still uses the conventional methods without the use of specialized tools. This paper introduces ROSE courseware, a specialized learning tool developed to meet the needs of the Malaysian primary school curriculum for road safety education. Its learning environment is a blend of virtual reality, augmented reality and interactive multimedia, which enables children to understand and acquire skills related to road safety through interactive, real-time and immersive learning tool. In order to receive the children’s feedbacks pertaining to their experience in interacting with the ROSE courseware, a usability evaluation was conducted. The results show that the children strongly agreed on the usefulness, information quality and interface quality of the ROSE courseware.

This research aimed to find the primary objective of human resource in any organization is to effectively manage its workforce by supporting positive attitude such as motivation, enhancing productivity, and organizational citizenship behavior and job satisfaction. Similarly, human resources should reduce negative employee attitudes such as absenteeism, increased turnover, and deviant workplace culture. This study attempts the relationship of employee empowerment on the performance of employees in the banking sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which has particularly experienced various crises in the recent past. The responses were collected through a survey that was based on a structured questionnaire on 150 participants. The collected responses were analyzed and tested on standard statistical tools such as frequency analysis on demographics, mean and Pearson’s correlation test. For instance, it has been found that in the current situation the employee in the Islamic banking sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain is motivated to improve their performance.

Purpose Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a rising morbidity amongst hospitalized patients. Significant uncertainty remains regarding its exact diagnostic tool. Whilst algorithms for management of index cases have been well established, examination of its potential preventability by utilizing novel “avoidability” tools have remained unexplored.Methods This prospective study is comprised of patients who presented to emergency department of Weill Cornell Medicine-affiliated Hamad General Hospital, Doha Qatar with suspected DRESS syndrome. These cases were comparatively adjudicated and ascertained independently using RegiSCAR, and JSCAR tools by two clinical pharmacists and two General Physicians. They were subsequently rated for potential avoidability utilizing the Liverpool adverse drug reactions avoidability tool (LAAT) by the same team of raters.Results A total of 16 patients satisfy RegiSCAR criteria for DRESS syndrome. The mean age of the study population was 41.5 (SD ± 13.3) years, with a disproportionately male phenotype (n = 12; [75%]). The median latent period from drug ingestion to clinical presentation was 14 days (IQR 6.5, 29). The median RegiSCAR and J-SCAR scores were 6 (IQR 5, 6.8), 5 (IQR 4, 5.8) respectively. Utilizing the LAAT tool, about 60% of the DRESS syndrome-drug pairs were rated as “avoidable” (“probable” or “definite”). The overall Krippendorf’s alpha with the LAAT was 0.81 (SE 0.10, CI 0.59–1.00); with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.90 (CI 0.77, 0.96.).Conclusion In a randomly selected cohort of DRESS syndrome-drug pairs, the LAAT tool showed a significant proportion that were potentially avoidable (“possibly” and “definitely”). This will need validation by large sample sized prospective studies utilizing the updated LAAT tool proposed by this study.

DC-DC boost power converters play an important role in solar power systems; they step up the input voltage of a solar array for a given set of conditions. This paper presents an overview of the variance boost converter topologies. Each boost converter is evaluated on its capability to operate efficient, size, and cost of implementation. Conventional boost converter and interleaved boost converter are widely used topologies in photovoltaic systems reported; however, they have negative sides of varied efficiency level under changed weather conditions. Therefore, this paper proposes, interleaved boost converter with novel switch adaptive control, to maximise efficiency of standalone photovoltaic system under change of solar power levels, due to illadation condition.

Thermo-catalytic hydrogenation of CO2 into synthetic CH4 via Sabatier reaction is an attractive route to reduce fossil fuels consumption and to limit greenhouse gas emissions, while potentially providing revenue. Hydrogen required for the reaction can be generated by water electrolysis using renewable or low carbon footprint electricity. With respect to CO2 methanation, a number of technological challenges have to be resolved in order to make this technology economically viable. The highly exothermic nature of the Sabatier reaction makes heat removal a challenging task. Another major problem is catalyst deactivation by coking caused by CH4 cracking at elevated temperatures. Maximizing CH4 production over extended periods of operation will require highly efficient heat removal to facilitate CH4 production, while minimizing catalyst deactivation. In this study, a heat-exchanger type, molten salt-cooled packed bed reactor is analyzed using a transient mathematical model. The model considers inter-compartment heat exchange and catalyst deactivation by coking, assuming the use of a Ni/Al2O3 catalyst. The reactor performance was investigated in terms of CO2 conversion and CH4 yield for the case of the feed containing CO2 and H2, and for the case of the reactor fed with biogas (40% CO2 and 60% CH4) and H2. The model predicts that, though the catalyst deactivation leads to a substantial decline in the reactor performance, CH4 yields and CO2 conversions over 80% are achievable after 10,000 h of operation.

There is a significant increase in road accident statistics in Malaysia and this reflects the culture formed among users related to road safety. In developing a positive road safety culture, road safety education should be introduced from an early age. The effort by the Ministry of Education Malaysia in implementing road safety education in primary schools since 2007 is a wise move towards the formation of that culture. As the road system becomes busier and more complex, children need to be educated with sufficient knowledge and skills to cope with increasingly challenging road situations. This paper introduced the ROSE courseware which incorporates multimedia, AR and VR technologies for the purpose of assisting teachers and students to understand and acquire skills related to road safety. A study was conducted among 30 primary school students in using the ROSE courseware for road safety education. The study provides an insight into the relationship between perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and enjoyment and students’ satisfaction in using the ROSE courseware utilising Pearson correlation and regression analyses. Regression analysis resultsindicate the significant relationships between perceived usefulness and enjoyment and students’ satisfaction in using the ROSE courseware. However, the relationship between perceived ease of use and satisfaction is notsignificant.Using paired sample t-test, this study also looked at the students' learning performance due to the intervention of the ROSE courseware for RSE. The outcomes showed that the mean scoredifference between the pre-test and post-test is significant. By using the ROSE courseware, thestudents gained significantly higher level of road safety knowledge which indicates that the learning performance among the participants has been enhanced through the implementation of the ROSE courseware.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of “kathakakhadiradi kashyam” (KKS) an indigenious polyherbal ayurvedic formulation in streptozotocin induced diabetes rat model. Methodology: Initially a single day oral glucose tolerance test was conducted and the effective dose (1.08 ml/kg) found in this study was taken for further evaluation in the 28 day continues administration study. The effects were compared with diabetic control and standard control groups. Result and Conclusion: The ratio of percentage reduction observed between standard drug treated group (Glibenclamide) and KKS treated group from the 7 th day to 14 th , 21 st and 28 th day are 43.99:35.54, 46.53:44.4, 53.88:43.5 respectively. When compared with all other groups KKS treated group shows more similar glucose lowering activities. The study also correlates food, water intake and body weight changes in different groups throughout the study. The results shows that KSS posses promising antidiabetic activity. More detailed molecular level studies and toxicological evaluations are necessary to conform the safety and efficacy of KKS for clinical practice. Key words: Kathakakhadiradi kashyam, Polyherbal, Antidiabetic activity, Oral glucose tolerance test.

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of wet cupping therapy as a single treatment for persistent nonspecific low back pain (PNSLBP). Design: Randomized controlled trial comparing wet cupping versus no treatment in PNSLBP. Setting: Outpatient clinic in three secondary care hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Patients: Eighty eligible participants with PNSLBP for at least 3 months were randomly allocated to an intervention group (n=40) or to a control group (n=40). Interventions: Six wet cupping sessions within 2 weeks, each of which were done at two bladder meridian (BL) acupuncture points among BL23, BL24, and BL25. Only acetaminophen was allowed as a rescue treatment in both groups. Outcome measures: The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), McGill Present Pain Intensity (PPI), and Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (ODQ) were used as outcome measures. Numbers of acetaminophen tablets taken were compared at 4 weeks from baseline. Adverse events were recorded. Results: At the end of the intervention, statistically significant differences in the three outcome measures favoring the wet cupping group compared with the control group were seen: NRS score, 29.2 (95% confidence interval [CI], 24.6–33.8) versus 57.9 (95% CI, 53.3–62.6), respectively; PPI score, 1.17 (95% CI, 0.96–1.4) versus 2.3 (95% CI, 2.1– 2.7); and ODQ score, 19.6 (95% CI, 16.5–22.7) versus 35.4 (95% CI, 32.3–38.5) (p=0.0001). This improvement continued for another 2 weeks after the end of the intervention. Acetaminophen was used less in the wet cupping group, but this difference was not statistically significant. No adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Wet cupping is potentially effective in reducing pain and improving disability associated with PNSLBP at least for 2 weeks after the end of the wet cupping period. Placebo-controlled trials are needed.

Purpose- This paper intends to discourse development of theory in the Tanzania context, based on potentiality of advancing of knowledge sharing theory globally. The aim of this paper is to develop a theoretical framework which essential for studying knowledge sharing behaviour which is critical significant for the organizational changes and national reforms as well for sustaining in tremendous competition. Moreover, the study established the needs to undergo investigation in order to illustrate the degree of performance of theory in the context of Tanzania, which will depict comparison with developed countries.Methodology- This paper reviewed the theory of planned behaviour and it portrayed TPB as underpinned theory for revising knowledge sharing in the context of Tanzania.Findings- The study revealed propositions which are fundamental in developing theory of planned behaviour for studying knowledge sharing in Tanzania context.Limitations of the study- this paper offers suggestions for proposition testing and direction for further studies in knowledge sharing behaviour.Implication of the study- the paper provides development of theory and practically, the research might provide insight for improving knowledge sharing practices in order to realise organizational development and national reforms(BRN) in the context of Tanzania.Value- This paper relies on theoretical approaches, particularly on advancement of theory of planned of behaviour under addition of the collectivist culture and interpersonal relation towards knowledge sharing behaviour in Tanzania.

Virtual discussion between students and lecturers nowadays become easier and effective by using computer-mediated communication (CMC) tools. The issue on geographical distance is no longer a problem but there are some aspects that need attention, such as the consultation documentation, record log and the ability to see the records of these virtual relationships. Most current virtual communications software is focused on the communication and less on the process of before and after the virtual communication. In order to enhance the virtual communication process, we have designed and developed an Online Instructional Consultation (OICon) model to facilitate student-lecturer consultation for higher education mentor-mentee system in Malaysia. The model consists of 5 interrelated domains that are personalization, consultation processes and task involved, features and multimedia components, consultation content and consultation document. It provides alternative means on delivery of the contents and services as well as provides participants a range of option. By this way, students and lecturer can involve actively through online consultation at remote places, not just between lecturer and students but also on post-session discussion among peers. Point of correspondence includes implementation of CMC tools to facilitate online consultation processes for academic advisory purpose. OICon model was then transformed into a prototype system to verify the model. Based on the evaluation conducted, we found that users are relatively positive towards implementation of multimedia communication tools for consultation in higher education and they agreed that the OICon model is crucial for enhance and promote interactivity for consultation among students and lecturers.

As a developing country, Malaysia needs to produce adequate human resource in science and technology related fields. This is important especially towards making Malaysia a developed nation by 2020. Unfortunately, there is a downward trend in the number of students pursuing the science stream at the secondary education level. Lack of motivation has been identified as one of the cause of this phenomenon. This paper introduces an enhanced science textbook using Augmented Reality (e-STAR) application that facilitates students in science learning. The e-STAR is intended to motivate the students to be more interested in science. This paper also discusses on the evaluation of the e-STAR among a sample of form two secondary school students. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires for evaluating the following dimensions: motivation, ease of use, engaging, enjoyment and fun. The results indicate that the users agreed on all the dimensions. The findings proved that the e-STAR application can be one of the potential solutions to the above mentioned phenomenon.

This study is about implementation of teaching physical education at institute of sports teacher education (ISTE). Based on the study, the objectives are looking at the teaching of physical education and its impact on the students learning. This study might also provide policy makers with ideas about relevant competencies to the teaching of physical education. This study adopts a descriptive survey with fifty (50) physical education students, thirty (30) physical education lecturers, fifteen (15) head departments and three (3) campus directors. Next, researchers used frequencies and percentages to analyze data from the respondents. Data collected were grouped according to each response and percentage was used for comparison of responses. Based on the findings, the researchers concluded that there was some needs to improve the teaching of physical education in theory and practical lessons. This research revealed that there was no supervision in the ISTEs as far as the teaching of physical education was concerned. It was also noted that those lecturers who taught the subject needed to have some interest in the subject. It was also concluded that physical education students must complete teacher education programs and focused on a health and fitness- related subject.

Road accident statistics gathered over the past years by the Malaysian Institute Of Road Safety Research (MIROS) reveal a significantly high degree of fatalities and injuries involving children. Realizing the importance of road safety amongst school children, the Ministry of Education of Malaysia has introduced road safety education into the primary schools in stages, beginning with Year One in 2008. The curriculum has been incorporated into the existing Malay Language classes. It is aim is to educate children and young people on safety knowledge and skills, and help to shape good attitudes as road users. Currently, the teaching of road safety in schools is still based on conventional method (chalk and talk) without practical approach and specific schedule. With the limitations that exist in the current teaching approach, this paper aims to introduce an alternative new learning approach for road safety education. It is based on the use of a courseware utilizing mixed learning environments which combines interactive multimedia, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Environment (VE) technologies. This paper starts with the introduction, follows with the literature review, research methodology and ends with a conclusion. Hopefully, the proposed courseware will be able to provide a solution to the issue of Road Safety Education in Malaysia.

e17058 Background: Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) offers patients a minimally invasive approach to oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma but is a treatment modality for tumors of limited size. In...