The Role of Higher Education Institutions in Promoting Innovativeness and Passion towards Entrepreneurship among Students – A Meta-Analytic Review

With the growing importance of entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurship programs established within higher education institutions are thriving hard to achieve entrepreneurship educational outcomes in recent years. Several studies reported the role of higher education institutions in promoting entrepreneurship education and enhancing students\u27 skill sets in various ways. To extend this knowledge, this paper aims to analyse the role of higher education institutions in promoting innovativeness and passion among students pursuing entrepreneurship education. A meta-analytic review is conducted by combining the results from empirical analysis of 24 related studies. The influence of higher education institutions on entrepreneurship educational outcomes and individual transformations is examined and their relationships are exposed. The results of the review show that various components of higher education institutions are positively related to individual transformations (rc=0.579) and entrepreneurship educational outcomes (rc=0.331). It is also found that the passion (rc = 0.31) and innovativeness (rc = 0.2771) are positively correlated with entrepreneurship educational outcome. Moreover, institutional environment has a greater impact on passion (rc = 0.531). Thus, the results indicate that higher education institutions play an important role in promoting passion and innovativeness among students

A short review on graphene derivatives towards photoelectrochemical water splitting

Graphene oxide is vital in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, serving as an essential photoanode material. Its semiconducting nature allows for the generation of photocurrents, promoting water oxidation at the anode and contributing to hydrogen production efficiency. Additionally, graphene is a two-dimensional carbon allotrope that has quickly emerged as a highly promising material in PEC water splitting, potentially transforming renewable energy and sustainable hydrogen generation. Graphene improves PEC water-splitting efficiency by facilitating efficient charge transport, rapid electron transfer, and effective redox reactions at the electrode-electrolyte interface. It possesses high electrical conductivity, a large specific surface area, and excellent charge carrier mobility. Its unique band structure enables efficient light absorption across a broad spectrum, including visible light, resulting in better light-to-electricity conversion. Furthermore, the inherent catalytic activity of graphene speeds up the oxygen evolution process (OER), increasing water oxidation and aiding hydrogen gas production

To what extent are SQU first year students willing to adjust to college life?

This paper investigates first year students’ willingness to accommodate to college life and its demands. It first reviews the literature on the topic, and shows how factors such as family, peers, self-esteem, extroversion and students counselling centres may influence students’ adjustment process. This paper is based on a study conducted at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) in Oman. Moreover, the paper analyses data obtained through two different questionnaires distributed among 72 students, and interviews with 8 participants; for example, the Tutorial Centre Coordinator, a teacher of Career Guidance Subject, a parent, and first year students and freshmen students’ class observation. The findings of this study are interesting as they contradict with the literature in some aspects. They show that, in the Omani context, students tend to be self-confident and optimistic; therefore, they could cope easily with college life. The paper concludes that this result could be due to media and globalization as they can get information about college life and get prepared. Indeed, it recommends that more research needs to be done regarding the influence of college teachers and cultural issues like gender on students’ adjustment to college environment.</jats:p

A short review on graphene derivatives towards photoelectrochemical water splitting

Graphene oxide is vital in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, serving as an essential photoanode material. Its semiconducting nature allows for the generation of photocurrents, promoting water oxidation at the anode and contributing to hydrogen production efficiency. Additionally, graphene is a two-dimensional carbon allotrope that has quickly emerged as a highly promising material in PEC water splitting, potentially transforming renewable energy and sustainable hydrogen generation. Graphene improves PEC water-splitting efficiency by facilitating efficient charge transport, rapid electron transfer, and effective redox reactions at the electrode-electrolyte interface. It possesses high electrical conductivity, a large specific surface area, and excellent charge carrier mobility. Its unique band structure enables efficient light absorption across a broad spectrum, including visible light, resulting in better light-to-electricity conversion. Furthermore, the inherent catalytic activity of graphene speeds up the oxygen evolution process (OER), increasing water oxidation and aiding hydrogen gas production

Effects of antidepressants on body weight in patients treated in a naturalistic setting in Oman

Abstract Background The rising use of antidepressants is critical for managing mental health disorders, but weight gain is a concerning side effect, particularly with certain classes like TCAs and SSRIs. This study aims to investigate weight changes in Omani patients prescribed paroxetine, fluoxetine, mirtazapine, or venlafaxine. Method A cross-sectional study conducted from January to June 2023 at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital recruited adults with mental disorders on these medications. Weight measurements were taken at baseline and follow-up, with clinically significant weight gain defined as a ≥ 7% increase. Results A total of 135 participants were analyzed, showing a mean weight gain of 5.54 kg, with 60.7% experiencing significant weight gain. Mirtazapine and paroxetine exhibited the highest average weight increases (7.51 kg and 8.05 kg, respectively) compared to fluoxetine (0.69 kg) and venlafaxine (4.32 kg). No significant demographic factors influenced weight changes (p = 0.213). Conclusion The study highlights significant weight gain among Omani patients on antidepressants, particularly mirtazapine and paroxetine. This underscores the importance of monitoring weight in clinical practice and necessitates further investigations into individualized treatment strategies to manage both mental health and weight-related concerns

Exploring the Stigma of Cancer among Arabs Populations: A Qualitative Study on Sociocultural Influences

Introduction: Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, accompanied by social health-related stigma (HRS), particularly in diverse sociocultural contexts. Despite advancements of cancer treatment and increased survival rates, HRS remains a substantial challenge. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological approach was used to explore the experiences of HRS among cancer patients in Oman and its sociocultural influences. Participants were recruited in January 2023 from the oncology and daycare wards of the National Oncology Center at a tertiary care hospital in Oman. The data were collected through in-depth one-to-one interviews and analyzed thematically, ensuring data saturation and methodological rigor. Results: Thirteen patients participated in the study, revealing seven major themes. These included Concealment (with subthemes “Immediate vs. Delayed Disclosure “and “Intentional withholding”), Social Isolation (with subthemes “Desire for Isolation” and “Avoidance by Others”), Personal Responsibility and Family Roles (subthemes “Personal responsibility” and “Functionality”), beliefs and social perceptions (“Medical vs. Cultural Beliefs”), Emotional and Spiritual Influence (with subthemes “Shock and Acceptance” and “Spiritual Growth”), Health Management Concerns (with subthemes “Fear of Metastasis and Recurrence” and “Treatment Efficacy”), and Shame (subtheme “Effect on Marriage and Family Reputation”). Conclusion: Participants experience a range of response, ranging from stigmatization to coping, influenced by the complex interplay of sociocultural factors. Many drew strength from their faith and family support. Therefore, this study underscores the need for culturally tailored interventions to address HRS among cancer patients. Public health campaigns and support groups can help mitigate stigma and improve the quality of life and treatment adherence

Human mesenchymal stem cell expansion on laminin-521 in serum-free and xeno-free culture conditions

Laminin-521 (LN521) is a crucial adhesion protein found in natural stem cell niches and plays an important role in maintaining human pluripotent stem cell (PSC) properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of LN521 on human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell (UC-MSC) characteristics in Serum-free and Xeno-free culture conditions as a step toward clinical application. In our experiment isolated UC-MSC via explant method were expanded as a homogeneous monolayer and morphologically, presented typical MSC-like morphology (spindle-shaped) from passage three to six when cultured on either LN521 or CELLstart™. Almost, 90% confluency was reached after 4 days of culture with an EI of approximately 11.2 with no statistically significant differences on LN521 and CELLstart™ in all six passages. Phenotypic characterization of UC-MSC cultured on LN521 or CELLstart™ using flow cytometry, along with the expression of the same biomarkers in gene level analyzed by quantitative reversed transcription revealed identical CD73, CD90, CD105, CD34, CD45, CD19, CD14, and HLA-DR expression pattern at passages three and six in both LN521 and CELLstart™. Moreover, UC-MSC cultured in the presence of LN521 and CELLstart™ showed the same adipogenesis, chondrogenesis and osteogenesis differentiation potential, and normal chromosome structure highlighting genetic stability. Ultimately, LN521 is comparable to CELLstart™ in supporting UC-MSC expansion and maintaining their characteristics in serum-free and xeno-free culture conditions

Efficient and stable rice husk bioderived silica supported Cu2S-FeS for one pot esterification and transesterification of a malaysian palm fatty acid distillate

A novel heterogeneous catalyst composite (CuS-FeS/SiO2) derived from rice husk silica was engineered following pyrolysis, chemical precipitation, and chemical redox technique. The resulting catalyst was applied to the conversion of palm fatty acid distillate to biodiesel. The presence of CuS and FeS on the catalyst was verified using X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nitrogen physisorption, scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDS) spectroscopy, and temperature-programmed desorption of NH3 (TPD-NH3), inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and TGA; a specific surface area of approximately 40 m2·g−1 was identified. The impact of independent variables, i.e., reaction temperature, reaction duration, methanol:oil ratio and catalyst concentration were evaluated with respect to the efficacy of the esterification reaction. The greatest efficiency of 98% with a high productivity rate of 2639.92 µmol·g−1·min−1 with k of 4.03 × 10−6 mole·S−1 was achieved with the following parameters: temperature, 70 °C; duration, 180 min; catalyst loading, 2 wt.%; and methanol to oil ratio, 15:1. The CuS-FeS/SiO2 catalyst showed relatively high stability indicated by its ability to be reused up to five times

Prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Its Associated Risk Factors among Medical Students in Two Countries

Introduction: PCOS, a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, affects fertility and increases the risks of other diseases. Early detection, risk factor assessment, and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term complications. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a pre-validated questionnaire at two medical colleges in the UAE and Oman. The first study (UAE) results are already published. Here, we present the findings of the second study (Oman) and compare them. Results and Discussion: The prevalence of PCOS was 4.6% (n = 7) in Oman and 27.6% (n = 69) in the UAE using the NIH criteria. The most common symptoms were irregular periods, acne, and thinning of hair. Students showed acne as the most prevalent symptom of clinical hyperandrogenism. Omani students showed significantly more acne [70.1% (n = 108) vs. 41.6% (n = 104)], while Emirati students showed a higher prevalence of hirsutism [32% (n = 80) vs. 23.3% (n = 36)]. A higher number of students had irregular periods 30.8% (77/150) in the UAE, although the difference was not statistically significant. The prevalence of PCOS was significantly higher in Emirati medical students than in Omani students (p &lt; 0.05). The prevalence was also lower among medical students in Oman compared to an unselected population, reported by a study that included all consecutive women between 12 and 45 years of age attending a hospital. An increased trend in unhealthy lifestyle practices was observed in the recent study. Obesity was a strong predictor of PCOS symptoms across the populations in both countries (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of PCOS and clinical signs of hyperandrogenism vary significantly between countries in the MENA region. There is a need to identify specific risk factors associated with PCOS in different populations, explore the genetic basis, and undertake collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals from various disciplines to raise awareness about PCOS and its associated risks