C E N T R ENewsletter O F E X C E L L Issue E N C2,E2ndFQuarter, O R RApril E S -EJune A R 2010 CH, VALUE INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP CERVIE CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, APRIL—JUNE 2010 2ND Quarter Words from the Head of the Centre of Excellence for Research, Value Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CERVIE) Welcome to the second issue of the CERVIE Newsletter. The positive responses that we received on the first issue have given us the impetus to continue and deliver the latest updates on research to our readers. ­The CERVIE would like to introduce the UCSI University Research Cluster Groups to researchers for ­potential ­project collaborations and sharing of experiences. More information can be found on the CERVIE ­website ­­­­ ­www.cervie.edu.my. In this issue, we include the CERVIE Conference Funding Policy for University staff to provide information on the required application procedures and requirements. Dr. Chin Jin Han from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences also appears in the Feature Researcher section to share his experiences on research and to offer tips to young researchers. We also have articles from Prof. Tin Tun and Sheiladevi a/p Sukumaran from the School of Medicine, and from Shahrinaz Ismail and Dazmin bin Daud from the Faculty of Management & IT. Some of the articles will be continued in the third issue. So do not miss valuable information that we have in store for you. See you in the third issue. For further information on the CERVIE, please send an e-mail to cervie@ucsi.edu.my. Dr. Keoy Kay Hooi, Alan Letters to the Editors If you have any comments on the published content, or if you want to contribute in the forthcoming issues, please send them to the CERVIE, Block C, 3rd Floor, South Wing Campus, Kuala Lumpur or via e-mail to cervie@ ucsi. edu.my. The editors reserve the right to edit any ­articles for clarity and space before publication. Opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the CERVIE, nor does acceptance editorial board Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lachman Tarachand Editorial Advisor: Norlia Sha’ari Content Editor: Dr. Keoy Kay Hooi, Alan Editors: Ang Yen Hui, Nari Am Jami Creative Content : Shahfida Abd Manap Contributors: Prof. Dr. Tin Tun, Dr. Chin Jin Han, Dr. Irene Tan Ai Lian, Dr. Jimmy Mok Vee Hoong, Shahrinaz Ismail, Dazmin bin Daud, Sheiladevi a/p Sukumaran, Brice Assimizele. and publication of articles imply its endorsements. The CERVIE neither endorses nor is responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, advice or ­statement published in this Newsletter. Under no circumstances is the publisher liable for any loss or damage caused by anyone’s reliance on the advice, opinion or information obtained either explicitly or implicitly from the contents of this publication. publication • Lim Y. S. (2010, July). Screening of probiotic lactic acid bacteria isolated from infant faeces. Presented at the International Symposium on Lactic Acid, ­Universiti Putra Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. • Rodney T. H. G. & Jimmy M. V. H. (2010). A preliminary prospective view of ­renewable energy mix generation in Brunei. Presented at the 2nd ­International Conference of Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET) Brunei Darussalam Network, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. • Renee Lim L. H. Multiple Antibiotic Resistant Lactobacilli in Commercial ­Probiotic Supplements. Presented at the International Symposium on Lactic Acid Bacteria, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. • Chan H. K. (2010). Survival of probiotic strains to pH and bile. Presented at the International Symposium on Lactic Acid Bacteria, Universiti Putra ­Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. • Khoo Z. Y., Teh C. C., Nalamolu K. R. & Chin J. H. (2010). Evaluation of the toxic effect of star fruit on serum biochemical parameters in rats. Pharmacognosy Magazine, 6(22), 120-124. • Prasanna, Y., Ashunta, G., & Prasad, K. V. S. R. G. (2010). Effect of Ethanol of Indigofera tinctoria Linn (Fabaceae) on Lithium/Pilocarpine-Induced Status Epilepticus and Oxidative Stress in Wistar Rats. Tropical Journal of ­Pharmaceutical Research, 9(2), 149-156. Inside this issue: What’s New ? 02 Feature Researcher 05 Research Knowledge 06 Research Update 07 Article 09 For Your Information 11 activities by cervie • Coordinating the application ­submission of students for the Hong Kong Polytech University Innovation & ­ Entrepreneurship Competition. • Poster presentation at the 2nd International Doctoral ­ Education ­Research Network (IDERN) 2010 Conference, ­ Universiti Putra ­Malaysia (UPM), 21st - 23rd April 2010. • Organizing committee for the 2nd ­Organizing Committee Meeting of MSC ­ Malaysia-IHL Business Plan Competition 2010/2011, ­Thursday, 6th May 2010. • Invited speaker for the Workshop on Independent Projects for B.A. (Hons.) Business Administration­ students at UCSI University on ­Tuesday, 11th May 2010. • Training workshop for the ­Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) Phase 2/2010 on Thursday, 13th May 2010. • Internal Audit at the CERVIE, ­Tuesday, 11th May 2010. • FRGS Online Submission Briefing at CERVIE on Thursday, 20th ­May 2010. UCSI Publishing House Sdn. Bhd., No 1, Jalan Menara Gading, UCSI Heights, 56000 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603-9101 6000 Fax: 603-9101 6642 CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 what’s new?? ucsi university may 2010 intake orientation day The international doctoral education research network (idern) 2010 T he new student Orientation Day for the May 2010 intake was held on 29th and 30th April 2010. On the first day, the ­CERVIE was given the opportunity of sharing the Centre’s visions with new students on the concept of research, value innovations and ­entrepreneurship. The CERVIE’s vision is to be recognized as a ­­ broadbased University that is actively engaged in ­ innovative ­ research ­contributions and entrepreneurial activities through ­ establishing smart partnerships, building university research ­ capabilities, ­developing enterprise value solutions and the ­ dissemination of knowledge. The students were also informed of the CERVIE’s role to provide ­opportunities for funding and a platform for young researchers to be active in research. Thus, the CERVIE is ‘bridging’ or filling-in the gap between the theoretical knowledge of academics, ­assignments and coursework that students learn in the classroom, with the ­practical knowledge that the final year project, Co-Op placement and ­competitions offer. To achieve these objectives, the CERVIE provides the following ­initiatives: • An Incubation Centre to explore students’ business ideas, ­commercial potentials and a mentorship system (advisory panel) made available • Consultancy forum that includes opportunities for students to share their business ideas with potential investors and with the Blue Ocean Strategy Regional Centre • Faculty Research cluster with mentorship and guidance in terms of field experts as a platform for students • Workshops and seminars that include a research symposium (for knowledge exchange between staff and students for the ­advancement of research) and also practical training. • Value creation initiatives that include competitions for ­submission of prototype or products at university level, with an appointment for Adjunct Fellow and funding for patent • A Foundation that encompasses intake of Co-Op students or final year placements, and a role as research assistant for research and capability building. The CERVIE also provides facilities and supports for students to ­enhance their knowledge on research and to gain more information. While the meeting room and group discussion corner are available for meetings with their research group or for discussions with ­lecturers, the information, resource and knowledge corner offers students the training and available funds announcements, journals and books to gather additional information on their research. In addition, the CERVIE could also be used as a contact point for related queries. T he 2nd IDERN Conference was held on 21st to 23rd April 2010 by the Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). UCSI University was one of the ­conference participants where Dr. Keoy Kay Hooi together with Dr. Irene Tan Ai Lian and Dr. Jimmy Mok Vee Hoong presented their research ­entitled “Achieving World Class Research Excellence for ­ Malaysian ­Private Higher Education Institutions: A Balancing Act between ­Knowledge ­Dissemination and Contribution”. invitation to submit fundamental research grant scheme (frgs) phase 2/2010 by ministry of higher education (mohe) F undamental research is an exploration of ideas, concepts or new ­ theories. It represents the cornerstone of new discovery and the ­ creation of sophisticated and current knowledge development. ­Consequently, under the Ninth Malaysia Plan (RMK-9), MOHE has ­allocated RM200 million to finance public fundamental research ­projects. The Phase 2/2010 FRGS one-day training questionnaire survey ­workshop on customer satisfaction which was conducted online on Thursday, 13th May 2010 is accessible on line as of June. Consequently, MOHE has ­invited the Research Management Centre (RMC) of every Malaysian higher education institution to attend this training. UCSI University was represented by Dr. Keoy Kay Hooi and Ang Yen Hui. In turn, the CERVIE conducted two briefing sessions to inform staff and to answer any enquiries on this matter. The IJASA published by UCSI University and the CERVIE ­Newsletter which offers the latest information on research conducted by ­university staff could also be used as reference. Furthermore, the CERVIE Newsletter also provides students with information on ­research competitions. CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 what’s new? UCSI University Research Cluster Group Energy & Power Research Cluster Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Built Environment Members: 1. Chockalingam Aravind Vaithilingam 2. Gilbert Thio 3. Kanendra Naidu Areas of expertise: • Efficient energy conversion systems • Power electronics drives & control • Motor drive and controllers • Electrical machine • Design modelling, analysis and fabrication. Current Projects: • Linear Oscillatory Actuator (LOA) for the ­cutting of palm leaf. • Variable reluctance machine drive modelling, analysis & fabrication. • Energy efficient kinetic charger for ­commercial applications. • Integrated energy efficient hybrid systems. • Energy efficient solar thermal heating system. SocRaTeS (Social Realm of Teaching - and Learning System) Faculty of Management & Information Technology Chair: Teh Phoey Lee Members: 1. Shahrinaz Ismail 2. Yamen Batch Areas of expertise: • The social media/tools and Web 2.0 used in the teaching and learning environment • The emerging technology which includes ­social media, such as the blog, ­­ micro-­blogging, ­social networking, social ­ bookmarking, wiki, ­ multimedia files-sharing, ­ podcasting, ­webcasting and many others. Current Project: • Collaborating Wiki with University Database for Focussed Learning Support. • Students using the Wiki as a Learning Tool at an International Private University. • Mapping the Adult Learner’s Personal ­Knowledge Management on Collaborative ­Online Tools. The CERVIE Operation Management and ­Sustainability Research Group Chair: Dr. Keoy Kay Hooi Members: 1. Dr. Kwek Choon Ling 2. Irwin Hidayat Areas of expertise: • Performance improvement supply chain ­management and logistics • Total quality management • Quantitative research methods • Green Supply Chain Management • Ethnic entrepreneurship • Succession planning Current Project: • Developing a low Carbon Footprint ­ Supply Chain Framework for the ­ Malaysian ­Construction ­Industry. • Green Campus initiative in Malaysia. • CPFR, implementation for Achieving Low ­Carbon Supply Chain Sustainability. • Entrepreneurship Management: The Role of Succession Planning in ­a ­Family Business. • E-Business Readiness amongst SMEs: The Concept of Dual-Impact ­Model. External Collaborators: 1. Prof. S. C. Lenny Koh, Director of Logistics and Supply Chain Management (LSCM) Research Centre, Sheffield university, UK 2. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Padzil Hassa, Faculty of ­Architecture, Planning and Surveying, UiTM. 3. Assoc. Prof. Muhd. Fadhil Nuruddin, Civil ­Engineering Department, UTP. Clinical Pharmacy (Clinical Pharmacy Education, Pharmacy Practice) Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Chair: Ms. Lyna Irawati Members: 1. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yeong Siew Wei 2. Ms. Saraswathi a/p Simansalam 3. Mr. Omotayo Oladuntoye Fatokun 4. Ms. Wong Pei Nee 5. Mr. Alan Lee Hung Weng Areas of expertise: • Clinical pharmacy education. • Drug utilisation studies. Current Project: Two of the researchers are ­currently doing their Ph.D. related to their areas of expertise Pharmaceutical Biology (Medical ­Microbiology, ­Pharmacology of Natural Products, Physiology) Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Chair: Prof. Dr. Noran binti Abdul Majid Members: 1. Ms. Priya Madhavan 2. Mr. Mohamed Saleem Abdul Shukkoor 3. Mr. Enoch Kumar Perumal Areas of expertise: • Medical significance of microbes • Pharmacological uses of natural products and their physiological effects through monitoring of physiological parameters and ­ analyses of historical damages. Current Project: Three of the researchers are c­ urrently doing their Ph.D. related to their areas of expertise Pharmaceutical Technology (Physical Pharmacy, Technology of Formulations, Biopharmaceutics, Pharmacokinetics, Advance drug delivery systems) Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Chair: Dr. Prasannaraju Members: 1. Dr. Loganathan V 2. Mr. Rajesh S Nair Areas of expertise: • Improving the rheological behaviour of ­semisolid formulations • The interfacial/­surface energy of drug/­ excipient molecules • The ­stability/pre-formulation studies of new moieties • Solubility, dissolution, bioavailability ­enhancement studies • Design/development of novel drug delivery systems Current Project: • Formulation and evaluation of ofloxacin dry power • Floating drug delivery of Azithromycin Natural Products Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Chair: Dr. Gabriel A. Akowuah Members: 1. Dr. Lim Vuanghao 2. Dr. Chin Jin Han 3. B.V.S. Lokesh Current Project: Phytochemical analysis and safety assessment of Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPs) External Collaborators: Planning with USM ELC Research Cluster Faculty of Music, Social Sciences and Design Chair: Ivie Carbon Esteban, Ph.D. Members: 1. Krishnaveni Subramaniam 2. Arlini binti Alias Areas of Expertise: • Teaching English to Speakers of ­ Other ­Languages (TESL) • Discourse Analysis • Genre Analysis • Critical Discourse Analysis • Language and Literature • English Language Studies, etc. Current Project: Error analysis of ­ English ­Foundation students’ compositions: ­ its ­correlation with academic performance. CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 what’s new?? CONFERENCE FUNDING POLICY (PAPER PRESENTATION) Purpose: This policy serves as a guide to determine the requirements of ­academic staff application for funding of research-related conferences and the standard operating procedures that facilitates it. Specifically, it aims to provide a working framework that addresses the general needs of faculty members of the academic community, as well as a transparent process to accommodate other individual needs. • National conferences: Two (2) months (case-by-case basis) • International conferences: Three (3) months Staff who is approved by the committee and funded for a conference must agree to the following CERVIE terms: • To present the outcome of the paper presentation at Faculty level (staff and students) upon returning from the conference. Eligibility: All academic staff with ongoing and/or completed research • To submit the paper in the CERVIE Quarterly Working Research Paper ­projects and papers, whose work has been accepted for conference ­presentation, may apply for the funding. Application for journal funding: Academic staff applying for journal ­funding must obtain recommendations from his/her respective Dean and the Funding allocation: The funding allocation for international and national ­Faculty RSA Committee. All applications should be supported by the impact conference presentation was revised because the cost for travel, ­registration ­factor and are with proper documentations to include the full journal paper fees, and accommodation have increased tremendously over the past five and confirmation of the paper acceptance by the respective institution for years. The recommended funding is based on the estimated expenses for an ­publication. The minimum criteria for the CERVIE to accept a journal funding individual academic. The geographical location is taken into ­consideration application is that the journal’s impact factor be at least 1.0. because of the high cost of travelling by air and the cost of living in the ­respective regions. Figure 1. Conference Funding Application Process Flowchart Geographical Location Allocated Amount (RM) Europe/North America/UK 10,000 New Zealand/Australia 8,000 Asian countries 4,000 Malaysia 2,000 *Note: The amount suggested is derived from the average cost indicated by conference organizers in the respective countries. Please note that each conference paper presentation is only allowable for one applicant to present the paper. Conference allocation: All academic staff may apply for one international and/or one national conference per year. This allocation is based on the ­assumption that each academic staff may want to present one paper per year. This is not a cumulative allocation. Funding procedure: The items covered include: • conference registration • purchase and payment of air ticket • accommodation • transportation and food Start Documents Requested • • • • Submission of Paper to Faculty • Completed CFF (Conference Funding Assessment) • Conference Funding Paper Review Form Recommendation by Dean and Faculty RRSA Committee Recommendation by the Faculty RRSA Committee based on: 1. Paper 2. Staff Content 3. Contribution to discipline 4. Publication Plans Completed CFF Full completed paper Acceptance letter Supporting documents Inform Staff Documents Requested Submission to CERVIE International Conference Conference Type National Conference • Completed CFF • Conference Funding Paper Review Form • Recommendation from Dean and Faculty RSA Committee • Full Completed Paper • Acceptance letter • Supporting documents Review (Internal/External) Approval by CERVIE Reject Inform Staff Accept Knowledge sharing: Staff who have presented nationally and internationally are required to share the knowledge with their respective faculty members and submit a copy of the conference proceedings to the CERVIE. Submission: All applications have to be submitted in advance to the Centre of Excellence for Research, Value Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CERVIE), together with recommendations from the respective Dean and Chair of the Faculty RSA Committee. All applications should be supported with proper documentations to include the full paper and acceptance confirmation for the conference/seminar. The completed applications are to be vetted and approved by the CERVIE. The CERVIE may seek suitable advice from the ­Senate RSA committee and an external member regarding the application on a case-by-case basis. Assigned Conference Code & Issue Notification of Approval to - Staff (by email) c.c Dean, Faculty c.c. GHRO c.c. GFO GHRO & GFO for record and action Approved CFF • Full Completed Paper • Acceptance letter • Supporting documents End Further information on this policy can be accessed through the CERVIE Public Folder. CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 FEATURE RESEARCHER Dr. Chin Jin Han I graduated with a First Class B.Sc. (Hons.) in Biochemistry from the University of Malaya (UM) in 2001 and completed my Ph.D. in Pharmacology (majoring in Drug Metabolism) from the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in July 2007. Currently, I am a senior lecturer with the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University. I lecture subjects related to Biochemistry, Biotechnology, General Chemistry, Pharmacognocy, etc. Area of interest Highest achievement My research interests are oral toxicity studies and herb-drug ­ interaction • My highest achievement is the “Excellence in Research with Best ­Thesis” awarded by Janssen Pharmaceutical during my Ph.D. convocation at ­studies. There are a lot of studies which can be conducted on local ­medicinal USM, in July 2007 based on my involvement in student activities and plants and I am deeply interested in studying them for the treatments of ­publications during my postgraduate studies. ­diabetes mellitus, liver disorders and cancer since herbal medicine is ­currently gaining more popularity as an alternative treatment to modern • I am the External Examiner for the Ph.D. thesis of Andhra University, medicine. ­India. • I was a judge for the Poster Session of the 4th Asian Association of Schools Besides, I am also interested in developing a test kit to examine the possible of Pharmacy, during the 9th Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society Pharmacy herb-drug interactions to negate the adverse effects caused by the combined Scientific Conferences, 2009 in Penang. use of herbal products with modern medicine. • I am also the Assistant Editor for the Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Health Care. Research value • Another achievement in 2010 for me was when the undergraduate ­research My interest in research started with my first degree where I learnt a lot project under my supervision was accepted for publication in May 2010. ­accomplishing my undergraduate research project. I always believe that lecturers play an important role in encouraging students to get involved in research as it is the platform for the application of critical thinking, scientific writing, communication skills, data analysing, etc. I am glad to read my readers’ response to my publication and to share my research experiences, as well as to exchange ideas with fellow ­researchers from other countries. I enjoy the moment of standing on stage to present my research work during conferences or seminars. These experiences give me more confidence on my presentation skills which are very useful for my teaching purpose. Some of my international publications • Chin J.H. & Mahfoudh M, Abas H.H. (2009). Interactions of orthosiphon stamineus and morinda citrifolia with hepatic aminopyrine metabolism by CYP3A in rats. Pharmacognosy Magazine, 17 (4), 55-60. • Akowuah, G.A., Mariam, A. & Chin J.H. (2009). The effect of ­extraction temperature on total phenols and antioxidant activity of Gynura ­procumbens leaf. Pharmacognosy Magazine, 17 (4), 81-85. • Chin J.H., Hussin A.H. & Ismail S. (2009). Anti-hepatotoxicity effect of Orthosiphon stamineus Benth against Acetaminophen-induced liver injury in rats by enhancing hepatic GST activity. Pharmacognosy ­Research, 1 (2), 53-58. • Chin J.H., Hussin A.H. & Ismail S. (2009). Hepatoprotective effect of Orthosiphon stamineus Benth against Acetaminophen intoxication in rats. Journal of Natural Remedies, 9(2), 177-184. • Khoo Z.Y., Teh C.C., Rao N.K. & Chin J.H. (2010). Evaluation of the toxic effect of star fruit on serum biochemical parameters in rats. ­Pharmacognosy Magazine, April-July (In press). Research tips • Doing research is not an individual work. A researcher must be able to work with people from different disciplines and be open to criticisms. Teamwork and good partnership are essential in conducting research activities. • Good preparation determines the quality of the research outcomes. • Honesty is important in research. Data will not cheat people, only people cheat the data. • Set the objectives of the study clearly and work consistently to realise the objectives. Negative results could be a good result for certain research ­areas such as toxicity study. • Willingness to share the research information and findings with other ­scientists. Publication is essential on a research activity as comments from reviewers and readers can help improve the quality of the research. • Research is an evident-based study to confirm hypotheses. Thus, do not speculate and assume anything. Use the data obtained from the ­experiment to guide your written discussions and conclusions. CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 RESEARCH KNOWLEDGE peer-reviewed journal (part 1) Peer-reviewed Journals (also known as Refereed Journals) are scholarly journals which only publish articles that have passed through a review process. Peer review is the way academic journal editors maintain the quality of articles in their ­publications, and assure that poor or fallacious research will not be published. Although ‘peer’ is often defined as a person of equal standing, in the ­context of peer review, it is used in a broader sense to refer to people in the same profession who are of the same or higher ranking. Peer review utilizes the independence, and in some cases, the anonymity of reviewers to ­discourage cronyism (i.e. favouritism shown to relatives and friends) to obtain an ­unbiased evaluation. Typically, reviewers who are not selected from among close colleagues, relatives or friends of the creator or performer of the work are required to disclose any conflicts of interest. Thus, peer review directly maintains and enhances quality by detecting weaknesses and errors in ­specific works and performances, and indirectly, by providing a standard for excellence based on a reward and punishment criteria. modifications (which is typical), or is it to be rejected (which is also fairly rare) depending on the journal. The editor strips out the identity of the reviewers and sends the comments and his/her preliminary decision on the manuscript to the writer. If the manuscript were accepted with modifications, it is the writer’s ­decision to make the necessary changes, till the editor is satisfied that the ­reviewers’ reservations have been met. Eventually, after several back and forth rounds, the manuscript is finally published. The period from the submission of the manuscript to its publication in an academic journal generally takes ­anywhere from six months to over a year. Some of the database which offers peer-reviewed journal searching are In the social sciences, an article written by a scholar is submitted for a ­journal ­ProQuest Newsstand, JSTOR, ECONbase, Science Direct, ABI/Inform, Art review before an editor who reads it and subsequently passes it to three to Abstracts, etc. seven other scholars for further reviews. The Review Process The selected reviewers are chosen by the editor based on either their ­reputations in the specific field of the article, or because they are mentioned in the bibliography, or they are personally known to the editor. Sometimes the author of a manuscript may suggest some reviewers. Once a list of reviewers is drawn up, the editor removes the name of the author from the manuscript and forwards a copy to the chosen stout hearts. The time taken for a review is generally between two weeks to several months. Source: http://archaeology.about.com/od/pethroughpg/a/peer_review.htm http://lib.calpoly.edu/research/guides/peer.html http://www.linfo.org/peer_review.html When the reviewers have all returned their comments (made directly on the manuscript or on a separate document), the editor makes a preliminary ­decision if the manuscript is to be accepted as is (which is very rare), or with ANNOUCEMENTS The CERVIE calls for Research Clusters You are welcome to submit your Research Cluster to the CERVIE!!! The purpose of the Research Cluster is to identify the areas of expertise within each Faculty to enable the CERVIE to match the available grants or potential collaborations with external organizations. A Cluster Expertise will be available at the CERVIE Website, Brochure and Newsletter. Please complete the form and email to us! The CERVIE Newsletter Search for A Feature Researcher We welcome you to nominate your colleague as a Feature Researcher in our next Newsletter. The article will showcase his/her achievements on research and innovation. IJASA Call for Paper Submission Submission Deadline: 1st July 2010 (Thursday) for July – December 2010 issue Submission Procedure: A softcopy of the completed Form and the paper/commentary to be contributed must be emailed to the CERVIE at (cervie@ucsi.edu.my) with the subject header “Research Paper for UCSI University Academic Journal - 1st Author’s Name” Further information on all announcements: The CERVIE, Block C 3rd floor, South Wing, Kuala Lumpur Campus or contact: Ms. Yen Hui (angyh@ucsi.edu.my) CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 RESEARCH UPDATES Class Management and Social Network as a Platform for Collaborative Online Tools (By: Shahrinaz Ismail, M.Sc. (IT in Business), Lecturer from the School of IT, FoMIT) At the beginning of the semester, a small survey was done on the students of a private university to determine the trends on their Internet usage, ­online ­activities and preferred social networking sites. 91.86% of the ­students, which include approximately 50% international students, indicated ­participation in social networking sites, with Facebook being the most popular (82.56%) among the respondents compared to Friendster, which had been the most popular (83.10%) in the previous year (Ismail, 2009). Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Research and Innovation in Information Systems (icriis’09): K-Communities The implementation of using online tools in the ‘big class’, with ­approximately 150 students, was divided into two phases: Facebook (the social ­networking through Digital Ecosystem, 8 - 9 December 2009, Johor S ocial networking is not just a preferred hobby among students. It has become part of a student’s life. In Korea, Cyworld’s participants listed the maintenance and reinforcement of pre-existing social networks as the main motive for the use of the social networking site (Choi, 2006), ­whereas MySpace and Facebook enable youths in the United States of America to ­ socialise with friends as social networking supports sociability just as ­unmediated public spaces do (Boyd, 2008). Thus, this is an opportunity for higher learning institutions since students social network whilst they are at their computer studying rather than at separate times (Golder et al., 2007). site) as a platform which linked the class website, the class blog, the ­online quiz and the social bookmarking site; and the utilizing Facebook Group by students to ‘advertise vacancies’ for their group projects, and to update ­lecturers on the website addresses registered for their projects. The ­purpose was to bring together students into one ‘stage’ (i.e. Facebook) with all ­information on the subject linked from that ‘stage’. Significant findings could be seen from three perspectives: the tool (social networking site), the students and the lecturer, as shown in the table below. Social Networking Facilitates in building trust Assists students to know each other better and to form groups for assignments and projects A good aggregation tool to ‘point’ students to other sites and online tools for further learning activities Students Lecturer Feel comfortable to make full use of the ­features in the social networking site to ­initiate discussions among them Can identify weak students and closely monitor their progress online and offline Can judge others in the same ‘Group’ to know who can be trusted to be in their group project or discussion group Could understand students’ ­problems in fulfilling the ­requirements of the course from their online conversations Include lecturers in their personal profiles not just to know the person better, but also to monitor when a class is ‘cancelled’ or otherwise Could relay announcements to ­students and obtain feedbacks from them for class management Tend to add new friends whom they trust and like from the ‘Group’, as ‘Friend’ in their personal profiles References: • Boyd, D. (2008). Why Youth (Hearth) ­Social Network Sites: The Role of ­Networked ­Public in Teenage Social Life. In D. Buckingham (Ed.), Young, ­ Identity, and Digital Media (pp. 119-142). ­Cambridge, MA: MIT Press. • Choi, J.H. (2006) Living in Cyworld: ­Contextualising Cy-Ties In A. Bruns & J. ­Jacobs (Eds.), In Use of Blogs ­ (pp. ­ 173186). South Korea. • Golder, S.A. , Wilkinson, D. & ­Huberman, B.A. (2007). Rhythms of social ­ interaction: Messaging within a ­massive online ­network, 3rd ­International ­Conference on Communities and ­Technologies (CT2007). • Ismail, S. (2009). Social networking trend in private university. International ­Conference on Research and Innovation in Information Systems (icriis’09), 124128. • Thewall, M. (2008). MySpace, ­Facebook, Bebo: Social networking students. ­Association of Learning Technology, 11(1). CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 Research Updates Achieving World Class Research Excellence for Malaysian Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEI): A Balancing Act between Knowledge Dissemination and Contribution (By: Dr. Keoy Kay Hooi, Dr. Irene Tan Ai Lian and Dr. Jimmy Mok Vee Hoong) The purpose of the paper is to describe the existing situations facing Malaysian PHEIs in their attempts to develop a research culture. T he role of the government and its policy-making strategies are to ­ensure proper introduction of the research culture and further explorations of its development. The proposed framework also investigates the role and criteria for research supervisors (SPOKE), and the competence level of ­potential candidates before embarking on a doctoral research. Lastly, the doctoral graduate attributes of relevance, employability, standardization and transfer of knowledge (REST) are also described. Methodology (Mixed Method Approach) Phase 1 Exploratory Study Rationale The landscape for Malaysian higher education changed dramatically with the enactment of the Private Higher Education Act in 1996 and a marked increase in enrolment in PHEI. This demonstrates the significant contribution of the private higher education sector towards meeting Malaysia’s need for knowledge workers who are the engines of innovation and creativity. Theoretical Framework University Policy & Guidelines System Background Critical Thinking Holistic Competency Knowledge Growth Motivation Phase 3 (Quantitative) Awareness Social Development Evaluation Phase 2 (Qualitative) Dependency Process • • • • Model of Research Excellence CSFs Research Excellence Localization vs. International Context Public vs. Private Focus • Proposed Framework on evaluation using Case Study, Interviews • Public vs. Private Case Selection • Validation and Identify Emerging Themes • Designing of Questionnaire and distribution to Public vs. Private Education Sector • Hypothesis Testing using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) + Acceptance = Assimilation While the public higher education sector was always traditionally linked with quality education, with research being one of its pillars of development for new knowledge, it was the private higher education that was perceived to be responsible to produce the graduates to meet the human resource demand in Malaysia. However, the changed education landscape resulted in a need for PHEIs to now produce quality employable graduates; thereby initiating ­several professional bodies to set up programmes in engineering, ­architecture, ­nursing, pharmacy and medicine that are in line with ­workforce requirements to produce the employable graduates that would meet ­workforce demands. Setting the Scene Government HE Policies Relevance Cultural (Supervisor and Researcher Ownership Employability Standardisation Transfer of Knowledge Definition Supervisory Success Factor Description System System selection for supervisory teams and clearer definition of roles and responsibilities. Process Defining the process of appointing supervisors (student-led or expert-led). Ownership Appropriate skills and subject knowledge to support, encourage and monitor research students effectively. Knowledge Growth Adequate continuous knowledge improvement and training in addition to meeting the criteria for appoinment as a supervisor. Evaluation Good practice in the monitoring and review of supervision. Although there was greater emphasis on the attainment of specific graduate attributes or abilities by many PHEIs in Malaysia, research was still not the main goal of many PHEIs. However, the SETARA ranking and rating exercise introduced by the Ministry of Higher Education had raised the bar for PHEIs to start focusing on the development of research. Currently, many PHEIs are not at par with public higher education institutions where research initiative is concerned. Privileged with sufficient support and funding from the Government, public universities, unlike the PHEIs, had the means to promote and take research to the next level. However, with the ­recent development on academic performance and ranking, the ­outstanding question for several PHEIs in Malaysia now is to determine the critical ­success factors in their benchmark to ensure that they are not perceived as only focusing on knowledge dissemination, but as also contributing to new thinking, ideas and knowledge for continuous improvement. CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 ARTICLES Logistics Programmes in Malaysian Higher Education Institutions: The Need from A Logistics Practitioner’s View (By: Dazmin bin Daud, Lecturer at the School of Management, FOMIT) T his article briefly describes the need for Malaysian Higher ­ Education ­Institutions to obtain perspectives from logistics practitioners ­concerning Malaysian logistics educational needs. The scope focuses on the ­participants’ perceptions concerning courses required in the logistics programmes offered by the Malaysian Higher Education Institutions. These courses are expected to contribute knowledge and skills to become a ­competent l­ogistician in the 21st century. An appropriate research design that matches the Malaysian environment must be conducted to deal with the logistics needs of higher education and its relevance in the present logistics curriculum. Thoughts on Logistics Educational Needs (LEN) have evolved from ­transportation to logistics and the supply chain management. To explore the LEN for Malaysian logisticians, this article emphasizes the need to ­conduct a research to gain the thoughts of local logistician practitioners on logistics and the supply chain management issues to provide inputs for the Malaysian LEN. The components of the LEN to be explored in this paper are courses or subjects, knowledge, skills, and the competency ­required by ­students in a logistics programme. Educators and higher education ­institutions need to collaborate with the logistics practitioners to design ­ effective logistics ­programmes. An effective and competent curriculum in ­ logistics can be achieved if these two parties collaborate in designing ­courses or subjects that would produce competent logisticians for the 21st century. As ­mentioned in Oliva’s curriculum design, evaluation and feedback from various parties are essential for curriculum development and design (Oliva, 2009). The importance of developing an effective curriculum in pace with 21st ­century workforce issues can be re-traced from the views by Berkovski and Gottschalk (1997) who emphasized the importance for current higher ­education institutions to revise their curriculum to produce graduates with the knowledge and skills to meet the challenges and demands of the 21st century. Literatures on logistics emphasize the lack of relevancy between actual work practices, applications, and the curriculum on academic logistics programmes (Pteffer & Fong, 2002; Bennis & O’Toole, 2005). The ­logistics programmes offered by higher education institutions must match the ­development of logistics itself. From the logistics practitioners’ perspective, they prefer applied logistics programmes over the traditional ­comprehensive university logistics programmes (van Hoek, 2000; Lancioni, Forman & Smith, 2000). Thus, the findings of this study will show that precise and reliable LEN components are required in designing a logistics programme curriculum for the Malaysian Higher Education Institutions. The purpose of the proposed study is to provide valuable and ­reliable ­inputs from logistics practitioners on the LEN in Malaysia with the ­ purpose of ­determining the gaps in the LEN today in terms of courses ­(or subjects) that would contribute to knowledge, skills and competency for the 21st century logisticians. References: • Bennis, W.G. & O’Toole, J. (2005). How business schools lost their way. Harvard Business Review, 83 (5), 96-104. • Berkovski, B. & Gottschalk, C.M. (1997). Strengthening human resources for new and renewable energy technologies of the 21st century. Renewable Energy, 10(2/3), 441-450. • Lancioni, R., Forman, H., & Smith, M. (2000). Logistics programs in universities: Stovepipe vs cross ­disciplinary. International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, . 31 (1), 53-64. • Oliva, P.F. (2009). Developing the curriculum (7th ed.). Boston: Pearson. • Pteffer, J. & Fong, C.T. (2002). The end of business schools? Less success than meets the eye. Academy of Management Learning & Education, 1(1), 78-95. • Van Hoek, R.I. (2000). Logistics education: Achieving market and research driven skill development. ­International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, . 31(7/8), 505-519. Heat stroke (part 1 - introduction and recognition) (By: Prof. Tin Tun, Lecturer at the School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences) Our body temperature is set and maintained at 98.6 0F (37 0C). The ­­­thermoregulatory centre which controls our body temperature is localized in the ­hypothalamus. It lowers the body temperature when we gain heat and raises the body temperature when we lose it. In our body, heat is derived from the metabolism of the food we consume and our muscle contraction. The extra heat produced or gained is dissipated by radiation through the skin or by evaporation through sweat. Heat exhaustion is a condition where the body heat production is increased above the normal 98.6 0F but not reaching beyond 1030 F. It is a milder form of heat-related illness which occurs during exercise, play or work in a hot and humid environment with excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes through sweat. Another condition known as Heat Stroke is a life-threatening situation where the thermo-regulatory centre in the brain can no longer adjust the rising body temperature. It is a very severe form of heat-related illness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, which if unrecognised and treated promptly, could be fatal. There are two types of Heat Stroke: Classical Heat Stroke, also known as ­ ­ Non-Exertional Heat Stroke (NEHS) and Exertional Heat Stroke (EHS). ­Classical Heat Stroke occurs during environmental heat waves. Risk groups include the very young and old and the physically-ill patients. Exertional Heat Stroke ­occurs in young healthy individuals due to excessive ­production of heat ­during heavy physical activity. There is also an extensive loss of fluid and electrolytes in these individuals. Risk groups include soldiers, ­athletes, ­rescue workers and fire fighters. In these individuals, excessive heat ­production overrides the body thermo-regulatory centre which fails to reset the body temperature back to normal. Multiple organs are involved in Heat Stroke because almost all cells ­suffer from excess heat injury. It is a Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS) where the nervous system, heart, circulation, kidneys and gut, etc. are all involved. Early symptoms of Heat Stroke are vague and difficult to ­diagnose. High body temperature and central nervous system dysfunction are ­hallmarks of Heat Stroke. Typically, Heat Stroke patients present a hot dry skin, low blood pressure, increased heart rate and respiration. The ­single feature that distinguishes Heat Stroke from other heat illnesses is the ­altered mental status. Anyone who presents a confused or irrational behaviour, ­irrespective of core body temperature, should be regarded as impending or having Heat Stroke until proven otherwise. These individuals must be treated ­immediately and promptly because of its high death rate. Recognizing Heat Stroke Warning signs of Heat Stroke vary but may include the following: • An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F, orally) • Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating) • Rapid, strong pulse • Throbbing headache • Dizziness • Nausea • Confusion • Unconsciousness The first aid measures and prevention for Heat Stroke will be discussed in the next issue of the Newsletter (July - December 2010). CERVIE - CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 ARTICLES GO GREEN WHILE YOU STILL CAN (By: Sheiladevi a/p Sukumaran, Lecturer of School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences) M ovies such as 2012 and The Day After Tomorrow have raised worries among mankind on Earth’s future. People have begun to contemplate if it were possible that the place we are inhabiting now would soon be gone. The answer: If we, as the inhabitants of Earth continue to contribute to pollution as we are currently doing, then the answer is a resounding YES! To make matters worse, global warming has already started to take its toll on Earth. The rise in the sea water level caused by the melting of ice in the North Pole is one of the greatest proofs of the selfishness of human beings which is leading to Earth’s destruction. We seem to have forgotten that Earth does not belong to us; that we are actually borrowing it from our children. So the onus of taking care of Earth lies squarely on our shoulders. Thus, the question now should be: How can we do so? For a start we need to scrap the assumption that insects are vermins, pests and a nuisance. Although it is common knowledge for many years now that exposure to pesticides and insecticides lead to health problems such as ­cancer and is contributory to the thinning of the ozone, thus, hazardous to Earth, we choose to ignore this fact because of our greed for profit and wealth. Consequently, little attention is given on informing the public about fascinating insects who are our friends and a more nature-friendly alternative biological control than insecticides and pesticides. Insects could be used to control insects and predators to control preys. However, the insects ­imported and used would be very host specific to feed only on the weeds and pests, for example, by injecting the eggs of small parasitic wasps as pupae on the cabbage farm to kill only the caterpillars without affecting the crops; or using farm owls to control the mice population among oil palms. Since insects can develop resistance to insecticides, biological control is a cheaper, safer and more efficient pest control method to use. Besides, it is also less risky and nature friendly as there is no fear of the insects changing their diet to feed on the crops. However, the importation of large amounts of the biological ­control agents should only be attempted by trained scientists with ­ consultations from agriculturists and environmentalists as their ­careless importation could cause friendly insects to become our enemy and lead to disastrous results instead. Secondly, the mass media has a role to play in educating the general ­public on the importance of the rainforests, wetlands and oceans. Campaigns and warnings by the mass media, like the Global Earth Hour Campaign, could ­trigger awareness among people on the green house effect and global ­warming. In addition, mass media campaigns on the wetlands could highlight the importance of the wetlands in controlling floods; and also as a haven for biodiversity, with a major role in the water cycle to reduce water pollution and purify rainwater before returning it to the sea in a cleansed state (see Figure 1). There should also be mass media campaigns to encourage the masses to plant more trees around housing estates, schools, and even universities since trees could help cool the Earth, consequently, minimising the effects of global warming. Thirdly, we must learn to reduce, recycle and reuse. Most of the things we ­discard can actually be recycled and reused as a new item. Recycling ­reduces the consumption of raw products, minimises energy used and reduces ­pollution caused by the piling of rubbish. It also reduces the emission of green house gases. Thus, almost everything from glass, paper, metal, plastic and even textiles, can be recycled. As for items to be reused, all ­biodegradable items such as food and garden waste, could also be reused. Rice grains could be processed as nutrients for cows and horses. Garden wastes could also be decomposed to produce fertilizers which are more environmental friendly. In reducing, recycling and reusing, we are actually doing nature a favour and showing our care for Earth. Lastly, the government and private organizations should detect loopholes in the palliative measures to ensure better management of the dynamic ­ecosystem. More emphasis should be given to R&D so that alternative ­methods could be found to save the Earth. Policy makers need to focus more attention on the ­ importance of interactions in the ecosystem rather than ­emphasize managing a single component. There is an urgent need to change the current approach in designing and managing the ecosystem. Early ­primary school education should inculcate students on the importance of the environment by involving them in environmental activities which ­emphasise smart mangagement and maintenance of nature. Figure 1. Sea as the source of clean water In conclusion, as the wisest species on Earth, we must fulfil our ­responsibilities effectively. If you are someone who always take thinks for granted, STOP and think before you hit the self-destructive button! It is possible that we evolve new ideas and technologies, however we must always think about their ­impact on Earth. Consequently, it would be much better for us to create new ideas and technologies that would be beneficial to mankind and which could protect the Earth too. For without Earth, we have no other place to live. As we are born and raised here on Earth, we should at least learn to show our appreciation and care of it. Let us together then fix the mess and mistakes mankind has made before it is too late. So my fellow inhabitants of Earth, let’s go green while we still can! CERVIE - 10 CERVIE Newsletter Issue 2, 2nd Quarter, April - June 2010 for your information Student’s Learning Experience during Co-Op Placement the CERVIE The CERVIE, a source for researched knowledge, value innovation and entrepreneurship which flows throughout UCSI ­University to water the whole Malaysian society, is a research centre that will always bring me good memories of UCSI ­University. In French, (which is my first language) the word CERVIE sounds like the word ‘served’. I would like to thank the ­CERVIE for ‘serving’ me well; for helping me in only four months to become an important asset as far as research and ­innovations are concerned. The in-depth literature review on the Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) not only broadened my knowledge, but also made me skilful at ­analysing relevant research information. Under Dr. Keoy’s supervision, the Head of the CERVIE, I developed a conceptual framework on GSCM which will be used to conduct an empirical study on GSCM Readiness among ­Companies in Malaysia. Thus, my initial question of how to write good international articles and ­conference papers was answered, for apart from the administrative and management skills I gained, my interactions, meetings and discussions with the UCSIU staff improved my communication skills. Faced with challenging research problems, the UCSIU staff and students assisted me to improve my research data analysis skills using the research software such as AMOS and SPSS. Furthermore, the CERVIE also helped me to develop my IT skills. Thus, my internship at the CERVIE prepared and equipped me to pursue my Ph.D. more confidantly. Brice Assimizele - Master in Logistics Management Student announcements The 22nd Pacific Science Congress Date: 14th - 18th June 2011 Venue: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia Theme: Asia Pacific Science in the 21st Century - Meeting the ­Challenges of Global Change Sub-Themes: A Changing Climate; Global Change & Ecosystems; Oceans; Earth Systems & Risk Management; Globalization; Resource Constraint & Sustainability; Health Challenges; and Science for Policy and the Future. Website: http://www.22ndpsc.net/index.html. The CERVIE Call for Student Research Assistants The CERVIE invites students as Research Assistants on our short-term research projects. Those interested in gaining research experience and knowledge from the experts, please submit your CV today. Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) The deadline for submission of Lead Researcher Details: 21st May 2010 (Friday) There will be two FRGS briefings on how to complete the FRGS online submission on 18th & 20th May 2010, at 12.00 – 1.00 pm at the ­CERVIE. Interested researchers intending to submit their research proposals should first register by providing the CERVIE with details of their lead researcher (Name, IC. No. & Designation). The CERVIE Newsletter Call for Articles The CERVIE invites staff to contribute to our biannual Newsletter. The 3rd Biannual Issue is July - December 2010 The deadline for the last submission: 10th December 2010 The contents of the Newsletter include: Research News/Updates, UCSIU Feature Researchers, Article contributions, Publications, etc. Further information for all annoucements: CERVIE, Block C 3rd floor, South Wing, Kuala Lumpur Campus or contact: Ms. Yen Hui (angyh@ucsi.edu.my) CERVIE - 11 Centre of Excellence for Research, Value Innovation and Entrepreneurship UCSI University, No. 1, Jalan Menara Gading, UCSI Heights, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Phone: +603 9101 8880 ext 3457 Fax: +603 9102 3606 www.ucsi.edu.my/cervie