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Academic Bulletin Published by Deanship of Research

Looming DangerPublic Health is Endangered by Our

Lifestyles and Eating Habits

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SQU achieves the second and third

positions in Omani Innovation Expo

Enuresis in children

Students’ Accomplishments

Economic Aspects of Carbonatites of

Oman

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Editorial Supervision

Prof. Khaled Day

Managing Editor

Basma Yahya Al Shabibi

Editor

Salim Rabia AL Ghailani

Hassan Ali Al-Hosni

Design and Production

Scientific Publishing and

Outreach Department

Photography

Mohd. Zayed AL-Habsi

Translated by

Hisham Jawad

Follow up and Coordination

Maryam Saif Khamis Al Hashmi

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One of the prime goals which Sultan Qaboos

University (SQU) has sought to achieve is

to generate research. As such, all funding

resources have been put in place alongside

a stimulating environment which will

streamline the production of knowledge.

Nationally, the University comes top in terms

of the number of published research papers,

producing 74% of the articles published by

the Sultanate’s institutions, according to the

bibliographic database Scopus.

citation indexing service, indicates the

growing number of papers published by

SQU academics and increasing citations to

of their research.

research by professional academics and

leading other SQU publications which report

on research output in diverse disciplines.

Written in a lucid direct style, it features

issues of immediate interest to society.

Researchers, students and the public across

the country can have access to study reviews

and descriptions of the methodologies

applied and solutions suggested.

Now that this issue of Tawasul is out, I would

like to thank the Deanship of Research staff

who have been behind this innovative work

which represents an important track of

specialized media. Hopefully, readers will

enjoy thumbing through the pages of this

publication.

Dr. Ali Saud Al-Bemani

Vice-Chancellor

Scientific Outreach

Editorial

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SQU took part in the Omani

Innovation Exhibition, which

was held in Muscat between 26-

28 January 2014. Represented

by the Innovation Affairs

Department (IAD), Deanship

of Research, the University

took part with a working paper,

an exhibit corner and seven

student projects. The paper,

titled Investigating Databases

of Patents, was submitted by

Shaikha Nasser Al Akhzamiyya,

IAD’s acting director. It

covered four main themes: the

novelty of innovation prior

to implementing the idea; the

second focused on how to avoid

infringing rights of similar patent

holders; the third was concerned

licensers from companies that

register similar patents; while

the fourth theme addressed the

importance of obtaining data

on the geographical area of

the protected technology and

on the protection expiration

date. The SQU corner included

student projects that received

intellectual property rights. SQU

innovations contest organized on

the sidelines of the exhibition,

with seven projects addressing

topics related to society,

industry, the environment and

communications. The idea of the

biofuels from waste paper using

nanotechnology, which was

presented by Ahmed Nasser Al

Rawahi and Bashir Marzouk Al

solve environmental problems

by producing renewable

bioenergy at the lowest cost

using micro-organisms that deal

with cellulose. The idea of the

second project is developing

a cooling system to reduce

the effect of high heat on the

nanotechnology. The project

was made by Jumaa Al Maskari,

Salim Al Riyami and Mariam

Al Bahri. The student company

Tarweej (Promotion) presented a

technical product, a mobile app to

be used for marketing small and

medium businesses by exhibiting

their products in innovative

ways in smartphones. Another

student company, Kaizen,

participated with an invention

called Lammah, a multi-use table

sheet which can be turned into

a waste bag, while the student

company, Tri- fold, invented

which can easily turn into a mat

for four people. The students

Sumayya Al Wuhaibi, Hanin Al

introduced a smartphone app for

locating the user in emergency

situations. The last idea,

presented by the student Munthir

Al Hosni, is a smartphone app

used for e-learning and as a

multi-use intelligent browser. In

the contest, Lammah and “The

Production of Biofuels Using

second and third positions,

respectively.

Represented at IAD with an exhibit corner, a working paper and 7 student projects,

SQU achieves the second and third positions in Omani Innovation Expo

The University recently

approved eighty research

projects to be funded by the

internal grant budget. This

comes as part of the efforts

to promote research activities

and facilities. The studies

involve most vital sectors

in the Sultanate, addressing

social and economic

issues, education, industry,

power generation, health and

public services. These projects

are expected to produce

to improving productivity in

as enhancing the development

plans in the country. In addition

to other sources of funding, the

University offers such internal

grants and makes them readily

available, for they are low-

cost and short in duration, yet

important for strengthening

the University’s research

activities. They are often the

core of wider future research

projects in diverse disciplines

that address the needs of

the labor market and sustain

progress in the country. Based

on its funding resources, the

University annually approves

over 120 research projects.

Eighty internal research projects approved in 2014

Main news

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Convection in Nanofluids and Heat transfer

Rating Scales to Assess FPE Students' Writing

An SQU academic is studying the convection mechanism in

They have novel properties that make them potentially useful in many applications of heat transfer including microelectronics, fuel cells, pharmaceutical processes, and hybrid-power engines. They exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity and the convective heat

Mansur Rahman says the mathematical model of the proposed

engineering perspectives. He hopes the successful completion of his project will produce interesting results for understanding

novel applications in the emerging areas of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Nanotechnology plays an important role in the development of modern technology. In nanotechnology, heating or cooling of the nano-devices is very important for their proper functionality.

A research project is carried out at the Language Center, SQU, to

empirically develop new rating scales. Dr. Jennady Medvedev,

the researcher, describes the scales as ‘home made’, based on

the Foundation Program English (FPE) learning outcomes.

They will be tailored to FPE, and therefore the LC, needs. The

would-be clear descriptors, the prospective accurate language

and the potential discernible levels will leave no need for raters

to call on much of their background, experience and personal

preferences to interpret the rating criteria. Instead, only the

criteria will be used along with anchor papers representing

students’ compositions. The sought outcome will hopefully

be a less personalized and more institutionalized objective

assessment of our students’ writing performance, he concludes.

The obesity epidemic is steadily increasing in modern societies due to the abundance of calorie rich foods and sedentary life style. It has become one of the most deadly chronic diseases that claim many lives.

obesity, particularly abdominal obesity, described as the “metabolic

was composed of several risk factors linked to life threatening diseases including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. These risk factors include: Increased triglyceride and sugar levels, low levels good cholesterol (HDL-C) and increased blood pressure. As abdominal obesity is the most common form of obesity worldwide, especially in men, and in women after menopause, it is considered the most dangerous form in

of abdominal obesity which was approximately 20% in men and 54% in women. Recent studies have shown that the major component of the metabolic syndrome in Oman was decreased HDL-C levels in the blood. The common understanding that heart disease is usually associated with increased bad cholesterol levels (LDL-C) in the blood is true. However, in the case of the metabolic syndrome, the high risk is mainly associated with low good cholesterol (HDL -C) levels and increased triglyceride levels in spite of normal LDL-C levels. Recent studies have shown that the combination of decreased HDL-C levels and increased triglyceride levels in patients with the metabolic syndrome are linked to mechanisms that initiate the formation small dense cholesterol particles (sdLDL), which are more dangerous to blood vessels than normal larger LDL particles. sdLDL particles can easily penetrate the endothelial lining of blood vessels and are more susceptible to oxidation. This triggers an immune response recruiting white blood cells that engulf sdLDL oxidized

cells eventually rupture and deposit a large amount of cholesterol into the

of the arteries which is the hallmark of atherosclerosis. In addition, platelets aggregate at the site of the injured blood vessels forming blood clots that further contribute to the risk of fatal ischemic heart disease and stroke. It is therefore important to measure the levels and size of these atherogenic particles in order to undertake preventive measures that may limit their formation. However, the measurement of the size and levels

to identify alternative diagnostic measures, we investigated biochemical factors that may predict the formation of sdLDL particles in the blood. In a recent study on Omani men, we found that decreased LDL size (ie sdLDL) in blood is strongly associated with an increased Triglyceride / HDL-C ratio. We therefore propose the use of this ratio as an alternative measure to predict LDL size and sdLDL levels in the blood. Our study agrees with international studies and recommendations in this regard.

decreased HDL-C levels in Omani patients with the metabolic syndrome. Decreased HDL-C contributes to a high Triglyceride/HDL-C ratio which indicates a higher risk of increased sdLDL formation. Here, we

HDL prevents the accumulation of bad cholesterol in blood vessel walls by transferring cholesterol back to the liver and limiting the hardening of blood vessels. HDL also prevents sdLDL oxidation and protects

in determining HDL-C levels in blood, but studies have shown that exercise, weight loss, especially in the abdominal area and refraining from smoking and unhealthy foods all contribute to increasing the levels of good HDL-C and reverse the progression of the deadly events of the metabolic syndrome.

The Silent Killer

Dr. Jumana Saleh

Associate Professor

Biochemistry Department

College of Medicine

Microscope

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responsibilities and goals?

The HRC is one of the newer research

centers in SQU. It addresses issues in

social sciences, education, economics,

commerce, political science and law.

As to its duties, the Center conducts

empirical research into humanities,

edits old manuscripts, translates and

publishes books and dissertations,

provides consultations for researchers

and supports joint research projects

with other national and international

institutions. Such activities will serve

development plans in the Sultanate

and take into consideration world

changes.

and resources?

In achieving the Center’s goals, we

rely on full-time in-house professional

researchers working on humanities

projects, academics based in SQU

colleges and centers and scholars from

other institutions. There is also the

funding offered by SQU, The Research

Council (TRC) and other local and

international institutions and aimed

at promoting research and recruiting

distinguished scholars.

HRC Director to Tawasul:

The Humanities Research Center (HRC) aspires to play a major role in

supporting humanities-based studies being undertaken in Oman. It has as

its purpose to explore new areas of knowledge and focus special attention on

existing problems. The Center is also responsible for conducting research

into different aspects of social, educational, economic and legal sciences. To

highlight the duties and future plans of the Center, Tawasul has interviewed

Interview

Dr. Saeed Al Muharrami

What plans do you have for improving

Currently, we are giving special

attention to recruiting researchers

and assistant researchers to enhance

research work, to preparing in-

house researchers to produce

consolidation with foreign centers on

joint projects, alongside the Center’s

accomplishments.

What activities does the Center

have at the local and international

levels?

Locally, the Center has had a number

of projects, some completed and

others under way, with other SQU

humanities-based colleges. There are

plans to do other studies with other

institutions. Internationally, some

foreign scholars have shown interest

to cooperate with the Center. All

resources have been put in place to

support their work. The Center is also

inviting researchers from Algeria,

Portugal and the US for short visits. A

team from the Humanities Research

Center, Michigan University, has

recently visited the Center. They have

expressed willingness to collaborate

with the Center and SQU researchers

and offered to invite one humanities

scholar on a sabbatical leave to spend

one semester at Michigan.

Has the HRC had joint research

projects with other institutions?

As I said earlier, there is on-going col-

laboration with other SQU colleges

and research centers. Last Octo-

ber, the Center together

with the Omani Stud-

ies Center (OSC)

hosted the symposium Muscat: His-

tory and Civilization. It also carried

out research projects with the College

of Education and the Language Cen-

ter. Other studies are being undertaken

with the College of Arts and Social

Sciences, the College of Economics

and Political Science and the Language

Center. Other Omani institutions have

shown interest to work with the Cen-

ter. Last December, a delegation from

the National Committee of Youth had

talks with us on how to make use of

our research facilities.

Apparently there is much to be done

for the HRC to achieve its goals

in terms of the volume of research

output.

How do you see that as possible?

We need to employ more humanities

researchers, but hopefully we will

carry on working to attain our short-

and long-term objectives. Further

efforts should be made to maintain

accomplished work, but since the

Center is still in the founding stage,

more work should be done. This

stage is very important as the Center

will build on it for further academic

humanities.

with those of the OSC?

On the contrary, we believe their

tasks are complementary. One of the

outcomes of their cooperation was

the symposium Muscat: History and

Civilization which was held by both

centers. However, the HRC has a

broader perspective and mission as it

addresses research on humanities in the

to a limited geographical region.

The Center seeks to set up research

teams, both from and beyond the

It also serves as a link between

researchers of humanities-based

colleges who conduct interdisciplinary

joint studies.

between your center and other SQU

humanities-based colleges?

Some projects were completed while

others are under way with the Colleges

of Arts and Social Sciences, Economics

We need more humanities

researchers

Utmost effort is made to enhance the Center’s performance

at this stage

We have invited scholars from

Algeria, Portugal and the US

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and Political Science, and Education

and the Language Center. Since

the Center is more concerned with

interdisciplinary studies, it is expected

to collaborate with other colleges so as

to enhance research at SQU.

Can you comment on the idea of

forming specialist research teams

with pre-planned projects?

This has been part of the goals the

Center seeks to achieve shortly.

indicative of a high-level performance

by the Center. This can only be

guaranteed when we have a large

number of researchers and assistant

researchers in diverse disciplines.

One of the priorities of world research

organizations is to promote the spirit

of specialist team work. The Center

is aware of this important aspect as

it enriches research and helps to save

time and effort.

plans for the future?

There are several future plans based on

the Center’s goals. They are designed

to expand the Center’s structure by

opening up more units specialized in

different areas of humanities, to seek

with other regional and international

research centers on developing joint

projects and exchanging expertise in

humanities.

There are great expectations about

what the Center can achieve. Part of

its strategic plans is to become a think

tank in humanities research. A complementary

relationship between HRC and

OSC

We seek to have specialist teams

and become a think tank

Interview

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An SQU scholar has recently

conducted a large-scale new-born

screening on 7800 neonates in two

major cities of Oman so as to assess

the incidence of various forms of

haemoglobinopathies, i.e. genetic

blood disorders. Autosomal traits of

such diseases are highly prevalent

in Oman and the clinically relevant

homozygous forms are found

high morbidity, mortality and cost

of management, prevention and

control programs are mandatory

in order not to drain the health

resources of the country.

Dr Shoaib Al Zadjali, of the

Department of Haematology, SQU

of his research paper Molecular

in Oman at the Laboratory Medicine

Congress, recently held in Cape

Town, South Africa. Commenting

on the procedure followed in his

work, the researcher said: “samples

were analysed for CBC and HPLC;

the positive samples were further

studied with molecular methods for

He added that the results had allowed

him to understand the potential

pitfalls in diagnosis and genetic

counselling. A rapid cost-effective

stepwise experimental strategy

was developed to overcome some

replication of this molecular

strategy on prospectively recruited

thalassemic cases helped validate

the approach, he revealed.

scene for implementing effective

Molecular Genetics of Haemoglobinopathies in OmanInnovative strategy addresses the molecular genetics of

haemoglobinopathiesprevention and control programs,

assisted by precise molecular

diagnostic procedures adapted to

the Omani population, he said.

Further, it has become possible to

understand the complex phenotype-

genotype relationship generated by

multiple interactions of various

haemoglobinopathy traits.

The researcher’s innovative

strategy, published in The European

Journal of Haematology this year,

has become a reference work for

His contribution to the conference

is expected to have a positive

impact in terms of exchange of

expertise in the area of molecular

genetics of haemoglobinopathies.

There are also potentials for

developing joint training programs

between the Department of

Haematology at SQU Hospital and

other laboratories in other foreign

institutions, which will open up

the chances for using modern

technologies and keeping abreast

Study

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In press remarks, Dr Al Shuaili has said “although reproductive

September 1994, when the International Conference on Population and Development

of reproductive health and endorse unanimously the right of everyone to reproductive health, the issue has attracted a great deal of interest among many relevant circles, as it is the basis for having healthy children, enjoying intimate marriages and building happy families. This is also the vision

of the UN Population Fund which called for efforts to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, every young

life is AIDS-free and every woman is treated with dignity

he explains: “It is to reach a state of complete physical, mental and social progress in matters related to the functions of pregnancy, childbirth and motherhood rather than merely the absence of disease and disability, which is an essential

the standard of fertility of men and women. Reproductive health is of paramount importance for women to enjoy, to be healthy during and after giving birth, to feel dignity being empowered with the right to pregnancy and having all potentials for a successful pregnancy and childbirth, being immune against gynaecological

He added that reproductive health has three main commitments:

gynaecology and maternal and infant diseases, 2) proper education on matters of marriage, pregnancy and childbirth, abortion and birth control as well as the empowerment of women and their right to choose their man and the wife’s right in the family, and 3) raising awareness of reproductive system diseases

methods. Reproductive health has attracted the attention of researchers and organizations being a preventive access to most reproductive health problems, he pointed out. The concept

Reproductive Hygiene Literacy in Oman

Health has always been a fundamental social concern, as it has a direct impact on the quality of life and standard of living of

is needed then are actually complementary measures aimed at maintaining health care by raising preventive health awareness which

would help people to cope with such problems and observe certain precautions to prevent their occurrence. Generally, unhealthy

practices are due to lack of knowledge among individuals as to healthy habits and patterns which would protect everyone against

diseases such as spitting on the ground, coughing in the face of others, eating unclean fruits and vegetables, not washing hands

before/after meals and after using the toilet, neglecting necessary medical treatment, vulnerability to disease, malnutrition, being

raise awareness so as to improve the health system associated with reproductive health. This has been the focus of a recent research

work carried out by Dr Ali Al Shuaili titled «Reproductive hygiene literacy in urban, rural and nomadic areas» in which he sought

to measure the level of awareness among rural communities of reproductive health practices.

Research examines such literacy among Omani female students from rural and nomadic areas

Cognitive and emotional dimensions are used as measuring tools

Study

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has emanated from the global interest which emphasizes that reproductive health is the right of every individual and will help him or her to enjoy the highest level of physical and mental health. The 2002 annual report of the Ministry of Health cited a study titled «Towards a better understanding of the youth» which was aimed to survey the knowledge, attitudes and practices of high school students

reproductive health. It showed that mother was the main source of information on puberty for 36.7% of girls, whereas, for 48.9 % of boys, friends were the source of information. The study also revealed that only 48.4 % of teens recognized accurately how HIV is transmitted and 32.1% had partially correct information. There was 8% of male smokers and 20.1% smoked at some time, 7.3% of female smokers and 2.7% experienced smoking at some time and 4.3% of students had drunk alcohol.

The 2003 censusInitial statistics (according to the census of 2003 in Oman) showed that young people (below 15 years old) were the base of the population pyramid in the Sultanate accounting for 41% of the general census. This percentage was graphically represented along different regions: 46.4% in the Batinah, 43.1% in Musandam, 42.3% in Aldhahirah, 47.5% in Aldakhiliyyah, 45.5% in

Muscat, 37.5% in Dhofar and

Census of Population, housing and establishments , 2003). These high rates are attributed to the high fertility and low infant mortality in the Sultanate. According to 2009 statistics, the fertility rate amounted to 5.53 children born/woman ) , a very high rate which can be due to the following reasons:Predominant Islamic, cultural and family values call for increased childbearing and larger familyCitizens enjoy stability, social security and high rates of income per capitaEarly marriage is widespread in

the Omani society, whereby the

females is 20.7 years , compared with 24.7 years for males. Estimates show that the Omani woman gives birth to an average of seven children during her reproductive life, which is one of the highest fertility rates in the world.Young people make the highest proportion of the population, which makes the bulk of the community within the childbearing age. The 1993 census statistics indicate that the Omani population group (15-64 years) constituted 56.8% of the total population of Oman, being a high percentage.Values encouraging family building are still prevalent and accepted in the Omani society , both at the family and public levels, and there are no public policies for birth control.Physical and psychological conditions that drive the family to reduce the number of children are not yet clear. There are less working women due to the conservative traditions of the Omani society. The Ministry of National Economy’s statistical Yearbook indicated in 2009 that Omani women working in government institutions in 2008 accounted for 43.204% of the total civil servants, 7.9% of whom hold senior positions like ministers, undersecretaries, ambassadors, consultants, experts, and directors general besides other high-ranking positions.As this category of population gets bigger, unhealthy practices continue to expand due to lack of relevant awareness in the community. Examples are the prevalence of smoking and

promote public and personal hygiene, developing unhealthy dietary habits and lack of interest of the community in reproductive health. This calls for the need to have appropriate plans to promote reproductive health education.

Focus of the study

on the theme of his study problem, said: «Raising public awareness about reproductive health is less a matter of planning than education, and

therefore much is dependent on the role education plays to change the behaviors and attitudes of individuals so as to prevent reproductive system diseases, maintain health and recover rapidly from disease.» Since young women are expected to lead a new family life in addition to their current burdens within their families,

reproductive awareness in order to provide preventive treatment and avoid harmful effects of lack of reproductive awareness among this important section of society. Thus, the study highlights the need to determine the level of reproductive health education among girls from rural and nomadic areas in the Sultanate.

Research questionsThe study sought to answer the

the level of reproductive health literacy among young women from rural and nomadic areas in Oman? What attitudes do they have towards some reproductive health practices? Is reproductive

geographical location? Do their attitudes in this regard differ due to their geographical location?Tools of the studyThe tool of the study was

designed to determine the level of reproductive health literacy in rural and nomadic areas. It included cognitive and emotional dimensions

i.e. puberty and eligibility for marriage, childbearing, pregnancy and childbirth, family planning and menstruation, puerperal condition and

reproductive system diseases. Validity and reliability of the tool were measured by a sound research methodology. The investigation is expected to shed light on different aspects of the reproductive health literacy among young women. These have to do with the lack of information young women may have as to puberty and eligibility for marriage, menstruation and reproductive system diseases. There is also a strong drive to expand education curriculums by including materials or courses on reproductive health. Finally, the study may

differences concerning reproductive health between young women from rural and nomadic areas on the one hand and those living in urban regions

being in favour of the latter group.

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Looming DangerPublic Health is Endangered by Our Lifestyles and Eating Habits

“Millions of people die from starvation every year in different parts of the world, yet there are many who die from excess consumption of food. This has led to spending large amounts of money on signing up for weight-loss programs. Chronic diseases caused by unhealthy eating habits affect people aged between 15 and 49 years and they are expected to increase six-fold over the next 25 years. This in itself presents the challenge of how to face the risks of non-communicable

studies, including one research work conducted by a team of academics at Sultan Qaboos University. The question to be asked then is what should we do so that the society, particularly women, enjoy a healthy life free from diseases such as diabetes, blood pressure and high cholesterol ? What are the health risks that threaten the community due to lack of exercise? What is the rate of obesity in the Sultanate compared with other countries in the Gulf region?

Behavior Patterns

Professor Hashem Kilani, from the

Department of Physical Education at the

College of Education, says that patterns of

health behavior are based on actions taken

and prevention of disease. This includes the

patterns of behavior that seem appropriate

for individuals to maintain their physical

health. Active lifestyle is a term used to

refer to the physical exercise regularly taken

by people to improve their

those habits

w h e r e b y

individuals

carefu l ly

s e l e c t

their food

and have

e n o u g h

sleep (between 8-10 hours) and the energy

needed for daily routines.

High Mortality

According to the World Health

Organization’s (WHO) 2010 report,

the rate of deaths in Oman due to

noncommunicable diseases caused by

lack of activity and bad eating habits hit a

record high of 83%, Kilani points out. The

number of obese people went up to 20.9%

and the overweight to 55.8 %. The latter

group are still prone to various diseases

such as diabetes and high blood pressure,

high cholesterol , heart disease and many

others. Therefore, it is highly important

for young people, especially teenagers,

to adopt healthy lifestyles. Recent

reports have indicated that there is a

direct relationship between obesity or

adolescent obesity and increased risk

of cardiovascular diseases, the major

cause of death among adults.

Various Factors

According to Dr Kilani, bad eating habits

and unhealthy lifestyles are effected by the

current new trends characterizing our lives.

The rush toward the different kinds of new

technologies in the Arab countries has had a

negative impact on the patterns of social life

and healthy lifestyle. People have become

addicted to such means of amusement,

abandoning all forms of sports and physical

activities. Instead of our using technology

to help athletes develop their abilities, now

technology has changed our lifestyles and

health habits, pushing us towards adopting

an alternative virtual reality. In addition, a

lot of people in Oman do not expose their

bodies to sun light. Adults usually keep

their children indoors where they spend

a great deal of time playing video games,

using computers, watching TV, all of which

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could lead to depression in children and

increased risk factors for the occurrence of

chronic diseases early in life.

Deep Concern

Dr Mona Al Awadi, from the Department of

Art Education, mentions that many people

do not pay enough attention to health issues,

diabetes, hypertension and heart diseases. It

is likely that this situation is attributable to

the lack of exercise, especially walking, the

prevalence of unhealthy eating habits such

as eating a lot of red meat, fatty foods, oils

and sweets and desserts. Sometimes, we

feel there is something not right inside our

bodies, which calls for immediate response.

We should take note of this; otherwise, we

end up having serious diseases.

She adds that the new age of technology has

had its impact on our lifestyles. New habits

have been developed - sitting in front of a

computer or the excessive use of portable

electronic devices and programs of social

networking ( Facebook , What’s Up, etc.)

– replacing normal ways of communicating

people have become unable to maintain

healthy daily habits.

The Role of Women

Dr Hala Mursi, of the Department of

Physical Education, has stressed that the

lack of physical activity, especially for

women, is one of the main factors behind

health risks that threaten the community.

The role of women is so important, she

says. They are the mothers who raise kids,

look after families and build generations;

they secure a culture of a healthy lifestyle;

children on proper ways of life in terms of

dietary habits, enough sleep and physical

activity. More efforts should be made to

increase awareness among women about

the importance of physical, mental and

recreational activities such as exercising in

some sports, to eradicate illiteracy, and to

activities. Women need to face up to the

challenges about false beliefs regarding the

practice of women›s sports, for example, it

is for males only and not for females, and

outdoors sports are not for women. This

perception has been deepened by a lack of

types of sport activities, discouragement

from parents and the community, fear of

injury, and failure to provide facilities for

exercise. A lot of sports venues do not

keep the privacy of women. There is also a

shortage of well-trained women who could

take charge of such facilities, she concluded.

Serious Situation

As to the health conditions of Omani young

women in general, Dr Kilani cited several

studies that examined the serious problems

in this regard. A joint research work has

found that a large number of women, the

sample of the study, suffer from severe

many

individuals in

the Sultanate

suffer from

obesity

83% of

deaths is

caused

by lack of

activity

lack of

physical

activity

jeopardises

public health

Dr Randa: Dr Kilani: Dr Hala:

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vulnerable to being infected with early

osteoporosis, a fragile-bone disease, and

depression. The study has concluded that

women with such ailments are likely to have

weak muscles and a high level of fat, which

is indicative of a serious physical condition.

As to depression, further research is needed

on a wider sample to identify the factors and

the inactive lifestyle and lack of physical

exercise, the important symptoms found in

the study sample.

Health-Promoting Schools

The Sultanate pays special attention to

public health care, particularly the wellness

of young people, by raising awareness of

healthy lifestyles. Dr Randa Mahmoud

Youssef, of the Department of Family

Medicine and Public Health, College of

Medicine and Health Sciences, says: “in

a study on physical exercises done by

teenagers in grades 11 and 12 and also the

age groups between 20 and 25 years, we

have found that the Sultanate pursues a

strategy of «health-promoting schools»

with the adoption of physical exercise as

one of the most important elements of the

curriculums. However, many people do

not realize the ultimate goal of making all

school children engage in physical exercise

at school. Hopefully, physical exercise will

She adds: “The study also suggests that

although all schools offer classes in physical

education, only 52.9% of the students,

males and females alike, in these classes

attend. Surprisingly, half of those enrolled

in physical education classes do not attend

classes regularly. The research attributed the

reasons for such a low attendance percentage

to two factors: that this subject is not part

of the core curriculum and that activities are

recommended that the concept of health-

promoting schools be reinforced by making

physical education classes mandatory.

Secondly, a variety of activities should be

put in place in order to meet the needs of

students in physical education. With regard

to physical activity after school, the study

indicated that 90% of the students would

like to do some sports.

Possible Solutions

Dr Kilani emphasizes that researchers should

give great attention to the societal culture

which is based on local traditions. «A survey

I conducted at the College of Nursing about

training Omani women after giving birth

the husband or other relatives.» However,

women had a positive attitude toward the

training. It is worth-mentioning that SQU

female students are more drawn to physical

education than male students are, but there

are some challenges facing them in creating

the ideal atmosphere for that.

Calling for more support in this respect, he

proposed that sport facilities be renovated

and more resources put in place in order to

expand such activities for whole families

and women, taking into consideration the

conservative nature of the Omani society.

More efforts should be made to encourage

new gym clubs and, at the same time, reduce

the number of water-pipe smoking coffee

houses. Long-term sustainable plans should

be developed in this regard, particularly by

SQU to urge its employees and students to

do physical activities.

Recommendations

Dr Hala has called for a collective effort in

sleep and comfort. Also important are

regular physical activities like walking.

There is ample evidence indicating a direct

relationship between doing exercise and a

healthy body and mind. What is needed is

to have individuals alert and able to resist

physical and mental pressures including

such diseases as heart diseases, diabetes,

blood pressure and arthritis.

fast food is a

major cause

of chronic

diseases

Mona Al Awadi:

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children with enuresis, loss

of self-esteem, and altered

self-perception, interpersonal

school performance.

Dr. Al-Saadoun remarks that

the biochemical causes of this

problem are not well known,

stressing that there is evolving

evidence that the biochemical

marker glycosaminoglycan

of sugars and protein that can

be found in mucosal membrane

lining the transitional cells of

the urinary bladder. It has a

function of preventing bacterial,

protein and ionic adherence to

the wall of the bladder. Reviews

excretion in enuretic patients

patients with primary nocturnal

enuresis.

if there is any difference in

samples of the children with

primary enuresis and healthy

children as a biochemical

marker of enuresis; the age/

gender of the child will be

considered if it is a factor that

The study is also examining the

impact of this health problem on

children and mothers as these

aspects have not been studied

in Oman. Such information

could help doctors dealing with

families suffering from this

problem, she points out, adding

that while this information is

available in other countries, it is

expected that the results of this

study will provide professionals

working with affected children

more knowledge about the

impact of the disease and beliefs

relevant to the Omani context.

The research team has collected

urine samples from the controls

(118 children 5-12 years old)

which are under a biochemical

analysis. With regard to the

children having primary

nocturnal enuresis the study is

still at the stage of collecting

urine samples and gathering

mothers’ information about the

impact of the problem on the

affected children/mother aiming

to involve 100 patients. Children

participating in the study are

5-12 years old attending SQUH

for evaluation and management

of primary nocturnal enuresis.

Enuresis, involuntary urination,

is the focus of a new study

conducted by a team of

researchers at College of

Medicine, SQU. The team is

examining the psychosocial

impact of nocturnal enuresis that

occurs in Omani children. The

biochemical changes in the urine

associated with this condition,

excretion in enuretic patients,

are under scrutiny, too.

Dr. Mona Al-Saadoun, the

principal investigator, explains

that enuresis is an abnormal

condition that occurs usually for

incontinence. It can be of two

types: primary and secondary.

Primary enuresis refers to

children who never achieved

urinary continence whereas

secondary enuresis refers to

children who have urinary

continence but not consistently,

or to children who had been dry

for more than 6 months and then

developed enuresis. Nocturnal

enuresis is used to describe

enuresis that occurs in children

while sleeping. Dryness at night

usually follows achievement

of continence by day and, by

approximately the age of 5 years,

the majority of children with

normal bladder function should

She adds that the co-morbidity of

behavioral problems is 2-4 times

higher in children with enuresis

in all epidemiologic studies. The

emotional impact of enuresis

on a child and family can be

considerable as found in studies

from different regions. Children

with enuresis are commonly

risk of emotional and physical

abuse. She refers to numerous

studies that report feelings of

embarrassment and anxiety in

Enuresis in childrenA study of associated biochemical and psychosocial factors

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Perceptions of Nursing Preceptors

A new study is underway to explore the preceptors’ experiences

that his study will contribute to increasing understanding and

knowledge of the preceptorship experience. “The study is

views, experiences and the meaning of preceptorship in the

is widely used in nursing education programs as an alternative

teaching method to the traditional clinical teaching to achieve

a student to graduate role. The College of Nursing and SQU

Hospital (SQUH) have implemented a preceptorship program

is proposed, using a semi-structured interview schedule to

generate data. The target population will include all approved

preceptors at SQUH who have supervised at least one student

during the past six years and are willing to participate in the

process shall commence only after receiving permission from

the Ethical and Research Committee of the College of Nursing,

the University and the Hospital.

A researcher from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences is conducting a study based on the serological testing of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Characterizing this procedure as more appropriate for mass screening and epidemiological studies of H. pylori infection in the community, Dr. Jamal Sallam says his research into the prevalence of H. pylori in Oman will help the health care provider in drawing reliable strategic plans for eradication of H. pylori and treatment of peptic ulcer diseases. Furthermore, it will provide an insight into the etiology of gastric cancer in Oman. H. pylori is one of the most common infections worldwide with about 50% of the world populations are estimated to be infected. The prevalence of H. pylori infection is higher in developing countries than in developed countries. In Oman, despite of the available studies about the prevalence of gastric cancer amongst Omani population and the emphasis that H. pylori may have a major causal factor in the etiology of gastric cancer in Omani patients, yet no studies have been published about the prevalence of H. pylori in Oman. The human stomach is the main reservoir for H. pylori infection; however, the exact method of transmission of infection is unknown. H. pylori infection is associated with a variety of gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal disorders.

gastritis, atrophic gastritis, gastric cancer, and mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. Several invasive and non-invasive tests have been used for detection of H. pylori infection. Although direct testing of H. pylori by performing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and taking gastric biopsy with histological examination or culture is regarded as the gold standard of testing for H. pylori infection, however, this method is invasive, inconvenient, and expensive. Hence, serological testing has been suggested.

Serological Prevalence of H. pylori in Oman

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A research team from the College of Medicine and Health

Sciences has launched a research project to investigate the genetic

characteristic and transmission dynamics of Mycobacterium

tuberculosis in Oman among expatriates and nationals. The group,

headed by Dr. Abdullah Al Maniri, will try to determine whether

the bacteria in the two groups form distinct non-overlapping foci or

the spatial structure of the bacteria populations at different sites

in Oman in close proximity will be examined and compared with

that in areas much further distant. Bacteria collected from Omanis

and non-Omanis will be examined by polymerase chain reaction

alleles of polymorphic loci. The number of alleles of each locus and

compared between that obtained from Omanis and non-Omanis as

well as between each site in Oman. Dr. Al Maniri added that the

study would examine genes which are thought to confer resistance

to the clinical outcome of treatment and the magnitude of drug

pressure in each site.

A new study is under way to identify the genetic defects underlying

(PID) in Oman. The work, carried out by Dr. Salem Al-Tememi,

mutation types and mode of inheritance and may discover new genes causing PIDs. PIDs are a heterogeneous group of disorders that affect different components and functions of the immune system. They are mostly inherited by single gene defect. They are considered a rare group of diseases however they are expected to be more common in countries with a high consanguinity rate. The prevalence

better diagnosis, counseling and future gene therapy; some diseases are already treated by gene therapy. Dr. Al-Tememi says genetic analysis of PID diseases in Oman may add novel genetic defects to the existing knowledge available from different countries which will help in diagnosis and counseling of patients from other countries as well as Oman. Inherited disorders in general are common in Middle Eastern countries because of customary consanguineous marriages. Knowing the genetic defects for the various clinical phenotypes

physicians to manage and counsel patients and families with these disorders. Furthermore it is going to be a basis for future customized genetic testing and future gene therapy.

A new research work is underway to examine the Sabkhas and tidal inlets in El-Batineh plain using Remote Sensing and

Shawky, the researcher at the College of Arts and Social

usually in closed basins and coastal Sabkhas normally formed by ebb and tide mostly along coastal inlets. Coastal inlets can be temporal or permanent. The Sabkhas and tidal inlets are widely distributed along El- Batinah plain. Their development is related to various factors such as: climate, geology, hydrology, and local relief. These forms have a direct effect on the development in El- Batinah plain where population, settlement, and development in Oman are concentrated. Therefore, the study of these landforms, regarding their geomorphic emergence and evolution, is important, especially in light of the emerging sea level changes.

global warming will eventually cause a rise in sea level which could have detrimental impact on the infrastructure bordering the coast. So, it is important and necessary to start and focus on studying Sabkhas and tidal inlets in Oman. One of the potent methods used to this effect is the employment of remote sensing

the coast line and Sabkhas areas, supplemented by mechanical, chemical, and mineral analysis to determine the deposition conditions in the endangered areas, simulate these changes and produce perspective maps of them.

A research team headed by Dr. Sulaiman Al Ubaidani is studying

treatment and seawater pre-treatment. The productivity, retention

and fouling of different NF membranes will also be examined.

The broad objective of the research project is to characterize and

test the suitability of NF membranes on treating brackish water

and seawater from different sources in Oman at the Department

of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering in SQU.

Transmission Dynamics of

Mycobacterium Tuberculosis in Oman

Genetic Causes of PID Disorders in Omani Patients

Geomorphology of Sabkhas and Tidal Inlets in El-Batinah

Use of NF Membranes for Water Treatment

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Students from the Information Systems Department, College of Economics and Political Science, have

life. The studies appeared in the proceedings of the Clute Institute International Academic Conference

held in Paris last year. Supervised by Dr Ali Al Badi, Head of Department, the students are: Elham Al

Makhini, Wafa Al Qayoudhi and Abeer Al Harrasi.

Clute Institute organizes an

international conference on

social mediaElham Al Makhini wins the best paper award

Her study suggests students prefer e-learning

Best research paper

Elham Al Makhini, in collaboration

with Dr Al Badi and Wafa Al Qayoudhi,

won the award for best paper. Her

work, entitled “The Adoption Of

Social Networks (SNs) in Education:

A Case Study Of The Use Of SNs By

addresses issues in the context of

technology applications, including the

such as commerce, advertisement,

marketing, education, fashion and

entertainment. The main theme is the

uses of Facebook, Twitter, Youtube

and other media in education. The

such networks are favourably used for

e-learning by students.

Objectives

The research work aims to explore

Elham Al Makhini

Students’ Accomplishments

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the need to change the

traditional style of teaching

and learning. The main

motives for using SNs by

higher education students in

Oman, recognize the impact

of SN tools in learning and

education in general, analyse

the problems that students

might face while using SNs

and see whether traditional

learning methods need to be

changed in the era of web

2.0 technologies.

Flexible environment

A survey of about 100

students from different

higher education institutions

in the Sultanate was

conducted. The results

shed light on the students’

attitudes and beliefs about

the traditional teaching

style. Most students believe

the traditional method of

teaching is not preferable

as it provides only a poor,

obsolete way of presenting

course material. In addition,

most students agree that there

provided by instructors

and very little interaction

between students in the

think that such traditional

methods of teaching should

be replaced with online

learning by using different

SN tools. Some students

have shown evidence of

implementing such tools.

Positive impact

As to the impact of SN tools

in learning and education,

the study suggests that

most students are positively

affected by online learning

methods. They see that SNs

improve their educational

performance. They can get

help from online members

and understand topics

much better than when

using traditional methods.

availability of SNs can

have a positive impact

on their effectiveness.

Furthermore, students can

turn to other resources

very easily if they face

any subject. Also, they can

improve their technological

communication skills and

in interacting with others,

initiating team work and

sharing ideas.

Challenges

The study also examined the

problems students face in

using SNs tools. The majority

of students encountered

most appropriate website.

As a result, they had to spend

much time and were worried

about their privacy and

information security when

using SN websites. Others

expressed concerns about

cyber-bullying, including

cases whereby students may

offend other users during

the communication process.

Due to the huge number of

of information they provide,

sucked into a spiral of data

which makes them unable to

select the right website.

Method of Teaching

It seems that many students

have a negative attitude

toward the traditional style

of teaching. Instead, they

prefer the applications of

SN tools. They believe that

such online tools help them

improve in their studies,

giving them more options

on how to better receive the

information.

E-system

The paper concludes that

students favor replacing

traditional styles of teaching

with online learning,

and, hence, being able to

create their own approach

to learning. Universities

and other institutions can

implement online teaching

and, in doing so, they will

encourage students to

use this method to create

their own educational

environment.

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The UN Environment Program registered the Sultanate of Oman as an acute water scarce country. The annual rainfalls are limited and average precipitation is only about 75-100 mm. Perennial streams are minimal and renewable water resources

exhausting its water resources as the water withdrawal increased from 500 million m3 in 1985 to 1,200 million m3 in 1996, and is expected to reach approximately 7,500 million m3 by 2025. Therefore, there is

a great need for a sensible use of water with minimum losses wherever possible. However, under a water shortage situation, it is important to increase water productivity in agriculture

management technologies; and, in Oman’s agricultural landscape, horticultural crops, like fruits, vegetables and herbs, cover a large area. Agricultural strategies under extreme water scarcity should be based on sustainability, maximizing economic and

environmental returns for the unit volume of water. Therefore, it is needed to create knowledge

research studies to minimize water losses and optimize water productivity. In this regard, Dr. Mumtaz Khan, of the College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, has carried out a study aimed at providing facts of the physiological basis

and their potential application to some of the most important horticultural crops of Oman.

In press remarks, the researcher said that options to minimize the immense loss of precious water could be diverse e.g. developing drought tolerant crops, surface or subsurface drip irrigation, mulching or to

do not exercise optimal use of irrigation water. The crops are usually over-irrigated with a false thinking of a way to enhance agricultural production while excess watering may result in precious water and nutrient losses below the root zone resulting further in low water/crop productivity and ground water contamination with nitrate leachate. Effective irrigation usage may augment water use, thereby reducing agricultural

Water is a limited natural reserve having massive competition for agricultural, industrial and domestic use. There is a lot of pressure on freshwater withdrawals which are largely contributed to agriculture (70%), industry (20%) and municipalities (10%). An international commission on irrigation and drainage estimated that worldwide irrigation

evident that in coming years there will be huge pressure on available water resources to

nations are facing a critical water shortage and are already in the ‹›global water crisis››.

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input costs and increasing water productivity. He added that a research initiative had been taken up with the following objectives:1. Investigate the effects of various levels of RDI (regulated

productivity in horticultural crops2. Identify the sensitive growth stages of various crops with regards to RDI and the detrimental impact on crop

monitor physiological and

irrigation regimes 3. Determine optimum water

horticultural crops with RDI, explore the economic feasibility of using RDI levels and to

regarding water saving through irrigation automation through standard extension and outreach approaches He mentioned that a study had been conducted on Omani basil (Rehan) under control conditions at Agriculture Experiment Station, SQU. Basil (Rehan) is an indigenous plant which is used as a herb and for pharmaceutical and perfumery purposes. The plant was irrigated with varied water regimes from 65 ml/ day (12.5%) to 500 ml/day (100%) to assess changes in plant growth and secondary metabolites (antioxidant activity) at reduced irrigation levels. Four harvests

at predetermined intervals and

plant material was brought to the laboratory for detailed analysis. Secondary compounds, essential

of leaf tissues are often enhanced in response to environmental stress exposure, he elaborated. The purpose was to determine the antioxidant contents of Omani basil under various water regimes and to understand their possible survival mechanism in stressed conditions. The water stress increased antioxidant compounds in basil leaf tissues, and maximum amount of total phenolics and total

an irrigation intensity of 25%. The DDPH scavenging activity and reducing power of basil leaves extract were also higher at 25% water regime. A further decrease in water availability

up to 12% caused reduction in antioxidant compounds and antioxidant activities of basil extracts. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a crucial role in causing cellular damage under drought stress which can result in increased production of antioxidants to overcome this problem. It can be inferred from results obtained that antioxidants act as a free radical scavenger and may be more important in overcoming stress than in acting under normal conditions. The highest amounts of antioxidants and maximum biochemical activity were shown by Omani basil when irrigated with 25% water intensity.Based on the results, Dr. Khan points out, it can be concluded that there is a certain water level at which increase in the amount of antioxidants occurs to overcome cellular damage induced by the ROS. If the basil receives too much water stress, it could impact photosynthesis, antioxidant production and shut down other essential physiological processes in basil. Similar studies are underway on cucumber/tomatoes in a greenhouse environment with

regimes. Preliminary results showed that reduced irrigation had adverse effect on plant productivity. Further studies are

water saving technologies impact on crop productivity and

where we are concentrating at present, he concluded.

Basil (Rehan) grown

system at AES, SQU

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Four occurrences of carbonatite dikes and plugs associated with

rocks have been discovered along Wadi Sal, Ja’alan and Sur area within the Batain Nappes, eastern Oman, Professor Nasir said. The carbonatites display a wide petrographic and geochemical spectrum and range in composition from magnesiocarbonatites to ferruginous calciocarbonatites. All carbonatites are rich in certain incompatible elements (most notably, Sr, light REE, Nb, Zr,

Th and U). Ja’alan carbonatite is more enriched with HREE in comparision with other carbonatites. The most common minerals in the carbonatite

calcite, dolomite, Cr-spinel Ce-monazite, barite, and ilmenite. Sal carbonatite is characterised by dolomite, Sr-rich apatite, Nb-aeshynite, zircon and badelyite. Both spinel and ilmenite are compositionally indistinguishable from macrocrysts in kimberlites and interpreted to represent

mantle-derived xenocrysts. On the basis of their modal, isotopic, major- and trace-element composition, the Sal carbonatites are described as primary magnesiocarbonatite contaminated by mantle-derived material and isotopically re-

He explained that the close spatial association of carbonatite and

and damtjernite) along with geological, petrographical and

geochemical data indicates that these rocks are of intra-oceanic origin. Field evidence and laboratory

and occurrences of carbonatites in eastern Oman, according to Professor Nasir. The study is on searching for carbonatites along the Batain Nappes, parallel to Wadi Sal using single band grey scale image of ASTER bands and interpretation of true color

identify a few more occurrences of carbonatites along the Nappe parallel to the margin of the lithospheric extension. Field observations and checking of the pixel spectra of ASTER image cube gave better accuracy of

delineation of the spatial extent of the outcropping carbonatites.

proven time and cost effective tool and proves most useful in the area where we cannot do conventional geological mapping.Professor Nasir underlined the

A geological study has been conducted by Professor Sobhi Nasir, of the Department of Earth Science, SQU, to examine and evaluate the carbonatites in Oman. Carbonatites are magmatic rocks that contain a lot of carbonate minerals. Long term growth of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) consumption will stimulate new applications in mapping of its source rocks which gives this study high economic interest and geological importance. Two types of deposits presently produce almost all REE concentrates, viz. the primary carbonatite related deposits and secondary heavy mineral placer sands. Carbonatite and alkaline intrusive complexes, as well as their weathering products, are the primary sources of REEs. A wide variety of commodities have been developed from carbonatites and alkaline igneous rocks, such as REEs, niobium, phosphate, titanium,

tantalum, thorium, vanadium, and uranium. In the past 25 years, demand for REEs has increased dramatically because of their wide and diverse use in high-technology applications. Yet, presently the global production and supply of REEs come from only a few sources. China produces more than 95 percent of the world’s supply of REEs. Because of China’s decision to restrict exports of these elements, the price of REEs has increased and industrial countries are concerned about supply shortages.

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rocks. The carbonatites, he said, have some diamond indicator minerals such as Cr-rich spinel and kimberlitic ilmenite. Therefore, it is worthwhile to study these rocks further for their indicator minerals and micro-diamond inclusions. He added that the carbonatites are enriched with dolomite, apatite, magnetite and REE. They could be considered as an ore for apatite, where dolomite, magnetite and REE could be utilized as by-products. The Ja’alan carbonatite is rich with HREE and can be considered as an ore for HREE, he said. “Of economic value here is the enrichment of apatite observed in the Sal area. The average P205 content is 12.2 percent. By magnetic

that can be gained as by-products are dolomite, magnetite and

Map of Oman showing the locations of Sal

carbonatites in the Batain area in northeastern Oman

Upper view of dark brown of carbonatite dike2

intruded yellowish Sal formation

Dr. Ala’a Al-Muhtaseb, at the College of Engineering, is

developing a new technology in sludge dewatering, i.e.

electrokinetic dewatering. Municipal and industrial wastewater

organic and mineral components. The costs related to the

treatment of sludge have considerably risen and commonly

represent 35-50% of the total operating costs of the wastewater

treatment. Reducing the amounts of sludge produced and

improving dewaterability are hence of paramount importance.

The researcher will use new methods involving oxidation of

sludge and electrokinetics to reduce the solids concentration.

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A new study is under way to investigate the impact of parasites

Sciences, the research work will evaluate the effects of

ectoparasites such as monogeneans and copepods on gills and

assist the government in formulating strategies to minimize

their impact on host populations, on the livelihood of those

industry. The Sultanate has 3000 km of coast line and numerous

renewable source of revenue and, as such, makes the Sultanate

one of the most important countries in the Middle East. The

and to consider a number of potential native species suitable

and cultured farms may cause reductions in growth rate or in

reproductive performance or result in mass mortalities. This

industry and possibly result in the catastrophic destruction of

wild populations.

Fighting Parasites on Dermasal Fish

Internet Banking Technologies Examined

A researcher at the College of Economics

and Political Science is looking into the

adoption of internet banking technologies

in Oman. This issue will be studied using

proven research frameworks to account

for the cultural factors and other factors

also develop a single framework for

and behavioral intention variables on the

adoption of internet banking technologies.

He says that studies which combine these

two variables do not exist in the literature

related to adoption of internet and mobile

this research project can suggest effective

strategies for the Omani government to

strengthen its current initiatives to reduce

the digital divide and also provide useful

insights for the Omani banking industry

into formulating effective strategies for

enhanced adoption of technology by people

using the bank.

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The 6th International Tourism Congress 2013 (ITC13) was organized by The Polytechnic Institute of Leiria - Portugal, in collaboration with SQU. The conference had as its main them “The Image and Sustainability of Tourist

Distinguished faculty and leaders in the tourism and

as keynote speakers, including

University, Netherlands, Muzaffer Uysal, Virginia Tech, USA, Kelly Bricker,

University of Utah, USA, Tamara Ratz, University of Applied Sciences, Hungary, Alexander Bandurin, Moscow Institute for the Industry of Tourism, Russia, Masooma Al-Balushi, SQU, Amina Abdullah Al Balushi, Ministry of Tourism and Francisco Dias, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Portugal. They shared knowledge and experience to help pave the way into the future. The ITC13 offered a worldwide forum for attendees from academia, industry, government, and other organizations to exchange, share, and challenge state-of-the-art research and case studies on tourism and hospitality. It is worth mentioning that the

ITC13 received 137 abstracts from 76 universities.SQU was represented in

Dr. Masooma Al Balushi, as invited keynote speaker

Dr. Tamer Atef. Dr. Hamza presented a paper on women empowerment in the Omani tourism sector, a work that received an honorable

Committee of ITC13. Dr. Atef’s work focused on assessing the factors affecting entrepreneurial intentions, a case study of the Tourism Department students, SQU.At the closing ceremony, SQU was announced by ITC13 Chairman as the hosting institution for ITC14.

A number of SQU researchers

and Omani education experts

recently attended an international

conference on English language

teaching (ICELT) in Malacca,

Malaysia.

With the theme of Experiment,

Engage, Enchant: Rocking

ELT with New Rhythms, the

2013 event set a new trend

in ELT research by linking

professional development

and research in classroom

teaching to the performing arts.

It engaged the attendees by

presenting teaching approaches

blended in entertaining packages

demonstrating that teaching/

learning could indeed be a

pleasurable experience for all.

Intellectual plenaries and

concurrent sessions were

interspersed with entertaining

performances such as jazz chants

for teaching and singing comic

poems, which involved audience

participation and creative

storytelling. Teachers, it has been

artists to make their classrooms

more interesting.

At the conference, which

brought together academicians

from diverse parts of the world,

Oman was so well represented

that it drew special mention by

speech! He applauded Oman’s

education sector as it seems to

shine brightly on the world map.

Oman’s Ministry of Education

was represented by its Regional

Inspectors Badria Abdulaziz

Al Balushi, Shiekha Al Shabibi

and Samira Al Hosni as

presenters. SQU’s Language

Center sponsored Christopher

Denman, Kerrin Burnell, Tausiff

Sultana and Widad Al Hashmi

as presenters. SQU’s College of

Arts had presenters such as John

Outcomes and Impressions

Dr. Kerrin Burnell presented a

paper on Learning Vocabulary

With and Without Technology.

Commenting on her work, she

said the aim had been to introduce

the use of technology in teaching

vocabulary, and to contrast this

method with non-technological

methods of having students

learn and retain vocabulary. In

another paper, Dr. Christopher

Denman provided an analysis

of Oman’s Basic Education

textbook series. The international

orientation of the conference

encouraged participants to

education system in Oman, in

addition to the ways in which

research is supported by SQU.

Tausiff Sultana addressed the use

of debate as a teaching tool in the

Omani EFL classroom. Her work

rests on the hypothesis that the

use of debate as a pedagogical

tool enables a variety of skills

in learners. Dr. Rahma Al-

on English communication skills

and employability in Oman’s

job market. In her opinion, the

conference was highly interesting

and well-organized.

SQU is to host the next conference ITC14

Conferences

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Oceans cover about 70 percent

of the Earth’s surface and the

marine biosphere is one of

the richest of Earth’s habitats.

About 80 percent of organisms

live in the sea, which makes

it an immensely rich source

of diverse marine creatures

and habitats, many of which

remain largely unexplored.

Oman has extensive and

diverse marine resources and

a long maritime tradition,

and therefore occupies a

key position on the map of

prospective biotechnology

nations. Marine biotechnology

application that uses biological

systems, living organisms or

derivatives thereof, to make or

modify products or processes

security, health, environment,

or alternative clean energy.

Since its establishment in 2004,

the Center has paid special

attention to capacity building

and the optimal use of Omani

marine resources. A sustainable

development in Oman will

thereby be created that will

encourage future growth and

prosperity. There is widespread

and ever-increasing interest

in marine biotechnology and

its socio-economic impacts.

Oman’s exploitable economic

zone covers some 400,000

a rich biodiversity. Innovative

exploit this resource.

UNESCO Chair

The multi-disciplinary nature

of biotechnology research

environment, with its ability

to engage researchers from

life sciences to engineering

to business development on

single projects. With foresight,

Sultan Qaboos University has

actively supported marine

biotechnology through the

establishment of a UNESCO

Chair in 2005. The Center plays

an important role in utilizing

marine resources so as to

create sustainable development

and economic prosperity in the

Sultanate.

Responsibilities

The Center has the following

duties:

Create a strong

infrastructure and develop

an integrated research

program in marine

biotechnology

Use and manage marine

resources in a sustainable

manner

Apply advanced molecular

information technology to

a carefully selected suite

of marine habitats and

organisms

Discover genes and

processes that can be used

to develop innovative

products and approaches

industry

Facilitate interdisciplinary

and multi-institutional

efforts to bridge gaps in

research and encourage

partnerships between

academia, government and

industry to commercialize

Goals

The Center has as its objectives

to:

Seek and administer

internal and external

research funding for

multi-disciplinary marine

biotechnology research

programs

Serve as the University’s

focal point for marine

biotechnology locally and

regionally

Facilitate interaction

between the University

and concerned local and

international agencies

to conduct research and

development in marine

biotechnology

Promote postgraduate

programs, training and

technology transfer

Raise awareness of the

potential applications of

marine biotechnology

in the food and the

pharmaceutical industries,

bio-energy, environment

preservation, while

creating economic

opportunities

Center

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Academic publication assumes considerable importance in

generating research and knowledge. This is true as regards

published academic materials, the author or the funding

research institution. Here, there is no overstatement in saying

publishing context. Society will live on and prosper as long

as knowledge is disseminated through academic publications

such as books, conference proceedings, peer-reviewed

journals and innovation and invention patents.

Academic publication is aimed at spreading knowledge in

plans and prosperity of society. It also seeks to contribute to

stimulating scientists and researchers for continued research

production and better skills. Through their studies and research

projects, scientists will lift humanity to higher levels. At this

juncture, we should mention the sustained efforts made by

Sultan Qaboos University to encourage academics to focus

on generating research, seeing the university as a knowledge

factory that produces the outcomes of academic publication.

So long as there is a research environment, fertile, renewable

and supported, such outcomes will always be successful and

impressive.

Parallel to its interest in academic publication in refereed

journals and conference proceedings, the University pays

special attention to educating the local community by

disseminating solid knowledge through direct, simple

science and humanities, organizes conferences on diverse

Publication Board and encourages its academics to publish

their research work and attend international conferences.

In addition, the University has a monthly page in a local

newspaper featuring its research activities. It also produces

Tawasul

community’s awareness about such efforts and urge specialists

and researchers to contribute to the production of research. We

hope these efforts will make their way to the hearts and minds

of the community so as to be one of the major contributions of

the University, serving as the think tank for raising awareness

of academic publication and its importance for sustainable

development.

Professor Amer Ali Al Rawas

Deputy Vice-Chancellor for

Postgraduate Studies & Research

Microscope

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