Kuala Lumpur Sports Medicine Centre

PurposeMost research on service-learning in health professions education has concentrated on student experiences, with little emphasis on staff engagement. Understanding faculty motivations, challenges, and institutional support in service-learning remains an underexplored area. This study addresses this gap by exploring faculty experiences in an immunisation initiative for the displaced community and identifying factors influencing their participation and engagement.MethodsUsing a qualitative research approach, focus group discussions were conducted with sixteen participants involved in the initiative.ResultsFindings revealed that faculty engagement was driven by hands-on skill development, emotional connection, awareness of community needs, structured project goals, and institutional support. Balancing academic workloads and managing emotional demands hampered sustainable faculty involvement. An unexpected outcome was the depth of faculty members’ personal reflection, with many reviewing their privileges and developing a stronger sense of social responsibility.ConclusionTo enhance faculty engagement, this study introduces the HEART framework, which emphasises “hands-on experience, empathy, awareness of community needs, reflection, and teamwork.” While the framework provides a structured approach to supporting faculty involvement, further validation is necessary to evaluate its effectiveness across diverse educational settings. Future research should refine its components and explore long-term faculty engagement in service-learning.

This article examines the May 31 Literary Movement initiated in the 1980s by Mahua translators in collaboration with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP). The campaign was initiated to promote national unity through the translation of literary works and cultural performances. On 31st May 1983, DBP convened a meeting of writers from various ethnic backgrounds which resulted in the formation of Coordinating Committee for the Translation of Multiracial Writers and then launched a series of cultural performances and literary translation initiatives. One of the pioneers of this movement, Usman Awang stated that “May 13 represents prejudice and division, while May 31 is a day for promoting interaction through translation, mutual understanding and unity”. Although the movement was small in scale and had limited influence on Mahua literature, it remains a significant milestone in Malaysian literary translation history, marking the first structured collaboration between DBP and the Chinese community on cultural matters. This article situates the movement within a broader historical context, tracing the formation of Chinese bilingual intellectuals since independence and examining how the May 13 Incident shaped their translation practices and identity formation in the evolving post-tragedy political landscape. The finding of this article shows that translation has been employed as a cultural strategy by the Chinese community in their pursuit of the ideal of multiculturalism.

RVIII-SingleChain is a B-domain-truncated factor VIII construct with a covalent bond between the factor VIII heavy and light chains. We report on the efficacy and safety of rVIII-SingleChain in subjects with severe haemophilia A undergoing surgery. Surgery, elective or emergent, was defined as all procedures requiring general, spinal, or regional anaesthesia. rVIII-SingleChain was administered as a bolus or continuous infusion during the perioperative period, dosed individually at the discretion of the investigator based upon the type of surgery and clinical status of the patient. The investigator rated haemostatic efficacy on a 4-point scale (excellent, good, moderate or poor/no response), where treatment success was defined as excellent or good. Overall, 36 subjects underwent 48 surgeries: 41 surgeries in 30 adult/adolescent (mean age 34 [range 12-64] years) and 7 in 6 paediatric subjects (mean age 8 [5-11] years). rVIII-SingleChain was administered during 24 orthopaedic and 17 non-orthopaedic surgeries in adults/adolescents and 7 non-orthopaedic surgeries in paediatrics. Haemostatic efficacy was rated as excellent (n = 36, 88%) or good (n = 5, 12%) in adult/adolescent surgeries and as excellent (n = 7, 100%) in paediatric surgeries. In adults/adolescents, mean (standard deviation [SD]) blood loss was lower than predicted (68.6 [99.9]mL vs. 196.7 [292.8] mL); values were comparable in paediatric subjects (2.1 [2.7] mL vs. 2.9 [2.7] mL). No serious or related adverse events (AEs) were reported during the perioperative period. Perioperative administration of rVIII-SingleChain effectively achieves and maintains haemostatic control in adult/adolescent and paediatric subjects with haemophilia A undergoing surgery.

This study aims to investigate the category of caffeinated beverages ingested and caffeine ingestion level among athletes based on safe dose daily allowance. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 236 athletes using validated Caffeine Consumption Questionnaire (CCQ) to estimate the caffeine intake among athletes. The findings revealed a high prevalence (69.1%) of caffeine consumption exceeding the recommended daily allowance was observed among the athletes. Among the various Caffeinated Beverage (CB) categories, Coffee Drink (CD) showed the highest median and interquartile range of caffeine intake 243.0 mg (0–919.5 mg). There was a significant correlation (p<0.05) between types of CB Energy Drink (ED) with pre-event (r=0.280), during-event (r=0.447), post-event (r=0.291). Energy Gel (EG) with pre-event (r=0.139), during-event (r=0.498), post-event (r=0.170). Soft Drink (SD) with pre-event (r=0.328), during-event (r=0.228), post-event (r=0.304). CD with pre-event (r=0.534), during-event (r=0.132), post-event (r=0.240). Tea Drink (TD) with pre-event (r=0.148), post-event (r=0.190). Cocoa Drink (CocD) with pre-event (r=0.158), post-event (r=0.137). A significant association (p<0.05) was observed between the range dose allowance of caffeine intake and the timing of ingestion during sports events. The daily caffeine consumption among athletes in Malaysia exceeds the recommended safe dose. Therefore, it is essential to monitor, track and regulate the intake of caffeine-containing beverages by implementing clear guidelines and promoting awareness of caffeine-related facts. This approach aims to prevent potential adverse health effects while ensuring athletes can still harness its performance-enhancing benefits.

Low-load blood flow restriction (LL-BFR) training has been shown to enhance muscle strength, power, and speed, but its effectiveness compared to traditional high-load resistance (HLR) training remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of LL-BFR and HLR training on muscle strength, power, and speed. Studies were identified by searching the SCOPUS, SPORTDiscus, PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI databases up to May 13, 2024, using the following inclusion criteria: (a) healthy population; (b) comparison of LL-BFR vs HLR training; (c) pre- and post-training assessment of muscle strength (dynamic, isometric, and isokinetic), muscle power, jump, or speed performance; (d) PEDro scale score ≥4. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the PEDro tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, with meta-analyses conducted using the R program. A total of 41 studies, involving 853 subjects, were included in the meta-analysis. Based on the PEDro scores and GRADE assessment, the overall quality of the included studies was assessed as moderate. LL-BFR training showed a slightly smaller effect on maximal strength compared to HLR training (ES = -0.19, 95% CI [-0.31 to -0.06], p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between LL-BFR and HLR training for muscle power (ES = -0.04, 95% CI [-0.33 to 0.24], p > 0.05), jump performance (ES = -0.08, 95% CI [-0.30 to 0.15], p > 0.05), and speed (ES = -0.28, 95% CI [-0.71 to 0.15], p > 0.05). Additionally, individual characteristics (i.e., age, gender, and training status) and training parameters (i.e., training duration, frequency, cuff pressure, and cuff width) did not significantly moderate the training effect. LL-BFR training showed slightly less improvement in maximal strength compared to HLR training but demonstrated comparable effects on muscle power, jump performance, and speed in healthy individuals in healthy individuals. These findings suggest that LL-BFR may be a practical and effective alternative for individuals seeking performance improvements with lower training loads.

With an increasing number of studies delving into the impact of dietary supplements on combat sports performance, researchers are actively seeking a more efficient dietary supplement for use in these sports. Nonetheless, controversies persist. Hence, we undertook a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis to discern the most effective dietary supplements in combat sports by synthesizing the available evidence. We conducted a comprehensive search across PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, and SPORTDiscus, covering the period from their establishment to November 2, 2023. Our aim was to identify randomized controlled trials that evaluated the benefits of various dietary supplements for elite combat sports athletes. The risk of bias in these trials was assessed using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials. Subsequently, we employed Bayesian network meta-analysis through R software and Stata 15.0. During the analysis, we performed subgroup analysis based on the type of combat, distinguishing between striking and grappling disciplines. The analysis is based on 67 randomized controlled trials that meet all the inclusion criteria, involving 1026 elite combat sports athletes randomly assigned to 26 different dietary supplements or placebos. Results from the 50 trials included in the network meta-analysis indicate that compared to a placebo, sodium bicarbonate combined with caffeine (SMD: 2.3, 95% CrI: 1.5, 3.2), caffeine (SMD: 0.72, 95% CrI: 0.53, 0.93), beta-alanine (SMD: 0.58, 95% CrI: 0.079, 1.1), and sodium bicarbonate (SMD: 0.54, 95% CrI: 0.30, 0.81) was associated with a statistically significant increase in blood lactate concentrations. Compared to placebo, caffeine (SMD: 0.27, 95% CrI: 0.12, 0.41) was associated with a statistically significant increase in the final heart rate. Compared to placebo, creatine combined with sodium bicarbonate (SMD: 2.2, 95% CrI: 1.5, 3.1), creatine (SMD: 1.0, 95% CrI: 0.38, 1.6), and sodium bicarbonate (SMD: 0.42, 95% CrI: 0.18, 0.66) was associated with a statistically significant increase in mean power. Compared to placebo, creatine combined with sodium bicarbonate (SMD: 1.6, 95% CrI: 0.85, 2.3), creatine (SMD: 1.1, 95% CrI: 0.45, 1.7), and sodium bicarbonate (SMD: 0.35, 95% CrI: 0.11, 0.57) was associated with a statistically significant increase in peak power. Compared to placebo, caffeine (SMD: 1.4, 95% CrI: 0.19, 2.7) was associated with a statistically significant increase in the number of kicks. Compared to placebo, caffeine (SMD: 0.35, 95% CrI: 0.081, 0.61) was associated with a statistically significant increase in the number of throws. This study suggests that a range of dietary supplements, including caffeine, sodium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate combined with caffeine, creatine, creatine combined with sodium bicarbonate, and beta-alanine can improve the athletic performance of elite combat sports athletes.

This paper investigates the multifaceted impact of social media on the business performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Klang Valley, Malaysia. In the digital transformation era, social media has become a key platform for businesses to communicate with their audience, but its efficacy, particularly in the SME sector, is underexplored in this region. This study investigates the impact of social media strategies involving social advertising (SMA), customer opinion awareness (SACO), and customer relations (SMCR) on social media engagement (SME) and business performance (BP) among SMEs. Findings indicate that both SMA and SACO positively influence SME, which in turn improves BP. Specifically, SMA enhances engagement through advertising, while SACO drives engagement by responding to customer opinions, with both paths positively impacting BP via SME as a mediator. In contrast, SMCR exhibits a negative direct effect on SME and an indirect effect on BP, suggesting that an exclusive focus on customer relations may detract from engagement and performance. The results underscore the importance of a balanced social media strategy that integrates advertising, customer responsiveness, and relationship management to optimize engagement and business outcomes.

OpenAI's Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) technology enables conversational interactions with applications across various fields, including sport. Here, ChatGPT's proficiency in designing a 12-week resistance training programme, following specific prompts, was investigated. GPT3.5 and GPT4.0 versions were requested to design 12-week resistance training programmes for male and female hypothetical subjects (20-years-old, no injury, and 'intermediate' resistance training experience). Subsequently, GPT4.0 was requested to design an 'advanced' training programme for the same profiles. The proposed training programmes were compared with established guidelines and literature (e.g., National Strength and Conditioning Association textbook), and discussed. ChatGPT suggested 12-week training programmes comprising three, 4-week phases, each with different objectives (e.g., hypertrophy/strength). GPT3.5 proposed a weekly frequency of ~3 sessions, load intensity of 70-85% of one repetition-maximum, repetition range of 4-8 (2-4 sets), and tempo of 2/0/2 (eccentric/pause/concentric/'pause'). GPT4.0 proposed intermediate- and advanced programme, with a frequency of 5 or 4 sessions, 60-90% or 70-95% intensity, 3-5 sets or 3-6 sets, 5-12 or 3-12 repetitions, respectively. GPT3.5 proposed rest intervals of 90-120 s, and exercise tempo of 2/0/2. GPT4.0 proposed 60-180 (intermediate) or 60-300 s (advanced), with exercise tempo of 2/1/2 for intermediates, and 3/0/1/0, 2/0/1/0, and 1/0/1/0 for advanced programmes. All derived programmes were objectively similar regardless of sex. ChatGPT generated training programmes which likely require additional fine-tuning before application. GPT4.0 synthesised more information than GPT3.5 in response to the prompt, and demonstrated recognition awareness of training experience (intermediate vs advanced). ChatGPT may serve as a complementary tool for writing 'draft' programme, but likely requires human expertise to maximise training programme effectiveness.

This research describes a computational method for low-cycle fatigue cracks in LNG mixing-tee weldments. Using a combination of thorough finite element modelling and fatigue life prediction with the finite element software ABAQUS and FE-Safe, the approach is able to simulate the thermal stresses and fatigue damage of a mixing-tee subjected to thermal cycle. The approach consists of three primary phases. First, the thermal distribution at the mixing-tee junction caused by the mixing temperature of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) is predicted. These first-step solutions are then included into second-step modelling, which simulates the thermal stress of the mixing-tee. The next phase entails modelling the fatigue behaviour of the mixing-tee using the thermal stress data. The computed fatigue life cycle achieves a 92.8% accuracy level when compared to real on-site observations. The suggested method enables the accurate prediction of thermal and fatigue behaviours within a tolerable computational time.

The effect of the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown on athlete sleep and training behavior is documented, albeit without a worldwide soccer-specific focus. Soccer (football) players (N = 1639; 30 countries; age 22.5 [5.7]y; 81% ≤25 y; 56% male; 30% elite; 66% Muslim) answered a retrospective, cross-sectional questionnaire related to their behavioral habits before and during COVID-19 lockdown (survey period July to September 2020), including (1)Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index PSQI, (2) Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), (3)bespoke questions about training behaviors, and (4)Muslim player focused sleep and training behavior questions. During lockdown (compared to prelockdown), PSQI (P < .001; moderate effect size [ES]) and ISI (P < .001; moderate ES) scores were higher in the overall sample and in elite versus nonelite (PSQI: P < .05; small ES and ISI: P < .001; small ES), >25years versus ≤25years (PSQI: P < .01; small ES and ISI: P < .001; moderate ES), females versus males (PSQI: P < .001; small ES), <1 month versus >1 month lockdown (PSQI: P < .05; small ES and ISI: P < .05; small ES), and players maintaining versus reducing training intensity (PSQI: P < .001; moderate ES and ISI: P < .001; small ES). Muslim players (41%) reported unfavorable sleep and/or training behaviors during Ramadan in lockdown compared to lockdown outside of Ramadan. Specific subgroups appear more vulnerable to lockdown effects, with training-intensity maintenance moderating negative effects relative to sleep. Policy and support (respectful of subgroup nuances) during lockdown-like challenges that facilitate training (including intensity) appear prudent, given their favorable relationship with sleep, mental health, and physical health, in the present data and elsewhere.