bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity Pattern and Its Association with Glycaemic and Blood Pressure Control among People Living with Diabetes (PLWD) In The Ho Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Osei-Yeboah James , Owiredu William , Norgbe Gameli , Obirikorang Christian , Lokpo Sylvester , Ashigbi Evans , Johnson Beatrice , Ussher Francis , Deku John , Asiamah Emmanuel , Avorkliyah Roseline , Boakye Edward , Ntoni Tibemponi , Nyamadi Prince
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Physical activity (PA) offers considerable health benefits for diabetic patients. However, extensive high levels of inactivity has been reported among diabetic patients. This study sought to assess the patterns of physical activity and its relationship with two management-relevant outcomes (glycaemic and blood pressure control)among people living with diabetes in the Ho Municipality, Ghana.METHODS: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out from January 2017 to April 2017 among 150 purposively recruited diabetic patients who were receiving care at the diabetes clinics of the Volta Regional Hospital and the Ho Municipal Hospital. A semi structured questionnaire was used in capturing socio-demographic information. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form. Glycaemic and blood pressure control were evaluated within a three-month period from patients’ records.RESULTS: Physical activity estimates among participants were 21.33%, 48% and 30.67% for high, moderate and low PA respectively. Glycaemic control among the study participants was 33.33% and blood pressure control was 58.67%. Both glycaemic and blood pressure control were significantly associated with PA.CONCLUSION:In this group of PLWD in the Ho Municipality, high levels of inactivity, uncontrolled glycaemia and blood pressure exist. However, glycaemic and blood pressure control may be modulated by moderate-intensity physical activity.
Pregnancy Induced Hypertension and Associated Factors among Women Attending Delivery Service at Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Tepi General Hospital and Gebretsadik Shawo Hospital, Southwest, Ethiopia
Authors: Gudeta Tesfaye Abera , Regassa Tilahun Mekonnen
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Disorders of pregnancy induced hypertensive are a major health problem in the obstetric population as they are one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The World Health Organization estimates that at least one woman dies every seven minutes from complications of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The objective of this study is to assess pregnancy induced hypertension and its associated factors among women attending delivery service at Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Gebretsadikshawo Hospital and Tepi General Hospital.METHODS: A health facility based cross-sectional study was carried out from October 01 to November 30/2016. The total sample size (422) was proportionally allocated to the three hospitals. Systematic sampling technique was used to select study participants. Variables with p-value of less than 0.25 in binary logistic regression were entered into the multivariable logistic regression to control cofounding. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used. P-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.RESULTS: The prevalence of pregnancy induced hypertension was 33(7.9%); of which 5(15.2%) were gestational hypertension, 12 (36.4%) were mild preeclampsia, 15(45.5%) were severe preeclampsia and 1 (3%) eclampsia. Positive family history of pregnancy induced hypertension [AOR5.25 (1.39-19.86)], kidney diseases (AOR 3.32(1.04-10.58)), having asthma [AOR 37.95(1.41-1021)] and gestational age (AOR 0.096(0.04-.23)) were predictors of pregnancy induced hypertension.CONCLUSION: The prevalence of pregnancy induced hypertension among women attending delivery service was 7.9%. Having family history of pregnancy induced hypertension, chronic kidney diseases and gestational age were predictors of pregnancy induced hypertension.
Variation of Urine Parameters among Diabetic Patients: A Cross- Sectional Study
Authors: Abebe Molla , Adane Tiruneh , Kefyalew Kassa , Munduno Tesfahun , Fasil Alebachew , Biadgo Belete , Ambachew Sintayehu , Shahnawaz Saira
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Diabetic kidney disease is a common and severe microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). There are limited data regarding alteration of urine parameters other than proteinuria among DM patients.METHODS: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May 2017 to assess alteration of urine parameters among DM patients at the University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. A Systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit adult (≥18 years) diabetic participants. Data were collected after ethical requirements had been fulfilled. The degree of association between variables was evaluated through bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models.RESULTS: The majority (69.4%) of the study participants were type 2 DM patients. The prevalence of altered urine chemical parameters was 11.3% proteinuria, 4.5% ketonuria, 13.6% hematuria, 53.8% glucosuria, 24.9% leukocyturia and 1.7% positive for nitrite. Diastolic blood pressure and poor glycemic control were significantly associated with proteinuria. Male participants were 2.4 times more likely to have leukocyturia than female participants. The prevalence of abnormally increased microscopic findings was red blood cells 3.1%, white blood cells 12.5%, epithelial cells 27.5%, yeast cells 1.7%, bacteria 17.8%, casts 3.7% and crystals 29.2%.CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of altered urine parameters among DM patients is found to be considerable. These increased prevalences of altered urine parameters are potential indicators for diabetic kidney disease.
Giant Appendicolithiasis Presenting with Chronic Abdominal Pain and Mass: A Case Report
Authors: Abebe Engida , Abebe Kirubel
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdomen. The diagnosis of appendicitis can be easy when it presents with the classical symptoms or is very challenging when present with atypical presentation. Around 20-30% of patients operated on for appendicitis have appendicolithiasis. Appendicolithiasis are usually small in size, and are called giant when more than 2cm in size.CASE DETAIL: A 36 years old man was referred from a district hospital with a diagnosis of cecal cancer. His complaints were right lower quadrant (RLQ) abdominal mass of 03 months and pain of 18 months duration. Colonoscopy was normal but abdominal CT showed a RLQ mass with a dense radio-opaque shadow at its center.CONCLUSIONS: Giant appendicolith is a rare condition. A high index of suspicion and careful review of imaging findings is the key in early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy and Associated Factors among People Living with HIV/AIDS in Hara Town and Its Surroundings, North-Eastern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aychew Legesse Tesfaye , Abate Reta Melese
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Adherence is the most important factor in determining Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) treatment success and long-term viral suppression. Nonadherence to ART led to the human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) related morbidity and mortality. Moreover, it intensifies the risk of the emerging drug resistant HIV strains. This study aimed to assess the level of ART adherence and to identify its predictive associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in Hara Town and its surroundings, North-Eastern Ethiopia.METHODS: An institutional facility based cross-sectional study was conducted from April-May 2017. A total of 454 individuals were on ART follow-up in the selected ART-clinic, and only 418 patients were recruited. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify associated factors. Odds ratio and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) were calculated to determine the level of significance.RESULTS: The level of ART adherence in the study setting was 300 (71.8%). Participants who had not disclosed their HIV status to their families were 88% less likely to adhere to their ART medication than those who had disclosed their HIV status ((Odds ratio (OR): 0.12, 95%CI:0.05-0.58; p<0.001). On the other hand, participants who had not encountered drug side effects were 2.69 times more likely to adhere to their ART medication than those who had ever encountered drug side effects (OR: 2.69, 95%CI:1.27-5.05; p<0.001).CONCLUSION: A very low level of ART adherence was shown in the study population. It was below the recommended good adherence standard. Therefore, patients should get adequate and comprehensive ART adherence counselling before initiation ART treatment and during the follow-up time.
The Prevalence and Factors Associated with Mental Distress among College Students in Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Teshome Tessema Tesfalem , Abdi Gebremariam Temesgen , Alemayehu Abebe Etaferahu , Alemayehu Abebe Etaferahu
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Although mental health problems affect the general population, students are highly vulnerable to psychological disorders. Mental distress among students is a cause of concern as it may impair their behavior and diminish learning, which could negatively affect their academic performance. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and the factors associated with mental distress among college students in Southern Ethiopia.METHODS: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 regular students of Hawassa College of Health Sciences. Mental distress was measured using a Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20). The data were entered into Epi-Info version 3.5.4 and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20. Multivariable logistic analysis was performed following bivariate analysis to adjust for the effect of confounders.RESULT: The prevalence of mental distress among the study subjects was found to be 59 (22.30%). Female students were 2.08 times more likely to have mental distress as compared to male students (AOR =2.08 [95% CI: 1.14-3.82]). The odds of mental distress among third-year students was 60% lower compared to second-year students [AOR = 0.40; 95 % CI, (0.19, 0.87)]. Students who were from Amhara ethnic group were 3.37 times more likely to have mental distress as compared to students from Sidama ethnic group [AOR=3.37;95%CI (1.13-10.09)]. Moreover, students who had Grade Point Average of below 60% were 4.69 times more likely to be mentally distressed as compared to those students who scored Grade Point Average of greater or equal to 60% (AOR= 4.69; 95%CI,[ 2.46, 8.96).CONCLUSION: The finding suggests the importance of providing mental health counseling support for students as part of the teaching and learning process. More research to further explore the multiple factors influencing students’ mental health condition should also be conducted.
Psychosocial Conditions and Resilience Status of Street Children in Jimma Town
Authors: Nigussie Worku Berhanu , Urgessa Dinaol , Abeshu Getachew
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Traditional research and practices focused on an investigation of risk factors to handle psychosocial problems street children faced while surviving on the street. However, more recently, attention has been given to how knowledge can be developed in the area to devise interventions that reflect the promotion of resilience as a means of achieving positive outcomes for the children. The purpose of this study was to explore the psychosocial conditions and resilience status of street children in Jimma Town.METHODS: Explanatory sequential research design was employed. Out of 246 teenager street children, 137 were selected using simple random sampling. Questionnaire, interview guide and FGD probes were used in data collection. Mean and standard deviation, multiple regression analysis and Man Whitney U T-test were used to analyze quantitative data; while discourse analysis was used to analyze qualitative data.RESULTS: The result of multiple regression analysis indicated that anxiety significantly predicted resilience status, b=.623, t (109)=8.418, p˂.001. Anxiety also explained a significant proportion of the variance in resilience status, R2=.388, F (112) = 70.86, p ˂.001. Further, the result revealed that street children had slow growing resilience status in which boys were more resilient than girls.CONCLUSION: Street children in Jimma Town faced various psychosocial challenges and had low resilience status. Thus, Jimma Town Women and Children Affairs Office ought to work to build resilience status of street children, in collaboration with different stakeholders in and around the town.
Laparotomy for Abdominal Injury Indication & Outcome of patients at a Teaching Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Kirubel , Bekele Mahteme , Tsehaye Ayelign , Lemmu Befekadu , Abebe Engida
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Abdominal injury is among the major causes of trauma admissions. The aim was to determine etiology, commonly injured organs, indication and outcome of patients with abdominal injuries requiring laparotomy.METHODS: A retrospective study of all adult patients who underwent laparotomy for abdominal injury at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College was conducted from January 2014 to December 2016. The factors associated with outcome were identified with bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions.RESULTS: Laparotomy for abdominal injury was performed for 145 patients. Of these, 129 (89%) case records were retrieved. The male to female ratio was 6.2:1. The mean age was 29 years, and most of them were unemployed. Penetrating trauma was the commonest injury, stab (46, 35.7%) and Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) (27, 20.9%) being the leading causes. Extra-abdominal injuries were seen in 33.3% (46) of the cases. Hollow organs were commonly injured than solid organs. Small intestine (35, 43.8%) and Spleen (17, 34.7%) were the leading injured organs in penetrating and blunt respectively. The main procedure performed was repair of hollow and solid organ laceration/perforation (70,54.3%). The negative laparotomy rate was 4.6% (6). Complications were seen in 23(17.8%) patients, the commonest being irreversible shock (7,30.4%). The mortality rate was 8.5 %(11), and it was significantly associated with blunt abdominal injury (AOR=7.25; 95% CI 1.09-48.37; p=0.041) and systolic blood pressure<90mmHg (AOR=8.66; 95% CI 1.1-68.41; p=0.041).CONCLUSION: Stab and RTA were the commonest indications of laparotomy. The mortality was significantly associated with blunt abdominal injury and hypotension (SBP<90mmHg).
Knowledge, Attitude and Self-Care Practice towards Control of Hypertension among Hypertensive Patients on Follow-up at St. Paul’s Hospital, Addis Ababa
Authors: Bacha Dawit , Abera Hailu
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is the number one cardiovascular risk factor and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. It’s the driver of the cardiovascular disease epidemic in Africa where it is a major, independent risk factor for heart failure, stroke and renal failure. There is no study to assess the level of knowledge of hypertension among hypertensive patients in our setup. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude and selfcare practice towards control of hypertension among hypertensive patients on follow up at our hospital.METHODS: A total of 385 hypertensive patients who were on follow up at our hospital were randomly selected for interview. The Sociodemographic and relevant clinical data were extracted using a structured questionnaire. Operational definitions and Likert scale was used to compare the variables.RESULTS: Only 48.6% of hypertensive patients participated in this study have good basic knowledge of hypertension, 47.8% of them have good attitude and only 39.5% of the study participants have good practice towards control of hypertension. Male sex, formal education and being urban resident are associated with better knowledge, attitude and self-care practice of hypertensive patients at our hospital.Conclusion:The result states that there is an inadequate knowledge about hypertension; as well attitude and self-care practice towards control of hypertension among our hypertensive patients is generally poor. Responsible bodies should focus on addressing such limitations of hypertensive patients. Attention should be given to hypertensive patients who are females, low educational level and those coming from rural.
Determination of the Perception Level of Life Style Innovations in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Korkut Yasemin , Balcıoglu İsmail , Onbası Kevser
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: In this tudy, our aim was to measure information and behaviors of our patients about their diseases, and to determine the level of compliance with their treatment and to investigate the causes of nonconformities.METHODS: A total of 111 patients who applied to outpatient clinics between May-December 2017 were included in this prospective cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic, clinical data, diabetes, medical nutrition therapy and physical activity questionnaires were administered face to face by the researchers.RESULTS: About 68.5% of the 111 patients were females. While 64.9% were primary school graduates, 58.6% were housewives and 82.9% were low income level. Body Mass Index (BMI) was found to be significantly higher in women (p=0.041). It has been found that the awareness of the patients about themselves and their illnesses are 37.8% for HbA1c, 64.8% for fasting blood sugar level, 78.3% for their height and body weight. While males had a higher score than females in the diabetes survey, females scored higher than males in the medical nutrition therapy and physical activity questionnaires. On the other hand, 46.8% of patients showed additional health problems as a cause of non-compliance to physical activity. CONCLUSION: Level of knowledge and compliance with treatment were also found to be inadequate.
Multi-Objective Optimization for Industrial Ecology: Design and Optimize Exchange Flows in an Industrial Park
Authors: Gu Chao , Estel Lionel , Yassine Adnan , Leveneur Sebastien
Published: March 2021

The aim of this project is to find an appropriate mode for green sustainable manufacturing and production. Thus, the concept of this model encourages the development of synergy and leverage of resource networks in order to reduce waste and pollution, and to share resource efficiently. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no other general mathematical model for designing and optimizing exchange material/energy flows in an industrial park. The purpose of this work is to propose a relative advanced dynamic multi-objective model. Simulations have been performed by using the NIMBUS (Nondifferentiable Interactive Multi-objective Bundle-based optimization System) method. This model can assure a win-win situation for industries and environment.
Strong Limit Theorems for Dependent Random Variables
Authors: Wu Libin , Li Bainian
Published: March 2021

In this article We establish moment inequality of dependent random variables, furthermore some theorems of strong law of large numbers and complete convergence for sequences of dependent random variables. In particular, independent and identically distributed Marcinkiewicz Law of large numbers are generalized to the case of m₀ -dependent sequences.
An Improved Immune Algorithms for Solving Flexible Manufacturing System Distributed Production Scheduling Problem Subjects to Machine Maintenance
Authors: Akmal Khalid Mohd Nor , Yusof Umi Kalsom
Published: March 2021

Competitiveness and rapid expansion of flexible manufacturing system (FMS) as one of the industrial alternatives has attracted many practitioners’ and academicians’ interest. Recent globalization events have further encouraged FMS development into distributed, self-reliant units of production center. The flexible manufacturing system in distributed system (FMSDS) considers multi-factory environments, where jobs are processed by a system of FMSs. FMSDS problems deal with the allocation of jobs to factories, independent assignment of job operation to the machines, and operations sequencing on the machine. Additionally, in many previous studies, impact of maintenance as one of the core parts of production scheduling has been neglected. This significantly affects the overall performance of the production scheduling. As such, maintenance has been considered in this paper as part of the production scheduling. The objective of this paper is to minimize the global makespan over all the factories. This paper proposes an Improved Immune Algorithm (IIA) to solve the FMSDS problem. Antibody encoding adoption explicitly represents the information of factory, job, and maintenance, whilst a greedy decoding procedure exploits flexibility and determines the job routing. Rather than s traditional mutation operator, an improvised mutation operator is used to improve the solutions by refining the most promising individuals of each generation. The proposed approach has been compared with other algorithms and obtained satisfactory results, where the algorithm performance has been tested with several parameter tunings.
Convergence Study on the use of Electrolyzed Water Device with CNT Cathode in Health Field
Authors:   Industrial Technology Convergence Research Institute, Chungwoon University, 113, Sukgol-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon, R. O. Korea, 22100, Han Doo Hee
Published: March 2021

An electrolytic water sterilization device was developed that employs CNT (carbon nano tube) as a cathode. CNT plastic composite material is pulverized with a waterdispersible acrylic anionic resin added with castor oil and a dispersion, polypropylene resin mixed with CNT, and thermoplastic elastomer to make pellets. This CNT composite material is a metal-free electric conductor with excellent chemical resistance and surface electrical resistance of 1Ω/□ or less. When this electrolytic water sterilizer was used as cleaning water for dental treatment and sink cleaning water, it was eco-friendly and showed excellent removal rate. This device can effectively remove pesticides from fruits, etc. and remove bacteria by washing pork. In addition, the water in the swimming pool can be sterilized and purified without using chemicals. In this case, environmental conservation and economic costs can be reduced by not generating wastewater that causes environmental pollution
Exploring New Paradigm for COVID-19 Contact Tracing Through the Eye of IoT: A Blockchain Approach
Authors:   Department of Computer Science, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX 77320 USA, Rasheed Amar A. , Wei Mingkui , Mahapatra Rabi N.
Published: March 2021

— Existing contact tracing technologies for the novel Coronavirus were built to take advantage of the user’s cellphone embedded features. Specifically, exposure notification system and Bluetooth proximity were widely adopted by many of today’s Covid-19 contact tracing technologies. This paper proposes a new technological paradigm that supports contact tracing capability for the Covid-19 virus. The proposed system’s models can be used to determine potential virus outbreaks within a controlled community. In this paradigm, we primarily focus on the enrichment of contact tracing capability for communities that have limited access to smartphones (e.g. children's schools, senior homes, and factories/warehouses). Serval technological and crypto innovations were incorporated into the proposed system’s model design: (i) Internet-of-Things contact tracing data logger (ii) Two-factor Authentication (iii) User’s anonymity and data integrity of the contact tracing data (iv) detection and localization of outbreaks in a community. Contact tracing data for Covid-19 are collected using usersauthorized IoT devices. Accesses to the Covid-19 contact tracing system were established by a new two-factor authentication. The proposed authentication scheme combined public key crypto, a blockchain validation approach, and a random token generator. Meanwhile, user anonymity was achieved via the exchange of randomly generated IDs, computed by light-weight crypto hash for supporting data logging of Covid-19 traces. To preserve the integrity of Covid-19 contacts tracing data, we have adapted a blockchain methodology. The proposed approach protects user data against data injection and data modification attacks. Finally, we have analyzed the resiliency of the proposed system’s models against two well-known IoT-based attack models: (i) Sybil attack (ii) Replay attacks. Two probabilistic models were introduced in this research that present system resiliency under different scales of threats
A TÁRSADALMI HÁTTÉR VIZSGÁLATA A KÖZÉPISKOLÁSOK SPORTKÖRTAGSÁGÁBAN MAGYARORSZÁGON
Authors:   Debreceni Egyetem, Kovács Klára , Szabó Dániel
Published: March 2021

A mai oktatási rendszer egyik legjelentősebb kérdése a testnevelés oktatásának problémája. Rendkívül sok vita zajlik arról jelenleg is, hogy mennyi mozgás szükséges a diákoknak az iskolai falain belül és kívül egyaránt, de az egyértelmű, hogy az inaktív életmód az egyik legnagyobb egészség-rizikófaktor társadalmunkban. A mindennapos testnevelés bevezetése ezeknek a vitáknak az eldöntését volt hivatott szolgálni. A mindennapos iskolai testnevelés bevezetésének az ifjúság fizikai állapotának javítása mellett fontos szempontja volt az, hogy a sport szociális és morális értékképviselete hozzájáruljon az ifjúság fejlesztéséhez
SOCIAL RISKS FOR THE YOUTH IN THE DYNAMICS OF UKRAINIAN SOCIETY
Authors:   State University «Uzhhorod National University», Bartosh Olena
Published: March 2021

Today’s adolescents and youth form a quarter of the world’s population. They are shaping social and economic development, challenging social norms and values, and building the foundation of the world’s future. The beginning of the XXI century is marked by the aggravation of youth problems in different countries, among which Ukraine is no exception. Nowadays, Ukrainian youth is affected by: political and economic crisis in the country; unemployment; unresolved housing conditions; poor health; social disorders; economic and psychological dependence on parents; marital and family problems (high divorce rate, family conflicts); low birth rate; loss of ideals, social perspective, and life optimism.
Des communautés rurales s’organisent pour contrer les effets des changements climatiques au Burkina Faso
Authors: AFDR  , APIL APIL , USCCPA/BM  , La Fondation Jules PAUL-ÉMILE LÉGER (FJPEL)
Published: March 2021

Le présent texte a pour objectif de donner la parole aux acteurs locaux ainsi qu’aux productrices et producteurs agricoles à petite échelle du Burkina Faso – qui pratiquent l’agriculture familiale durable (AFD) – dans le but de mieux faire comprendre quelles répercussions ont les changements climatiques sur leur vie quotidienne et quelles perspectives d’adaptation semblent les plus porteuses en fonction des réalités vécues. On y traitera des défis croissants pour l’agriculture à petite échelle qui ont une incidence sur la productivité agricole et sur la pression sur les ressources naturelles. On s’attardera aussi sur le fait que les changements climatiques n’affectent pas les femmes et les hommes de façon égale, en creusant encore plus le fossé des inégalités entre les genres. Enfin, on y présentera diverses stratégies d’adaptation aux changements climatiques. L’approche utilisée au sein du projet IMSA (Innovation et Mobilisation pour la Sécurité Alimentaire) s’inscrit dans un processus d’innovation qui prend sa source à l’intérieur de la communauté et repose sur l’amélioration et la diffusion des savoirs traditionnels et des techniques issues de l’expérience de plusieurs générations d’exploitants. Afin d’assurer la sécurité alimentaire des populations vulnérables, les techniques visant à adapter les systèmes de production et à accroître leur résilience s’accompagnent non seulement d’actions destinées à mieux contrôler la conservation et la commercialisation des récoltes, mais aussi d’un appui au renforcement des mécanismes financiers et non financiers de solidarité et de résilience par rapport aux chocs climatiques.
A Descriptive Content Analysis of the Extent of Bloom’s Taxonomy in the Reading Comprehension Questions of the Course Book Q: Skills for Success 4 Reading and Writing
Authors: Ulum Ömer
Published: March 2021

Bloom’s taxonomy is probably the most commonly used one among the cognitive process models. It is a classification system that emphasizes the procedures starting from remembering the knowledge to more complex cognitive levels like evaluating the knowledge. Firstly, the aim of this study has been to find out to what extent Bloom’s taxonomy is referred in reading comprehension questions of an English as a Foreign Language course book. With this in mind, the research question To what extent do the reading sections of the EFL course book Q: Skills for Success 4 Reading and Writing cover the lower and higher order cognition levels of Bloom’s taxonomy? was formulated. The EFL course book Q: Skills for Success 4 Reading and Writing by Oxford Publishing was analyzed through descriptive content analysis method. Findings of the study suggested that this analyzed course book lacked the higher level cognitive skills involved in Bloom’s Taxonomy. As a result, by means of the findings, some assumptions have been reached with the aim of suggesting how the course books which are being written or will be written should refer to Bloom’s taxonomy in their reading sections.
Difficult Dialogues: Faculty Responses to a Gender Bias Literacy Training Program
Authors: Isaac Carol , Manwell Linda , Devine Patricia , Ford Cecilia , Sheridan Jennifer , Carnes Molly
Published: March 2021

Diversity training is challenging and can evoke strong emotional responses from participants including resistance, shame, confusion, powerlessness, defensiveness, and anger. These responses create complex situations for both presenters and other learners. We observed 3 experienced presenters as they implemented 41 gender bias literacy workshops for 376 faculty from 42 STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine) departments at one Midwestern university. We recorded questions and answers as well as participants’ non-verbal activity during each 2.5-hour workshop. Employing content analysis and critical incident technique, we identified content that elicited heightened activity and challenging dialogues among presenters and faculty. Results from analysis of this observational data found three important findings: (1) presenters continually reinforced the idea that implicit bias is ordinary and pervasive, thus avoiding participant alienation by allowing participants to protect their self-worth and integrity; (2) difficult dialogues were managed calmly without verbal sparring or relinquishing control; (3) the presenters created an environment where individuals were more likely to accept threatening information.
Into the Depths of Reflexivity and Back Again—When Research Mirrors Personal Experience: A Personal Journey into the Spaces of Liminality
Authors: Janzen Katherine
Published: March 2021

The context of this paper surrounds my Master’s thesis which was written in 2010 related to recovering crack cocaine addicted mothers who had lost custody of their children. Every qualitative thesis has a story attached to it—an impetus for engaging in the research. When the research combines sensitive topics and the research mirrors the experience of the researcher, decisions must be made considering the research processes and methods. This paper explores the reflexive processes that were employed in the 10 months preceding taking my first thesis course. Using the preface of my reflexive journal as data, three themes arose from subsequent coding with qualitative data analysis software: liminality, the wrestle, and the third space. The resultant discussion of the three themes highlights my journey into the depths of reflexivity and back again as I journeyed into and through the spaces of liminality.
You Poor Thing: A Retrospective Autoethnography of Visible Chronic Illness as a Symbolic Vanishing Act
Authors: Nowakowski Alexandra
Published: March 2021

In this autoethnography, I outline a framework for understanding illness as deviance, contextualizing general sociological theory on sick role dynamics to the specific case of chronic conditions that manifest with visible physical differences. I demonstrate two distinct ways in which chronic conditions can foster labeling and stigma. First, I explore how social norms can result in sanctions for showing physical evidence of chronic conditions. I describe sanctions I have experienced for violating conventional ideas about youth and female beauty, and associated behavioral expectations. Second, I explore how double jeopardy can result from failing to meet usual social expectations for sickness. I describe sanctions I have experienced for violating ideas of what abilities a person with a chronic illness should possess, and how they should behave in relation. I conclude by illuminating how normative social discourse can simultaneously sensationalize and efface people with visible chronic diseases.
Preparing for Interview Research: The Interview Protocol Refinement Framework
Authors: Castillo-Montoya Milagros
Published: March 2021

This article presents the interview protocol refinement (IPR) framework comprised of a four-phase process for systematically developing and refining an interview protocol. The four-phase process includes: (1) ensuring interview questions align with research questions, (2) constructing an inquiry-based conversation, (3) receiving feedback on interview protocols, and (4) piloting the interview protocol. The IRP method can support efforts to strengthen the reliability of interview protocols used for qualitative research and thereby contribute to improving the quality of data obtained from research interviews.
Case Study of Persons with Cancer Participating in a Community-Based Exercise Program: An Exploration of Meaning and Change
Authors: Haas Barbara , Hermanns Melinda , Melin-Johansson Christina
Published: March 2021

Increasingly, research supports the importance of incorporating exercise into the cancer care paradigm. While quantitative studies have substantiated the significant effects of exercise on physical functioning, the individual’s perspective of participating in an exercise program has rarely been considered. The purpose of this study was to explain the impact of a community based exercise program on the lives of persons with cancer and their caregivers. Based on Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, a single explanatory case study with multiple embedded units of analyses was conducted. Interviews were conducted with 10 individuals representing participants with cancer, their caregivers, and health care providers. Data were analyzed using Yin’s case study method. Four themes emerged (Sense of Community, Building Relationships, Bridging the Gap, and Living Life Abundantly), which identified the unique characteristics of this community based exercise program. Incorporation of these characteristics into program planning may benefit other communities that aspire to offer a similar program to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life.
A Discourse Analytic Approach to Accusations of Infidelity in Romantic Couples' Natural Conversations
Authors: Korobov Neill
Published: March 2021

This study uses a discourse analytic approach to examine how twenty young adult heterosexual romantic couples (ages 19-26) formulate accusations and insinuations of infidelity in their unstructured natural conversations. The analyses demonstrate how accusations of infidelity among romantic partners work to pursue and avert relational trouble. They indirectly index local interactional breaches that may, if left unattended, lead to non-affiliative interactional outcomes. Unlike mainstream psychological work that would treat talk about infidelity as a sign of emotional insecurity or jealousy, the present study posits that accusations of infidelity may function as a brief but effective way for one partner to signal that they have been dismissed or neglected in the preceding discursive turns, and to indirectly invite the other to repair that. Inductive sequential discursive analyses specifically found a reoccurring 5-part sequential pattern in the interactional environment surrounding spontaneous accusations of infidelity. This study demonstrates that the ways romantic partners affiliate around quotidian accusations of infidelity is not random, but instead can reflect an ordered cultural pattern to the ways couples work to maintain a close relationship.
Positional Challenges and Advantages of a PhD Student Researching the PhD
Authors: Wan Chang Da
Published: March 2021

It is fairly uncommon for a PhD student to conduct a study that looks at PhD education, and this paper discusses the challenges and advantages of my experience as a PhD student in conducting a PhD research about the PhD. This PhD research project was not an action research or self-reflective of my own educational journey. In this paper, I identify the challenges concerning my position as both a PhD student and a researcher exploring the educational processes of the PhD, and illustrate the ways I adopted to overcome these challenges. I also point out that having addressed these challenges; there are advantages due to the concurrent position of being a PhD student and a researcher that contributed to the development of new knowledge in the field of PhD education.
Self-Image Enhancement through Branded Accessories among Youths: A Phenomenological Study in India
Authors: Acharya Anitha , Gupta Manish
Published: March 2021

Fashion not only forms an important part of everyday consumption decisions, but also plays an important role in all daily events such as, the clothing we wear, how we think and also what we eat and where we eat. In realism, fashion is an outcome of a dynamic culture and common shifts in the tastes and style of individuals. The center of the debate appears to be that branded fashion accessories involvement is likely to be associated with differences in sensitivity to one’s social surroundings (Auty & Elliott, 1998). The question is: “Whether involvement in fashion accessories with its strong brand image and sensory components, has similar capabilities to be seen as a significant possession creating a fulfilling life, because of the happiness, success, and central position it may occupy in the lives of some?” Branded fashion accessories are increasingly becoming popular among India’s youth population. However, less attention has been given to understand the reasons behind this changing consumer behaviour in India. Thus, this study aims to understand the role of branded fashion accessories in self-image enhancement of India’s youth. For this purpose, semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted using college students who wear and who do not wear branded fashion accessories. Interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) of the data revealed that “social belongingness,” “sense of completeness,” “self-confidence,” and “style and price” are the important factors that play a vital role in affecting youth’s self-image. These findings may encourage retailers to focus their product and sales strategies on consumers’ positive emotions and promote their products among non-consumers by explaining how these products can benefit them.
Impact of Interviews on Heterosexual Students' Expressions of Cultural Competency
Authors: Isaac Carol , Behar-Horenstein Linda
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the effects of a cultural competency intervention on dental pre-doctoral students’ attitudes toward individuals of a different sexual orientation. 22 heterosexual students interviewed gay or lesbian individuals and wrote reflective text. Results illustrated that participants found that their interviewees had “surprisingly similar” beliefs and values – especially in the areas of religion and family. Because of their “similar values,” these students expressed respect toward their interviewees who were “so different” than themselves. This conclusion of “sameness” forced them to see homosexuals as people, rather than a stigmatized invisible outgroup, mitigating sexual prejudice.
Community-Based Participatory Research and the Co-Construction of Community Knowledge
Authors: Peralta Karie , Murphy John
Published: March 2021

From a community-based perspective, all that is known about a community is obtained through intersubjective engagement. But how, exactly, is knowledge socially constructed and revealed in community-based projects? This article addresses this question by focusing on the use of narratives to understand a community. First, the importance of stories for gaining insight into a community’s reality is presented, followed by an examination of how this information should be accessed and engaged. The principles of Community-based Participatory Research (CBPR) that are consistent with this narrative approach are then discussed. Next, reflexivity is described to be the key for reading properly a community’s story. Finally, the conclusion points to the cooperative component of knowledge creation.
A Commentary on Academic Publishing: Insider Tips
Authors: Leavy Patricia
Published: March 2021

Patricia Leavy, Ph.D. is a leading qualitative researcher, best-selling author, and the creator and editor for seven book series. On the release of her 20th book, American Circumstance: Anniversary Edition, the prolific author offers TQR readers this commentary on academic publishing.
Foundations of Education Research: Understanding Theoretical Components – A Book Review
Authors: Banks Crista
Published: March 2021

The volume of researchers interested in pursuing qualitative methods of research continues to grow. However, the foundational components of qualitative research in education are often confusing and overwhelming for the novice researcher and can often pose challenges for more experienced researchers. Egbert and Sanden (2014) offer an easy to follow format in explaining the foundations and theoretical components of research for all levels of learners.
Essentials of Publishing Qualitative Research: A Book Review
Authors: Noel Lesley
Published: March 2021

As a new doctoral student, I reviewed Allen’s (2016) book, Essentials of Publishing Qualitative Research, to determine how the author crafted an accessible text for beginning qualitative researchers as well as more seasoned researchers. The absence of specialized jargon and appropriately inserted comic relief gives this book an inviting feel. The comprehensive coverage from dissertation to article audiences, selecting journals, through to marketing your book makes this a must-have, “publishing for dummies” guide for qualitative researchers that I would describe as the next best thing to handholding through the various phases of publishing.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE UNDER MULTI- THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors:   Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan., Hassan Muhammad
Published: March 2021

This study examines the impact of corporate governance reforms (SECP code in Pakistan) on board structural characteristics, board roles and firm performance. It uses an exclusive balanced panel data set of 200 companies listed on Karachi Stock Exchange. The study contributes to a sparse empirical literature on boards using data from Pakistan via multi-theoretic perspective to prove that if the boards’ monitoring and resource provision roles are strengthened through board restructuring, the financial performance of the organization will be strengthened. The main findings of the study indicate that the mediated relationship between board structural variables and firm performance is stronger. The study concludes that overall companies adopted a box-ticking approach for reporting corporate governance.
Karakteristik Masyarakat Dan Hubungannya Dengan Kepuasan Pelayanan Vaksinasi Di 11 Provinsi Di Indonesia
Authors: Isakh Bryan Mario , Suryatma Anton
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui tingkat kepuasan masyarakat terhadap pelayanan pemberian vaksin. Penelitian dilakukan dengan pengisian angket kepuasan pelayanan obat dan vaksin. Pemilihan lokasi penelitian secara purposive dan sebanyak 559 responden menjawab angket tersebut dengan variabel independen: karateristik pasien yaitu umur, jenis kelamin, pendidikan, pekerjaan dan tingkat ekonomi. Variabel dependen: kepuasan pasien terhadap pelayanan vaksin. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif. Analisis data menggunakan tabulasi silang dan regresi logistik sederhana. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tidak ada hubungan antara karakteristik masyarakat dengan kepuasan pelayanan vaksin. Baik dari segi usia, jenis kelamin, pendidikan maupun pekerjaan. Hal ini mungkin terjadi dikarenakan program imunisasi merupakan program wajib pemerintah yang harus dilaksanakan oleh daerah. Saran peningkatan akses menuju fasilitas kesehatan, pelayanan yang paripurna untuk masyarakat serta memberikan edukasi yang menyeluruh kepada masyarakat sehingga pengetahuan tentang manfaat dari pemberian vaksin bisa diterima oleh masyarakat
Faktor-Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Kejadian Komplikasi Ketuban Pecah Dini (Kpd) Di Rsud Dr Mm Dunda Limboto
Authors: Nikmathul Ali Rizky , Aprianti A Hiola Fidyawati , Tomayahu Veni
Published: March 2021

Ketuban pecah dini sangat berbahaya bagi ibu hamil maupun bayinya. Bahaya dari ketuban pecah dini adalah infeksi terjadi pada ibu dan bayi. Tujuan penelitian yaitu untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang menyebabkan terjadinya ketuban pecah dini (KPD). Metode penelitian yaitu analitik korelasional dengan cross sectional. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh ibu hamil di RSUD MM Dunda Limboto Kabupaten Gorontalo yaitu 181 populasi. Sampel dalam penelitian ini yaitu 38 orang dengan menggunakan tehnik penarikan sampel pusposive sampling. Diketahui nilai chi square hitung >chi square tabel (4.071 > 3.841) atau p=0.044 << α 0.05, maka H0 ditolak, jadi dapat simpulkan bahwa ada hubungan pekerjaan responden dengan Ketuban Pecah Dini (KPD) dan OR : 4.167  artinya ibu yang bekerja selama kehamilan memiliki 4 kali beresiko untuk mengalami ketuban pecah dini. Diketahui nilai chi square pada Kelainan Letak Janin p=0.746>> 0.05, BB Janin p=0.555 >> α 0.05, Gemeli p=0.721 >> α 0.05 yang artinya H0 diterima, jadi dapat simpulkan bahwa tidak ada hubungan Kelainan Letak Janin, BB janin, Gemeli dengan Ketuban Pecah Dini (KPD). Kesimpulan Faktor yang mempengaruhi KPD yaitu pekerjaan dan yang tidak mempengaruhi KPD yaitu Kelainan Letak Janin, BB janin, Gemeli.
Penggunaan Crum Rubber pada Pembuatan Paving Blok
Authors: Muhammad Fahri Tengku , Tarigan Johannes
Published: March 2021

Paving block merupakan salah satu elemen yang sering ditemukan dalam struktur bangunan, karena paving block mudah untuk dicetak dan dirawat. Paving Block yang dicampur dengan crumb rubber mempunyai berat yang ringan sehingga tidak terlalu membebani struktur pada konstruksi bangunan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji kekuatan paving block di laboratorium yang dicampur crumb rubber dengan kandungan 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% dan 25% dari volume pasir. Ada 2 jenis paving block yang diuji yaitu berbentuk balok dan berbentuk heksagon. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa tren yang sama seperti yang ditunjukan oleh penelitian sebelumnya. Semakin banyak kandungan crumb rubber pada paving block akan menurunkan kuat tekan paving block dari 20,34 Mpa pada kandungan 0%  hingga 11,31 Mpa pada kandungan 25%. Di lain pihak, kuat kejut paving block akan meningkat seiring dengan penambahan crumb rubber dari 2 pukulan pada kandungan 0% hingga 21 Pukulan pada kandungan 25%. Dari kedua bentuk paving block, paving block bentuk balok memiliki performasi yang lebih baik. Paving Block bentuk balok yang dihasilkan dalam studi ini termaksud paving block mutu B sesuai dengan SNI 03-0691-1996 yang dapat digunakan untuk pelataran parkir.