bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Article Review on Islamic Derivatives: Theory and Practice, Global Islamic Finance Report (GIFR) 2010
Authors: Sumitro Herbi Arfah Renaldi
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the study is to provide a systematically structured article review on a report chapter entitled Islamic Derivatives: Theory and Practice. There is a global trend on the demand of Islamic Capital Market advancement from theoretical paradigm to practical innovative shariah compliant diversification products, therefore, a brief academic review shall be one of the triggering variables to promote more enhanced development of derivatives products which are in accordance with principles of modern practices without excluding the cornerstone of shariah requirements. The review is based on key findings discussion that programmed to envision the general and the specific (significant) terms found in the article. This includes scholarly opinions, fatwas, standards, and guidelines as well as opinion on the subject matters. The study has shown that there is a call for further study to collect global experiences as well as perspectives on Islamic derivatives development.
Zakat and taxes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abazaid Walaa
Published: April 2021

Within the framework of Vision 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia strives to achieve good national income through an effective tax system. This tax system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia encompasses taxes that are inflicted by the government and zakat imposed by Islamic law. The tax and zakat system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is supervised by the General Authority for Zakat and Income and operates under the authority of the Ministry of Finance, but the authorities responsible for looking into tax disputes still confront problems and difficulties during the performance of their work, especially in disputes related to sharia consulting. Since the importance of the tax and zakat fund in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is great and the relatively high imports it achieves, the aim of this research is to study the structure of the tax and zakat system and the mechanism of work of the bodies responsible for settling tax and zakat dispute by relying on literary reviews of previous researches and official publications allocated for the General Authority for Tax and Zakat, besides the laws correlated to the tax and zakat system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The research concluded that there are a set of weaknesses in the mechanism of work of the authorities and committees who are responsible for deciphering tax and zakat disputes, and a set of proposals have been proposed to improve the performance of these committees.
The Song (Does Not) Remain the Same: Re-Envisioning Portraiture Methodology in Educational Research
Authors: Brooks Spirit
Published: April 2021

This conceptual paper explores how portraiture methodology re-envisioned was used in an educational research project with white teachers. What qualifies as authentic voice and an appraisal of how portraiture and auto-ethnography hold up against the critique of voice-centered research made by Lather (2009), Mazzei and Jackson (2012a) and English (2000) are discussed in the context of the author’s personal narrative journey to the use of portraiture methodology. Next, the trail blazing methodological contribution portraiture makes by allowing an expansion of creative research methods in education is discussed.
“… you don’t come to this school... to show off your hoodies”: Latinas, Community Cultural Wealth, and an Early College High School
Authors: Locke Leslie , Maxwell Gerri , Tello Maria
Published: April 2021

Early College High Schools (ECHS), recent school reforms in the U.S., were designed as social justice, equity-oriented interventions to increase educational opportunity for students from traditionally marginalized and underserved groups. The purpose of this qualitative inquiry was to understand and examine the perceptions and experiences of eight Latina students, regarding their motivation and persistence in an ECHS. Yosso’s Community Cultural Wealth (CCW) framed the analyses. Findings demonstrated the students relied on several forms of CCW to support their motivation and persistence. However, observations and prolonged engagement in the ECHS setting revealed deficit perspectives held by some teachers and incidents of racist mocking occurring between some teachers and students. Resultantly, the students’ CCW was undermined as well as the school’s social justice imperative. Recommendations relevant to the early college context are provided.
I Want an Omnipotent Doctor: North Korean Defectors’ Unmet Expectations of South Korean Medical Providers
Authors: Hong Soo Jung
Published: April 2021

This study examines North Korean defectors’ unmet expectations of South Korean medical providers from the perspectives of both North Korean defectors and their medical providers. Seventeen defectors and 12 medical providers were recruited for focus groups and in-depth interviews. Grounded theory was used for data analysis. Data indicates the North Korean defectors were not satisfied with their providers because they (1) preferred human techniques over computerized technology, (2) expected the doctors to be omnipotent, and (3) expected to receive emergency medical service but did not expect to pay for it. Their medical providers felt that it was impossible to satisfy the defectors because they expected to (1) receive medical services based on self-diagnosis and/or nonmedical personal needs, (2) have the doctor listen to their stories, and (3) receive medical services without booking an appointment. The findings of this study suggest that more efforts for mutual understanding and effective communication are urgently needed for both providers and defectors.
Perspectives and Experiences of DeafBlind College Students
Authors: Wolsey Ju-Lee
Published: April 2021

DeafBlind individuals are resilient human beings who face significant and complex challenges in all aspects of life. Challenges include access to information, communication, academics, social activities, identity, independence, mobility, and moving around in the world. Recently, more DeafBlind students are attending higher education institutions. Therefore, this study focuses on discovering experiences and perspectives of DeafBlind college students who attend a bilingual and bicultural university for sighted Deaf students, where there are a limited number of DeafBlind students. Personal interviews and observations are used to explore how DeafBlind adults navigated college life and what coping strategies they used to overcome academic and social challenges. A grounded theory-based approach was used, as an analysis, as there is limited information and research available about DeafBlind college individuals. Insights and strategies are provided to support new DeafBlind students who plan to attend post-secondary education or are already attending college.
Implementing Authentic Materials through Critical Friends Group (CFG): A Case from Turkey
Authors: Gunbay Elif Basak , Mede Enisa
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this exploratory case study is to investigate the use of authentic materials through Critical Friends Groups (CFG) in a language preparatory program, at a private university in Turkey. Specifically, the study attempted to identify the perceptions and observed behaviours of native and non-native EFL instructors on the use of authentic materials, find out the potential reasons behind the implementation of authentic materials in their classroom practices and finally, examine the influence of incorporating authentic materials through CFG on classrooms practices as well as teachers’ professional development. The participants were eight EFL instructors offering English courses in the exiting preparatory program. Data were collected through interviews, lesson observations and reflective essays. The findings revealed that participating in CFG has transformational impact on instructors regarding their classroom practices as well as on their continuous professional development.
Qualitative Research with Participants Suffering From Ostracism: A Practical Guide For the Novice Researcher
Authors: Waldeck Daniel
Published: April 2021

Being ostracized can be painful for most people, but for those who experience this persistently it can lead to severe levels of psychological distress. At present, there is a scarcity of qualitative research which focuses on this group of vulnerable individuals. This paper acts as a guide for the novice researcher who plans to research this population.
Critical Autobiography as Research
Authors: Walker Anthony
Published: April 2021

Identity is a reflection of how people view themselves within the social structure (Campbell, 2010; Hill & Thomas, 2000). Too often these identities are mirror images of normalized labels and affiliations defined by, and through, social norms and values. Introspective of social constructs and teachings of normalcy, often times one’s identity and status is never questioned (Ramsey, 2004). Juxtaposing systemic thinking with personal knowledge, this article offers insights into the uses and contributions of critical autobiographical research as a both paradigm of research and practice. This article seeks to link the application of critical autobiography with educational practice and theory to promote social justice, identity development, and lifelong learning.
Regulation of Learning: From the Perspective of Male Students in Pakistan
Authors: Abu Bakar Zainudin , Ali Rafaquat
Published: April 2021

Studies have shown that the students’ regulation of learning is associated to their learning outcomes, cognitive processing strategies and understanding of the content. In Pakistan, it was suggested that science students at secondary school possesses inadequate learning behaviours which diminished regulation of learning behaviours. This study was conducted with the intention to explore the issue of regulation of learning among secondary school science students in Pakistan. Twenty-four male students were selected purposefully to participate in the study. The data was collected through focus group interviews to understand their view of self-regulation of learning behaviour. The Applied Thematic Analysis was executed to analyse the student’s comments. It was found that the external regulation of learning in Pakistani secondary school science students were presence. Three common factors such as gender, teaching methods, and field of study were highlighted by the participants as a vital role in the development of external regulation of learning. The findings promote changes in teaching and learning approaches at the Pakistani secondary school level in science teaching.
Following the Flâneur: The Methodological Possibilities and Applications of Flânerie in New Urban Spaces
Authors: Rizk Jessica , Birioukov Anton
Published: April 2021

This paper considers the historic concept of flânerie, the act of “strolling” through urban spaces, as an unconventional approach to gathering qualitative data. In adopting a flânerie identity, the researcher is able to critically analyze urban spaces and the relation of self to those spaces. Through a (re)conceptualization of the 19th century flâneur, we explicate the methodological possibilities and applications of flânerie, in particular, as suited to excavating new urban tropes, whilst giving expression to new urban subjectivities. The authors adopt a flânerie identity, engaging in a qualitative inquiry vis-à-vis two “strolls” occurring in Toronto, Canada. The strolls provide opportunities to interrogate subjectivities and perceptions of the authors in relation to the urban spaces they were traversing. In doing so, this paper emphasizes the legitimacy of adopting a flâneur identity as a valid source of qualitative inquiry; one that is able to bring meaning to spaces and places.
Music to Mend Heartache: Song Choices to Match, Change, and Distract Mood
Authors: Kallis Rhiannon , Ortiz Juarez-Paz Anna
Published: April 2021

Romantic turmoil is something that most people experience in their life. When faced with an upsetting event, such as a breakup or fight with a partner, a person may turn to music to achieve a more desirable state of mind. The current study extended past research on music and coping by focusing specifically on a person’s use of music when they have emotional distress due to a romantic event. Ten interviews revealed the major theme “Music as a Tool,” regarding how people use music as social support. The first subtheme, Alliance with Mood, describes how participants used music as a tool to relate/identify and experience their current emotions. The second subtheme, Changing Mood, reveals how participants used music as tool to reframe their emotions and distract themselves. Because of the practical nature of this subject, media studies should continue to advance the literature on music and social support.
Researcher Emotions as Data, a Tool and a Factor in Professional Development
Authors: Nutov Liora
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this paper is to explore and reflect on my own emotions while carrying out a research process and on their effect on the research and on myself as a researcher. After a brief literature review of the ways in which researcher emotions are perceived in qualitative research in the field of social sciences, I offer a reflective account of my own experience and suggest that researcher emotions can serve both as additional data and as an analyzing tool, as well as being a factor in the professional development of researchers.
Kites Flying: Chinese overseas Kites Flying: Reflections of Chinese Students in New Zealand on National Identity Students’ reflections on National Identity
Authors: Zhang Xiudi
Published: April 2021

The study described in this paper examined the national identity tension that often occurs between Chinese international students and Western host country members. Research questions guiding the study were: How does the experience of studying in New Zealand provide challenges for Chinese international identity, and how do Chinese students reflect their cognitions of national identity in everyday life. Case study was used as a method to collect data from 20 Chinese international students. Cross-national discussions of China from the participants’ life experiences reveal a complex, sometimes contradictory, relationship between the individual and state, which is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and context, and provides a critical reflection on Chinese citizens. Drawing on interviews of Chinese students at a New Zealand university, this study showed that these Chinese international students are struggling with a changeable national identity which is relevant to their overseas experience, family history and education background.
The "Native" as Ethnographer: Doing Social Research in Globalizing Nsukka
Authors: Ugwu Chidi
Published: April 2021

Researchers have noted how local attitudes that connect research to the external world could affect findings differently in different contexts. How this played out for an indigenous researcher is the new perspective presented in this paper. Although an indigene of the study area, I became an outsider of sorts as soon as I began to show interest in malaria in a way that suggested to locals that the results of my investigation could eventually get to the government or the Western world – locals saw those two entities as embodying power and material abundance. Although I worked as an insider, I noticed that my position as a researcher also gave me an identity of the authority and power of the state and the global North. As soon as I began fieldwork, targets began to respond to me more or less as they would do to representatives of government or the North; for whatever I eventually get “out there,” irrespective of my identity, could be crucial information for local wellbeing. Again, locals (especially in predominantly non-literate settings) often associate paper and writing to government and organizations based outside local communities. This played out as I requested some participants to sign consent forms. They were uneasy to sign the forms, and those who did sign became less open afterwards. This brought home the point that ethics of social research need not be rigidly followed across diverse contexts. In all, factors such as level of literacy and general perception of the ultimate purpose of research among the target population will affect data validity to different degrees irrespective of the researcher’s identity.
“From the Edge of the Abyss to the Foot of the Rainbow – Narrating a Journey of Mental Health Recovery” The Process of a Wounded Researcher
Authors: Robertson Samantha , Carpenter Diane , Donovan-Hall Maggie
Published: April 2021

In the UK, mental health service users are asked to “tell their stories” within clinical settings as a tool for diagnosis, formulation and treatment plans. Retelling, reliving and reflecting on traumatic and distressing experiences is not a benign activity. Yet the process of reframing lived experience within a personal narrative could support the development of: a more positive identity; self-management skills and improved social connections (Slade, 2009) and therefore contribute to mental health recovery. This is an exploration of my process as a wounded researcher in the development of a version of my narrative as an autoethnography. I developed a series of 54 vignettes that described memories of my lived experience. To start, I used memorable quotes - the voices of others within my narrative. Developing and analyzing my autoethnography was visceral. It highlighted aspects of my process (and the likely process of others) and raised many unresolved dilemmas. For example: what was left out or left unsaid and the issue of “narrative truth” (Craib, 2004); reordering the vignettes for coherence; the role of relational ethics; and the impact on my identity of this difficult on-going process. It impacted on my mental health, but it has been a crucial part of my recovery.
Disability as Difference - A Fictional Representation
Authors: Breen Jonathon
Published: April 2021

This study presents three perspectives about how the life experience of individuals with disabilities is profoundly affected by the attitudes of others. A first perspective is presented by three individuals who had sustained significant, traumatic injuries. They each shared with me their experiences with acceptance and the attitudes of others. A second perspective comes from me, as the author of this article. As a person with a virtually lifelong disability, I have interpreted those experiences through a lens mediated by my own relationship to disability. These interpretations have informed a third perspective, that of a fictional representation of the role that the attitudes of others play in the lives of individuals with disabilities. That representation of attitude is presented as a one-act play. Within an oral history framework of narrative inquiry, the play offers a synthesis and restorying of the meanings inherent in each of these individual stories. Its purpose is to provide the reader/audience with a more intimate understanding of disability, demonstrating the relationship between others’ perceptions of disability and its apparently significant and categorical difference from the mainstream. Finally, the implications of this perception of disability as difference are made specific within the context of the ongoing employment challenges that continue to confront individuals living with disabilities.
On Being a Teacher-Ethnographer: Nestling the Ethical and Logistical Dilemmas among the Joys of Insiderness
Authors: Hamilton Miriam
Published: April 2021

This paper relates to an ethnographic study of a group of eighteen-year-old girls, in their final school year, in a secondary school in Ireland. The ethnography explored social class and gender discourses that presented in the girls’ various relationships in the school and in broader peer culture. This paper outlines the methodological phenomena I experienced as the ethnographic researcher and a teacher in the school. In this paper, I explore my insider positionality as a teacher-ethnographer from perspectives such as: access, ethics, power and relationships, within the specific context of this girls’ Catholic school in Ireland. The paper makes a specific contribution to the particular and contextualised insider-outsider positionality of the teacher-ethnographer. This dual role required me to transition back and forth between the roles of teacher and researcher, in order to access the cultural stories of the girls’ lived experiences. This dual role was informed by my strong reflexive stance throughout the process. This paper argues that despite significant existing research on the insider-outsider methodological debate, there are benefits to exploring and reviewing new contexts and varied approaches to teacher-insider research. The teacher-ethnographer is a role fraught with ethical and logistical dilemmas, but this paper offers some contextualised generalizability to other practitioners considering this insider approach.
“I feel like I’m drawing strength from it”: Lived Experiences of Filipino Elderly Participating in Craft-Making
Authors: Cajayon Sharon , Macabasag Romeo Luis , Limchanco Norilyn , Umali Vanessa , Blas Ellayza , Angulo Michelle , Breguera Cristine Joy , De Guzman Nikka Angela , Malapi Sheila , Quibote Emmalyn
Published: April 2021

In this phenomenological study, we offer an insightful understanding of the lived experiences of seven (7) Filipino elderly participating in craft-making. We purposively selected the key informants from a municipality in the province of Bulacan, Philippines. The transcribed data gathered through a semi-structured in-depth interview was analyzed using Colaizzi’s approach. Six themes describing the lived experiences emerged: “Fostering friendship,” “Flourishing health,” “Furthering service,” “Facing aging with acceptance,” “Finding felicity and self-fulfillment,” “Feelings of belongingness and security.” Just like the sun, the elderly’s participation in craft-making serves as a nourishment for them. This exploration speaks to understanding the potential of craft-making as a leisure activity for elderly.
Researching Peers and Disaster Vulnerable Communities: An Insider Perspective
Authors: Kita Stern
Published: April 2021

Conducting research among peers and communities that a researcher also serves may be both daunting and rewarding. Researching peers may make the researcher feel uncomfortable raising certain questions that are sensitive or that could be construed to be testing their competencies. This paper is inclined more towards showing that it is advantageous to be an insider, whose position can facilitate collection of information that could not have been accessed, or revealed to an outsider. The paper reports on fieldwork conducted in a low-income country in Sub-Sahara Africa as part of a doctoral study with communities affected by disasters and those that work with such communities. The paper demonstrates the complexities of conducting such research and provides some insights that may be useful to insiders, outsiders or “in-betweeners” embarking on fieldwork in low-income countries and among vulnerable population struggling with manifold stresses and shocks.
Essentials, Accidents, and “Book-Trailers”: A Pragmatic Review of Grounded Theory and Grounded Theorizing: Pragmatism in Research Practice
Authors: Tikhonravova Katia
Published: April 2021

This review of Grounded Theory and Grounded Theorizing: Pragmatism in Research Practice, by Anthony Bryant (2017), aims to provide a perspective on the grounded theory method (GTM) from a pragmatic worldview. The book offers case examples of dissertations build on GTM. Bryant speaks about research in general, describes the development and an overview of GTM concepts, and provides step-by-step examples for practicing GTM. In this book review I, the reviewer, offer personal reflections as a novice researcher to GTM and pragmatism. I provide two “book-trailers” of the book that identify highlights of the book for me.
Training Impact on Novice and Experienced Research Coordinators
Authors: Behar-Horenstein Linda , Potter JoNell , Prikhidko Alena , Swords Stephanie , Sonstein Stephen , Kolb H
Published: April 2021

Competency-based training and professional development is critical to the clinical research enterprise. Understanding research coordinators’ perspectives is important for establishing a common core curriculum. The purpose of this study was to describe participants’ perspectives regarding the impact of online and classroom training sessions. 27 participants among three institutions, completed a two-day classroom training session. 10 novice and seven experienced research coordinators participated in focus group interviews. Grounded theory revealed similarities in novice and experienced coordinator themes including Identifying Preferences for Instruction and Changing Self Perceptions. Differences, seen in experienced participants, focused on personal change, in the theme of Re-Assessing Skills. Infrastructure and cultural issues were evident in their theme, Promoting Leadership and Advocacy. Novice participants recommended ways to improve training via their theme of Making Programmatic Improvements. Participants reported a clear preference for classroom learning. Training played an influential role in changing participants’ self-perceptions by validating their experiences. The findings provided guidance for developing a standardized curriculum. Training must be carefully tailored to the needs of participants while considering audience needs based on work experience, how technology can be used and offering content that is most urgently needed.
Pre-Service Foreign Language Teachers’ Perceptions of Research Skills: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Elmas Eda , Aydin Selami
Published: April 2021

While research skills seem significant for effective and successful foreign language teaching and learning, few studies focused on how English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers perceive research skills in the EFL teaching and learning processes. Research also lacks how EFL teachers perceive research skills and to what extent they are aware of the role, teacher as researcher. Thus, this study aims to explore pre-service EFL teachers’ perceptions of research skills for a deeper understanding of how their perceptions of research skills affect or contribute to the teaching and learning processes. The sample group in the study consisted of 44 pre-service EFL teachers studying at a state university. A background questionnaire, diaries, reflections and interviews were the tools to collect qualitative data. Results showed that research activities develop pre-service EFL teachers’ content knowledge, research skills and target language proficiency, while they perceive several problems during the process. The study suggests that research skills should be a must course in pre- and in-service teacher education programs.
Institutional Control of Social Studies Teaching as Phronesis: A Multi-Case Study
Authors: Pickup Austin
Published: April 2021

This paper presents findings from a multi-case study of social studies educators which focused on the impact of institutional requirements on social studies teaching as phronesis. The concept of phronesis, or practical wisdom of human values, occupies a central space in this study, acting as both the theoretical and methodological framework. As a theoretical framework, Aristotle’s articulation of phronesis, and its distinction from the intellectual states of episteme and techne, guided the development of research questions and acted as an entry point for analysis of participant data concerning the impact of school-based requirements on social studies teaching. As a methodological framework, this study is grounded in Flyvbjerg’s (2001) argument for a “phronetic social science,” which envisions social science work as contributing to dialogue about human values, rather than a vain attempt of strict prediction and explanation. I merge these considerations with the value and utility of qualitative case study, which functions as the study design. Based on this framing, I sought to gain an in-depth understanding of the role that schools play in the development or control of teacher’s practical wisdom and socially-minded educational goals. Answers to this question are discussed through the examination of four different cases of social studies teachers from Alabama. Through a thematic analysis of qualitative data, I illustrate that institutional teaching requirements largely constrained “phronetic” possibilities for social studies education. The major findings indicate that, rather than supporting professional teacher judgments and fostering socially conscious goals, school-based requirements pushed participants to implement technical pedagogies in order to meet pre-determined outcomes. I conclude with a discussion that critically evaluates the nature of contemporary educational reform and considers the place of social studies in this climate.
Connecting Theory, Knowledge, and Practice: A Review of Action Research for Nurses
Authors: Lam Gary Yu Hin
Published: April 2021

Nurses are faced with everyday demands to improve practices, yet using research to develop and apply theory, knowledge, and practices is a task fraught with challenges to the nursing profession. McDonnell and McNiff (2016) offer a practical guide for novice nursing practitioners and researchers to understand and conduct action research.
The Parents’ Values of Early Childhood Education and Care in Russia: Discovering the Dimensions via Coding and Category Clustering
Authors: Savinskaya Olga
Published: April 2021

In this study I explore parents’ perceptions of kindergarten as a social institution for the provision of early childhood education and care (ECEC). Global reforms of this important part of the welfare state are a starting point for the research. Redefining welfare ideology and minimizing the social burden on the state leads to the public and scientific debate about the value of early childhood education and its role in investing in human development. In-depth interviews with 30 mothers were analyzed by coding and category clustering. The results show that parents understand the service provided by a kindergarten as complex, aimed primarily at daytime children’s education and development in a specifically organized educational space performed by professional educators. The greatest parental value is children’s opportunity to be socialized or "learn how to communicate," to resolve conflicts and to find compromises, and to relate their behavior with group-mates and peers followed by the development of life skills, surviving with routines, as well as the associated skill initiative. At the same time, the main professional competence of the educator is seen in her/his ability to create a positive emotional climate, an atmosphere of openness for the realization of a child’s individuality and to create a space for comfortable communication with parents.
Introduction to the Asian Qualitative Research Association Special Issue
Authors: Wa-Mbaleka Safary
Published: April 2021

Founded in 2015, the Asian Qualitative Research Association (AQRA) has become a leader in fostering qualitative research practice and education in the Philippines and beyond. Stating in 2016, AQRA has sponsored an annual conference featuring original qualitative research and scholarship. Past conference presenters were invited to submit their papers to The Qualitative Report (TQR) for peer review. As a result of this rigorous process, TQR is delighted to present this special issue in conjunction with AQRA.
Addressing the Ten Commonly Asked Questions about Qualitative Research in the Philippines
Authors: Wa-Mbaleka Safary
Published: April 2021

There is no doubt that the need for qualitative research has increased and has been felt all around the world. Once feared, detested, or even not much valued by some, qualitative research has now become the rare bird many people are trying to catch. Unfortunately, as more and more people and institutions try to embrace qualitative research, maybe more damage is being done in the process because of the lack of solid understanding of qualitative research. To pave a strong way to excellence in qualitative research conduct and dissemination, it is important to have an idea of the current state of qualitative research. This paper is based on content analysis of the input from 197 higher education professors, administrators, researchers, graduate and doctoral students from 40 higher education institutions in the Philippines. It is based on 10 most commonly asked questions about qualitative research. These questions are grouped into three major themes: the fundamentals, the methodology, and the trustworthiness of qualitative research. Understanding these commonly asked questions can help us pave better the way to quality capability training in qualitative research.
Patient Perspectives on Adherence to the New Hepatitis C Antiviral Medications: ‘A New Lease on Life’
Authors: Giordano Nicole , Brinn Anthony , Garcia-Tsao Guadalupe , Martino Steve
Published: April 2021

This study explored patients’ perspectives about taking the new direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for the treatment of Hepatitis C (i.e., sofosbuvir, simeprevir, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, ombitasvir/paritraprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir) to identify facilitators of medication adherence. The project was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 12 Veterans who successfully completed a treatment course on the new DAAs. The Veterans were recruited using purposive sampling. The data collected from the semi-structured interviews was analyzed using an adapted open coding method outlined by Auerbach and Silverstein (2003), with identification of relevant text sub-grouped into repeating ideas, and then creation of overarching themes and constructs. Results obtained provide insight into factors that influenced the Veterans’ medication adherence during the course of treatment. Key constructs, embodying major themes supported by repeating ideas, included recognizing the “burden of HCV,” the importance of the “treatment engagement process,” and anticipation of “positive outcomes.” Clinical implications are discussed.
Why Do Families Relinquish Care of Children with Intellectual Disability and Severe Challenging Behaviors? Professional’s Perspectives
Authors: Ng Jessica , Rhodes Paul
Published: April 2021

Relinquishing care of a child with developmental disabilities can be a traumatic experience for parents. The aim of this study was to explore the perception of professionals regarding the relationships within families and service systems that contribute towards the relinquishment of children with Intellectual Disability (ID) and challenging behavior. Fifteen disability professionals were interviewed from a variety of disciplines, each having been involved in supporting a family while they relinquished care. A constructionist grounded theory approach was used for analysis, with data interpreted through a systemic lens. An accumulation of factors led to relinquishment, including the cumulative isolation of mothers within the family and within informal and professional networks of relationships. These findings must be understood in the context of societal discourses that both pathologise and overburden mothers with caregiving roles for children with disabilities. Interventions need to focus assertively on whole family involvement and repair, and on community development, if relinquishment is to be prevented.
WORK LIFE BALANCE INITIATIVES AND SERVICE ENCOUNTERS EMPLOYEES PERSPECTIVE
Authors:   Iqra University, Karachi,, Zaman Badar
Published: April 2021

Purpose--Hospitals are very vital as an element in Quality Care delivery and their evaluation in these terms on perpetual basis are much needed as these organizations contribute in improving health outcomes for general people. Hospitals, especially privately owned, are also run like businesses these days to remain competitive in the respective arena. The environment and situation faced by many hospitals are often complicated and which definitely requires insightful solutions to steer the direction of these businesses. This study was focused on the application of group decision-making tool, DEMATEL as one of the valid methods in Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM). Methodology-- The study was exploratory in nature and efforts were made to justify by highlighting the criteria prioritization procedure to be undertaken by any healthcare organization. A slight deviation from standard four-steps of DEMATEL, a course of action was created in shape of eight-step procedure to exhibit a practical approach rather than mathematical theory approach. In order to make it more empirical in nature, a five-stage research framework was also devised and acted upon with the help of three separate questionnaires. Avedis Donabedian’s (1988) Quality Care framework was followed and multiple variables were devised, importance ratings were collected from patients on these devised variables and after reduction of variables in to manageable latent factors, called criteria in the study, DEMATEL method was applied to depict the prioritization of Quality Care criteria for the delivery of quality service via digraph. Findings--The graphical representation through digraph showed that criteria were vertically divided in two halves as C1, C5, and C4 are shown as criteria influencing the lower half criteria C3, C6, and C2. The horizontal span of digraph reflected the importance of criteria prioritized and showed C1 criterion as the most important and C2 criterion with least importance. Implications--The prioritization of the criteria along with their cause and effect distribution gave an insight into the constitution framework of localized healthcare services of Karachi, Pakistan.
IMPACT OF REMITTANCES ON EXPORT PERFORMANCE : TIME SERIES EVIDENCE FROM PAKISTAN
Authors:   Bahria University, Karachi., Shamim Muhammad Asif
Published: April 2021

Purpose:This study analyzes the relationship between Remittance and Exports by using 32 years timeseries data from the period 1981 to 2012. Methodology:This study includes Regression analysis OLS, Granger causality test, , Eigenvalue test, stability analysis ,Augmented DickyFuller tests ,Error correction model , cointegaration and sensitivity analysis. Finding:The results show the negative effect of remittance on exports in the long run in Pakistan which is completely against previous studies to date. Implications:The Government of Pakistan should lower the barriers to remittance flows and reduce the transaction cost for migrants who send money home and make export market more competitive to have significant positive impact of remittances on export.
Changes in Proximate Composition, Vitamin C and β-Carotene Contents of Oven Dried Pawpaw (Carica papaya) Fruit as Influenced by Pretreatment Methods
Authors: Adepoju Lydia A , Osunde Zinash D , Falua Kehinde J
Published: April 2021

A common way of maintaining essential nutrients in fruits and vegetables is through novel food processing techniques such as pretreatment. This study investigated the influence of pretreatment methods on the proximate composition, vitamin C and β-carotene contents of oven dried pawpaw. Fresh, ripe pawpaw fruit were peeled, sliced and pretreated with three pretreatments – ascorbic acid dip (0.45% w/v), honey dip (0.25% v/v) and steam blanching (100 °C). The fruit slices were soaked in ascorbic acid and honey solutions for 4 min while steam blanching was done for 2 min. Untreated pawpaw sample served as the control. The treated and control samples were dried at an average temperature of 65 °C. Results showed that vitamin C of dried pawpaw samples pretreated with honey dip had the highest retention of vitamin C (116.05 mg/100g) compared to ascorbic acid treated (98.90 mg/100g), steam blanched (109.02 mg/100g), and control samples (77.02 mg/100g). In terms of β-carotene, pawpaw sample treated with ascorbic acid solution had the highest value of 12.68 mg/100g. The use of honey and ascorbic acid solutions as treatments prior to drying can improve the retention of nutrients such as vitamin C and β-carotene in dried fruits.Keywords—Pretreatments, proximate properties, vitamin C, β-carotene
Analysis of Processing Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Microalgae Reaction Product with and without Dichloromethane Solvent for Biocrude Recovery
Authors: Eboibi Blessing E
Published: April 2021

Producing biocrude from hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of microalgae has the potential to complement fossil fuels, while simultaneously reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, biocrude recovery from the HTL reaction product has been a concern. In this study, analysis of yields and property of biocrude recovered with and without using dichloromethane (DCM) organic solvent was investigated. The HTL experiment were performed at reaction temperature of 350oC and 20 min reaction time using 16 w/w % solids each of Spirulina sp. and Tetraselmis sp. Data obtained showed that use of DCM favours maximum biocrude yield but of lower quality when compared with DCM-free biocrude. Biocrude yield of 58wt% was obtained from Tetraselmis sp. and 48wt% from Spirulina sp. when DCM was used. About 38 and 40wt% biocrude yields were derived with DCM-free recovery process. Higher carbon content, energy dense, and lower heteroatoms content constitutes biocrude recovered without DCM treatment, which is in contrast to the biocrude recovered with DCM. In addition, an average energy input of 13MJ/kg is required to produce unit biocrude, with an additional energy input ~0.5MJ/kg to evaporate DCM when used in biocrude recovery.Keywords— Bio-energy, Hydrothermal liquefaction, Microalgae, Organic solvent, Separation method
Experimental and Statistical Study on Black Cotton Soil Modified with Cement–Iron Ore Tailings
Authors: Yohanna Paul , Kanyi Ianna M , Etim Roland K , Ebere Oshioname A , Osinubi Kolawole J
Published: April 2021

The investigation focused on the response of black cotton soil (BCS) treated with mixtures of iron ore tailings (IOT) and cement to varying compaction effort (CE). Preliminary tests showed that the un-treated soil is A-7-6 (22) on the basis of AASHTO protocols of classification while the USCS (Unified Soil Classification System) guidelines placed the soil in CH group. Laboratory tests carried out included cation exchange capacity, CEC, Specific gravity (Gs) and compaction test. Three compaction energy levels (i.e., British Standard heavy (BSH), West African Standard (WAS) and British Standard light (BSL)) were adopted for the compaction test. Test results showed that CEC decreased; Gs and MDD increased while OMC also decreased for all cement contents considered when admixed with the different IOT contents up to 10 % IOT by the soil dry weight. MDD values of 1.58, 1.59, 1.62, 1.64, 1.64 and 1.66 Mg/m3 were noted for 1% cement and 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% IOT content compacted with BSL energy. Also, OMC values of 21.2, 20.8, 20.5, 20, 20.3 and 20.2% were noted for 1% cement and 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% IOT content compacted with BSL energy. Same trend was noted for higher cement concentrations and compactive efforts. Regression models for MDD and OMC, considered as dependent variables while C (cement content), CE, IOT, Gs and PF (percentage of fine) as independent variables were developed using software (Mini-tab R15). The result of regression analysis shows that the independent variables considered greatly influence the dependent variables. ANOVA (Analysis of variance) was use to establish the levels of contributions of cement and IOT to the improvements recorded. Therefore, black cotton soil optimally treated with 4% cement 10% IOT blend and compacted with BSH energy is recommended for soil remediation or geotechnical engineering applications.  Keywords— Compaction effort, iron ore tailings, black cotton soil (BCS), Analysis of Variance, regression analysis.
Effect of Tillage Direction on Phosphorus Loss from Sediment Yield and Surface Runoff
Authors: Ewemoje Temitayo A , Kuti Ibrahim A
Published: April 2021

This paper assessed the impact of conservation and irrational ridge on phosphorus loss along the riverbank under rainy conditions. To understand the effects, experiments were conducted on farmland with slope gradients of 2%, 3% and 5%. Treatments included groundnut, cowpea, soybean, and no crop: contour and irrational ridge alternated in each runoff block. Standard method was used to calculate phosphorus loss. The results indicated that quantity of phosphorus loss in sandy loamy soils was 4.5 times higher than in loamy sand. In contrast, the phosphorus release (runoff) in loamy sand was 13.52 times higher than in sandy loam, so the average phosphorus loss in soil and surface runoff were 0.4 and 2 Kg / ha / year, respectively. Outcomes proved that the interaction between irrational ridge and vegetation cover increased the phosphorus concentration in the soils than water, thereby reducing aquatic organisms in rivers and creasing health risks for humans. The study recommends that contour cultivation be used very well to reduce phosphorus loss from sediment and runoff.Keywords— Contour and Irrational Tillage, Slope, Cover Crops, Analysis of covariance, Tillage Erosion, River
PATHYA APATHYA: IMPACT AND ROLE IN LIFESTYLE DISORDERS
Authors: Vanya Gupta  , Ved Bhushan Sharma  , R.C.Tiwari  , Manisha Dikshit  , Anoop Kumar Singh
Published: April 2021

Ayurveda is an ancient and most trusted Indian system of medicine commonly used by Indians since time immemorial. Lifestyle diseases/ Metabolic diseases are described as diseases related to the way an individual or group of individuals live, also are referred under Non-Communicable Diseases. Over-crowding and rapid unplanned urbanization; globalization of unhealthy lifestyles is responsible for some of the major reasons for a sedentary life leading to these diseases. It includes arteriosclerosis, heart disease, stroke, obesity and type-2 diabetes, diseases related to smoking, alcohol and drug abuse. The contribution of metabolic risk factors such as high blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and that of improper diet and alcohol use resulting in health loss. Therefore, the occurrence of these disorders has doubled in India over the past quarter of a century therefore it is the need of the hour to manage them diligently. Diet plays a key role to nourish life and balanced diet is very important for maintaining good health. In Ayurveda, wholesome diet is described which plays a very important role specifically rather than in modern medicine which emphasizes only on the components in the diet like proteins, carbohydrates, fats etc. Ayurveda additionally deals with various other aspects like combination of food article, their quantity, method of preparation, their emotional effect, nature of consumer including environmental considerations. Pathya and Apathya Ahara (dietary consideration) is a significant component of almost each and every prescription in Ayurveda therapy. Sometimes, Pathya-Apathya (dietary management) is itself an entire treatment.
FORMATION OF SPIRITUAL EDUCATION IS ONE OF THE PRIORITIES IN HUMAN LIFE AND SOCIETY
Authors: Azimova S , Oripova N
Published: April 2021

В данной статье раскрывается совершенствование системы образования в Узбекистане, а также уделяется особое внимание использованию народной педагогики в духовном воспитании молодежи.