bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DRUG REVIEW OF KUSHAMOOLA CHURNA WITH TANDULODOK IN ASRUGDARA MANAGEMENT
Authors: Shaikh Aarifa , Lunawat Umesh
Published: December 2021

In Ayurveda, menstruation has been described in 3 phases as rajahkala (menstrual period) rutukala (fertile period) and rutuvyatitkal (premenstrual period) & Do’s and Don’ts regarding this has also been explained in detail. Due to so much physical and emotional stress women are suffering from so many menstrual problems, Asrugdara (menorrhagia) is one of them and in Samhitas its causes, Etiopathogenesis, treatment and complications are ex- plained in detail. Menorrhagia is being treated with hormonal combination have so many side effects in acute as well as chronic therapy.
Kushamool churna with tandulodak (Rice water) as explained by Bhaishajya Ratnawali treats Asrugdara in 3 days. Due to its pharmacological properties, it breaks down the pathology of Asrugdara in the acute stage. So, we can formulate this combination for the acute condition of menorrhagia.
Keywords: Rajahkala, Rutukala, Rutuvyatitkal, Asrugdara, Menorrhagia, Etiopathogenesis.
CONCEPT OF ANTIDOTES V/S PRATIVISHA IN AYURVEDA - A REVIEW ARTICLE
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Swatika Swatika
Published: December 2021

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the most technical medical systems in the world with an extended record of scientific experience. Ayurveda tells the way of life and how to live healthily and stay happy. It has eight prime branches of medicine. Agada tantra is one of the specialized divisions of Ayurveda that offer scrupulously thorough information about animate and non-animated poisons and methods of removal of these poisons from the body. It chiefly advocates different antidotes for equip- ment that are poisonous to the human body. There are various ancient books which have relation regarding the Toxicology Agada tantra in which we can get references regarding the above mentioned and treated as such with Antidotes. Antidotes are the substances used to counteract or deactivate the effects of poison. Poison may be by plant, or through animal bites like snake bites etc., agricultural poisons, poisonous metals and minerals etc. There are mainly two types of poison mentioned in Ayurveda, are Sthavar visha and Jangham visha., Common antidote in Ayurveda is Swarna, Ghrita, Godudha and Madhu etc. antidote plays important role in the treatment of poisoning which we can see in the current paper, the main moto of doctor is to save the patient's life. In Ayurveda, our Achar- yas mentioned the different types of poisonous substances and their antidote under Visha Chikitsa references. The concept of Prativisha which is existed since ancient time needs to be supplemented, explained, refurbish and narrate for proper treatment. So, this article aims to collect the references of curative and preventive measures of poisoning.
Keywords: Visha, Antidotes, Vagbhatta, Vishavaidyajyotsnika
A CLINICAL STUDY TO EVALUATE AN EFFECT OF DHANYAKADI LEPA AS - BAHIRPARIMARJANA CHIKITSA AND CHANDANA CHURNA WITH MADHU AS ANTHAPARIMARJANA CHIKITSA IN YAVANAPIDAKA
Authors: M Awati Meghavati , Deshmukh Raosaheb A , Tenahalli Renuka. M. , P. Bargi Jyothi Alias Jyotsa. P. Bargi , S. Bagali Sachin.
Published: December 2021

Yavanapidika is one among the Kshudra roga (minor disorder) 1explained in Classical texts. However, Sushruta has described this disease under the name of Mukhadushika2. Kapha, Vata & Rakta are considered as causative factors of Mukhdushika. Pidika (eruptions), Saruja(pain), Ghana (thick), Medagarbha (fat in eruption) are considered clinical features as mentioned in Samhitas. Yavana Pidaka can be correlated with Acne vulgaris. Acne is the most common skin problem which commonly affects Teenagers. According to the global burden of disease study, Acne Vulgaris affects about 85% of the age group of 12-25 years, Acne consistently represents the top three most prevalent skin conditions in the general population as found in large studies3. In this context, Dhanyakadi Lepa4 is applied externally as Bahirparimarjana Chikitsa in the form of lepa and Chandana Churna (Santalum album, Linn)5 with Madhu (honey)6 is used internally as Anthaparimarjana chikitsa on Yavanapidaka. Thirty patients suffering from Yavanapidika were randomly selected and the above-mentioned treatment was administeredfor thirty days. It is concluded that Dhanyakadi Lepa as Bahir parimarjana chikitsa and Chandana Churna and Madhu as Anthaparimarjana Chikitsa are effective in the treatment of Yavanapidaka.
Keywords: Yavanapidika, Mukhadushika, Kshudra rogas, Acne vulgaris, Dhanyakadi lepa, Chandana churna, Madhu.
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SWITRA ROGA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Murali Megha , Kumari Arunima , Kumar Sujeet
Published: December 2021

Skin is the largest organ of human body. Skin complaints affect people of all ages from the neonate to the elderly and cause harm in a number of ways such as discomfort, disfigurement, disability and even death rarely. Vitiligo is the condition presenting with whitish discoloration of the skin. It is an acquired condition in which circumscribed de-pigmented patches can be seen. The destruction of melanocytes, pigment forming cells, causes lack of melanin, coloring pigment which leads to this condition. It affects 1-2% of the population worldwide. Onset is usually in the childhood and females are mostly affected. In Ayurveda, the science of life, the disease called “switra” can be correlated to vitiligo. Aim of the present study is to evaluate the action of Ayurvedic medications on switra roga. Here, am presenting a case of 5 years old girl who came to OPD with c/o white patches over left side of the face. A notable improvement in the condition has been observed in this case.
Keywords: Switra roga, Vitiligo, twak vikara.
EFFECT OF MAJJA BASTI AND BAHYA SNEHANA (PIZICHIL) IN AVASCULAR NECROSIS - A CASE REPORT
Authors: Surendra Bunker , Neetu Dixit , Babita Dash
Published: December 2021

Avascular necrosis (AVN) also called osteonecrosis or a disorder resulting from a temporary or permanent loss of blood supply or interruption of supply to the bone. AVN is found in the age of 30- 40 years mostly. Blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to the bone. When the supply is disrupted, the bone tissue became necrosed. AVN can occur at any bone but most commonly affects the ends (epiphysis) of a long bone such as thigh region bone i.e. femur characterized by the collapse of bone, pain, bone destruction, limping off the leg, loss of function of affected bone (temporary or permanent). Modern medical science has surgical treatment modalities like Arthroplasty, hip replacement and osteotomy etc having a higher failure rate is also cost worthy and has a poor prognosis. As per Ayurveda, the cases were diagnosed as Asthimajjagata vata vikara. In the present study, two male patients one is 45 years old another is 30 years old having signs and symptoms of Avascular necrosis and X- ray of bilateral hip joint showing AVN of the femoral head were taken into consideration and administered the therapy, Majja Basti, bahya snehana (pizichil) and the Shaman Kashaya i.e. Guggulu Tiktak Kashaya 20 ml BD for 15 days.significant relief with increasing functional femoral activities in the necrosed femoral head. Based on these case study it can be concluded that the Panchakarma treatment along with Shamana chikitsa is effective in the management of AVN of the femoral head.
Keywords: Avascular necrosis, Asthimajja gata vata vikar, Majja Basti, Pizichil.
MANAGEMENT OF SWITRA WITH SHAMANA AUSHADIS - A CASE STUDY
Authors: Acharya Ajay Kumar Dharmabrat , Joshi Prasan V
Published: December 2021

As the increasing population is much concerned about beauty, so several cosmetic products are also increasing in the market. Switrais not only a pathological but also a very serious sociological problem. It can be compared with vitiligo in contemporary science having a prevalence of 0.25% in India. In Ayurveda, it is explained along with kustha roga1, but it is not explained under Mahakustha & kshudrakustha. In a conventional system of medicine, there is no perfect aetiology and treatment for vitiligo. But in Ayurveda, many lines of treatment are explained like shodhana & shamanaas. As it may be autoimmune & heredity also takes a long time to treat, so the patient needs more patience for treatment. After 10 months of treatment with proper follow up this case shows up to 90% cure of switra through Ayurveda that too only with Shamana Aushadha.
Keywords- switra, a case study on switra, shamanaaushadhis
A CASE STUDY ON AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SPINOCEREBELLAR ATAXIA
Authors: Krishna Lekshmi G Krishna , N.K. Pravith
Published: December 2021

Spinocerebellar Ataxias (SCAs) is a neurodegenerative heterogeneous group of disorders that often-characterized progressive derangement in coordination and Balance. Presently there is no definitive cure for this genetic disease. Only a few Ayurveda case studies were reported in SCA. In the present study, a case of SCA was admitted in the IPD was treated through four phases - Deepana Pachana, Dosa Shodhana, Dosa Samana and Rasayana. The du- ration of therapy was around two months. Treatments were aimed at understanding and avoiding the predisposing factors, reversing the pathology (Samprapti Vighatana) and improving the quality of Dhatus (Rasayana), thereby improving the symptoms and arresting the progress of the disease. Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) score on 23/12/2020 and 19/02/2021 showed progressive improvement while discharging.
Keywords: Vata Vyadhi, Avarana, Dhatukshaya, Spinocerebellar ataxia, Neurodegeneration
A CASE STUDY ON AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF VRIKKASHMARI
Authors: Grover Neha , Mishra Pramod Kumar , Sharma Indu , Charan Divya Singh
Published: December 2021

Since ancient times Ashmari is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts. Ashmari is a disease related to the urinary system (Mutravahasrotas). Mutrashmari is described under Asthamahagad (difficult to cure) in Ayurveda. It possesses symptoms such as Jwara (Fever), Basti Pida (Discomfort and pain in the bladder), Aruchi (Anorexia), Mutrakric- cha (Difficulty in micturition), Bastishira Vedana (Pain in Urethra), Mushka Vedana (Pain in testicles) and Shepha Vedana (Pain in the penis) have been described in Ayurvedic classical texts. A 29-year-old female patient
visited OPD, with complaints of pain in the right side of the Abdomen, Burning Micturition, Nausea and Vomit- ing. The USG reported calculus measuring 5.3mm in size seen in the right kidney with the normal functioning of vitals. The patient was treated with Chandraprabha Vati 2 BD, Gokshuradi Guggulu 2 BD, Varunadi Kwath 20ml BD on OPD basis. The patient was advised initially follow up after 7 days and later after every 15 days. Along with medication, the patient was also advised to follow diet and lifestyle restrictions. The patient got relief in signs and symptoms and the USG report showed no evidence of calculi in the right kidney.
Keywords: Vrikashmari, Chandraprabha Vati, Gokshuradi guggulu, Varunadi Kwath
A CASE REPORT OF AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SHITTAPITTA (URTICARIA)
Authors: Soni Lekha , Mishra Pramod Kumar , Sharma Indu , Yadav Garima
Published: December 2021

In Urticaria Vata and Kapha are two doshas that are primarily vitiated and being mixed with pitta (Pittena Saha Sambhooya) spreads internally and Externally (Bahir Aantah Visarpah) and results in to ‘Shittapitta-Udarda-Ko- tha’1. Due to Pitta dosha they create redness, swelling on the skin and moderate to severe itching on the skin. Ayurveda Herbo minerals preparation cures urticaria by balancing Tridoshas in the body. Shittapitta manifests due to exposure to various poisonous materials (allergens), cold environment and intake of Asatmya Ahar Vihar. In modern science, it is compared with urticaria. Hives (urticaria) are red, itchy welts that occur when the skin meets allergen releases histamine and other chemicals. The welts vary in size, appear and then disappear repeatedly as the reaction runs its course. The condition is considered chronic hives if the welts appear for more than six weeks and recur frequently over months or years. Episodes of urticaria may relapse for days, weeks, months or years. In Ayur- veda Herbo-minerals preparation effectively treat Shittapitta and restore healthy skin by balancing Tridosha and Sapta dhatu in the body.
Keywords Urticaria, Shittapitta, Dosha, Tridosha, hives
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF AMLAPITTA (GASTRITIS) - A CASE REPORT
Authors: Charan Divya Singh , Mishra Pramod Kumar , Sharma Indu , Grover Neha
Published: December 2021

Amlapitta is the most typical illness in the present era. In a rapidly growing civilization, Amlapitta is the outer- most common disorder within the current society, because of indulgence in incompatible food habits and activi- ties. Materialistic lifestyle provokes people to run behind a busy, tremendous stressful life which is the least con- cern towards proper food habits. "Hurry", “Worry” & “Curry” are the main causes of Amlapitta disease. The us- age of synthetic drugs like H2 receptor blockers & proton pump inhibitors has decreased due to their side effects. The signs and symptoms of Amlapitta are very comparable to Gastritis or Hyperacidity. The ruling features of Amlapitta are Avipaka (indigestion), Urodaha (Burning in the chest), Utklesha (Nausea) Aruchi (Anorexia) and Tikta-Amlodgara (sour and bitter belching) have been described in Ayurvedic classical texts. A 42-year-old male patient came in OPD with the following complaints Tikta-Amlodgara, Urodaha, Utklesha, Aruchi, Praseka. Dur- ing Examination, the vitals are normal. The patient was treated with Sutshekar rasa 1 tab. BD, Avipattikar chura- na 3gm BD, Drakshavaleha 5gm BD on the basis. The patient was advised to follow up every 15th day. Along with medication, the patient was also advised to follow diet and lifestyle restrictions.
Keywords: Agni, Amlapitta, Annavahasrotas, Hyperacidity.
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SCALP PSORIASIS WSR TO KITIBHA KUSHTHA – A CASE STUDY
Authors: Dravyekar Ashwini , Bhaskare Sunil
Published: December 2021

Background- Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition. The age of onset, chronicity, a physical and psycho- logical consequence of the disease cause psoriasis to have a significant impact on patient quality of life. Scalp Psoriasis is no different and effective treatment results in an improvement in quality of life. Aim- To study the efficacy of ayurvedic management of Scalp Psoriasis w.s.r to Kitibha Kushtha. Methodology- This study deals with a 45-year-old female patient having complaints of itching over the scalp region, powdery discharge from that region, burning present over that region for 2 years. The patient was diagnosed with Scalp Psoriasis as per modern and Kitibha Kushtha as per Ayurveda. Result- The patient got symptomatic relief in Scalp Psoriasis at the end of treatment. Conclusion- Ayurvedic management was found to be effective in Scalp Psoriasis.
Keywords: Kitibha, Kushtha, Scalp Psoriasis.
MANAGEMENT THROUGH AYURVEDIC MEDICATIONS AND LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION (PATHYASEVANA AND YOGASANA) IN A CASE OF POST-COVID COMPLICATION DIABETES MELLITUS (TYPE 2 DM): A SINGLE CASE STUDY
Authors: Nimje Prajakta D. , (Thatere) Vidya Wasnik , Jain Sumeeta
Published: December 2021

Diabetes is an asymptomatic disease in most people, so there could be a good number of people who may not be aware of their diabetes before they caught COVID-19. Some studies state that in poorly resourced countries, as many as 50% of people with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, are undiagnosed. Theoretically, COVID-19 can also cause diabetes as the pancreas have ACE2 receptors, which can enable SARS COV2 to enter the pancreatic beta cells, resulting in structural and functional damage. The present study is carried out to know the traditional Ayurvedic treatment for Diabetes Mellitus. For Diabetes Ayurvedic drugs, Pathyasevana and Yogic lifestyle are one of the best choices of management for their prime role in maintaining blood sugar levels and preventing Diabetes. The present study showed a significant effect on associated complaints. Objectives: - To study the effect of Ayurvedic medications and lifestyles modification (Pathyasevana and Yogasana) on Post Covid complications Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Materials and Methods: A 33-year-old male, reported to the Government Ayurveda college and hospital, Nagpur. With complaints of loss of appetite, weakness, sweet taste of mouth, mild polydipsia, mild polyurea excessive mental stress, and Insomnia for the last two months. For that, he had taken treatment of allopathic medicine for a few days, but he was not satisfied. He had been given Ayurvedic medications for 3 months. Appropriate modifications were done at diet and lifestyle as per Ayurvedic text. Proper Yoga protocol was provided to him. Fasting and Post Prandial blood sugar levels were measured by an electronic glucometer before and after treatment. Result: - Improvement in subjective and objective symptoms was found. Mild to moderate improvement was noted in weakness, sweet taste of mouth, mild polydipsia, mild polyurea, Insomnia was reduced. Conclusion: - Ayurvedic medicines and lifestyle modifications can be considered as a mainstream treatment in the case of newly diagnosed post covid diabetes mellitus.
Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Post covid complication, Yogasana, Lifestyle modification.
ROLE OF AN ETHNOMEDICINE- MUSTADI MODAKA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF 2ND DEGREE HAEMORRHOIDS (ARSHAS) – A CASE REPORT
Authors: S Sreelakshmi , Nair C. Raghunathan , V. R Remya.
Published: December 2021

In the present era of 21st century, haemorrhoids have become the most common and distressing anorectal disease. It is a lifestyle disease due to excessive intake of spicy food non-vegetarian food, and lack of exercise. Inadequate consumption of water and the habit of taking alcohol are some of the main reasons for the manifestation of the disease. Perianal trauma due to the long journey and excessive two-wheeler riding particularly on uneven roads and terrenes are also main reasons. Constipation is also a common cause of this disease. Haemorrhoids are dealt with rationally under the concept of Arshas. Use of medicine, surgery, cauterization with kshara and Agni are the treatment principles recommended for Arshas by Acharya Susruta. Except medicine, the rest of the procedures are invasive. The basic principles for the treatment of Arshas are deepana and anulomana (digestive, carminative, and laxative). A medicine with the above properties which is used traditionally by tribes is selected for the study. It has been found using among the tribes for a long time with no side effects. The contents of this medicine are safe and are used in routine ayurvedic practice. In this case study, an effort was made to evaluate the role of Mustadimodaka and ethnomedicine in the management of Arshas.
Keywords: 2nd-degree haemorrhoids, Arshas, Mustadimodaka, Ethnomedicine
BANDHANA WITH MANJISHTADI LEPA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ANKLE SPRAIN – A CASE REPORT
Authors: M Dhanya , Devi N. Madhuri , M. P. Sreelekha
Published: December 2021

The ankle joint is the most common site for a ligament injury in the body. Some ankle joint injuries are minor and heal with some rest from activities, but some are serious and require immediate medical attention. An ankle sprain refers to ligament injuries of the ankle. In classics, there is no direct reference regarding sprain and its manage- ment. In Susrutha Samhitha Chikitsa Sthana 3rdchapter, Bhagna Chikitsitham, Acharya Susruta has mentioned the application of Manjishtadi Lepa for traumatic joint injuries. In the present case study, a 22 years old male pa- tient visited the OPD with severe pain and swelling of the right ankle following a twisting injury of the foot. He was diagnosed with a grade 1 ankle sprain and was bandaged with Manjishtadi Lepa. Management with Man- jishtadi Lepa has shown significant relief in pain and swelling as well as in the restoration of normal movements.
Keywords: Ankle sprain, Manjishtadi Lepa
EFFECT OF GHONTAPHALADI VARTHI IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PERIANAL SINUS - A CASE REPORT
Authors: A.G Sreeparvathy , C. S Sivakumar. , M. S Deepa.
Published: December 2021

Nadi Vrana is a term used to describe the sinus. Sinus is a blind track lined by granulation tissue from an epithelial surface.it can be treated mainly by Ksharasutra therapy and by other methods which include varti, Lepana etc. In Susrutha Samhitha Chikitsasthana first chapter Dwivarineeya chikitsa; it is mentioned that the Vrana Varthi 1can be used in Nadi Vrana where the wound is having minute opening, deep and going into the Mamsadhatu (muscles). In the present case study, a 44-year-old male patient visited the OPD with Grade 1 inter sphincteric sinus in the perianal region and the patient was selected for application of the Ghontaphaladi Varthi. Daily application of Ghontaphaladi Varthi has shown significant changes in the healing of the track and a decrease in the severity of the associated symptoms like pain and discharge.
Keywords: Nadi Vrana, Ghontaphaladi Varthi, Sinus
A SIMULATION BASED STUDY OF ENERGY CONSERVATION OF RESIDENCES IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN
Authors: Abid Maan YASMEEN ABID MAAN , Jameel Maryam , Dr Munazzah Akhtar
Published: December 2021

A house in composite climate of Lahore (Pakistan) needs intensive cooling in summers; energy recovery ventilation to reduce humidity during monsoon and comfortable indoor temperature during winters. All these conditions have to be fulfilled with a reduced load on energy resources. Recent trends in construction and design of residential buildings in Pakistan symbolize uncontrolled use of energy resources. There is no data available with planning and developing authorities of housing sector that shows an account of energy loads of built houses. The potential of conservation of energy will be analyzed by actually studying the cooling and heating loads of recently constructed houses
Key Words: Energy Conservation Potential, Module Study, Simulations
EFFECTIVE TEACHING STRATEGIES AND MOTIVATED LEARNERS CREATE AN AUTONOMOUS CLASSROOM
Authors: Chhabra Pooja
Published: December 2021

This paper addresses the issue of how to enhance motivation in tertiary level EFL learners to lead them towards achieving independence in learning. Based on a case study at the Global College of Engineering and Technology, Muscat, Oman, it critically examines the scope of application of John Keller’s ARCS model that exhibits four steps for enhancing learners’ motivation - Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction. It recounts how these motivational techniques have been used in classrooms and how each of these steps has enhanced the learners’ self-confidence and their interest in learning the language. The paper argues that efficient use of ARCS model can transform extrinsic motivation into intrinsic one. It recommends that educators should adopt the ARCS model to sustain learners’ interests and accomplishments of the set learning objectives. It makes students reach a level where they begin to take charge of their learning, resulting in strong learner-teacher autonomy in language acquisition.
Key Words:  Keller's ARCS model, Foundation program students, Index Terms-motivation
Development of Innovative Pedagogical Practices for a Modern Learning Experience: Introduction
Authors:   Faculty of Liberal Arts, Sophia University, Japan, Koyama Dennis
Published: December 2021

In the current volume, the selected studies have been grouped into three thematic sections, presenting readers with a set of distinct but related research on meaningful issues for a modern learning experience. The first three chapters present professional and teacher development perspectives and collectively shed light on how to develop, maintain, and improve pre and in-service teacher training and professional development. The second set of four chapters provide research findings that describe the results of direct applications of modern learning elements through course assignments and teaching approaches. The final five chapters focus on critical thinking and range in their focus from classroom-based studies to full-scale curriculum reform.
Blended Learning Immersion Teacher Education: Evidence-Based Practices and Data-Driven Instruction
Authors:   Director of Postgraduate Programmes in Education, Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick, Ireland, Ó Ceallaigh T.J.
Published: December 2021

The practice of blending different learning approaches and strategies in higher-level education is not new, yet our understanding of how to design the most effective and efficient blend remains incomplete. Challenges are further compounded when students are not fully proficient in the language of instruction. However, teacher educators learn about teaching through learning about student learning. Evidence-based practices and data-driven instruction create conditions for success in blended learning design and implementation. This chapter reviews the impact of a blended learning professional development (PD) initiative, with a dual focus on language and content, on Irish-medium immersion (IMI) teacher development. Findings provide unique insights in relation to the effectiveness of a blended learning PD experience as indicated by student motivation, autonomy and success. Linguistic and pedagogical capacity were fostered and community cultivated. Lessons learned and tutor reflections are also shared in an attempt to advance learning in the field and to cultivate future innovation in policy, practice and possibilities.
Exploring Concept Mapping as a Diagnostic and Predictive Assessment Tool in Pre-Service EFL Teacher Education
Authors:   Department of English Education, Jeju National University, Republic of Korea, Park Moonyoung , Xiao Wenqi ,   Faculty of Education, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
Published: December 2021

This study explored (a) pre-service teachers’ knowledge structure on teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) reading using concept mapping in a language pedagogy course, (b) the characteristics of concept maps drawn, and (c) the relationship between concept mapping and the course achievement scores. The participants were 14 pre-service teachers majoring in English language education at a university in Hong Kong. The data sources included assessments of concept maps and final exam scores. The overall research findings reveal the educational potential of integrating concept maps as a diagnostic and predictive assessment tool in teacher education programs.
Professional Learning Communities: Reflections on Cases in Bahrain, Oman and the United Arab Emirates
Authors:   Educational Studies Department, Bahrain Teachers College, University of Bahrain, Bahrain, Al-Mahdi Osama , de Munnik Marloes ,   MdM Learnscape, The UAE & REAL Centre, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, Henkel Beatrix ,   Founder of R.A.C.E., The United Arab Emirates, Meinen Luke ,   Riffa Views International School, Bahrain, Green Marissa ,   Innovators Private School, the Sultanate of Oman
Published: December 2021

This chapter explores the different definitions and, characteristics of international and regional research on a professional learning community (PLC) approach. The chapter discusses models of professional development that are used in international educational systems then it reflects on possible ways for adopting these models in the educational context in Bahrain, Oman and The United Arab Emirates. A focus on the educational context in the countries is included with recommendations for the implications thereof on policy and practice. This chapter has two parts: the first is a literature review that synthesizes key ideas, research, and results in the field of PLCs. The chapter thereby is connecting to ideas from a socio-material practice perspective in the field of workplace learning. This results in a focus on professional responsibility, accountability and experience. The second part includes two detailed cases that illustrate how PLCs are translated into learning and teaching practice in two private schools in Bahrain and Oman, and a third case reflecting on PLC initiatives in The United Arab Emirates. The chapter recommends promoting a PLC approach in educational systems in the Gulf Council Countries (GCC) and globally by focusing on the following practical implementations: expanding its use in pre- and in-service teacher training programs, adapting PLCs’ best international practices to the localized educational context, preparing school principals to lead PLCs in their schools, providing human and financial support to these communities, and working on changing school cultures to become more collaborative by using initiatives such as coaching. A shortage of studies about PLCs, specifically in the GCC region, may lead to a limited spread of improved professional teaching practices applied in GCC schools and the wider network of schools associated with GCC schools. This chapter highlights the importance of a PLC approach and provides examples of how this approach is being used. We suggest that other practitioners, school leaders and researchers may benefit by embracing a PLC approach for increased professional teaching practice, subsequent learner success and improved organizational education outcomes.
Multimodality as a Communicative Tool for Social Engagement and Reform
Authors:   Faculty of Literature & Languages, Saint Francis University, Pennsylvania, Thomas Brennan
Published: December 2021

This article acknowledges the viability of multimodal projects in first-year college-level writing courses in accordance with the evolution of composition pedagogy over the past forty years. Since the 1982 publication of Hairston’s article “The Winds of Change” forecasting the end of the then-ubiquitous current-traditional approach, composition pedagogy has undergone paradigm shifts from process to post-process theory and from textual to digital modes of composition. Inspired by Goodwin’s (2020) research on students’ multimodal responses to local community issues, I developed a public media project for my first-year writing course for which students created media texts addressing local, regional, national, and global issues of their choosing. The project synthesizes the public and interpretative dimensions of writing identified by post-process scholars with elements of multimodality and civic engagement to help students understand how public media texts raise social awareness of current issues and mobilize community efforts toward unified resolution of such issues.
Community, Connections and Innovation in Emergency Remote Teaching and Learning
Authors:   Kyoto Institute of Technology, Japan, Healy Sandra
Published: December 2021

The emergence of the Covid-19 virus had an enormous impact on all of our lives and significantly affected the lives of first-year university students in Japan who began their tertiary education during the initial lockdown. This chapter examines the impact the move online had on these students by analysing videos created by them as part of their academic English as a Foreign Language (EFL) coursework. The videos were analysed, and 12 themes emerged which were used as a foundation for new practices focusing on the development of community and connections in online courses, particularly the use of e-mentors.
Measuring the Frequency of Critical Thinking in a Second Language Academic Discussion Course
Authors:   Foreign Language Education and Research Center, Rikkyo University, Japan, Reid Samuel , West Travis ,   Foreign Language Education and Research Center, Rikkyo University, Japan
Published: December 2021

As technology and globalization increase the chances of exposure to information, learners’ Critical Thinking (CT) and researchers’ ability to measure it will play an important role in developing modern educational experiences. This is particularly the case for English language learners who wish to enter tertiary education in English-speaking countries (Liaw, 2007; Wagner, 2010). Emphasis on such skills is increasingly a facet of language education in Japanese contexts. This can be seen in changes implemented by the Japan Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology which have encouraged a focus on CT in English language courses during recent years (MEXT, 2011). However, it can be difficult for second language (L2) learners to exhibit CT in an L2 (Bali, 2015; Luk & Lin, 2015). Measuring CT in learner output has also proven difficult, which can be an obstacle to further integrating CT in L2 pedagogy. Studies exploring ways of measuring CT in an L2 have largely focused on written work (e.g., Davidson & Dunham, 1997; Floyd, 2011; Stapleton, 2001), while analysis of CT in spoken L2 discourse has seen little attention. As a result, little advice can be found on practical steps for teachers to help learners display CT when speaking in an L2. This chapter describes a study of arguments made during group discussions in an L2 English Discussion course at a Japanese university. A corpus of spontaneous spoken discourse recorded during class was analyzed to measure the frequency of CT displayed in an academic setting where CT was not an explicit focus of the course. Arguments in the corpus were identified using Ramage et al.’s (2016) model of argument criteria, and a categorization system was developed in which discourse was classified as displaying either objective reasoning or subjective reasoning. Participants were found to have used approximately 72% objective and 28% subjective reasoning. However, further analysis revealed an important qualitative difference in arguments identified as incorporating objective reasoning. The results of the study suggest two areas that may help teachers promote an increase in student usage of CT: the importance of question prompts in orienting learners towards CT in their answers, and a specific focus on the role of pronoun usage in taking a subjective or objective stance.
A Method to Develop Critical Thinking: Playing the Devil’s Advocate
Authors:   School of Policy Studies, Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan, Gay Sean Eric Kil Patrick
Published: December 2021

The ability to think critically is at the foundation of an equitable and just society. One aspect of critical thinking (CT) is the ability to create and develop structurally sound arguments. Curricular requirements often restrict addressing this issue. Furthermore, students arguing their own opinions often assume agreement and therefore do not see a need to fully explain. As such, I examined how CT can be developed through the use of a timed-writing activity wherein the students argue against their own positions. I employed an action research approach to compare CT development in the intervention class with another class that did not receive the intervention. Analysis of the data suggested that this method was effective, and that encouragement of dissociation has a positive effect on CT development in students.
Enabling Criticality: A Top-down Bottom-up Approach to Using TED Talks in EAP Listening Classes
Authors:   Department of Sociology, Ryutsu Keizai University, Japan, Gyenes Adam , Santos Luis F. ,   Institute of Curriculum and Instruction, Nanjing Normal University, China
Published: December 2021

The use of TED talks in EAP has gained popularity in recent years and they are promoted through coursebooks as a means of simultaneously developing listening and critical thinking skills. However, a traditional comprehension approach to teaching listening; one that focuses on testing lower-order thinking skills through discrete questions may be inadequate as a gateway into a critical consideration of broader issues for second language learners. With the practical purpose of developing a teaching approach to using TED talks informed by current theory, the chapter begins with a consideration of how critical thinking processes and top-down and bottom-up listening processes can be integrated into a singular model. Based on this framework, a genre analysis of the TED talk is made by taking a learner’s perspective in order to identify cognitive and affective barriers to listening that may restrict opportunities for critical thinking. In the discussion that follows, five activities are suggested for use with TED talks in listening classes that support top-down and bottom-up listening processes, and which set students up to analyse and evaluate the thesis and underlying structure of a TED talk, providing a solid foundation from which to approach discussion topics critically and reflectively.
Demystifying Critical Thinking through the Exploration of Social Media
Authors:   Research Faculty of Media and Communication, Hokkaido University, Japan, Tanaka Jay
Published: December 2021

Critical thinking is a term used to describe one of the aims of higher education programs around the world. As an example, the Council of Writing Program Administrators (2011) clearly lists critical thinking as one of five inherently desirable educational outcomes in post-secondary writing in the United States. However, the definition of critical thinking is complicated by a large variety of philosophical concepts and a lack of clarity as to what students should actually learn and do (Moore, 2013). Too often, university courses impose unclear expectations on students, which adds unnecessary difficulty, particularly for multilingual, multicultural, and international students, who might not be socialized into the use of critical thinking in academic work. (Robertson, et al., 2000; Tran, 2011). Even university instructors themselves admit to a lack of comprehensive understanding of critical thinking and how it can be taught (Hang, 2011). In so far as standards for critical thinking in academic work will be imposed on students, there is a need for a clarification of critical thinking, leading to practical directions for classroom instruction. In this chapter, I propose a pedagogically focused definition for critical thinking and illustrate how this definition can be applied to a teaching approach involving the exploration and presentation of information on social media. It begins with an explanation to students regarding the epistemology of critical thinking, dispositions that support or deter its practice, and integrated skills. Adhering to this framework of critical thinking, students then explore a variety of comments on social media in order to deepen their understanding of social issues and of society itself. This approach to teaching critical thinking also provides a structure for academic presentations or written assignments that may serve as final products of the learning experience. The nature of student perspectives with regards to this approach to teaching critical thinking is also discussed.
The Contributions of Arabic Language in the Islamization of Mass Media in Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Husni Farah Ayuni , Ahmad H. Osman Rahmah , Fadzli Nurhaziqah , Mohd Noor ‘Aqilah
Published: December 2021

As time passed, Arabic Language has become a worldwide language which it has become one of the five most spoken language in the world. Among them is Malaysia, where Arabic Language is widely taught in schools and universities. Especially we can see the widespread use of Arabic Language in the mass media of Malaysia and constantly relate with religious content especially Islamic content. This study’s aims are to highlight the contributions of Arabic Language in Islamization of mass media in Malaysia. In the end, the results showed that Arabic Language indeed is one of the main reasons for the islamisation in Malaysia with emergence of Javanese writing, and the use of Arabic Language on television for Islamic shows and so on.
Development and Performance Evaluation of a Soil Moisture Sensor
Authors: Saleh Aminu , Kassim Mohammed S.
Published: December 2021

This study was aimed at developing a soil moisture sensor to effectively monitor moisture level for optimum crop growth. The sensor was made using a programmed Arduino microcontroller. It is attached to a sensing panel with two probes made of nickel that measures the volumetric content of water in soil. The probes were non-corrosive and robust material suitable for use in wet surfaces. The developed sensor was tested and evaluated. The two legged Lead (probes) goes into the soil where water content was to be measured by passing current through the soil, and then reads the resistance to get the moisture level. Nine different soil classification samples (Sandy Clay, Fine Sandy Loam, Sandy Loam, Salty Loam, Loamy Sand, Coarse Sand, Fine Sand, Sandy Clay Loam and clay soils) at different depths (3, 6, 9, 12 and 14.3 cm) were used to analyse the moisture meter at three different portion of each soil sample. Results obtained indicates that there was a progressive increase in moisture levels the more the sensor was being dipped into the soil. Results obtained also shows that all the nine soil samples but one (Silt Loam Soil Sample) analysed were within acceptable range of accuracy (0.1 - 5.0 %). The moisture sensor whose cost was approximately #22,300:00 was found to be effective, high precision at less efforts and a suitable guide for farmer for determining soil moisture levels.Keywords- Moisture, Probe, Sensor, Soil Classification
Development of a Millet Destoner for Small Scale Farmers
Authors: Saleh Aminu
Published: December 2021

Post-harvest processes of millet rely on labour-intensive manual operations in Nigeria while its produce is associated with contaminants. A manually-operated destoner was developed to increase grain value for commercial production and reduce drudgery. To construct the destoner sieves, physical properties of one thousand randomly selected grains were determined digital Vernier callipers. Millet grains to be destoned was fed through the upper portion of the destoner being operated through the crank handle while the pure grains were collected at the discharge outlet. Results obtained shows the geometric diameter of the grains increase progressively from 3.51-4.22mm as moisture content increases. A screen aperture of 3.5mm was constructed. Grains’ surface area, volume and sphericity increased from 22.67-34.82mm², 8.19-13.98mm³ and 0.691-0.776g respectively. Mass, true density and terminal velocity of 1000 seed increased from 13.56-43.84g, 1548.91-1689.87kg/m³ and 2.69-4.58m/s respectively. The bulk density of millet also increased as moisture content increases but decreased beyond 12.5% moisture level indicating that millet floats on  water and was transpoted with the aid of an auger. About 50kg of millet was poured into the destoner to occupy its  ⅓ capacity while the remaining ⅔ was filled with water. Destoner output was  at 95% efficiency.Key words: Destoner, Millet, Processing, Properties, Contaminants
Effect of Speed and Boot Opening on Aerodynamics, Fuel Consumption, and CO2 Emission of Minibus
Authors: Oloruntoba Olusola A. , Okediji Adebunmi P.
Published: December 2021

Overspeeding   and overloading contribute to road accidents. In developing countries, overloading is often indicated by open boot due to commercial transporters’ motivation to carry an excess load to boost revenue. Therefore, there is a need to provide measures to control or eliminate the practice of overspeeding and overloading. This study aims to conduct a parametric study to determine the effect of vehicle speed and boot opening on the aerodynamics of airflow around a typical minibus, fuel consumption, and CO2 emission, and recommend optimum boot opening. Computational Fluid Dynamics is employed using the FLUENT™ program. Results show the existence of a wavy pattern for drag coefficient, fuel consumption, and CO2 emission concerning boot opening. Furthermore, two boot opening regions exist:  and . The first region exhibits low prediction error (maximum of 7.25%) and better fit of regression model to FLUENT™ data. The first region also has lower susceptibility to exhibit handling instability. Therefore, boot opening around  is recommended as the optimum boot opening, to ensure minimum fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, improve handling and safety. The developed regression models could inform regulatory bodies’ formulation and implementation of policies to mitigate road accidents. Keywords—Boot Opening, CO2 emission, Fuel Consumption, Pressure drag, Total Drag, Minibus, Viscous Drag
A Novel Mobile and IOT Enabled Application for Smart Energy Meter
Authors: Ipinnimo Oluwafemi , Yinka-banjo Chika O.
Published: December 2021

Smart Energy Meters have significantly helped in easy reporting of energy consumption and the measurement of the same, since their introduction. They have replaced mainstream method of the house to house energy consumption data recording, but they are still reading with a lot of data inconsistencies between participating parties (energy suppliers and consumers). The purpose of this research is to develop a mobile web application with Internet of Things (IOT) and short message service (SMS) for consistent, transparent recording, monitoring of energy consumed, amount billed, infrastructure theft and meter control.  Arduino, sensors and relay modules are some of the hardware components used with communication application programming interface (API) accessed through the Wi-Fi module. The communication between the hardware and the server is the response based on different commands, which includes turning on and off, setting threshold, requesting consumption and even paid for consumed power. The app will enable the consumer monitor their current energy consumption through the web and android interface and remotely turn the meter on and off. Stored data can be retrieved at any time. Keywords— Arduino, Billing, IOT, Power Consumption, Smart Electricity meter, SMS, Web Application
Performance Evaluation of Pre-processing Techniques on Diabetes Prediction
Authors: Yusuf Aminat B. , Austin Ogar O. , Tadi Shinaigo Y. , Jauro Fatsuma
Published: December 2021

Medical industry contains a large amount of sensitive data that must be evaluated in order to get insight into records. The nonlinearity, non-normality, correlation structures and complicated diabetic medical records, on the other hand, makes accurate predictions difficult. The Pima Indian Diabetes dataset is one of them, owing to the dataset's imbalance, large number of missing values and difficulty in identifying highly risk factors. Some of these challenges have been solved using computational approaches such as machine learning methods, but they have not performed ideally, with pre-processing techniques being recognized as critical to achieving correct findings. The goal of this work is to apply multiple pre-processing approaches to increase the accuracy of some simple models. These multiple pre-processing techniques are median imputation in which null values are substituted by finding the median of the input variables dependent on whether or not the patient is diabetic and then follow by applying oversampling and under-sampling procedures on both majority and minority votes. These votes are applied in order to address the problem of class imbalance as pointed out from the literature. Finally, the dimension reduction Pearson correlation is used to detect high-risk features since it is effective at quantifying information between attributes and their labels. In this study, these techniques are applied in the same order to Linear Regression, Naive Bayes, Decision Tree, K Nearest Neighbor, Random Forest and Gaussian Boosting classifiers. The utility of the techniques on the mentioned classifiers is validated using performance measures such as Accuracy, Precision and Recall.  The Random Forest Classifier is found to be the best-improved model, with 95 percent accuracy, 94.25 percent precision and 95.35 percent recall. Medical practitioners may find the provided strategies beneficial in improving the efficiency of diabetes analysis. Keywords— Classifiers, diabetes, Pima Indian Diabetes dataset, pre-processing techniques