bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vulnerability to misinformation and Covid-19 infodemic in French-speaking Belgium (French version)
Authors: Lits Grégoire , Cougnon Louise-Amélie , Heeren Alexandre , HANSEEUW Bernard
Published: June 2021

The main objective of this report is to test the hypothesis that the adoption of an active information-seeking practice related to the health crisis on social networks can be understood as a risk practice in the Covid-19 infodemic. A second objective is to identify the existence of different vulnerability profiles in the infodemic and to understand the information practices associated with these different profiles at risk of misinformation. The approach adopted is therefore firstly a comparative approach between different types of profile. It is not a question of carrying out a longitudinal study representative of the evolution of the French-speaking Belgian population's experience of the crisis. The CoviCom survey is a four-wave questionnaire survey that was conducted in French-speaking Belgium between 30 March 2020 (i.e. 12 days after the entry into force of the first containment in Belgium) and 29 March 2021. In total, the survey collected 10,148 responses to the four waves of the survey (April 2020 containment, May 2020 decontainment, November 2020 second wave epidemic and March 2021 third wave epidemic).
Morphophonology in Australian languages: lenition and assimilation
Authors: Round Erich
Published: June 2021

The phonologies of the world’s languages vary not only in their static properties, such as segment inventories and phonotactics, but also in their dynamic, morphophonological alternations. In the study of Australian phonologies, static properties have long held the spotlight, with book-length works appearing already several decades ago on segments (Busby 1980) and phonotactics (Hamilton 1996). Dynamic phonology in comparison has never really taken centre stage.1 Short discussions of at most a few pages per phenomenon appear on morphophonological topics in overview works by Evans (1995a), Dixon (1980; 2002) and Baker (2014). These have proven invaluable, but the short format lends itself to the citation of particularly striking or well-known data, and since it lacks space to explore diversity in detail, can contribute to an exaggerated discourse of uniformity in Australian languages, where phenomena are rare, pervasive or absent, but seldom ‘diverse’. To address this, the current chapter presents just two studies. Each is on a topic chosen for its particular interest with respect to Australian languages, and owing to the state of the literature described above, each is (at time of writing) the most in-depth survey of that phenomenon in Australian languages to date, and fills a gap in our knowledge that has persisted for too long. Section 1 covers materials and methods. Section 2 examines lenition, a morphophonological process that is particularly common in Australian languages. Section 3 investigates assimilation, and relates it back to key phonotactic generalisations. Section 4 offer concluding remarks and section 5 lists languages in the studies and their sources.
No Place Like Home? Familism and Latino/a-White Differences in College Pathways
Authors: Ovink Sarah , Kalogrides Demetra
Published: June 2021

Recent research has argued that familism, defined as a cultural preference for privileging family goals over individual goals, may discourage some Latino/a youth from applying to and attending college, particularly if they must leave home (Desmond and Turley 2009). Using data from the Education Longitudinal Study, we find that Latino/a students and parents indeed have stronger preferences than white students and parents for living at home during college. For students, most differences in preferences for proximate colleges are explained by socioeconomic status, academic achievement and high school/regional differences. Moreover, controlling for socioeconomic background and prior achievement explains most racial/ethnic gaps in college application and attendance among high school graduates, suggesting that familism per se is not a significant deterrent to college enrollment above and beyond these more primary factors. However, results indicate generational differences; cultural factors may contribute to racial/ethnic gaps in parental preferences for children to remain at home.
The strategic value of corporate social responsibility CSR: the present and future of its management
Authors: Barrio-Fraile Estrella , Enrique-Jiménez Ana-María
Published: June 2021

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become the central theme of many debates on the role of organizations in society in recent years. The voluntary incorporation of strategies that influence economic profitability and in turn social and environmental issues is already a reality in companies. This article has several aims: (1) to analyse whether CSR is strategic and cross-cutting for companies and whether there exists a true dialogue between companies and stakeholders; (2) to identify the functions, relationships and quality of CSR or sustainability directors; (3) to determine the main challenges for the future; (4) to reflect on the impact that Covid-19 has had on the development of CSR in businesses. The study was based on the Delphi method and employed a sample of 20 experts: 10 academics (lecturers and researchers) and 10 professionals (communication and CSR directors, and CSR and reputation consultants). The results reveal that: (1) with the exception of SMEs, CSR management in companies is strategic and cross-cutting; (2) there is no reciprocal dialogue between companies and stakeholders; (3) the functions carried out by CSR directors can be classified as analytical, strategic, tactical and communicative; (4) the most outstanding qualities of the CSR director are communication skills, deep knowledge of the company and a willingness to work as part of a team; (5) the main challenge for senior management for the future is to be more strategic; (6) Covid-19 has changed the focus in CSR areas of action and in the prioritization of stakeholders. In short, we conclude that CSR management is well rooted in companies and represents a true transformation for businesses as social entities.
Pembuatan Butiran Silika Mikro Pori dari Prekusor THEOS dengan Adiktif Natrium Alginate
Authors: Nulhakim Lukman , Audrian Muhammad , Hidayat Rahmat , Guntama Dody
Published: June 2021

Biogas merupakan salah satu alternatif energi terbarukan yang potensial untuk digunakan. Kualitas biogas dapat ditingkatkan dengan cara megurangi kadar CO2 yang terkandung di dalam biogas, kadar CO2 dapat dikurangi dengan cara menyerap CO2 dengan larutan amine yang diembankan dalam butiran silika berpori. Pada penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membuat butiran silika dengan pori berukuran mikro. Butiran silika dibuat dengan metode sol-gel dengan pelarut alkohol dan katalis asam klorida. Pertama - tama butiran alginat dibuat dengan metode eksternal dan  internal gelasi. Selanjutnya butiran alginat dimasukkan ke dalam larutan THEOS, Akohol, HCl. Setelah itu proses hidrolisis dan kondensasi terjadi di dalam pori-pori butiran alginat sehingga terbentuk butiran komposit silika-alginat. Komposit ini kemudian dimasukkan ke dalam lartuan NaCl untuk melarutkan polimer alginat sehingga terbentuk pori dalam butiran silika. Pada penelitiaan ini dihasilkan butiran silika mikropori dengan rata - rata diameter butiran sebesar 2,72 mm dengan metode ekstenal gelasi. Diameter pori – pori butiran silika sebersar 30,6 µm untuk konsentasi NaCl 5% dan 23,4 µm untuk konsentasi NaCl 2,5%. Jumlah katalis tidak mempengaruhi pembentukkan butir silika. Butiran Silika mikropori dengan metode internal gelasi terjadi aglomerasi.
Aplikasi Disain Komposit Pusat Pada Proses Pengecatan Mobil Bekas
Authors: Sonjaya Abeth Novria , Hervito Kevin , Atmoko Tri
Published: June 2021

The business of buying and selling used cars is increasingly substantial in Indonesia, in the era of globalization progressively developing depends on demands a process that must be fast, precise, and economical. Repair to body, chassis, and engine are competency expertise in the field of Automotive Engineering that emphasizes automotive repair service skills.  at now selling price of used cars, it is necessary to do repairs, the process of repairing used cars or better known as refurbishment work pre-owned cars is mostly done by small-scale used car buying and selling businesses. In order for used cars to return to their like-new condition, generally small-scale used car sellers carry out the process of repairing the vehicle themselves, especially repairs to the vehicle's body paint. This study aims to process of painting a Toyota Avanza car bodypaint against the thickness of the paint using a spray booth tool by using the model of central composite design (CCD). The effect of spray-on booth temperature, interstice size of the spray gun, and time according to the thickness of the paint will be analyzed using the CCD method. This spray booth painting technology is expected to help reduce bodypaint lead time. The results of the ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) regression analysis, the temperature of the spray booth, interstice size of the spray gun, and time are the factors that most significantly affect the thickness of the paint. The operating conditions to produce optimal paint thickness are temperature 55oC, interstice size of spray gun of 1.7 mm and time of painting and drying of 30 minutes, the resulted of a thickness of the paint for used and new cars are 130.2 μm and 81.84 μm., with a coefficient of determination for used and new cars of 90.78% and 96.19%.
Rancang Bangun Prototipe Robot Pemungut Sampah
Authors: Ketaren Roy Sekaropa , Thalib Farid
Published: June 2021

Penelitian bertujuan membuat prototipe robot pemungut sampah yang dapat dikendalikan oleh pengguna smartphone menggunakan aplikasi Bluetooth controller untuk membersihkan sampah skala kecil dalam ruangan. Prototipe robot pemungut sampah menerapkan logika fuzzy untuk menghindari terjadinya tabrakan. Metedologi penelitian untuk mengetahui kemampuan robot dalam mendeteksi halangan dengan menggunakan perbandingan perhitungan matematis serta untuk mengetahui batas maksimal berat sampah yang mampu diangkat oleh robot. Langkah yang dilakukan adalah melakukan uji coba dengan menempatkan objek sebagai halangan pada jarak 38 cm, 42 cm, 59 cm dan 71 cm untuk mengetahui pergerakan dari roda robot. Perhitungan matematis dilakukan untuk mengetahui hasil defuzzifikasi dari nilai jarak-jarak tersebut.Hasil uji coba dan perhitungan matematis kemudian dibandingkan. Hasil perbandingan menunjukan bahwa jarak 38 cm dan 42 cm adalah kategori jarak aman sehingga robot berhenti sedangkan jarak 59 cm dan 71 cm adalah kategori jarak jauh sehingga robot maju dengan kecepatan 9,5 rad/s.  Langkah yang diambil untuk mengetahui batas maksimal berat sampah adalah melakukan uji coba dengan berbagai objek sampah dengan berat yang berbeda. Hasil Pengujian menunjukan bahwa Robot pemungut sampah mampu mendeteksi objek sampah di dalam kotak sampah dan robot mampu mengangkat objek sampah dengan berat maksimal 150 gram.
Accuracy of selected methods of measurement of tree heights
Authors: Bilous A. M. , Diachuk P. P. , Zadorozhniuk R. M. , Matsala M. S. , Burianchuk M. M.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, the possibilities of using stereophotogrammetry methods for measurements using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the conditions of a mature pine stand with uneven density are examined. Here, we carried out a comparison of measurements using altimeters and remote sensing data collected with a UAV optical camera. In particular, the height of growing trees was estimated by three different field-based devices and applying the three methods of data collection and processing with UAVs. Specifically, one method implied the direct measurements using on-board UAV equipment. The following two methods are based on the data provided by the stereophotogrammetrical approach, while the aerial images for that were collected using a UAV optical camera. In particular, there was a modeling of the points cloud from one-sided vertical shooting of sample trees and determination of height of trees from digital canopy height model (CHM) from data of aerial photography of horizontal spans over a stand. Our investigation confirmed the highest accuracy of laser measuring tools among the ground measuring devices used in research. Respective value of the average random measurement error was less than 3 % (0.88 m). Among the results obtained from the analysis of the original data collected by UAVs, the best method was to utilize the CHM, namely, the average random error was less than 2% (0.64 m). This exceeds the accuracy of laser altimeter measurements 33 %. Thus, this method of measuring height in pine stands meets the standards of accuracy in determining the height for production assessment, according to the “Inventory guidelines for the forest fund of Ukraine”, and can be used for survey, inventory, forest management and other works related to forestry and monitoring the changes in forest ecosystems.
Features of application of timber harvest methods in the forests of Ukraine
Authors: Tokarieva O. V.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we present the basic features of final felling in Ukraine. Prevailing timber harvest methods and their areas were considered. For analyzing the volumes of modern forest exploitation were data from permits for final felling on actual cuttings in of all forestry enterprises of Ukraine. Studies were conducted for the period 2019-2020. It was installed that clearcutting is the main timber harvest method (95 % in Kyiv region, 45 % in Lviv region). Among other methods, the leading place is shelterwood. During the study period, only two (uniform and strip) and three (group) reception of shelterwood were recorded. The areas of stands designed for shelterwood final felling are significantly lower than those defined by the rules. The use of the single tree selection method is more related to deciduous plantations, which indirectly indicates the predominance of deciduous stands of uneven-aged stands in Ukraine. Shelterwood and single tree selection removes methods are applied in Chernihiv, Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kyiv, Lviv, Zakarpattia, Zhytomyr regions. A characteristic feature is the predominance of coniferous areas stands during clearcutting. Area of deciduous stands are larger compared to coniferous during shelterwood. Combined method is the less popular in Ukraine. It has been carried out at 9,4 hectares for two years. Average logging areas range from 1-2 hectares for clearcutting, 1-5 hectares for shelterwood and 2-8 hectares for combined method. Designed logging areas are significantly lower than those introduced by Ukrainian legislation. The implementation of the principles of close-to-nature forestry can be provided by reduction in the volume of clearcutting. Increasing of shelterwood and single tree selection methods, which are close-to-nature, will ensure the cultivation of mixed uneven-aged forest stands of high vigor, productivity and biological stability. Studies reflect regional and species features and benefits of timber harvest methods in the forests of Ukraine.
Comparative Study of Two Thoracic Radiotherapy Schedules for Palliation of Symptom, Radiological Response and Acute Toxicities in Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Bairwa Subhash Chand , Gothwal Ravinder Singh , Ram Badri , Gupta Shivani , Meena Chetna
Published: June 2021

Aim: To compare the effect of two RT schedules for thoracic palliation in advanced NSCLC patients (30 Gy in 10 fractions over two weeks and 27 Gy in 6 fractions over three weeks, 2 fractions per week) on pulmonary symptoms, radiological response of the primary thoracic tumour, pulmonary functions and acute toxicities. Material and method: A hospital based quantitative prospective follow-up study. Total 104 advanced NSCLC patients were randomized into two fractionation arms. Evaluation was done pretreatment and 4 weeks after end of RT. Symptoms palliation and radiological response to RT & radiation pneumonitis were assessed by using RTOG 4-point scale and Revised (RECIST) guideline version 1.1 respectively. Radiotherapy was given by Cobalt-60 teletherapy machine. Results: Total 96 patients were evaluated for symptom palliation, radiological response and acute toxicities. The percentage of patients achieving symptom palliation was slightly higher in the control arm. At 1st month of follow-up, 16.67% & 18.75% patients in Study & control arm showed PR. Post-RT mean FVC and FEV1 showed a tendency for improvement in both mean FVC and FEV1 in compare to baseline. Treatment was well tolerated both arms. Grade I nausea and vomiting developed in 43% and 37.5% patients in Study and Control Arm respectively. 58% & 39% patients developed Grade 1 radiation pneumonitis as cough & dyspnea in study and control arms respectively. Grade 2 radiation pneumonitis was developed in 2 patient of study arm at 3rd week of follow-up but they lost follow up. Around 31% patients developed Grade1 esophagitis as dysphagia in both arms at 1 week of follow-up which was reduced up to 7% by 2nd week. A very few patients developed grade1 skin reaction as dermatitis in 1st week of treatment. The difference in symptom palliation, radiological response, pulmonary functions and acute toxicities in both arms was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The two RT fractionation schedules showed equal efficacy in terms of symptoms palliation, radiological response of the primary thoracic tumor, pulmonary functions and acute toxicities. Thus the 27 Gy/6 fractionation arm appears preferable compared to 30 Gy/10 arm to minimize the patients’ visits and load on the machines.
Coping Strategies being Practiced by the Breast Cancer Survivors before Receiving First Cycle of Chemotherapy
Authors: Sharma Deeksha , Dutta Monika , Kaur Sukhpal , Yadav Budhi Singh , Kumar Krishan , Dahiya Divya
Published: June 2021

Objective: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Indian females and chemotherapy is the most extensively used modality for these patients. Diagnosis of breast cancer is dreadful in itself and the initiation of chemotherapy causes stress and fear among patients. Breast cancer survivors (BCS) use different coping mechanisms to deal with these experiences and to handle these stressful events. The objective of this study was to assess the coping strategies being practiced by the BCS before receiving first cycle of chemotherapy. Method: This descriptive study was conducted on BCS attending Radiation Oncology and General Surgery OPD, PGIMER, Chandigarh from July 2018 to December 2019. Sixty two BCS were recruited using purposive sampling. Results: 51.7% participants were above 50 years of age, 56.5% had grade III breast cancer and 56.7% had left breast involvement. 62.9% were on neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and duration of confirmed diagnosis for 83.9% of them was less than a year. Most of the participants used positive coping strategies to overcome the stress related to diagnosis and chemotherapy. Out of the 46 coping activities participants retorted positive action for 31 coping activities whereas action was negative for 13 activities. Remaining two activities had equal number of positive and negative responses. Escape avoidance ‘hoped a miracle would happen’; ‘Wished that the situation would go away or somehow be over with’ were used by all the participants. Though not dominant, negative coping activities were still used by the participants to deal with stressful situations. Conclusion: BCS were predominantly using positive coping activities. In order to further increase this there is a need among medical professionals to make BCS aware and discourage the use negative coping behaviors. BCS can also be nudged to adopt positive coping styles by involving family and society in the provision of care.
Attitudes, Confidence in Practices and Perceived Barriers Towards the Promotion of Tobacco Cessation among Clinical Dental Undergraduates in Sri Lanka
Authors: Medawela R M Sumudu Himesha B , D L Ratnayake Dugganna Ralalage , Premathilake L K  Nadeesha , Jayasinghe Ruwan Duminda
Published: June 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to assess attitudes, confidence in practices and perceived barriers toward the promotion of tobacco cessation in the dental setting among clinical dental students in Sri Lanka. Methods: Role of dental schools on moulding future dental professionals with regards to education on tobacco cessation promotion is remarkable. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on all the dental students from clinical years in 2018 using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Ninety-four per cent of the dental students from clinical years of faculty of dental sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka completed the questionnaire (65% Females and 35 % Males) with a mean age of 24.65+ 2.24 years.Results: Clinical dental students possessed positive attitudes towards the professional responsibility of dentists in tobacco cessation whilst only 34% strongly agreed counselling offered in the dental setting has an impact on the same. More than half of the students remained neutral or disagreed the fact that nicotine replacement is within the scope of dentistry. Respondents expressed their confidence in tobacco cessation counselling. They identified “patients’ disinterest in receiving advice” as the main barrier to perform tobacco cessation practices in the dental setting. It is prudent to include formal education on tobacco cessation to the undergraduate curriculum of dental students to alleviate misconceptions related to practices of tobacco cessation in dental settings. Conclusion: It is of prime importance to identify training needs related to tobacco cessation promotion among dental undergraduates and compose a separate training module for them.
Definitive Chemoradiation with Concurrent Weekly Cisplatin in the Treatment of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma – A Simplistic Approach
Authors: Ahmed Imtiaz , Krishnamurthy Sapna , Bhise Rohan
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Chemoradiation is the standard of care in locally advanced/ inoperable esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC). Though combination chemotherapy with Cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil is the standard, it has low compliance due to toxicities and prolonged treatment time. Hence there is a window of opportunity to explore a safer chemotherapy regimen without compromising the treatment outcome. Methods: 55 patients of ESCC who were treated with definitive External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT) to a dose of 50.4 – 59.4 Gray and concurrent weekly Cisplatin (or Carboplatin) were retrospectively evaluated for treatment efficacy and outcomes. 2 year Overall Survival (OS) and Progression Free Survival (PFS) were evaluated. Prognostic variables were assessed with respect to OS in Univariate analysis. Results: Median age at presentation was 58 years. 29 (53%) had lesion in the upper third of esophagus. 40 (72%) had T3 disease and 31 (56%) were node positive. All patients (100%) completed planned radiotherapy dose. 54 (98%) received 4 or more cycles of weekly chemotherapy. Mean overall treatment time was 43 days. Only 7 patients (12.7%) had grade 3 or more acute toxicity. 36 (65.5%) had complete response. At median follow-up of 13.7 months, the median OS was 15.2 months and 2 year OS was 42.6%. On univariate analysis, patients with comorbidities and lower third lesion had poor OS (p=0.016 and p=0.002). Stage II disease and complete response to treatment showed better OS (p=0.02 and p=0.00). Conclusion: Radical chemoradiation with weekly Cisplatin in ESCC is a simple and effective regimen which needs to be explored in larger trials.
Status of Ichthyofaunal Diversity of River Ganga in Malda District of West Bengal, India
Authors: Medda Suchismita , Dey Santi Ranjan
Published: June 2021

The river Ganges is the largest river in India and the fifth longest in the world. Although, many studies on fish ecology and systematic have been conducted largely to improve fisheries but fish diversity and their distribution pattern from conservation point of view have never been adequately addressed in the Ganges River . The objective of present study was to explore the present Ichthyofaunal diversity of the stretch of Ganga at Malda district of West Bengal. The result showed that 69 freshwater fish species belonging to 9 Orders, 24 Families was found in Ganga stretch of Malda District of West Bengal, India.
Formulation of Antioxidant Gel Preparations on the Cherry (Muntingia calabura L.) Extract from Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara Based on AQUPEC 505 HV
Authors: Yuliani Ni Nyoman , Sambara Jefrin , Baki Korassa Yulius
Published: June 2021

Cherry (Muntingia calabura L.) from Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara is a local fruit in Indonesia which has many benefits for health. One of compounds contained in Cherry is polyphenol functioning as antioxidant. The purpose of this study was to obtain information about antioxidant activity contained in Cherry in the form of extract or gel preparations with different base of aqupec 505 HV with routine comparison. Methods: The method used in this study was quantitative analysis. The cherry was extracted by using reflux method with 70% ethanol solvent and the quantitative testing of antioxidant activity through DPPH method with methanol solvent. For the qualitative one, Thin Layer Chromatography was used with mobile phase of butanol: acetic acid: water (4:1:5). Results: From the physical quality testing of gel preparations, it was obtained stable result in the room-temperature storage and the result of physical quality testing of formula 3 was totally effective to be used on the skin. From the antioxidant activity testing of Cherry extract, it showed that the value of IC50 is 68.50 ppm. On the formula 1 (aqupec 505 HV 0.5%), the value of IC50 is 189.32 ppm. On the formula 2 (aqupec 505 HV 1%), the value of IC50 is 186.95 ppm. On the formula 3 (aqupec 505 HV 1.5%), the value of IC50 is 184.75 ppm. On the formula 4 (aqupec 505 HV 2%), the value of IC50 is 186.60 ppm. On the formula 5 (aqupec 505 HV 1.5% regularly), the value of IC50 is 174.73 ppm. The results of this study showed that the gel which was made was safe to use and the most effective one was on the formula 5 which obtained IC50 as many as 186.60 ppm.
Impact of Cramel Model on the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Pakistan
Authors: Shah Syed Masood , Malik Muhammad Faizan , Shah Sikandar
Published: June 2021

This paper analyzes the impact of CRAMEL model on commercial banks financial performance working in Pakistan. Firm financial performance used as dependent variable e.g. ROA, ROE and TQ whereas Capital Adequacy, Resource Allocation, Asset Quality, Management Efficiency, Earning Profitability and Liquidity were used as independent variables. Panel data was analyzed through ordinary least square, fixed effect and random effect models. Secondary data of twenty listed commercial banks on Pakistan stock exchange are used from the period of 2008 to 2017. Result of fixed effect model provided significant positive relationship among CA, RA and ROA, ROE, whereas EP and LIQ have substantial negative association with ROA and ROE. There is insignificant relation of AQ and EP with ROA and ROE. Furthermore, EP has substantial positive association with Tobin's Q whereas RA, ME and LIQ has substantial negative relation with Tobin's Q. Lastly CA and AQ have insignificant impact on Tobin's Q.
Co-Movement of Forex Rate and Share Price of Pakistan Stock Exchange - An Application of Copula Models
Authors: Latif Muhammad Nouman , Ali Nasir , Shahzad Anjum
Published: June 2021

This paper examines the relationship between the forex rate and the share price of the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The study provides additional understating of the complex nature of the relationship among bi-variate time series using the Copula model. Copula models are best suited to find the co-movement of time series data integrating the possible latent structure of the relationship through estimation of joint distribution with the help of marginal distribution of each time series variable. Alike from the traditional time series analysis, Copula models are best suited to estimate the complex relationship, specifically the tail dependence structure of joint distribution of the variables. Results of the study highlight a significant two-sided tail dependence structure between the Forex rate and share price of the Pakistan Stock Exchange.
Role of Mass Media in Dissemination of Agricultural Information among Farmers of Hyderabad, Sindh - Pakistan
Authors: Shaikh Shazia Shahab , Hassan Ali , Forooqui Yasmeen Sultana
Published: June 2021

This study inspects the role of mass media in terms of spreading information related to agricultural activities in Hyderabad district (Sindh) Pakistan. It also aims to explore the most preferred medium of information among farmers. Three areas including Tando Jam, Hosri and Hatri are chosen from Hyderabad district. The total sample data collected through purposive sampling technique from 180 farmers, whereas 60 farmers are equally selected from each area. The study found a significant role of mass media in disseminating agricultural information. In mass media the most likely source is print media where the daily Kawish and the daily Ibrat are having more readership as compare to other newspapers. Moreover, the newspaper's contents help farmers to get latest information regarding agriculture activities. This study will help public and private institutions in policy making regarding agricultural awareness of farmers. It also helps the mass media stack holder to make policies related to audiences and contents publishing.
Household Poverty, Women Fertility and Child Nutritional Status in Tehsil Jahanian, Pakistan
Authors: Sheikh Muhammad Ramzan , Tariq Muhammad , Ghafoor Maryam
Published: June 2021

This study measures the impact of household poverty on women fertility and the nutritional status of children. In this study, the poverty level is computed by the per capita income, while women fertility is measured by the number of children in a household. The Height- for-age Z-score (HAZ) method has been used to measure the nutritional status of children. A survey has been conducted to collect household data. The study uses the OLS method and finds that household poverty is positively correlated to women fertility rate but negatively related to the nutritional status of children. The study has suggested various policies measures for poverty, women fertility and the nutritional status of children.
COVID-19: Socio-Economic Implications for Pakistan
Authors: Khalid Ijaz , Akbar Aneela , Malik Hina
Published: June 2021

The paper analyzes the global pandemic of COVID-19, its evolution, development and its implications on the world and specifically Pakistan. Sparkly, it emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan, was restricted to the city for less than a month, but currently, the virus has engrossed the whole world. This part of the study investigates both developed and developing countries responses to deal with the dominant global issue. The study focused on Pakistan's response to COVID-19 being damaged by War on Terror and political instability. The paper concluded that Pakistan very smartly responded to the pandemic by applying smart lockdown within its limited resources to contain the virus and maintained a balance between saving lives and saving livelihoods. This piece of paper also finds that, like in other developing countries, the pandemic also has severe Socio-economic implications as the economically of the business went down, investment came to its lowest level that heavily marked Pakistan economically unsound. Socially speaking, the virus created fear and totally break down the public gathering that made the people psychologically unhealthy.
BRICS and Evolving Trends of Complex Interdependence: Implications for Pakistan
Authors: Ishaque Waseem , Gul Shabnam , Asgher Muhammad Faizan
Published: June 2021

By far, the Realist notion of Power politics has remained the dominant paradigm in examining interstate relations; however, I want to argue that the evolving international landscape is moving fast towards complex interdependence. The peaceful rise of China, recurrence of Russia and rising Indian stature with a stable economic outlook and human capital of over 1 billion are hard facts, which is transforming the prevailing norms of international order by way of cooperative engagement, economic collaboration, common development and creating shared destiny by way of win-win cooperation. The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) has assumed greater significance, as it is a transregional organization based on economic integration. This research article explores the contours of a successful model, identify potential challenges and opportunities and suggests a way forward for optimizing the gains promised through this economic bloc.
Assessing the influence of Corporate Governance, Ownership Concentration and Bank Size on the Firm's Value and Bank's Performance: Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Khan Ihtesham , Ahmad Wisal , Shah Syed Arshad Ali
Published: June 2021

This empirical study examines the impact of corporate governance, ownership structure and bank size on the bank's performance and firm's value of the banking sector in Pakistan. The data is extracted for 17 commercial banks listed at the Pakistan Stock Exchange for the period of 2006-2016. The results show that corporate governance and bank size positively affect bank's performance while ownership concentration does not have any effect on bank's performance. Moreover, firm's value is positively affected by ownership concentration, while it is not affected by corporate governance and bank size.
Parents Perception Regarding Immunization of Two Years Old Children: An Analysis of EPI Communication Campaign in Pakistan
Authors: Adnan Malik , Sultana Irem , Iftikhar Ifra
Published: June 2021

This research study aimed to explore the parents' perceptions and knowledge with reference to child immunization under the expanded program of immunization. A sample of 200 couples was taken from different provinces of Pakistan, including Punjab, Sindh, Baluchistan and KPK, by utilizing the convenient sampling technique. The findings of the study indicated that the young couples had more knowledge about the covered diseases, schedule of immunization and expanded the program of immunization. Mothers were having good knowledge of EPI, and their mean knowledge was greater than their counterparts. Similarly, employed and urbanized couples had also significant knowledge about the expanded program of immunization and its covered diseases. Television, radio and the internet were the leading and effective sources of information regarding EPI and its covered diseases. Furthermore, access to immunization centers, migration, absence or unavailability of vaccination staff and post-immunization fever were the chief reasons for incomplete immunization.
Impact of COVID-19 and Coping Policies Implemented by Higher Education Institutions in South-Asian Countries: Systematic Review
Authors: Fatima Shaheen , Ahmad Nisar , Fatima Samreen
Published: June 2021

COVID-19 has disrupted not only human lives but also the quality of education especially in developing countries of the South- Asian region. This study elaborates the impact of COVID-19 on education sector and also illustrate the strategies followed by the management of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The systematic review of 23 most relevant research studies shows that the Pandemic has affected students� learning, mental, physical, social and economical conditions badly. Particularly, students who do not afford the use of technological appliances are suffering more. HEIs need to have a smart online syllabus for various subjects. Furthermore, HEIs need to review their communication channel and technical assistance. The strategies implemented by HEIs during COVID-19 are useful and should be continued to keep offering quality education during upcoming academic sessions.
The Effect of Financial Risk Tolerance and Family Income on Entrepreneurial Intention in Higher Education Sector of District Swabi
Authors: Zeb Rehan , Shah Naveed Hussain , Arif Muhammad
Published: June 2021

The study examines the effect of family income (FI) and financial risk tolerance (FRT) on entrepreneurial intention in students of Universities of the Higher Education Sector located in district Swabi. This is an explanatory and co relational study carrying a sample size of 330 out of the total of all 501 students from public and private Universities in Swabi. Financial determinants are prominent aspects of the study contributing to entrepreneurial intention. The study has established the relationship between FI and FRT on EI of universities of the Higher Education Sector located in district Swabi. The study is a contribution to the rare work on the relationship between financial determinants and entrepreneurial intention. The study revealed that FI and FRT significantly affect EI, whereas the order of contribution of these determinants on EI are evident their coefficients are FRT and FI.
The Impact of Corporate Governance Practices on the Firm Financial Performance of the Non-Financial Firms
Authors: Ahmad Ishtiaq , Sadiqa Bibi Aisha , Khan Rashid
Published: June 2021

The study focuses on whether the Corporate Governance characteristics influence the firm performance of Non-Financial Firms in Pakistan. In this study, three types of industries like pharmaceutical, cement, and food were analyzed from the Pakistan Stock Exchange for the period of 2010 to 2019. The authors used the diagnostic test on data that argued that the model is better, like the fixed effect model or random-effect model for analysis. Multiple regression-based methodologies were developed to use a fixed-effect model for both dependent variables, Return on Assets and Tobin-Q variables, to discover the association between corporate governance and firm performance. It is concluded that board size, board education board experience, board nationality and board compensation have significant the ROA and board size, board experience, the board size, and board compensation shows significance with Tobin-Q.
An Analysis of the HEC's English Language Teaching Reforms (ELTR) Project
Authors: Zaidi Masooma , Javed Fareeha , Baig Sana
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to analyze the English Language Teaching Reforms (ELTR) project, which was launched by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan in 2004. The purpose of the ELTR project was to enhance the teaching practices of English Language (EL) teachers teaching at the tertiary level. A further aim of the ELTR project was to bridge the gap between college and university teachers. The project was divided into two phases: Phase I (2004-2010) and Phase II (2010-2013). In both phases, EL teachers were trained from various public colleges and universities across Pakistan. The teachers were offered long and short-term courses through which they could be professionally developed. This study adopted a qualitative methodology. In order to collect data, HEC's documents, reports and research did by other researchers on the ELTR project were analyzed. The findings revealed that HEC tried to accomplish its set goals, but there were certain areas in which the set goals of ELTR were not achieved. As HEC took a challenging step to train a large number of EL teachers, resultantly it had to face various challenges like scrutiny of participant's background, lack of facilities, monitoring and evaluation and implementation of the training provided through the project.
Perceptions of ESL Learners of Teaching Listening Skill at Intermediate Level in the Context of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: Khan Sadeed Ahmad , Ali Shaukat , Hussain Saddam
Published: June 2021

The present research study investigates the problems in teaching English listening skill to the students of English as a second language at the Intermediate level in Tehsil Batkhela, District Malakand. The study was carried out in ten government degree colleges of District Malakand, Tehsil Batkhela. A quantitative approach was adopted to get reliable results for which two hundred students among the whole population of intermediate level were selected. Data was collected through an open-ended questionnaire. Findings of the study revealed that there were shortcomings in the teaching methods of the teachers for teaching English listening skill. Moreover, it was also observed that students were not satisfied with the methods used by their teachers. Furthermore, the lack of utilization of supplementary materials was also one of the problems in teaching English in the ESL context. The study recommends that ESL teachers should be properly and frequently trained in teaching listening skill
The Effect of Psychological Factors on English Speaking Performance of Students Enrolled in Postgraduate English Language Teaching Programs in Pakistan
Authors: Qureshi Habiba , Javed Fareeha , Baig Sana
Published: June 2021

This research attempted to identify the psychological factors that affect the speaking performance of students enrolled in Postgraduate English Language Teaching programs in Pakistan. A quantitative approach was used to address the main aim of this study. The participants of the research were 100 postgraduate students enrolled in English Language Teaching (ELT) and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) programs of public sector higher education institutions and universities in Pakistan. The findings revealed that many students in this study reported finding it difficult to speak in English in foreign language classrooms due to psychological factors like lack of selfconfidence, lack of self-esteem, fear of making mistakes, shyness, anxiety and motivation mainly. The findings also revealed that almost all the psychological factors are interlinked with each other and have a direct effect on the speaking performance of the students in this study.
Effectiveness of the Mixture (Bilingualism) of Urdu and English for Enhancing Content Knowledge Understanding at Undergrad Level
Authors: Rasool Ghulam , Nadeem Mubashar , Abid Muhammad Amjad
Published: June 2021

The Pandemic COVID-19, though challenged systems but provided them with opportunities to address languages them. Pedagogical innovations were put forward, and traditions also paved the way for learning. This article describes the effectiveness of the mixture (bilingualism) of Urdu and English that how it helps the undergrads (major is English) to develop an understanding of the content knowledge and further various skills. The study was focused on 140 undergrads of a public sector university to get their feedback on the best possible language-speaking practices for enhancing content knowledge and skills. The study, based on the results of a shared questionnaire, concludes that for online teaching, the blend of Urdu and English languages is more helpful instead of the monolingual approach to improving literary and linguistics areas. It also recommends that this can also be practised during face to face teaching to realize the objectives of the academic programs.
Exploring the Metaphoric Mythical and Historical Ideologies with Nationalist Affiliations and Religious Historical Past in James Joyce's Selected Literary Fiction
Authors: Zubair Hassan Bin , Khan Mamona Yasmin , Tariq Sidra
Published: June 2021

This paper explores the mythical basis, nationalist affiliations and religious, historical past in James Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and Ulysses. These two selected novels carry different mythical narratives and sensibilities. This paper discusses a journey where time and space are transcended, which is called a “mythic journey”. Issues related to culture, religion and their association with ideological grounds are very prominent. Elements of religious past and feelings attached to these grounds are very vibrant. The author shares his keen observation and deep experience with nationalist affiliations and their impact. This research is qualitative in nature. For better conceptual understanding, documentaries and works of Joseph Campbell and theories presented by Allan Watts: especially his book Myth and Rituals in Christianity, support this research as a major theoretical framework. This research is helpful to know about the historical past and the mythical grounds of that time.
Representation of Subaltern Identity: A Study of Othering in Sea of Poppies
Authors: Manzoor Fehmida , Khan Mehwish Ali , Mazhar Shumaila
Published: June 2021

The present study is designed to explore the identity construction/reconstruction in Sea of Poppies. It is investigated in the backdrop of postcolonial theory. Norman Faircloughs Three-dimensional approach of critical discourse analysis is used to examine the construction and reconstruction of different types of (us/them) identities in the colonial era reflected in Sea of Poppies. The analysis deals with the descriptive dimension of Critical Discourse Analysis and discusses discourse as a text that investigates the functional linguistic elements of the overall narrative construction (identity construction/reconstruction) as a counter-discourse to power. It analyzes the identity construction on two levels of representation that is the relation between conversational participant/reader and text/discourse and the expressive which unveils attitudes and ideologies the study sheds light on the way the colonizers defined the other subjects just to define themselves as superior by associating the positive attributes to “us” and negative attributes to “them” thus made them peripheral other subjects.
A Daughter's Memoir: Fatima Bhutto's Apology for the Misrepresentation of Her Father
Authors: Shahzad Asma Kashif , Abbas Mujahid , Mudasser Samia
Published: June 2021

esearch expThe present research explores how Fatima Bhutto has glorified her father's political image while defending his political actions and challenging his misrepresentation. In her autobiography Songs of blood and sword: A daughter's memoir (2011), Fatima discusses his father's assassination and tries to eliminate the misconceptions connected with his actions. She narrates the heroic actions of her father that he undertook to rescue his father, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, from the military regime of Zia. The textual analysis has been applied as a research method. Some extra-textual knowledge such as graphic representation, cross and historical references, and narrative strategies of the narrator has also been employed to analyse how a daughter has defended her father's political vulnerable image. Smith and Watson's Autobiographical theories are applied to analyse the auto/biographical features of the narrative. The research explored that Fatima's self-narrative is father centred, and research findings guide that it is an amalgamation of praise and blame. The study concludes that Fatima's narrative is defensive for his father's political portfolio. She resolves whatever reality of her father she comes up with within her investigative self-narrative, her reverence and love for her father will remain unconditional.