bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modernist Shakespearean Cinema
Authors: Sapra Rahul
Published: February 2023

From the moment of its birth cinema generated its own forms of Shakespeare. About 400 Shakespearean films were produced during the silent era, even though many of these were just short charades dealing with significant scenes from his plays. Shakespearean films were produced and shown both in Europe and the USA. The film d’art and film d’arte movements promoted Shakespeare in France and Italy. In the 1920s the talkies gave new life to the Shakespearean text by taking up the challenges of its language. A series of influential talkies were made in the 1930s, but Laurence Olivier’s modernist films were perhaps the first to capture the magic of Shakespearean drama on screen. Olivier’s Henry V (1944) is influenced by the formidable modernist filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein, while his Hamlet (1948) uses impressionistic visuals to complement his Freudian reading of the play. Orson Welles’s Macbeth and Othello are heavily influenced by German Expressionism. Akira Kurosawa’s Throne of Blood (1957) combines Noh theatre and cinema to situate Macbeth in medieval Japan. Grigori Kozintsev uses modernist film styles in Hamlet (1964) and King Lear (1971) to comment on the political realities of Russia.
Rękopisy i pamiątki po Marii Konopnickiej w zbiorach Biblioteki Naukowej PAU i PAN w Krakowie
Authors: Grodziska Karolina , Radziszewska Maria
Published: February 2023

Manuscripts and keepsakes after Maria Konopnicka in the Scientific Library of the PAAS and the PAS in Cracow collection

On the occasion of proclaiming Maria Konopnicka one of the patrons of the year 2022, the manuscripts and keepsakes after her gathered in the Scientific Library of PAAS and the PAS in Cracow will be presented. The collection contains the poetess’s 48 hand-written letters addressed to i.a. Teofil Lenartowicz, Stanislaw Tomkowicz and, also to Józef Tretiak and Adolf Pawiński, which until now remained unpublished. Apart from the correspondence, the Library collection includes also 23 shelf marks related to Maria Konopnicka. These are among others some writings regarding her literary activity as well as poems and their copies prepared by i.a. a famous painter, Bronislawa Rychter-Janowska. Worth to pay attention to are also three photographies of the poet included in the collection. The documentation of a monument designed by Janina Reichert-Toth, planned by the Lviv city authorities to commemorate Maria Konopnicka but which failed to be built due to the outbreak of World War II, has been preserved. The vast majority of works related to Konopnicka were donated to the Library, only some were purchased in antiquarian bookshops.
Polityka księcia świdnicko-jaworskiego Bolka II Małego wobec zakonu joannitów
Authors: Klemenski Marcin A.
Published: February 2023

The policy of Bolko II the Small, the Duke of Świdnica and Jawor regarding the Knights Hospitaller

The article is devoted to the relations between Bolko II the Small, the Duke of Świdnica and Jawor, ruling in the years 1326–1368, and the Order of Knights of the numerous contacts with the knights, including confirmations of different transactions given on their request. The relations of Bolko with the receptories in Tyniec nad Ślężą, Lwówek Śląski, Rychbach and Strzegom are being discussed and the Duke’s input into the foundation process of a new monastery in Rychbach in 1338 presented. The relations with the Knights Hospitaller were of much significance due to the prestige and importance of the order.
The Effect of Feed Protein Levels on The Growth of Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii)
Authors: Mukti Retno Cahya , Yulisman Yulisman , Amin Mohamad , Sari Rahyu Permata
Published: February 2023

Kissing gourami culture has begun to be developed to reduce the dependence on natural catches. Many factors that are influence fish culture. One of those is the availability of sufficient quantity and quality feed. Protein is an important nutrient that supports fish growth and affects feed prices. The protein requirement for each fish needs to be known as a basis for formulating feed. This research aims to determine the optimum feed protein level for kissing gourami. This study used a completely randomized design with five treatments and three replications. The treatment given is different levels of feed protein, consisting of 25% (P0), 30% (P1), 35% (P2), 40% (P3), and 45% (P4). The result showed that feed protein level 35% (P2) gave the best result for kissing gourami which resulted a absolute weight growth of 0.45 g, absolute length growth of 0.24 cm, protein efficiency ratio of 0.49, and feed efficiency of 17.11%.
Nisbah Daun Batang, Nisbah Berat Daun dan Nisbah Akar Tajuk Tanaman Sawi Pagoda (Brassica narinosa L.) Akibat Pemberian Pupuk Organik Cair Kascing, Papua Nutrient dan MA-11
Authors: Mariay Ivonne Fitria , Segoro Bayu Imam , Tuhumena Veronica Leonora
Published: February 2023

Analysis of the growth of the Shoot Root Ratio, Stem Leaf Ratio and Leaf Weight Ratio on pagoda mustard plants are expected to provide an accurate picture of growth and yields. The aim of the study was to determine and analyze the growth of the shoot-root ratio, stem leaf ratio and leaf weight ratio of pagoda mustard greens (Brassica narinosa L.) due to the administration of liquid organic fertilizer Kascing, Papua Nutrient and MA-11. This research is held at the screen house of the Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Papua for 2 months. The tools and materials used include: machetes, hoes, polybag shovels, digital scales, 30 cm ruler, stationery, trays seedling, notebook, medication label, sprayer, hand spray, 10 ml liquid measuring tube, oven, f1 pagoda mustard seed, Kascing, Papua Nutrient, MA-11, granulated sugar, vegetable pesticide nem oil, soil media, compost, manure goats and cows.

There is a significant effect due to the application of Liquid Organic Fertilizer on the Root Root Ratio, Stem Leaf Ratio and Leaf Weight Ratio. Analysis of variance and further tests showed significantly different results between the control treatment and other treatments (P1, P2, and P3). The results of the 5% BNJ test were carried out by comparing the average difference between each treatment, both P0, P1, P2 and P3 with a critical value of 3.2. Treatment of P1 Liquid Organic Fertilizer vermicompost can be said to have the most significant effect on plant growth variables because it shows the ratio of absolute average prices is greater than the critical value.
personas trabajadoras como actoras en la lucha contra el cambio climático: propuesta de impulso normativo con mirada comparada al derecho francés
Authors: Martín-Pozuelo López Ángela
Published: February 2023

El cambio climático es una realidad innegable en estos momentos. Las instituciones internacionales han declarado el momento crítico en el que nos encontramos y la necesidad de contar con el apoyo de todos para poder hacer frente a esta situación de emergencia. Entre los actores imprescindibles se encuentran las empresas, principal foco de contaminación y, por lo tanto, uno de los actores clave para revertir esta situación. Desde el año 2021, se están realizando cambios normativos para fomentar la intervención empresarial en la transición ecológica. El objetivo de este trabajo es estudiar estos cambios en España para, posteriormente, analizar en qué medida las personas trabajadoras podrían coadyuvar a este objetivo necesario en la lucha contra el cambio climático, tomando como referencia un país pionero en esta cuestión como es Francia. Finalmente, sobre la base de este análisis, se ofrecerán dos propuestas de reforma normativa para aumentar la contribución activa de las personas trabajadoras en esta tarea, una más conservadora y otra más progresista.
Statistical Analysis of a General Adsorption Kinetic Model with Randomness in Its Formulation. An Application to Real Data
Authors:   Universitat Polit`ecnica de Val`encia, Instituto Universitario de Matem´atica Multidisciplinar, Spain, Andreu-Vilarroig Carlos , Cortés Juan-Carlos ,   Universitat Polit`ecnica de Val`encia, Instituto Universitario de Matem´atica Multidisciplinar, Spain, Navarro-Quiles Ana ,   Universitat de Val`encia, Department of Statistics and Operational Research, Spain, Sferle Sorina-Madalina ,   Universitat Polit`ecnica de Val`encia, Instituto Universitario de Matem´atica Multidisciplinar, Spain
Published: February 2023

The general adsorption kinetic model, also called pseudo- order (PNO) equation, is revisited using random differential equations. We provide a full probabilistic solution of the model, which is a stochastic process, by computing its first probability density function under very general hypotheses on its parameters, that are treated as absolutely continuous random variables with an arbitrary joint probability density function. The analysis is based on the so called Random Variable Transformation technique. From the first probability density function, we compute relevant information of the PNO model, such that, the mean, the variance and confidence interval. We also provide explicit expressions for the probability density functions of other significant quantities as the time required to reach a specific level of absorbed substance or the rate coefficient of the chemical reaction. All the theoretical findings are illustrated by means of real data. The application includes a thorough discussion about two important uncertainty quantification inverse methods, namely, the Random Least Mean Square and the Bayesian technique, to assign appropriate probability density functions to all the PNO model parameters so that the solution captures data uncertainties.
Exploration and Control of Bifurcation in a Fractional-Order Delayed Glycolytic Oscillator Model
Authors:   School of Mathematics and Statistics, Guizhou University of Finance and Economics, China, Liu Yizhong
Published: February 2023

Recently, establishing proper dynamical models to describe the relationship among different chemical substances has become a vital theme in chemistry. In this present article, we set up a new fractional-order delayed glycolytic oscillator model. Utilizing the contraction mapping theorem, we explore the existence and uniqueness of the solution to the involved fractional glycolytic oscillator model with delay. By virtue of some suitable analytical skills, we discuss the non-negativeness of the solution to the established fractional glycolytic oscillator system. Taking advantage of a suitable function, we investigate the boundedness of the fractional glycolytic oscillator system. Exploiting the stability and bifurcation theory of fractional dynamical system, we study the stability and the generation of Hopf bifurcation of the fractional glycolytic oscillator system with delay. Making use of delayed feedback controller and PDα controller, we deal with the Hopf bifurcation control of the fractional glycolytic oscillator system owing delay. Computer simulation results are displayed to support the obtained assertions. The acquired results of this article own great theoretical value in dominating the concentrations of different chemical compositions.
Chebyshev's Sum Inequality and the Zagreb Indices Inequality
Authors:   Computer Science Dept., TU M¨unchen, Germany, Täubig Hanjo
Published: February 2023

In a recent article, Nadeem and Siddique used Chebyshev’s sum inequality to establish the Zagreb indices inequality M1/n ≤ M2/m for undirected graphs in the case where the degree sequence (di) and the degree-sum sequence (Si) are similarly ordered. We show that this is actually not a completely new result and we discuss several related results that also cover similar inequalities for directed graphs, as well as sum-symmetric matrices and Eulerian directed graphs.
Analysis of Code-Mixing in an English Learning Platform on Youtube
Authors: Saputri Niki , Salim Agus
Published: February 2023

This study aims to determine type of code-mixing and function of code-mixing in English learning platform on YouTube. This study is important because by knowing more about the type and the function of code-mixing, we can have broad knowledge of language use. This study employed a qualitative method because it described a phenomenon under a study. In collecting the data, this study analysis the data (video) by watching. The results of this study are to find out some examples types of code-mixing from Aaron’s English YouTube Channel. There are two types namely intra sentential mixing have two forms specifically word and phrase then extra sentential mixing. Categorizing the code-mixing function from the example of the expression, and there are two functions from the results of this analysis, namely suggestion and emotional expression.
Correlation between Mastery on the Simple Present Tense and Writing Descriptive Paragraph
Authors: Deviga Lidia , Ardhani Radian Arum
Published: February 2023

Some English learners might be very good at grammar English but not optimal in writing English, and vice versa. As fellow productive language skills, researching the relationship between grammar and writing skills will be very interesting. The aim of this research was to find out the correlation between mastery on the simple present tense and writing descriptive paragraph. The method that was used in this research was a quantitative research .In this research, the researcher used the subject were 42 students of the First semester Medical Record Program of STIKES Bhakti Husada Mulia Madiun in the academic year 2021/2022. There are Simple present tense and writing descriptive paragraph test were used as the instrument for collecting the data of this research. Pearson’s Product Moment Formula was used to correlate both mastery on simple present tense (variable X) and the ability in writing descriptive text (variable Y). The result showed that there was a statistically significant correlation (0.756) is higher than the r value of significant level at 5 % (0.304). Theoretically, Null Hypothesis (Ho)is rejected and Alternative Hypothesis (Ha) is accepted. The suggestion are: the students should improve their mastery on simple present tense because it can improve their ability in expressing activities in writing.
Willingness to pay for treatment of complications associated with high blood pressure among hypertensive patients in Pakistan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bashir Haroon , Barkatullah Maira , Saber Awais
Published: February 2023

Background: Hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity around the globe. Willingness to pay (WTP) is the technique to evaluate the health care program from the consumer’s perspective. This technique is measured and valued for future perspective. The objective of this study is to investigate WTP for treatment of complications associated with high blood pressure among hypertensive patients in Pakistan. Methods: A cross sectional observational study was conducted for 6 months from April to September 2019. Well-designed questionnaires were developed to collect information on socio-demographic characteristics, medical belief and hypothetical scenario of willingness to pay. We distributed 320 questionnaires to hypertensive patients in Kashmir institute of cardiology linked with District Head Quarter hospital, Al-shifa hospital Mirpur, Noor memorial hospital & Mohi-ud-Din hospital in Mirpur city, Pakistan. Results: We analyzed 280 questionnaires which were correctly and completely filled giving a response rate of 87.5% in which 69.6% were males and 30.4% were females. Around 39.6% of participants were 51-60 years old. About 81.8% were willing to pay for life time. Almost half 52.5% were willing to pay for stoke more than three thousand rupees. Occupation and monthly income had significant effects on WTP for the treatment of complications of hypertension. Conclusion: Majority of participants were willing to pay from their monthly income for the management of complications associated with hypertension. This indicates the awareness of patients about the importance of disease management for better healthcare.
Investigating the Role of Employer Branding on Employees Performance with the moderating effect of Talent Management
Authors: Sadiq Waqar , Ali Rao Akmal , Jafar Khurram Bin , Ali Muhammad Hasnain
Published: February 2023

The goal of this study is to ascertain how employer branding affects employee performance. The second goal of this research is to look at how talent management affects the relationship between employer branding and employee performance. The study's primary data was gathered using structured and closed-ended questions. Likert scales with 5-point likert scale, ranging from 1 to 5, have been used to gauge the level of reaction. This study's statistical analysis is based on a random sampling approach that used a questionnaire to collect answers from 208 respondents. The partial least squares (PLS) technique of structural equation modelling (SEM) was utilised to assess the predicted relationships between the study variables. The researcher also examined the structural model's direct and indirect relationships between the variables. The research's findings demonstrate that employer branding considerably affects workers' performance. It is a strong predictor of higher levels of performance, and talent management significantly moderate the relationship.
Implementasi Pijat Oksitosin dan Hypnobreastfeeding Dalam Asuhan Keperawatan Pada Ibu Post Partum Di Ruang Delima RSUD Ciamis
Authors: Aryanti Dewi , Gustanti Amalia , Februanti Sofia
Published: February 2023

Pemberian ASI ekslusif merupakan hal yang sangat penting pada bayi. Pasca melahirkan ibu sering mengalami kecemasan dan khawatir jika tidak bisa memenuhi kebutuhan ASI untuk bayinya. Kecemasan dan stress yang dialami ibu akan menghambat pada kerja hormone oksitosin yang berperan dalam pengeluaran ASI. Salah satu alternatif untuk meningkatkan sirkulasi serta dukungan hormone oksitosin adalah pijat oksitosin dan hypnobreastfeeding. Pijat oksitosin merupakan pemijatan pada tulang belakang yang dimulai pada tulang belakang sampai tulang costae kelima – keenam, sedangkan hypnobreastfeeding adalah suatu upaya alamiah yang dilakukan dengan menggunakan terapi dengan memberikan kalimat-kalimat sugesti positif supaya pada saat sedang menyusui tidak terjadi hambatan dalam pengeluaran air susu ibu. Tujuan dari penulisan karya tulis ilmiah ini untuk mengetahui gambaran implementasi pijat oksitosin dan hypnobreastfeeding dalam asuhan keperawatan pada ibu post partum. Desain KTI menggunakan metode kualitatif dan desain deskriftif dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Dilaksanakan mulai dari 7 April sampai 14 April 2022 untuk kedua subjek. Hasil yang didapatkan secara umum status menyusui menjadi efektif, perlekatan pada bayi baik, koping subjek efektif, dan tingkat nyeri minimal. Untuk meningkatkan kualitas pelayanan keperawatan, pengetahuan, dan pemahaman tentang asuhan keperawatan pada ibu post partum, diharapkan bagi institusi untuk menambah buku bacaan, sumber penelusuran jurnal, e-book serta sumber referensi diperpustakaan untuk dijadikan acuan serta untuk tempat penelitian diharapkan meningkatkan kenyamanan pasien dengan menciptakan ruangan yang kondusif dengan memodifikasi waktu kunjungan pasien untuk mempercepat proses pemulihan pada ibu post partum.
Effectiveness of Fogging With Spatial Analysis in The Working Area of The East Bogor Health Center
Authors: Lestari Ratna Dwi , Utomo Budi
Published: February 2023

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. DHF is a frightening disease because its transmission can take place quickly in an area. Even in one month, the number of dengue cases in endemic areas can reach tens of people infected with dengue virus. Maximizing the DHF control program at the local health office and puskesmas is the main key in tackling the spread of DHF. However, it is a current obstacle that has made the DHF control program ineffective in Bogor City, namely the absence of scientific predictions about the location of DHF vulnerable areas in Bogor City, including in the working area of the East Bogor Health Center. So that DHF control programs such as fogging have not been able to significantly reduce DHF cases. This study used observational analysis with a cross-sectional design. The data collected was then analyzed using spatial analysis with the buffer method. The results showed that DHF cases were almost spread throughout the working area of the East Bogor Health Center. Based on interviews with puskesmas officers, the fogging radius is around 200 meters from the fogging location. After carrying out a spatial analysis using the buffer method, it was found that the fogging radius only reached a small part of the East Bogor Health Center work area which was indicated to be a DHF-prone area. Implementation of fogging programs that are not based on DHF vulnerable areas results in ineffective prevention of DHF. Therefore, spatial-based DHF mapping is needed to identify areas that are vulnerable to DHF so that it can be used as a reference in determining fogging locations.
Kompas Global Untuk Sistem Kesehatan Nasional
Authors: Wijaya Galih Trisno
Published: February 2023

Mengubah sistem kesehatan menjadi sistem pembelajaran semakin diakui sebagai kebutuhan untuk mendukung implementasi arah strategis nasional pada kualitas dengan fokus pada pengalaman garis depan. Pendekatan sistem pembelajaran yang menjembatani kesenjangan antara praktik dan kebijakan membutuhkan eksplorasi aktif. Tinjauan pelingkupan ini mengadaptasi kerangka metodologi untuk studi pelingkupan dari Arksey dan O'Malley. Pertanyaan penelitian utama berfokus pada tema umum untuk belajar meningkatkan kualitas layanan kesehatan di semua tingkat sistem kesehatan nasional, mulai dari kebijakan pemerintah hingga pemberian layanan di titik perawatan. Sebanyak 3507 catatan disaring, menghasilkan 101 artikel tentang pembelajaran strategis di seluruh sistem kesehatan: tingkat profesional kesehatan (19%), tingkat organisasi kesehatan (15%), tingkat subnasional/nasional (26%), berbagai tingkat (35%), dan tingkat global (6%). Tiga puluh lima dari artikel ini berfokus pada sistem pembelajaran di berbagai tingkat sistem kesehatan. Sistem pembelajaran nasional membutuhkan perhatian di tingkat organisasi, subnasional, dan nasional yang dipandu oleh kebutuhan pasien, keluarga, dan masyarakat. Kompas dari sistem pembelajaran nasional dipusatkan pada empat tema lintas sektor di seluruh sistem kesehatan: penyelarasan prioritas, kolaborasi seluruh sistem, transparansi dan akuntabilitas, dan berbagi pengetahuan tentang bukti dunia nyata yang dihasilkan di titik perawatan. Makalah ini mengusulkan sebuah pendekatan untuk membangun sistem pembelajaran nasional untuk meningkatkan kualitas pelayanan kesehatan. Penelitian di masa depan diperlukan untuk memvalidasi penerapan prinsip panduan ini dan melakukan perbaikan berdasarkan temuan.
Some Milestones: Specialist Education, Training and Assessment in Singaporeannals-acadmedsg.V36N11p881
Authors: Chew Chin Hin
Published: February 2023

Singapore had its most significant milestone in 1905 when the Singapore Medical School was founded. The Academy of Medicine, founded in 1957, celebrates its Golden Anniversary in 2007. Thus, the events that influenced the development of postgraduate medicine, specialist education, training and examinations commenced rightly from 1957. These are presented chronologically. The significant roles played by the Academy, the University’s Medical School and the Ministry of Health are highlighted, bearing in mind the ongoing developments in Singapore and globally over the years. To keep pace with the further developments and advances, the high gold standards in specialist training and assessment need to be refined with time. This can only be to the benefit of our patients and the community in Singapore and beyond. Key words: Academy, Division of Postgraduate Medical Studies, Specialist Accreditation Board, Specialist Register
Recertification in Internal Medicine – The American Experience
Authors: Dale David C
Published: February 2023

The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) sets standards and certifies and recertifies physicians to practise internal medicine and its subspecialties in America. The ABIM was established in 1936 as a non-profit corporation, one of many specialty boards, such as the American Board of Family Medicine, the American Board of Pediatrics, the American Board of Surgery, etc. The umbrella organisation for these groups is the American Board of Medical Specialties. Members of the American College of Physicians take certifying and recertifying examinations produced by ABIM. Beginning in 1990, ABIM certificates were valid for 10 years. To maintain certification, physicians were required to participate in ABIM maintenance of certification (MOC) programme. The goals are to improve quality of care, to set standards for clinical competency, to foster continuing scholarship, and lead to medical quality improvement. The MOC programme involves verification of credentials, completion of self-evaluation, and completion of a secure exam. The self-evaluation component is the most complex and has been the most controversial due to the diversity of internal medicine careers and continued learning patterns. ABIM continually introduces new options for evaluation of practice performance. In addition to recertification in General Internal Medicine, ABIM has subspecialty examinations. MOC has been well received by professional organisations, but there are areas of controversy. It has been accepted as an important way for internists to assure quality of practice and currency of medical information.

Key words: Competency, Maintenance of certification
Screening for Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci Using Stools Sent for Clostridium difficile Cytotoxin Assay is Effective: Results of a Survey of 300 Patients in a Large Singapore Teaching Hospital
Authors: Tay Joshua KX , Bodle Tay , Fisher Dale A , Lin Raymond VTP , Kumarasinghe Gamini , Tambyah Paul A
Published: February 2023

Introduction: To assess the efficacy of screening stools sent for Clostridium difficile cytotoxin assay (CDTA) for surveillance of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).

Materials and Methods: From April to May 2005, all stools submitted for CDTA were also cultured for VRE using vancomycin containing culture media. Isolates were identified to species level and vancomycin resistance confirmed, followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of vancomycin resistance genes and DNA fingerprinting. Over 2 consecutive days during that period, stool specimens or rectal swabs were also obtained from all patients in high-risk units (haematology, oncology, renal and intensive care). Fifty-one patients in each group were compared in terms of VRE risk factors previously identified.

Results and Discussion: The prevalence of VRE in both groups was similar [3/204 (1.5%) in the CDTA arm and 1/97 (1.0%) in the high-risk arm; P = 1.0, Fisher’s exact test]. Prevalence of risk factors for VRE colonisation, including age, duration of hospitalisation, exposure to antibiotics, exposure to surgical procedures, presence of malignancy and diabetes mellitus was similar in both groups (P > 0.05). Only renal failure (P < 0.05) was more common in the high-risk group. All 4 isolates of VRE identified were genetically distinct by variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) typing; 3 were Enterococcus faecium (2 with the vanB gene, 1 with vanA) and one E. faecalis.

Conclusion: Less than 2% of our high-risk patients are VRE carriers. In-hospital VRE screening using stools sent for CDTA is a simple, reasonable surrogate for screening individual high-risk patients as the patient risk profile is similar and the yield comparable in a low-prevalence setting.

Key words: Antibiotic resistance, Surveillance, Vancomycin-resistant enterococci
Development of a Core Curriculum on Tuberculosis Control for Philippine Medical Schools
Authors: Atienza Melflor Aldovino , Rao Camilo Cala , Sana Erlyn Aclan
Published: February 2023

Introduction: As of 2001, the Philippines ranks 7th among the world’s 22 countries with a heavy tuberculosis (TB) burden. As the country accelerates its campaign to control the global epidemic, the Philippine Tuberculosis Initiatives for the Private Sector (PhilTIPS) joined the efforts to combat it through the Directly Observed Treatment Short-course (DOTS) strategy and brought it to the level of medical schools. PhilTIPS commissioned this work to develop an evidence-based medical curriculum with strong and conscious integration of TB-DOTS.

Materials and Methods: In the needs assessment, curricula, sample tests, and syllabi were reviewed. Deans and curriculum committee chairs were also asked to answer a questionnaire dealing with how TB, TB control and DOTS were taught. Based on the needs assessment, the TB control-DOTS core curriculum was developed. Ten months after its implementation, a monitoring evaluation was conducted through questionnaires, review of records and key informant interviews.

Discussion: Representative samples of 18 out of 32 schools participated in the needs assessment and monitoring phase. Data revealed that the biomedical and clinical aspects of TB are emphasised in all schools. But only 7 out of 18 (38.89%) actually dealt with DOTS. A competency-based, integrated, and interactive TB-DOTS curriculum was then developed. The competencies around which the curriculum was designed were: (1) a thorough understanding of TB as a biomedical and social phenomenon; (2) the management of TB patients; and (3) an adherence to DOTS in managing TB patients. The curriculum was reviewed by local and international panelists, and implemented in 2003 to 2004. Monitoring evaluation 10 months later revealed that this curriculum was minimally to moderately integrated by medical schools. The study exhorts all medical schools to empower their graduates with competence in TB-DOTS.

Key words: Curriculum development, Directly observed treatment short-course strategy (DOTS), Instructional design, Philippine medical curriculum, Tuberculosis
Molecular Analysis of the SMN1 and NAIP Genes in Iranian Patients with Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Derakhshandeh-Peykar Pupak , Esmaili Mohsen , Ousati-Ashtiani Zahra , Rahmani Manijeh , Babrzadeh Farbod , Farshidi Shahla , Attaran Elham , Sajedifar Mohammad Mehdi , Farhud Dariush Daneshvar
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Childhood-onset proximal spinal muscular atrophies (SMAs) are an autosomal recessive, clinically heterogeneous group of neuropathies characterised by the selective degeneration of anterior horn cells. SMA has an estimated incidence of 1 in 10,000 live births. The causative genes are survival motor neuron (SMN) gene and neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein (NAIP) gene. Deletions of the telomeric copy of SMN gene (SMN1) have been reported in 88.5% to 95% of SMA cases, whereas the deletion rate for NAIP gene (NAIP) is between 20% and 50% depending on the disease severity. The main objective of this study was to genetically characterise the childhood onset of SMA in Iran.

Materials and Methods: Molecular analysis was performed on a total of 75 patients with a clinical diagnosis of SMA. In addition to common PCR analysis for SMN1 exons 7 and 8, we analysed NAIP exons 4 and 5, along with exon 13, as a internal control, by bi-plex PCR.

Results: The homozygous-deletion frequency rate for the telomeric copy of SMN exons 7 and 8 in all types of SMA was 97%. Moreover, exons 5 and 6 of NAIP gene were deleted in approximately 83% of all SMA types. Three deletion haplotypes were constructed by using SMN and NAIP genotypes. Haplotype A, in which both genes are deleted, was seen in approximately 83% of SMA types I and II but not type III. It was also found predominantly in phenotypically severe group with an early age of onset (i.e., less than 6-month-old). We also report 34 of our prenatal diagnosis.

Conclusions: To our knowledge, the present study is the first one giving detailed information on SMN and NAIP deletion rates in Iranian SMA patients. Our results show that the frequency of SMN1 homozygous deletions in Iran is in agreement with previous studies in other countries. The molecular analysis of SMA-related gene deletion/s will be a useful tool for pre- and postnatal diagnostic.

Key words: Deletion analysis, Iran, NAIP gene, Prenatal diagnosis, Spinal muscular atrophy, SMN gene
The Role of Topical Traditional Chinese Medicaments as Contact Sensitisers in Chronic Venous Leg Ulcer Patients
Authors: Lim Kar Seng , Tang Mark BY , Goon Anthony TJ , Leow Yung Hian
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Leg ulcers are a chronic condition affecting the older population. In Singapore, the use of topical traditional Chinese medicaments (TTCM) is common amongst those older than 65 years of age. We study the role of TTCM as contact sensitisers in patients with chronic venous leg ulcers and its impact in the clinical management of these patients. Materials and Methods: Patients with chronic leg ulcers attending the Wound and Ulcer Clinic at the National Skin Centre (NSC) between October 2005 and April 2006 were patch-tested to the NSC TTCM series. They were also patch-tested for other allergens from the NSC Standard Series, Medicament Series, Steroid Series and wound dressings. Results: A total of 44 patients were patch-tested. Seventeen of the 44 (38.7%) patients were using or had used at least 1 TTCM. Seven patients (15.9%) had at least 1 positive patch test (PT) reading to TTCM, giving a sensitisation rate of 41% (7 of 17). A significantly high proportion of the patients, 94.1% (16 of 17) with a positive history of TTCM usage had at least 1 positive PT reading compared to those without a history of TTCM usage, 45.8% (11 of 24). Conclusion: TTCM play an important role as contact sensitisers in our patients with chronic venous leg ulcers and may be a significant factor in non- or poor-healing leg ulcers. In such patients, a history of TTCM usage should be sought for and patch testing should include the commonly used TTCM where relevant. Key words: Allergic contact dermatitis, Stasis ulcers, Traditional Chinese medicines
Sociodemographic Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of Public Health Education – A Comparison of Two Studies in Singapore
Authors: Wee Hwee-Lin , Li Shu-Chuen
Published: February 2023

Introduction: We aimed to evaluate if sociodemographic factors influenced the effectiveness of public education programmes in Singapore.

Materials and Methods: Data were extracted from 2 independent cross-sectional studies that assessed the effectiveness of diabetes and HIV/ AIDS public health education programmes. The influence of sociodemographic factors including age, gender, ethnicity and years of education on diabetes and HIV/AIDS knowledge scores (surrogate marker for programme effectiveness) were assessed using separate univariable and multiple linear regression models for each outcome variable.

Results: A total of 1321 subjects [46% male, mean (SD) age: 33.9 (13.44) years] participated in the diabetes study while 400 subjects [44% male, mean (SD) age: 33.9 (13.44) years] participated in the HIV/AIDS study. In univariable analyses, age, years of education and ethnicity influenced both diabetes and HIV/ AIDS knowledge scores. However, in multiple linear regression analyses, only age and years of education influenced both diabetes and HIV/AIDS knowledge scores.

Conclusion: We found that age and years of education influenced the effectiveness of public health education, suggesting that there is a need to tailor public health education programmes to meet the needs of younger subjects and those with fewer years of education. That knowledge scores were similar between male and female subjects was surprising but could potentially be explained by equal access to information, high availability of information technology and heightened awareness of HIV/AIDS in Singapore.

Key words: AIDS, Asia, Community, Diabetes mellitus, Health education, HIV infections
Outcome-based Approach in Development of a Disaster Management Course for Healthcare Workers
Authors: Wickramasinghe Kremlin Khamarj , Mohamed Hassim Mohamed Hassim , Liyanage Pramil , Karunathilake Indika Mahesh , Samarasekera Dujeepa
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka provided voluntary healthcare services during the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami. At that time the faculty recognised the need to prepare the healthcare system for future disasters by enhancing the capability of healthcare workers. The development and implementation of a disaster management course for healthcare workers was identified as a priority.

Method: An outcome-based approach was used to develop the curriculum. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to identify the core competencies and outcomes that healthcare workers need to achieve at the end of the course. The content, teaching learning methods and assessments were aligned with the course outcomes. The course consists of 9 core modules and an elective research module. Formative and summative assessment methods were included.

Conclusion: Training is an important component of disaster management. The outcome-based approach provides a useful framework for developing such training programmes and ensures that needs are addressed.

Key words: Core competencies, Curriculum development, Disaster mitigation
Cultural Riddles and Performance in Modern African Societies
Authors: Friday Akporherhe , Oghenerioborue Udi Peter
Published: February 2023

Several forms of performance arts are underutilized for in the past few decades and the Urhobo riddles are not left out. This paper therefore examines various methods of preservation and transfer of riddles in traditional society. This study adopted the survey-descriptive approach as the data and information were collected from natural environment and analysed. It is underpinned by Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory that focuses on the unconscious mind of people as the storehouse of latent materials which can be activated and brought to the conscious awareness. The information were collected with sound recordings which were afterward deciphered and deciphered from the Urhobo dialect into the English adaptation. In-depth interviews were also conducted to obtained first-hand information from respondents. The respondents were purposively selected and interviewed. The data collected in the field were qualitatively analyzed using descriptive and analytical methods. Findings reveal that riddles perform utilitarian functions like entertainment, education, knowledge transfer, coping and distractive strategies and so on. These linguistic resources should be preserved and documented due to their cultural values. Though there are problems hindering the growth of the riddles in contemporary societies, orators have devised the use of popular music as new way of preservation and transferring of oral traditions like the riddles from going into extinction.
Determinants of Islamic Banking Going Concern: Effect of Musharakah, Murabaha, Ijara and Profitability on Non-Performing Financing
Authors:   Esa Unggul University, Febyansyah Andar , Sihono Agus ,   Esa Unggul University
Published: February 2023

The purposes of this research is to analyze the influence of Musharakah, Murabaha, Ijara and ROA of Non Performing Financing in Islamic Banking in simultaneous and partial . The contribution of this research is to provide feedback to banking management on the company’s policy to be taken in connection with the implementation of bad credit. This study uses the design of causality. Methods of analysis using path analysis. Population used is the Islamic Business Banking in Indonesia. Saturated sampling is the technique that is used as a sampling technique. The unit of analysis is annual financial statement. The results of this study is only partially the three variables are found to significantly affect the Non Performing Financing, they are Murabaha contract, Ijara contract, and Return on Assets. As for Musharakah contract proved to be not significantly affected. Simultaneously the results showed the fourth variable fit or match the data. The findings of this study was that going concern business of the company is very risky. The company’s core business is measured from negative ROA. This means that the company is able to extend credit, but unable to convert the financing to be an advantage. It automatically will threaten the company’s existence.
Biochemoinformatics Study of Chemical Constituents of Apium graveolens, Aloe vera, and Nigella sativa as Antidiabetic Herbal
Authors:   Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Setia Budi, Jalan Letjen Sutoyo, Mojosongo, Surakarta, Indonesia, Herowati Rina , Saputra Pratama Anggi ,   Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Setia Budi, Jalan Letjen Sutoyo, Mojosongo, Surakarta, Indonesia, Widodo Gunawan Pamudji ,   Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Setia Budi, Jalan Letjen Sutoyo, Mojosongo, Surakarta, Indonesia
Published: February 2023

Background: Celery (Apium graveolens), Aloe vera, and black cumin (Nigella sativa) are reported to have antidiabetic activity from various studies. The present study aimed to predict the active constituents of A. graveolens, A. vera, and N. sativa that able to interact to macromolecular targets of the antidiabetic agent, i.e. dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 enzyme (DPP4), protein tyrosine phosphatase-1B (PTP1B), glucokinase, as well as α-glucosides through molecular docking analysis, and predict their pharmacokinetic profiles. Methods: The chemical structures of each plant (from KNApSAcK webserver) had undergone molecular docking simulation using Autodock Vina in PyRx. ADME prediction was conducted by using SwissADME webserver. Results: The results showed that apiin (A. graveolens), rutin (A. vera), and quercetin 3-glucosyl-(12)-galactosyl-(12)-glucoside (N. sativa) had the best interaction to DPP4. While 4,8,5'-Trimethylpsoralen (A. graveolens), 8-C-Glucosyl-(2'-O-cinnamoyl)-7-O-methylaloediol A (A. vera), and nigellidine 4-O-sulfite (N. sativa) had the best interaction to PTP1B. Cyanidin 3-[6-(6-p-coumarylglucosyl)-2-xylosylgalactoside] (A. graveolens), isoaloeresin D (A. vera), and nigellidine 4-O-sulfite (N. sativa) had the best interaction to glucokinase. Luteolin (A. graveolens), aloeresin E (Aloe vera), and quercetin 3-glucosyl-(12)-galactosyl-(12)-glucoside (N. sativa) had the best interaction to α-glucosidase. Additionally, nigellidine 4-O-sulfite and 4,8,5'-trimethylpsoralen were predicted to have good bioavailability score on SwissADME. Conclusions: A. graveolens, A. vera, and N. sativa contains chemical constituents those were predicted to havo good interaction to molecular target of the antidiabetics therapy, i.e. DPP4, PTP1B, glucokinase, and α-glucosides
Notes: Do retirement funds have a right to transfer accrued retirement benefits without non-member spouses’ consent? An analysis of the Collatz matter
Authors: Marumoagae Motseotsile Clement
Published: February 2023

Neither the legislature nor the courts have adequately determined how to regulate benefits that retirement fund members married in community of property derive a right to claim before their death. It illustrates the failure of the courts to assess the intersection between matrimonial principles and pension rules when faced with nonmember spouses who argue that their deceased member spouses’ retirement benefits accrued to their joint estates. The courts need to consider seriously the applicability of matrimonial principles before retirement benefits can be treated as death benefits. Further, the note demonstrates that the courts over-emphasise the role of pension rules and totally disregard matrimonial principles, thereby depriving surviving non-member spouses of their share of the accrued retirement benefits. This note further argues that the legislature should urgently intervene.
Customary international law is law in South Africa — Now what? Analysing the courts’ identification and application of customary international law over the last decade
Authors: Coutsoudis Andreas
Published: February 2023

Customary international law is law in South Africa as much as property law, company law or contract law. It may not be as frequently relevant or applicable as many parts of domestic law. Courts and domestic legal practitioners may not be as familiar with its contours, nuances and methods of identification. But it is precisely for these reasons that it matters more, not less, how courts, legal practitioners and the parties they represent approach it. This article describes and analyses South African courts’ engagement with customary international law, particularly over the last decade. The analysis reveals that important issues of customary international law are determined and applied by South African courts. Thus, customary international law cannot be avoided; nor should it be. However, the analysis also reveals that the courts’ engagement with customary international law would benefit from a more reflective, rigorous and considered approach. Building on the analysis and description of South African courts’ past identification and application of customary international law, the article offers suggestions for how the road ahead ought to be navigated. It is past time for South African courts to give proper consideration as to how, both procedurally and substantively, they and the parties before them ought to approach the identification of customary international law. For customary international law is not some exotic and indeterminate set of rules emanating from another legal system. It is part of South African law. The sooner it is fully treated as such, the better it will be for courts, practitioners, litigants, and international law more generally.
A legislative framework for shareholder approval of political donations and expenditure by companies in South Africa
Authors: Madlela Vela
Published: February 2023

Political donations and expenditure by companies raise serious concerns due to poor corporate governance practices, which include the lack of accountability of directors to shareholders. The shareholders’ right to vote is one of the company-law mechanisms that may be used to control the directors’ discretion regarding political donations and expenditure. However, the Companies Act 71 of 2008 does not give shareholders the right to approve a company’s political donations or expenditure. Consequently, the directors enjoy a wide general discretion regarding a company’s political donations and expenditure. The article examines certain key policy considerations concerning the introduction of prior shareholder approval of political donations and expenditure by companies in South Africa. It examines the legislative requirements regarding shareholder approval of political donations and expenditure in the UK under Part 14 of the Companies Act, 2006, the philosophical rationale underpinning these legislative requirements, and the extent to which the introduction of shareholder approval of political donations and expenditure in the UK has achieved the underlying objectives of promoting transparency and accountability. The article then advocates for the introduction of the requirement for prior shareholder approval of political donations and expenditure under the South African Companies Act, and provides detailed recommendations on how such requirements could be implemented.