bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Diversity of Eight Native Indonesian Chicken Breeds on Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Sartika Tike , Saputra Ferdy , Takahashi Hideaki
Published: November 2022

Indonesia has diversity in native chickens based on phenotypes. This diversity is utilized for economic purposes such as meat, eggs, fancy, crowing, and fighting. This study aimed to determine the genetic structure of eight native Indonesian chicken breeds with microsatellite markers, the genetic distance, and inbreeding coefficient of each breed of chicken used for crossbreeding programs to obtain a positive heterosis effect for selection programs. The samples used were Arab, Merawang, Pelung, Sentul, Cemani, KUB, Black Kedu and White Kedu. Broiler chickens (Cobb) were used as the outgroup in this study. A total of 192 DNA samples from eight breeds were used in this study. A total of 24 microsatellite markers were used in this study to observe the genetic diversity of 8 native breeds. The POPGENE, Cervus, and FSTAT were used to generate the observed number of alleles, the effective number of alleles, observed heterozygosity value, expected heterozygosity value, the heterozygote deficit within the breed (FIS), gene flow (Nm), Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, Polymorphism Information Content (PIC), and UPGMA tree. The principal component analysis (PCA) was performed using adegenet package of R software. Bayesian clustering assignments were analyzed using the STRUCTURE program. This study revealed a very close genetic relationship between seven native chickens and broilers. We also found Arab chickens separated from other Indonesian native chickens and no inbreeding in eight native Indonesian chicken breeds. In conclusion, we found two clusters among eight native Indonesian chicken breeds. Twenty microsatellite markers have a high PIC value in this study.
Enhancing the Anticancer Activity of Squamocin for Breast Cancer Treatment Using Nanodiamond Nanoparticles: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Dewi Firli Rahmah Primula , Sri Puji Astuti Wahyuningsih  , Ahmar Rasyidah Fauzia , Na'ilah Insani Alifiyah  , Lim Vuanghao , Prenggono Muhammad Darwin
Published: November 2022

Squamocin is one of the annonaceous acetogenins produced by the Annonaceae family and displays potent anti-cancer activity against cancer cell lines. This study aimed to investigate the growth inhibition activity of squamocin coupled with nanodiamond on rats (Rattus norvegicus)-induced breast cancer. Twenty-five female R. norvegicus were divided into five groups (n = 5), including normal control (without any treatment), negative control, group treated with nanodiamond only (ND), group treated with squamocin only (SQ), and the group treated with squamocin coupled with nanodiamond (NDSQ). All of the animal models were induced for breast cancer, except for the normal control group. Breast cancer induction was performed using two doses of N-nitroso-N-methylurea (NMU) injection (50 and 30 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally and waited for 22 weeks until the tumor was detected to formed. Nanodiamond coupled with squamocin were administered by intraperitoneal injection (1.5 mg/kg body weight) for 5 weeks, one injection per 3 days. This study showed that the treatment with squamocin coupled with nanodiamond (NDSQ) significantly reduced the proliferation (Ki-67) and induced apoptosis (Caspase-3) of breast cancer cells, corresponding to the reduction of the thickness of the mammary ductal epithelium (p<0.001) and the lower level of CA-153 in serum. In addition, the treatment significantly reduced the malondioldehyde (MDA) and PI3KCA and increased the p53 level significantly. Altogether, in this study, we are the first to report the anti-cancer activity of squamocin in rat-induced breast cancer and the potency of nanodiamond as a carrier of squamocin to increase its anti-cancer activity.
Effects of Dietary Mannan-Oligosaccharide (Mos) and Multi-Species of Bacillus on Growth and Feed Utilization in Leopard Coral Grouper Plectropomus leopardus Juvenile
Authors: Sudewi Sudewi , Astuti Ni Wayan Widya , Asih Yasmina Nirmala , Nasukha Afifah , Marzuqi Muhammad , Mastuti Indah , Mahardika Ketut , Sembiring Sari Budi Moria , Giri I Nyoman Adiasmara
Published: November 2022

This study assessed the growth and feed utilization in leopard coral grouper Plectropomus leopardus juvenile fed dietary prebiotic mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS) and multi-species of probiotic bacteria (Bacillus cereus BS6, B. subtilis BS3, and B. amiloliquefaciens BS4). The experiment was performed by feeding four replicates groups of juveniles weighing 3.61±0.60 g on four experimental diets, and each diet included: only MOS (PRE); the multi-species of Bacillus (PRO); a combination of MOS and the multi-species of Bacillus (SYN) and without supplementation (CON). When MOS (PRE) or the multi-species of Bacillus (PRO) was included in the diet solely, the growth of the fish was fairly good, although there was no significant difference with the control diet (p>0.05). Unexpectedly, the combined inclusion of MOS and the multi-species of Bacillus (SYN) did not increase the growth and feed utilization in Plectropomus leopardus juvenile. Presumably, MOS did not exert any favorable effects on the multi-species of Bacillus. This study suggested that no advantage was obtained when MOS and the multi-species of Bacillus were included in the diet simultaneously. In addition, the inclusion of MOS in higher levels may be necessary for better feed utilization and growth in leopard coral grouper Plectropomus leopardus.
Determination of Complete Sequence Mutation of Myostatin Gene in Fast- and Slow-Growing Chicken
Authors: Khaerunnisa Isyana , Furqon Ahmad , Anwar Saiful , Jakaria Jakaria , Budiman Cahyo , Arief Irma Isnafia , Sumantri Cece , Kim Yong Soo
Published: November 2022

Myostatin plays a role in inhibiting skeletal muscle growth in vertebrates. This study aimed to investigate the full sequence of the myostatin gene in fast-growing and slow-growing chickens. Fast- and slow-growing chicken models were produced from F2 Kampung x broiler. The full sequence of the myostatin gene was identified using 24 pairs of primers covering about 8,000 bp. mRNA expression analysis of muscle tissue was performed to examine whether the expression levels of myostatin are affected by chicken lines, sex, or muscle type. The results showed 170 mutations in fast- and slow-growing chickens. One hundred and sixty-one of them are novel mutations. A total of five and twenty-two alleles were specific alleles found only in the fast-growing and slow-growing groups of chickens, respectively. There were no differences in amino acids and gene expression levels of myostatin between the fast- and slow-growing chickens. In summary, the results of this study showed that specific alleles for the fast-growing or slow-growing chicken groups were found, suggesting that these specific alleles potentially be used as genetic markers for muscle growth in chickens.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Isolate Compounds from Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Piper crocatum Ruiz and Pav Leaves on Lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 Cells
Authors: Lely Nilda , Dachriyanus . , Aldi Yufi , Almahdy . , Wahyuni Fatma Sri
Published: November 2022

Red betel (Piper crocatum Ruiz and Pav) is a traditional Indonesian plant. The ethyl acetate fraction of red betel leaf has the potential as an anti-inflammatory. This research aimed to determine the anti-inflammatory effect of isolate compound from ethyl acetate fraction of Piper crocatum leaves on the production of cytokine pro-inflammatory TNF-α and ICAM-1 in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Cell viability was determined by the MTT method in the concentration range of 1.25; 2.5; 5; 10; 20, and 40 µg/ml. The TNF-α and ICAM-1 level was determined by the TNF-α and ICAM-1 assay kit as measured by an ELISA plate reader. Cell viability test of isolate compound from ethyl acetate fraction, the concentrations that gave viability percentages above 80% were 10; 5; 2.5 and 1.25 ug/ml. Isolate compound at concentrations of 10, 5, 2.5 and 1.25 ug/ml significantly inhibited TNF-α and ICAM-1 production with p<0.05 (p = 0.000).
Gain and performance in yield and micronutrient concentration in common bean improvement
Authors: Amongi W. , Kato F. , Male A. , Nakyanzi B. , Sebuliba S. , Kabwama A. , Mbiu J. , Williams M. , Baguma G. , Mukankusi C.
Published: November 2022

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a staple and nutritious leguminous food crop for all income categories in Africa. Efforts to improve its yield performance and nutritional components, especially iron and zinc have resulted in release of several varieties in the sub-Sahara African region. The objective of this study was to assess genetic progress in varieties released in 12 African countries through the Pan African Bean Research Alliance (PABRA) from 1973 to 2017, to inform current breeding decisions. A total of 214 released varieties, land races and breeding lines, of bush and climbing beans were evaluated for yield, micronutrient (Fe and Zn) concentration, and phenology in three locations (Kawanda and Kachwekano in Uganda, and Kitengule in Tanzania) in 2017/2018. There were significant differences (P<0.01) among genotypes for all traits, except days to maturity (DPM). Genotype x environment interaction was also significant (P<0.05) for all assessed traits, except for iron in climbing beans. Across environments, repeatability (H2) was greater than 0.50 for all traits, except for DPM in climbing beans. Annual rates of genetic yield gains were 4.41 and 4.57 kg ha-1 for large and small seed bush beans, and -2.74 and 21.6 kg ha-1 for large and small seeded climbers. Similarly, gains in seed iron (FESEED) were 0.40 and 0.17 ppm for bush and climbing beans, respectively. These represented an annual relative gain over the oldest varieties of 0.6 and 0.7% kg ha-1 for yield of large and small seeded bush beans, -0.3 and 1.6% kg ha-1 for yield of large and small seeded climbers, 0.6 and 0.2% ppm for FESEED of bush and climbers. Overall, genetic progress was slow for both yield and FESEED.
Are the communications of African flight attendants a form of slurred speech?
Authors: Negedu Isaiah A. , Sule Peter Echewija
Published: November 2022

Onboard international flights, you may have witnessed the pre-takeoff information/in-flight safety speech by the cabin crew. It is not out of place that they tend to be European in their mode of speaking. However, when on a local flight, the Europeanness of speech still comes out loud. We want to understand why such Europeanised intonation should be and the audience it is meant to serve. Our  research leads us to the conclusion that this insensitivity of local airline operators stems from the desire to enjoy some patronage even if their actions inferiorise the community who are the major patronisers of their services. We will also explain why the Europeanisation of speech could lead to safety hazards. This work is inspired by the personal experiences of the researchers and of a few others.
Dietary Fishmeal Substitution by Peanut-Based Meals in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus L.) : Effect of Pond Water Quality on Biomass Production
Authors: Augustus Apollo Musita , Ogello Erick , Balirwa John Stephen , Bassa Samuel
Published: November 2022

A 16 week experiment was conducted in earthen ponds in Iganga District of Eastern Uganda to investigate the effect of water quality on biomass production in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) fed on peanut-based meals as alternative dietary fishmeal. Iso-nitrogenous diets containing 30% and 25% Crude Protein were applied for the first 12 weeks and last four weeks while the control was a local diet for Nile tilapia of 25% Crude Protein throughout the experiment. Treatments included the fishmeal-based diet and two peanut-based diets; peanut meal-based diet and mixed meal-based diet. Each of the 16 pond units measuring 3.0 x 4.0 x 1.0 were stocked with 48 fish fingerlings of 21.7 grams mean weight. Significant differences (p≤0.05) in mean values occurred among targeted parameters; pH, Dissolved Oxygen, nitrite nitrogen and unionized ammonia with exception to temperature. Apart from the unionized ammonia, the significant variations (p≤0.05) in water quality parameters did not significantly affect (p≥0.05) biomass production because they were maintained in suitable ranges for Nile tilapia.
La familia en la formación de identidad personal del niño y la niña de educación inicial
Authors: Catarí Lennys
Published: November 2022

El presente estudio se ubica bajo un paradigma positivista desde un enfoque cuantitativo apoyado en una investigación de campo con carácter descriptivo, Dicho estudio tiene como propósito analizar el rol de la familia en la formación de identidad personal del niño y la niña de educación inicial de la U.E.E. “Tulio Febres Cordero”. Barquisimeto-Estado Lara. La población está conformada por sesenta (60) padres y representantes del centro de educación inicial antes mencionado. El instrumento fue validado previamente por juicio de expertos, y la confiabilidad se calculó a través de Alpha de Cronbach. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó estadística descriptiva y la interpretación de los se realizó mediante un análisis porcentual y de frecuencia, los resultados obtenidos se registraron en cuadros y gráficos representativos Las conclusiones se elaboraron de acuerdo a los resultados del estudio. La interpretación de los mismos permitió concluir que los padres son los responsables de que el niño desarrolle su identidad, y en ese sentido reconocen ser los encargados del desarrollo sexual, social y cultural de ellos. Pero también se evidencio un importante porcentaje que expreso nunca ante los ítems relacionados a las acciones orientadoras y los estilos de crianza presentados por los padres
Estrategias lúdicas para estimular el desarrollo del lenguaje en niños: Escuela Bàsica Rio Pedro Carbo-Ecuador
Authors: Guerrero María , Páez Ysalisky
Published: November 2022

El presente artículo resume el trabajo de investigación que tuvo como objetivo la realización y difusión de estrategias lúdicas para estimular el lenguaje de niños y niñas de edad preescolar dirigidas a padres y representantes de la escuela básica ¨Rio Pedro¨, en Ecuador. Es una investigación cualitativa, que buscó un diagnóstico y se presentó una propuesta para dar solución, desde la Universidad, atendiendo a la realidad del contexto educativo ecuatoriano. Se utilizó la técnica de entrevista focalizada como medio de recolección de información para llevar a la construcción de la DOFA. Se pudo determinar que el lenguaje, es el medio de interacción de todos los seres humanos, pero muchas veces se presentan dificultades que le impiden al individuo expresarse adecuadamente, es por lo que la presente investigación ante la falta de estímulo por parte de los padres y representantes acerca del lenguaje, pudo proponer una estrategia para que mediante el juego, los padres, puedan ayudar en el desarrollo y crecimiento cognitivo de los niños, comprometiéndose a mejorar las dificultades que pueden llegar a presentar sus hijos en la etapa preescolar. Se presentó mediante taller una serie de juegos sencillos y de fácil elaboración en el hogar y se concluye que los padres pueden ser de gran ayuda en el desarrollo del lenguaje, usando día a día estrategias de juego que incentiven a los niños al aprendizaje.
El cuento como estrategia didáctica para el fortalecimiento del lenguaje oral en los niños de la etapa preescolar
Authors: González Martinez Mónica
Published: November 2022

La presente investigación tiene como propósito implementar un plan de acción basado en el juego como estrategia didáctica para el fortalecimiento del lenguaje oral en los niños y niñas de la etapa preescolar. El estudio está enmarcado en el paradigma crítico, enfoque cualitativo bajo una modalidad de investigación acción de la práctica. Se desarrolló en cuatro momentos: momento I diagnóstico el cual permitió observar las características del lenguaje oral de los niños. Se utilizó como técnicas de recolección la observación participante y las entrevistas no estructuradas para llevar a cabo la fase I: diagnóstico en la que se sometieron las voces a un proceso de triangulación, permitiendo interpretar las necesidades de los niños y niñas con respecto al lenguaje oral y las ideas de los padres y docentes al respecto. La fase II consistió en diseñar las actividades para los niños basados en distintos cuentos seleccionados y creados y un taller para los padres y representantes. En la fase III se ejecutaron las actividades planificadas y para finalizar en el momento IV se evaluaron las evidencias a fin de describir los logros alcanzados. Se concluyó la importancia del lenguaje oral en el desarrollo del niño y cómo este es muchas veces obviado de la planificación del docente. Asimismo, el cuento es una estrategia de impacto en la jornada diaria pues permitió a los niños comentar, anticipar imágenes, contar con la docente y otros aprendizajes vitales para su lenguaje.
Low-Latency and Low-Randomness Second-Order Masked Cubic Functions
Authors: Rezaei Shahmirzadi Aein , Dhooghe Siemen , Moradi Amir
Published: November 2022

Masking schemes are the most popular countermeasure to mitigate Side-Channel Analysis (SCA) attacks. Compared to software, their hardware implementations require certain considerations with respect to physical defaults, such as glitches. To counter this extended leakage effect, the technique known as Threshold Implementation (TI) has proven to be a reliable solution. However, its efficiency, namely the number of shares, is tied to the algebraic degree of the target function. As a result, the application of TI may lead to unaffordable implementation costs. This dependency is relaxed by the successor schemes where the minimum number of d + 1 shares suffice for dth-order protection independent of the function’s algebraic degree. By this, although the number of input shares is reduced, the implementation costs are not necessarily low due to their high demand for fresh randomness. It becomes even more challenging when a joint low-latency and low-randomness cost is desired. In this work, we provide a methodology to realize the second-order glitch-extended probing-secure implementation of cubic functions with three shares while allowing to reuse fresh randomness. This enables us to construct low-latency second-order secure implementations of several popular lightweight block ciphers, including Skinny, Midori, and Prince, with a very limited number of fresh masks. Notably, compared to state-of-the-art equivalent implementations, our designs lower the latency in terms of the number of clock cycles while keeping randomness costs low.
Implementing Research Methods with Confidence: A Review of Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Authors: Shiferaw Robeson , Bogale Addisalem , Debela Kenenisa
Published: November 2022

The authors of this work reviewed Ranjit Kumar’s book entitled Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners (3rd ed.). This book can provide desirable skills for readers regarding writing a successful research project and implementing research methods with confidence. It goes beyond teaching students how to conduct academic qualitative and quantitative research. It can also be adapted to various projects that scholars will encounter throughout their careers.
Infrastructure provision of industrial waste management in the context of the strategy for recovery of the national economy of Ukraine
Authors: Hryhorak Mariia , Zakharchenko Oleh , Harmash Oleh , Trushkina Nataliia , Lunov Lev
Published: November 2022

The article proposes an integrated approach to evaluating the development of the industrial waste management system on the example of the Kyiv region. This approach is based on the application of a set of indicators that characterize the current state of functioning of this system from the ecological and economic points of view. On the basis of the received results of the conducted diagnostics, barriers, threats, ecological principles of functioning of the regional industrial waste management system were identified. As a result of the study, it was proved that for effective infrastructural support of industrial waste management, it is advisable to implement a comprehensive approach, the essence of which is the integration of the principles of transformation of the industrial waste management system, the implementation of the reverse logistics algorithm, the main components of the organizational and economic mechanism (functions, methods, management tools, information systems, digital, “green” and innovative technologies), financial instruments of green investment for the implementation of the regional industrial waste management strategy. The implementation of the proposed integrated approach will contribute to the adoption of justified innovative decisions on the greening of logistics activities and environmental management; timely solution of problems of management of return flows of production waste using the principles of reverse logistics; minimization of the negative impact on the environment by reducing the volume of waste generation, increasing the volume of processing and reuse of industrial waste; effective implementation of circular economy models, transition to expanding producer responsibility; increasing the level of environmental safety of the region and the country; achieving the goals of sustainable development of the national economy. It has been established that in order to improve the industrial waste management system in the region, it is expedient to: introduce the latest technologies and equipment for collection, sorting, transportation, processing and utilization of waste taking into account advanced European practices; promoting the use of waste recycling as secondary raw materials on the basis of “green” investment; development of a financial mechanism for the application of public-private partnership based on attracting private investments and other non-budgetary sources of financing in the field of industrial waste management; creation of an appropriate cluster structure as an organizational form of partnership in the field of industrial waste management; development and implementation of tools for economic stimulation of industrial waste utilization; implementation of the concept of reverse logistics in the context of the green and circular economy.
Logistic approach to the segmentation of the company's customers as a basis for the formation of logistics services
Authors: Karpun Olga , Marchuk Volodymyr
Published: November 2022

The article defines the essence of the logistics customer service concept, as a component of the service process, which makes it possible to ensure the necessary level of the customers’ needs satisfaction, while providing the minimum necessary level of costs and maximizing profit for the company. It was determined that the basis of the formation of logistics customer service is their segmentation or differentiation. A classic logistic approach to the differentiation of customers can be considered their division using ABC-XYZ analysis. At the same time, ABC analysis is usually carried out based on the income brought by clients for a certain period of time, XYZ analysis is carried out according to the stability of relations with the client, that is, according to the number of orders placed by the client during the same period of time. We proposed our own view on the direct process of dividing customers into groups A, B and C, which is based on the calculation of the "jump in share" of customer revenues. The advantage of the proposed approach is that customers with relatively equal importance to the company cannot fall into different categories, and customers with very different values of importance to the company cannot fall into the same category. Another approach to customer differentiation based on customer profitability was also proposed and recommendations for servicing each customer group were made. Thus, the correct segmentation of customers and assessment of the potential of each segment will allow building several different service strategies aimed at increasing the company's profits.
La dirección educacional y su impacto en la calidad del proceso educativo escolar en Chile
Authors: Monje Cristina Andrea Duarte
Published: November 2022

El término  ha sido utilizado desde la existencia de las grandes civilizaciones, para luego ser explorado y definido desde el área empresarial o administrativa, pues se pensaba que todo grupo de personas requería siempre ser dirigido por alguien y, a pesar de que la sociedad ha ido evolucionando, y con ella sus requerimientos para con la educación, aún existen comprensiones similares respecto del concepto. Dichas comprensiones, ya obsoletas, llevan a efectuar prácticas carentes de coherencia y pertinencia al contexto, dando una especie de explicación a muchas de las problemáticas actuales en educación. Así, se postula que al resignificar las comprensiones respecto de la Dirección Educacional y, efectivamente, llevarlas a la práctica cotidiana, existiría una mejora en la calidad del proceso educativo escolar en el contexto chileno actual.
El logro de competencias básicas para la vida laboral
Authors: Tomé José Manuel Salum
Published: November 2022

En el contexto de la Educación Técnica Profesional, la Modalidad Dual ha constituido una apuesta del Ministerio de Educación de Chile para mejorar la formación Técnica Profesional en la Enseñanza Media. El cambio ha involucrado una innovación curricular en torno al desarrollo de competencias básicas donde, además del docente y el aula tradicional, concurren otros agentes y otros escenarios que comparten la labor de enseñar. En este contexto la investigación consignada, de acuerdo a sus objetivos y formulación metodológica, describe las características de la formación Técnico Profesional Dual de la especialidad de Administración del Complejo Educacional Monseñor Guillermo Carlos Hartl de la comuna de Pitrufquén, en Chile. Se pretende indagar la efectividad del currículo integrado a través de la evaluación de logro de las competencias básicas de alumnos/as que cursan el 4° Año Medio de dicha especialidad (con modalidad Dual), en directa relación al perfil de egreso y profesional exigido y en contraste, con la de alumnos de la especialidad de “Electricidad”, sin la Modalidad Dual.
The Usage of a Variety of Languages in WhatsApp Group among Youth
Authors: Ramadhaningrum Putri , Muryati Sri , Wicaksana Muhlis Fajar
Published: November 2022

This research aims at describing the form of slang based on changes in the sound structure of the language and the form of vocabulary as well as the types of meaning and function of vocabulary used in the WhatsApp group of teenagers in Sanggrahan village, Sukoharjo regency. The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative. Data was collected by means of screenshots of conversations in the Sanggrahan Youth Whatsapp group, and recorded the slang vocabulary that the respondents used. Methods of data analysis using distribution techniques. This research found the usage of 56 slang vocabulary words. The findings are (1) there are two changes in the form of slang (phonological and morphological structure); (2) the denotative meaning is more dominant, and (3) the functional variations in the use of slang vocabulary (knowing the speaker's feelings, the attitude of the interlocutor, the context of speech, and just contact with other people).
Improving Exposition Writing Ability Using Think-Talk-Write Strategy for Class X Vocational High School Students
Authors: Sulistyaningsih Emerita Beti Sri
Published: November 2022

There are many obstacles in learning to write expository texts in vocational high schools. This happens because teachers still use conventional learning strategies. The researcher used a qualitative descriptive method of classroom action research (CAR). The results of the exposition text writing test in the first cycle showed an average value of 79.25 and in the second cycle an average of 83.22. From these results, it can be seen that the increase in students' skills in writing expository texts from cycle I to cycle II is 3.97 points or 12.03%. In addition to improving skills, student behavior also changes in a more positive direction after learning to write expository texts using the Think-Talk-Write strategy.
Sentiment Analysis of the Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Students and College Students through Twitter Social Media
Authors: Khairunisa Yuyun
Published: November 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact on adjusting the implementation of economic and social activities as well as education by prioritizing public safety and health, including students. The purpose of this research was to obtain the results of sentiment analysis on the impact of the pandemic on students by extracting opinions in the form of text on Twitter social media. The benefit of the results of the sentiment analysis is that solutions can be found for those affected by the pandemic. The method used in sentiment analysis consists of 5 stages, namely data collection, text preparation, sentiment detection, sentiment classification, and output analysis. The research results stated that negative sentiment was the largest sentiment, namely 88%, followed by positive sentiment as much as 6% and neutral sentiment as much as 5.3%.
Communication Patterns in Editorial Management at ITB Press Bandung
Authors: Gumilar Gun Gun Waldi , Wibowo Sulistiyo , Andrian Andrian
Published: November 2022

This research aims to determine the effectiveness of implementing communication patterns in editorial management at ITB Press, a university book publisher within the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB). Using descriptive writing, the researchers describe the editorial management communication pattern at ITB Press. Based on observations of the work steps carried out at ITB Press, it is proven that all manuscripts are monitored for their existence, complete with authors and the status of the publishing work process at the time of recording. The conclusion is that the editorial management communication pattern carried out at ITB Press has been running effectively as expected. However, ITB Press should continue to develop, improve, and perfect the system, if necessary, in accordance with the demands of the times and technology, to make all of its work more effective.
Get “Real” with Hysteroscopy Using the Pig Bladder: A “Uterine” Model for Hysteroscopy Training
Authors: Ng Ying Woo , Fong Yoke Fai
Published: November 2022

Introduction: This study aimed to develop a realistic and lifelike uterine model for the training of hysteroscopy skills. Materials and Methods: A lifelike “uterine” model was constructed using female pig bladder. The pig bladder was enclosed within a malleable mould, with both ureters blocked by pins. Both rigid and flexible hysteroscopes were used in this study. Results: Basic diagnostic hysteroscopy can be performed in the usual fashion using this lifelike model. The cost of each learning station is minimal. Pig bladder accurately simulates the human uterus with its realistic tactile feel, and conditions in the surgical environment, including obscuration of vision by debris, uterine “folds”, realistic “ostia”, incomplete shearing of tissue, “uterine” perforation, etc. Conclusion: This low-cost novel model provides realistic tissue resistance and yields an almost anatomically accurate hysteroscopic training tool, thereby allowing trainees to effectively acquire both diagnostic and therapeutic hysteroscopic skills.

Key words: Hysteroscopy, Pig bladder, Resection, Simulation, Surgical skills, Training model
Cognitive Aspect of Diagnostic Errors
Authors: Phua Dong Haur , Tan Nigel CK
Published: November 2022

Diagnostic errors can result in tangible harm to patients. Despite our advances in medicine, the mental processes required to make a diagnosis exhibits shortcomings, causing diagnostic errors. Cognitive factors are found to be an important cause of diagnostic errors. With new understanding from psychology and social sciences, clinical medicine is now beginning to appreciate that our clinical reasoning can take the form of analytical reasoning or heuristics. Different factors like cognitive biases and affective influences can also impel unwary clinicians to make diagnostic errors. Various strategies have been proposed to reduce the effect of cognitive biases and affective influences when clinicians make diagnoses; however evidence for the efficacy of these methods is still sparse. This paper aims to introduce the reader to the cognitive aspect of diagnostic errors, in the hope that clinicians can use this knowledge to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

Keywords: Affective influence, Analytical, Diagnostic errors, Heuristics, Reflective practice
Is Cost-Effective Healthcare Compatible with Publicly Financed Academic Medical Centres?
Authors: Chia Whay Kuang , Toh Han Chong
Published: November 2022

Probably more than any country, Singapore has made significant investment into the biomedical enterprise as a proportion of its economy and size. This focus recently witnessed a shift towards a greater emphasis on translational and clinical development. Key to the realisation of this strategy will be Academic Medical Centres (AMCs), as a principal tool to developing and applying useful products for the market and further improving health outcomes. Here, we explore the principal value proposition of the AMC to Singapore society and its healthcare system. We question if the values inherent within academic medicine —that of inquiry, innovation, pedagogy and clinical exceptionalism—can be compatible with the seemingly paradoxical mandate of providing cost-effective or rationed healthcare.

Key words: Academic Medical Centre, Cost-effective healthcare
Short- and Long-Term Outcomes at 2, 5 and 8 Years Old for Neonates at Borderline Viability—An 11-Year Experience
Authors: Poon Woei Bing , Ho Selina KY , Yeo Cheo Lian
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Neurodevelopmental outcome of borderline viability neonates have lagged behind improvement in survival figures. Accurate figures based on local outcome allow us to better counsel parents and to prognosticate with greater accuracy on both short- and long-term outcomes. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 101 consecutively born neonates, born from 21 to 26 weeks gestation over an 11-year period from 1 January 1994 to 31 December 2005 was conducted. Long-term outcomes were assessed at 2, 5 and 8 years of age in terms of mental developmental index (MDI) or intelligence quotient (IQ) scores, hearing and visual impairments, handicaps and impairments, school placement and interventions required. Results: Survival rates were 20.0%, 60.9%, 70.4% and 73.2% for neonates born at 21 to 23, 24, 25 and 26 weeks gestation respectively. Factors that predicted increased mortality included higher alveolar-arterial oxygen difference (AaDO2) with odds ratio (OR) 1.005 and lower birth weight OR 0.993. Rates of severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) (stage 3 or worse) were 100%, 57.1%, 42.1% and 26.7% for 21 to 23, 24, 25 and 26 weeks gestation respectively. Rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) were 100.0%, 57.1%, 63.2% and 60.0% respectively. Rates of severe intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) were 0%, 7.1%, 5.3% and 10.0% respectively. Moderate to severe disability rates at 2 years old were 100%, 44.4%, 33.3% and 30.4% respectively. At 5 years old, moderate to severe disability rates were 16.7%, 22.2% and 14.3% respectively for those born at 24, 25 and 26 weeks gestation. Interpretation at 8 years was limited by small numbers. Conclusion: Our results indicated that local figures for mortality and morbidity remained high at the limits of viability, although they were comparable to outcomes for large scale studies in advanced countries. Key words: Borderline viability, Extremely low birth weight (ELBW), Extremely low gestational age, Neurodevelopmental outcomes, Very low birth weight (VLBW)
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Chinese Preschoolers in Singapore
Authors: Pwint Mar Khin , Lee Yung Seng , Wong Teck Yee , Saw Seang Mei
Published: November 2022

Introduction: This study examines the prevalence of overweight and obesity in 6- to 72-month-old Chinese preschoolers in Singapore using 3 references. Materials and Methods: This was a population-based cross-sectional study of 3009 Chinese preschoolers aged 6 to 72 months from southwestern and western parts of Singapore. Overweight and obesity were defi ned by using the Center for Disease Control (CDC) (85th and 95th percentile, respectively), the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) and the local National Health Group Polyclinics (NHGP), Singapore (90th and 97th percentile, respectively) references. Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity in 24 to 72 months old Chinese children were 8.1% and 7.1% (the CDC reference), 7.6% and 3.9% (the IOTF reference) and 7.5% and 5.3% (the local reference [NHGP]) respectively. For preschoolers aged 6 to 72 months, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 7.0% and 5.3%, respectively, using the local reference. An increasing trend in the prevalence of obesity with increasing age was seen in both genders, using the CDC and IOTF references (P ≤0.001 and 0.001, respectively). The boys were more likely to be obese than the girls using the CDC reference (OR = 1.42, 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.97, P = 0.03). Conclusion: Our study showed a lower prevalence of overweight and obesity among Chinese preschoolers in Singapore when compared to other countries like the United States, Italy, Chile using the CDC and/or IOTF references. The CDC reference overestimated whereas the IOTF reference underestimated the prevalence of overweight and obesity for our population when compared to using the local NHGP reference.

Key words: CDC, Cross-sectional, IOTF, Population-based
Height and Mental Health and Health Utility Among Ethnic Chinese in a Polyclinic Sample in Singapore
Authors: Cheung Yin Bun , Wee Hwee Lin , Luo Nan , Tan Chee Beng , Fong Kok Yong , Thumboo Julian
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Whether final height is associated with quality of life and mental health is a matter of epidemiological and medical concern. Both social and biological explanations have been previously proposed. This study aims to assess the associations in ethnic Chinese in Singapore. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 4414 respondents aged at least 21 years seen at a major polyclinic was performed. Socioeconomic and behavioural features of the sample and the Singapore population of similar ages were comparable. Height was measured by clinic nurses using an ultrasonic height senor. Participants were interviewed for socioeconomic, behavioural, health and quality of life information. Clinical morbidity data was collected from the participants’ treating physicians. The SF-6D utility index and its Mental Health domain were the main endpoints. Linear and ordinal logistic regression models were used to analyse the utility index and the Mental Health scores, respectively. Results: Having adjusted for age and gender, the Mental Health domain (P <0.01) was associated with height but the utility index was not. Further adjustment for health, socioeconomic and behavioural covariates made little difference. Analyses based on height categories showed similar trends. Conclusion: Adult height has a positive association with mental health as measured by the SF-6D among ethnic Chinese in Singapore. Socioeconomic status and known physical health problems do not explain this association. Adult height had no association with SF-6D utility index scores.

Key words: Depression, Growth, Height, Health utility, Mental health, Social inequality
Comparison of Growth Parameters of 5-year-old Singleton Children Born in Assisted Versus Natural Conception
Authors: Fallah Razieh , Jalalian Mohammad Taghi , Golestan Motahhareh , Dehghani-Firouzabadi Razieh
Published: November 2022

Introduction: At present, about 1% of newborns are delivered through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the growth parameters of children born in assisted and natural conception at 5 years of age. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional case control study, weight, height and head circumference of 5-year old children were assessed. The case group consisted of term, singleton babies who were products of ART in the Center for Infertility of Shahid Sadoughi University, Yazd, Iran in 2005. The control group consisted of term, first child, singleton and spontaneously conceived 5-year-old children who were referred for vaccination to primary health care center of Shahid Akbari in 2010. Results: Fifty-eight girls (47.5%) and 64 boys (52.5%) “with equal numbers in each of the 2 groups” were evaluated. Sex distribution, mean ages of fathers and mothers were not statistically significant different in both groups. Children born after ART tend to have lower birth weight, smaller birth head circumference and lower weight at 5 years of age. Having low birth weight (<2500 g), being underweight and having short stature at the age of 5 were more common in babies born through ART. Conclusion: Growth retardation is more prevalent in babies born through ART. Thus, growth assessment, parents’ knowledge about child physical development, and timely and accurate follow-up of these children are necessary for early detection of any growth disorders.

Key words: ART, Growth, Height, Natural Conception, Weight
BEYOND RELIGION AND ETHNICITY: Sit-At-Home and Freedom Agitations among the IGBO in South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Ezewudo Ugochukwu Obumneme , Ukwuoma Ikeagwuchi Ikechukwua , Uroko Favour Chukwuemeka
Published: November 2022

The concept of "sit-at-home" is a recent term used by freedom agitators, particularly of Igbo extraction, to get the attention of the Nigerian government to grant sovereignty to the Indigenous people of Biafra. It is also a concept that challenges the authority of the government while asking it to end marginalisation and to release the leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, who was arrested and is presently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Sit-at-Home, particularly in Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Abia, and Ebonyi (South-Eastern states of Nigeria), has been given socio-political interpretation. Generally, politics is supposed to be the machinery for resolving conflict and governing the people sincerely. Unfortunately, it has become an agent of disunity in the Nigerian state. This has led to several agitations in the past, but they are more vocal in present times. The agitations for freedom have often triggered violence and conflict between the government and the freedom agitators, given room for the marginalisation of certain regions, and consequently proved Nigeria's government's inability to decide on behalf of the governed. The methodology used in the study is a qualitative phenomenological method. The study examines the challenges and implications of the concept for the socio-economic, socio-political, socio-cultural, and socio-religious lives of the people of southeastern Nigeria. The paper observes that this face-off could be resolved if the needs of the Igbo were critically examined and attained. The paper calls on the government to organise a dialogue and a referendum in order to end the menace in the South-Eastern region.
The killing fields of Matabeleland: An examination of the Gukurahundi genocide in Zimbabwe
Authors: Malunga Siphosami
Published: November 2022

This article examines the Gukurahundi atrocities committed in Matabeleland in the 1980s to determine whether they constitute the international crime of genocide. This article analyses the legal requirements – conventions, jurisprudence and scholarly writings regarding genocide – and assesses the Gukurahundi atrocities against these requirements. The first section is the introduction, which highlights some known genocides in history and provides an outline of the article. The second section comprises an overview of the crime of genocide and its prosecution before the ad hoc tribunals, while the third section unpacks the notion of the four protected membership groups. The fourth and fifth sections evaluates the physical and mental elements of the crime of genocide with the aid of the jurisprudence of the ad hoc tribunals as well as the International Criminal Court. The sixth, seventh and eighth sections apply the legal requirements and jurisprudence to the Gukurahundi atrocities. The ninth section provides some concluding observations, arguing that the Fifth Brigade of the Zimbabwe National Army committed genocide from 1983 to 1987 as envisaged under international law. In each section, the Gukurahundi atrocities are evaluated against legal requirements: conventions, jurisprudence and the work of leading scholars.
Reparations without reparation: A critique of the Germany–Namibia Accord on colonial genocide
Authors: Namakula Catherine S
Published: November 2022

Reparation is meant for effect: to make amends. The offer of EUR 1,100 million by the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Namibia, in an agreement of June 2021, for the genocide committed during the colonial-era occupation encourages debate about the categorisation and effect of the payment in the fields of human rights and international criminal justice. The genocide was characterised by the loss of the lives of thousands of people among the Nama and Herero of Namibia between 1904 and 1908. In a pioneering analysis, this article reiterates the principles of reparation in international criminal jurisprudence as a yardstick for this significant gesture of remorse. Reparations must meet both procedural and substantive requirements: they must be proportional, appropriate, prompt and adequate, and they must culminate from a process that ensures the meaningful participation of victims and judicious regard for all relevant factors and circumstances. Reparations for the sake of it, without the remedial effect, make a mockery of justice. An agreement for development aid, however generous, cannot meet the standards of reparation for gross human rights violations. It does not oust the jurisdiction of a competent court on the matter and the pre-emptive clause intended to make the financial component in the Germany–Namibia Accord conclusive is unenforceable. This significant discourse must be guided by clearly set standards to avoid replicating the power dynamics which characterised the commission of the crimes that are intended to be addressed. Furthermore, the distinct treatment of victims on the basis of race and colonial history is repugnant and not defensible. A formidable institutional framework is needed for reparations for the trans-Atlantic trade and trafficking in enslaved Africans and colonial crimes, comprising a United Nations independent mechanism and a specialised committee of the African Union, supported by national committees of the respective countries.
The use of universal jurisdiction to ensure accountability for international crimes committed in Liberia in the periods 1989 to 1997 and 1999 to 2003
Authors: Bosch Shannon
Published: November 2022

This article investigates the potential for using the principle of universal jurisdiction to prescribe and then prosecute international crimes committed in Liberia during the two civil conflict periods: 1989 to 1997 and 1999 to 2003. More particularly, the article unpacks the concept of universal jurisdiction and explores the benefits that it offers in ending impunity for heinous international crimes. The article explores some of the controversies that have prevented the effective use of the principle of universal jurisdiction and highlights why it remains relevant, given the current response by the African Union to international prosecutions. The article highlights the reason why cases such as Kosiah and Massaquoi are especially significant in ending impunity in the case of Liberia, and how the success or failure of such cases can have a ripple effect, creating the necessary pressure for the establishment of an Extraordinary Criminal Court for Liberia on Liberian soil.