bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Positive Regulation of Osteoblast Proliferation and Differentiation in MC3T3- E1 Cells by 7,3′,4′-Trimethoxyflavone
Authors: Fayyaz Sharmeen , tul-Wahab Atia , Taj Bushra , Iqbal Choudhary M. 
Published: July 2024

Objectives:
Increasing ratio of bone fragility, and susceptibility to fractures constitutes a major health problem worldwide. Therefore, we aimed to identify new
compounds with a potential to increase proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts.

Methods:
Cellular and molecular assays, such as ALP activity, alizarin staining, and flow cytometry were employed to check the effect of TMF on
osteogenesis. Moreover, gene expression analysis of certain important genes and transcriptional factors was also performed.

Results:
Our findings report for the first time that 7,3′,4′-trimethoxyflavone is capable of enhancing proliferation, and differentiation in osteoblast cells.
Results from flow cytometry analysis also indicated that TMF increases the number of cells in S-phase. Furthermore, treatment with TMF altered
the expression of osteogenic genes, OCN and Axin-2 indicating possible activation of Wnt signaling pathway.

Conclusion:
Taken together, this study identified that 7,3′,4′-trimethoxyflavone has the potential to enhance osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, possibly
due to the activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Thus, demonstrating TMF as naturally occurring agent to promote osteogenesis and prevention of
bone fragility, and related disorders.
Study on the Targeting and Practical Path of Cultivating Young Cadres in the Party in the New Era
Authors: Niu Zhiwei 
Published: July 2024

The General Secretary has gradually formed a complete theoretical system for cultivating young cadres in the course of long-term observation and reflection, the most important of which is the goal-oriented theory that puts forward clear requirements for young cadres and the specific path and methodology formed through the efforts of party organisations and young cadres, which is a rich and comprehensive theory.The goal of cultivation is a guide for the cultivation of young cadres in the new era, pointing out the direction for the Marxist party to cultivate young cadres. The General Secretary has repeatedly mentioned the standards of good cadres, which include core standards, selection standards, competence standards and service standards. As to how to achieve the cultivation goals, the General Secretary has put forward a number of practical paths encompassing both organizational cultivation and personal struggle. These contents both reflect a lineage and realize breakthrough innovations, making great contributions to the promotion of young cadres' cultivation within the Party in the new era.
Supplying the Lithuanian Army with Weapons in War Against Bolsheviks and Bermondt-Avalov Formations in 1919 at the Clash of Interests Between the Entente and Germany
Authors: Kilinskas Kestutis 
Published: July 2024

Western political, social and economic support to Ukraine in face of Russian aggression has aroused discussion and actualized historical episodes of weapons supply and military assistance. Historical analysis of weapons supply during military conflicts and wars in the past provides a good opportunity to become more familiar with the problem and may give fruitful insights for understanding this phenomenon in its broader sense. After the collapse of Russian Empire and after the end of the World War I Lithuania fought in wars for independence, and received military assistance consisting of weapons, ammunition, clothes, and food from the two opposing parties and former enemies – Allies and Germany.In the current article, the author analyses the question of the weapons supply to Lithuania through the lens of foreign policy interests of England, France and Germany, and explores to what extent the supply of weapons depends on overlapping foreign policy interests of both appealing and providing country. During the War of Independence, Germany supplied armaments, when it needed to stop Bolsheviks and to counterweigh the influence of Poland in Lithuania, but refused to do that when Lithuania intended to promote its own foreign policy interests to capture Vilnius in 1919. The same happened with Allies, who refused to supply weapons to Lithuania despite its appeals in the first half of 1919, meanwhile, Lithuania received weapons from the Entente when it faced direct threat from the remaining units of German Army, which also became dangerous for the vital interests of France and England in Baltics.
Lady Muriel Paget’s Mission to Daugavpils (Part I)
Authors: Swain Geoffrey 
Published: July 2024

In February 1920, Lady Muriel Paget established a children’s hospital in Daugavpils. It was the start of a relief Mission which operated until the autumn of 1922, taking the form eventually of infant welfare clinics and feeding kitchens. From the start of 1921, this Mission was broadened to include Riga and, ultimately, Tallinn and Kaunas; but the core of the operation remained Daugavpils. This article explores the centrality of Daugavpils to the work of the Mission, the evolution of Lady Muriel’s ambitions, and the often fraught relationship with her chief funder, the Save the Children Fund (SCF).The article is published in two parts. Part I discusses the origins of the Mission in Lady Muriel’s concern to gain access to northern Russia, and the debate about the nature of the Mission – whether to concentrate on a single hospital or to broaden the reach of the Mission through a network of welfare clinics and feeding kitchens, issues finally resolved by Lady Muriel’s own dramatic visit to Daugavpils in October 1920. Part Two considers the evolution of the Mission in 1921–22, once the support of the SCF had been obtained for an endeavour focused on the Baltic states rather than Daugavpils alone. It focuses on the difficult relationship between the Mission and its chief supporter, the SCF, and differing understandings of the nature of relief work. The SCF cut funding for the Mission on the grounds that the situation in the Baltic states was no longer an emergency. However, it did agree to some additional funding after the Daugavpils flood of April 1922.
Grigore Niculescu-Buzești, Chargé d'Affaires of Romania in Riga During the Years Fateful for the Baltic States, 1939–1940
Authors: Schipor Bogdan-Alexandru 
Published: July 2024

In the case of the mandate that Grigore Niculescu-Buzești (1908–1949) fulfilled in the Latvian capital, attention is captivated, from the very beginning, by his numerous reports and analysis carried out by the Romanian diplomat. A careful and detailed study of the telegrams he sent to Bucharest from the Baltic capital can reveal to anyone, on the one hand, the concerns, fears, tensions and hopes of the authorities in Riga, as well as of Latvian society, in the context of the Soviet-German pact of 23 August 1939, of the outbreak of the war and the relationship with the Soviet Union, and on the other hand, – the mechanisms of Moscow’s aggression that led to the annexation of the Baltic countries in June 1940. Until the summer of 1940, the Romanian diplomat sent numerous telegrams to Bucharest, in which the stages of the annexation can be captured clearly and precisely. The number of documents and the amount of information reveal Bucharest’s high interest regarding the events in the Baltic states at that time. Thus, the author can trace the impact and relevance of his information and analysis in a tragic context, marked by tensions and convulsions throughout Europe. Moreover, Niculescu-Buzeștis experience as Romani’s chargé daffaires in Riga deeply marked the future Romanian minister of foreign affairs.
Analysis productivity of the mine facility department using the objective matrix method (OMAX): case study in coal mining company
Authors: Tahir Ade Putra , Gunawan Suwardi , Pawitra Theresia Amelia 
Published: July 2024

PT Kideco Jaya Agung is one of the coal mining companies in Paser Regency, East Kalimantan, using an open pit mining system which at the end of 2012 succeeded in realizing the production, transportation, shipping target of 34 million tons. Coal mining is carried out using excavating equipment and hauling equipment. Activities begin with land clearing using bulldozers and / or small excavators, blasting overburden and / or removal of overburden, cleaning coal, loading and transporting coal to the ROM Stockpile. Throughout 2021 there has been a decrease in production results, it is necessary to analyze the productivity of the company's performance, which in this case leads to the Mine Facility department because it is directly related to production. The need to analyze productivity measurements so that it can be seen whether the Mine Facility department in this company is productive or not. The productivity measurement method that can be used to solve the problem is Objective Matrix (OMAX), because the OMAX productivity measurement model overcomes the problems of complexity and difficulty of productivity measurement by combining all important productivity criteria into an integrated form and interrelated with each other and easy to combine.
Pelatihan Penggunaan Aplikasi Point Of Sales (POS) Pada Toko Plastik di Bumdes Desa Ngarum
Authors: Utomo Ihsan Cahyo , Priyawati Diah , Abas Novel Idris , Ummah Khanun Roisatul , Riani Lencia Putri Septa , Rokhmah Siti 
Published: July 2024

Toko plastik di BUMDES merupakan unit usaha yang dikelola oleh desa Ngarum. transaksi jual beli di Toko plastik BUMDES terjadi setiap hari dengan jumlah yang relatif banyak. Selama ini, transaksi jual beli masih dilaksakan secara manual dengan menulis pada nota kertas. Agar proses transaksi jual beli berjalan dengan lancer dan efektif, Toko Plastik BUMDES sudah mengembangkan aplikasi penjualan berbasis website. namun dengan penerapan aplikasi tersebut, timbul permasalahan dalam pengoprasian, hal tersebut dikarenakan karena pegawai toko plastik BUMDES belum menguasai secara teknis penggunaan dan pengoperasian aplikasi tersebut, sehingga diperlukan adanya pelatihan dalam pengoperasian dan penggunaan aplikasi penjualan agar dapat berjalan efektif dan efisien, sehingga aplikasi dapat dimanfaatkan secara optimal. Pengabdian masyarakat ini bertujuan memberikan bekal dan ketrampilan bagi pegawai toko plastik BUMDES agar aplikasi penjualan yang telah tersedia dapat dimanfaatkan secara optimal. Kegiatan pelatihan meliputi pelatihan input data barang hingga pembuatan laporan dan nota serta penanganan trouble shooting aplikasi serta pengelolaan hosting dan domain website. dengan adanya pelatihan ini diharapkan dapat mengoptimalkan penggunaan aplikasi sehingga dapat membantu mempermudah pengelolaan barang pada toko plastik BUMDES di Desa Ngarum.
Perancangan Website Unit Kegiatan Mahasiswa Pencak Silat Universitas AMIKOM Yogyakarta dengan Metode User Interface dan User Experience
Authors: Ellysabeth Fania , Andriani Ria , Sari Reni Marfita , Syadiah Lailatul 
Published: July 2024

Pencak silat adalah satu dari sekian banyak cabang seni beladiri asli tanah air Indonesia yang harus dilestarikan, cabang bela diri ini juga termasuk olahraga peninggalan leluhur. Silat ialah olahraga beladiri yang memerlukan konsentrasi penuh. Budaya dari Negara tirai bambu juga mempengaruhi seni bela diri ini. Tidak hanya budaya dari nagara tersebut, pencak silat juga dipengaruhi beberapa agama, yaitu agama Hindu, Budha dan Islam. UKM Pencak Silat AMIKOM berada dibawah naungan Universitas AMIKOM Yogyakarta.Didirikannya kegiatan Pencak silat di AMIKOM bertujuan untuk mendidik manusia tahu benar dan salah serta menggali potensi dan mengembangkan bakat, khususnnya mahasiswa dan lingkungan sekitar Universitas AMIKOM Yogyakarta pada bidang ke atlitan. Salah satu masalah yang dialami pengurus dari organisasi Pencak Silat yaitu cara untuk mensosialisasikan dan memperkenalkan kegiatan Pencak silat pada mahasiswa AMIKOM maupun masyarakat luas. Dari permasalahan tersebut dampak yang paling terlihat yaitu minimnya anggota organisasi Pencak Silat Universitas AMIKOM Yoyakarta, sehingga sistem informasi dslsm Unit Kegiatan Mahasiswa Pencak silat AMIKOM sangat dibutuhkan. Agar mempermudah mahasiswa dan masyarakat luas untuk mendapatkan informasi mengenai UKM Pencak Silat yang ada di Universitas AMIKOM Yogyakarta. Untuk mendukung sistem informasi ini, kami menggunakan User Interfce (UI) yang digunakan sebagai desain antarmuka dan juga dibarengi dengan User Experience untuk memberikan pengalaman pengguna saat menggunakan sistem informasi yang kami rancang.
Auditor-Firm Conflict: Theoretical Concepts Application and Analysis of the Power Dynamics Involved
Authors: Eferakeya Idowu 
Published: July 2024

This study undertakes a theoretical analysis of the auditor-firm conflict. It relied on the review of literature methodology contextualized on auditor’s appointment , firm economic pressure , management bargaining power, auditor’s fear of losing a firm, firm’s management economic power over the auditor, auditor’s personal attributes and moral reasoning, auditor’s tenure, audit fees, audit market competitiveness, non-audit services, audit firm size and the firm’s financial condition. The study relied on Goldman and Barlev model, exchange and dependency theories to explain the likely power positions in the auditor-firm relationship. Deductively the study based on the contexts indicated the presence of an asymmetry power structure where the auditor and firm have low and high power positions. The study however, proffered resolution measures such as reputational and litigation costs; strengthening of audit committees; control over auditor’s appointment and remuneration; effective discipline of firms and auditors and strong enforcement of standards. The measures can curtail the auditor’s and firm actions in reducing violation of auditing standards; improving auditor’s independence, reduce the firm’s pressure on the auditor and bring about balance of power positions. The paper has implications for understanding the auditor-firm conflict situation and provides opportunities for strengthening audit policy and audit standards development.
CONVERSATIONS WITH MAHATHIR MOHAMAD (GIANTS OF ASIA SERIES) DR M: OPERATION MALAYSIA BY TOM PLATE, MARSHALL CAVENDISH, 2012. ISBN: 9789814276634
Authors: Razali Nurul Aimi , Sabtu Muhamad Helmy 
Published: July 2024

Conversations with Mahathir Mohamad: Doctor M: Operation Malaysia by Tom Plate tells the experience of Mahathir Mohamad as a Malaysian Prime Minister with a superior legacy of his own, especially during his reign of power between 1981 to 2003. The book contains Plate’s detailed retelling of his experience interviewing Mahathir, besides reviewing the answers Mahathir provided on the issues surrounding his leadership. The combination of these two elements is the background that underlies the book’s narration. The contents are constructed by emphasising Plate’s critical perspectives as a former journalist from the West and a current professor at the Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, towards third-world country leaders who are often associated with autocratic and dictatorial leadership and the answers from the main character himself, Mahathir, as a third world country leader who considered himself as purporting accustomed democratic style which was well-tailored to be implemented to Malaysians and the country due to its historical background and at that time – timely needed. Through this book, Mahathir has attested that he was a leader who had established the nation’s industrial infrastructure and brought its name to the attention of the world. However, along the line, as he was too focused and had driven solely by the ambition, he has single-handedly tightened and degraded the country’s institutions with somewhat – oppressive with authoritarian manner. Beyond recall, the book presents readers with fresh insights and viewpoints regarding Mahathir’s leadership, which is often fraught with controversies.
Keywords: Mahathir Mohamad, prime minister, modernisation, leadership, autocratic.

Cite as: Razali, N. A., & Sabtu, M. H. (2024). Conversations with Mahathir Mohamad (Giants of Asia series) Dr M: Operation Malaysia by Tom Plate. (Book review). Journal of Nusantara Studies, 9(2), 34-39. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol9iss2pp34-39
DEMOTIVATION IN MANDARIN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE AMONG MALAYSIAN TERTIARY STUDENTS
Authors: Paee Rokiah , Chee Lam Kai , Ling Kuan Wee , Kopli Najwa Hanani 
Published: July 2024

Background and Purpose: Demotivation has been acknowledged as a significant factor in the decrease of student enrolment and the increase in student attrition rates within the domain of Mandarin as a foreign language (MFL) learning. This study seeks to identify the causes of demotivation among learners of MFL at a public tertiary institution in Malaysia.

Methodology: The study's sample consisted of 72 undergraduate students enrolled in an introductory-level MFL elective course. Data were collected using online questionnaires at the end of the academic semester. The online questionnaire consisted of two sections: the first focused on the demographic information of the participants, and the second contained open-ended questions. Participants were asked to characterize the learning experience that (1) negatively impacted their motivation and (2) caused them to feel frustrated or want to quit their MFL studies. The data was subjected to thematic analysis, and the themes from the responses were identified and categorized.

Findings: The factors that contribute to demotivation can be classified into two categories: internal and external. Internal categories include psychological states such as anxiety and boredom. In contrast, external categories include test performance, course content, workload, and significant others (teachers and peers). External factors, particularly test performance, course content, and workload, have a greater impact on the demotivation of MFL learners compared to internal factors. The most frequently cited factor is test performance, primarily due to the difficulty of learning course content, particularly Chinese characters. One-third of the students in this study spent more than three hours per week on MFL learning outside of class. However, many students struggle to manage their Mandarin study time due to other academic or extracurricular obligations.

Contributions: The current research offers additional insights into the nature and characteristics of demotivation in foreign language learning, specifically among non-native Mandarin learners with little or no prior knowledge, in the context of MFL as an elective course.

Keywords: Demotivation, LOTE, Mandarin as a foreign language, Malaysian tertiary institution, elective.

Cite as: Paee, R., Lam, K. C, Kuan, W. L, & Kopli, N. H. (2024). Demotivation in Mandarin as a foreign language among Malaysian tertiary students. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 9(2), 40-56. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol9iss2pp40-56
THE DIGITALIZATION OF DIPLOMACY MATURITY MODEL (DD-MM): A NEW MODEL FOR OPTIMIZING DIPLOMATIC DIGITALIZATION
Authors: Baykız Tekin , Açıkalın Şuay Nilhan 
Published: July 2024

This paper introduces the Digitalization of Diplomacy Maturity Model (DD-MM), a comprehensive framework designed to assess and enhance the digital capabilities of diplomatic institutions. The DD-MM encompasses four critical dimensions: people, digital visibility, technology and security, and policies, providing a structured approach to evaluate and advance the maturity of digital diplomacy practices. In the people dimension, the model emphasizes role definitions, change management, and specialized training programs, highlighting the need for diplomats to acquire digital literacy and competency. The digital visibility dimension focuses on the strategic use of social media and other online platforms to enhance a nation's presence and influence in the digital sphere, emphasizing engagement with a global audience and proactive digital communications management. The technology and security dimension addresses ICT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data management, advocating for the adoption of state-of-the-art technologies to support diplomatic activities and ensure the security of sensitive information. The policies dimension underscores the necessity for clear guidelines and regulatory frameworks to govern the use of digital tools in diplomacy, including the formulation of policies that align with international standards and promote ethical practices. The DD-MM outlines a clear pathway for continuous improvement, guiding institutions from the initial stages of digital integration to advanced levels of optimization and strategic alignment.
Keywords: Digitalization of diplomacy, maturity model, model development, digital public diplomacy.

Cite as: Baykız, T., & Açıkalın, Ş. N. (2024). The digitalization of diplomacy maturity model (DD-MM): A new model for optimizing diplomatic digitalization. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 9(2), 441-473. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol9iss2pp441-473
EXPLORING THE INTERWOVEN THEMES OF GENDER DYNAMICS AND SOCIETAL CHALLENGES IN KHALED HOSSEINI'S A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Alqaryouti Marwan Harb 
Published: July 2024

Background and Purpose: This study delves into the portrayal of gender equality and women's empowerment in Khaled Hosseini's novel, A Thousand Splendid Suns, within the context of Afghan society. Recognizing the significance of literature as a mirror reflecting societal realities, this research aims to explore the multifaceted experiences of female protagonists navigating oppressive patriarchal structures and uncover the complexities of gender inequality and women's agency depicted in the novel.

Methodology: Employing thematic analysis, I conducted an in-depth examination of character dynamics, societal norms, and narrative elements present in A Thousand Splendid Suns. Through a systematic exploration of themes and patterns within the text, the study elucidates the nuanced complexities of gender discrimination and women's resilience in the face of adversity. Data collection involves close reading and interpretation of the novel, supplemented by theoretical engagement with relevant literature on gender studies and Afghan society. The qualitative approach allows for a rich exploration of the experiences and perspectives of female characters within the narrative context.

Findings: The findings of the analysis illuminate the pervasive discrimination, violence, and systemic oppression faced by Afghan women as depicted in the novel. Characters like Mariam and Laila exemplify the intersectionality of gender with other axes of oppression, such as class and ethnicity, highlighting the interconnected nature of social hierarchies. Despite the challenges they face, female characters demonstrate resilience and determination in challenging societal norms and asserting their autonomy. The narrative underscores the transformative power of education as a catalyst for women's empowerment, inspiring others to advocate for systemic change and justice.

Contributions: This study contributes to a deeper understanding of gender dynamics and societal challenges prevalent in Afghan culture by scrutinizing the complexities of gender portrayal in literature. By shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of female characters, the research underscores the importance of promoting gender equality and women's empowerment as fundamental principles of social justice and human rights. Ultimately, A Thousand Splendid Suns serves as a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit and the transformative potential of solidarity in the face of oppression and adversity.

Keywords: Oppressive male dominance, Khaled Hosseini, gender equality, women’s empowerment, A Thousand Splendid Sun.

Cite as: Alqaryouti, M. H. (2024). Gender equality and women’s empowerment in A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 9(2), 490-513. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol9iss2pp490-513