Cultural Diversity Research Articles

P-524 Ethnicity and aneuploidy rates in a global perspective: a comparative genomic study of 16,543 embryos from the United Kingdom, India and Japan

Abstract Study question Is embryonic aneuploidy, as determined by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) based Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) related to female ethnicity? Summary answer In this study, when determining aneuploidy through NGS-based PGT-A, female ethnicity did not have an impact on embryonic aneuploidy. What is known already Inequalities in pregnancy outcomes following in-vitro fertilization (IVF) have often been attributed to potential disparities in genetic susceptibility, with past studies showing higher pregnancy rates in older Caucasian patients compared to younger South-Asian patients. With aneuploidy as one of the best-characterized barriers to IVF success, critics argue that potential ethnic variations in aneuploidy rates may contribute to inequalities in IVF success, raising concerns about the appropriateness of standardized protocols. Proponents stress the importance of personalized medicine accounting for individual genetic backgrounds. Acknowledging genetic diversity and ensuring equitable access to successful fertility treatments remains a complex challenge. Study design, size, duration In this retrospective cohort review, data reflecting 4,354 women undergoing an IVF±ICSI cycle with concomitant NGS-based PGT-A from 65 centres in the United Kingdom, India and Japan was requested. Trophectoderm biopsy results from 16,513 embryos tested through a single genetic laboratory over a five-year period (2019-2023) were analysed. Patients were categorised by ethnicity (Caucasian, African, East Asian, or South Asian) and further stratified by age (<35, 35-37, 38-39, 40-42, >42). Participants/materials, setting, methods Women aged between 25–45 years undergoing an IVF±ICSI cycle with concomitant NGS-based PGT-A were included. Patients undergoing PGT for inherited genetic disorders (PGT-M) or gamete donation cycles were excluded, and only autologous oocyte cases were included. Trophectoderm biopsy was performed on day 5, 6 or 7 and NGS was performed from amplified deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Primary outcome of interest was aneuploidy rate (>30% abnormality). Statistical analysis included ANOVA, Kruskal Wallis, and linear regression tests analysis. Main results and the role of chance In our analysis, the mean number of embryos tested overall was 3.46 (SD 2.07) and the mode was 4. The mean number was 3.84 for South Asian, 3.47 for Caucasian, 2.4 for African and 2.87 for East Asian. This was not statistically different between groups (P = 0.48). Subgroup analysis did not identify any statistically significant differences in the number of oocytes retrieved, MII oocytes retrieved and fertilization rates. When categorising by female age alone, there was a statistically significant difference in aneuploidy and female age overall (<35: 32.1±29.7%; 35-37: 42.1±31.3%; 37-39: 50.4±29.3%;40-42: 64.7±33.5% and > 42:73.9±38.7%, p-value: <0.001). When subcategorised by ethnicity, linear regression analysis did not identify a significant association with aneuploidy rate and ethnicity. The was no statistically significant difference in mean aneuploidy rate by ethnicity: East Asian 67.2±32.2%, African 58.3±42.2%, European 55.6±35.6%, and South Asian 53±32.4% (p-value 0.57). With Caucasian as the reference population, coefficients for South Asian (3.20, p-value:0.61), East Asian (8.50 p-value: 0.31), and African (7.20, p-value: 0.60) were not statistically significant. No statistically significant differences in aneuploidy rates were observed across female age categories (<35, 35-37, 38-39, 40-42, >42) and ethnicities, with a p-value of 0.17. Limitations, reasons for caution The study type was retrospective in nature. Ethnic groups are not homogenous, and there can be significant genetic, cultural, and environmental diversity within a group. Failure to account for this heterogeneity may result in oversimplification and misinterpretation of findings. There was under representation of patients from African origin (2%). Wider implications of the findings These data do not support differences in embryonic aneuploidy among various ethnicities in patients undergoing IVF±ICSI /NGS-PGT-A. We limited our analysis to a single genetic laboratory to reduce reporting variation and technical confounders. It does not appear that specific recommendations for aneuploidy screening should be made based upon ethnic heritage. Trial registration number Not applicable

P-569 Reciprocal expanded carrier screening for intended parents and gamete donors: experience of a global surrogacy support network

Abstract Study question Is expanded carrier screening an effective tool to identify carriers of clinically relevant genes and determine the reproductive risk between a donor and recipient pair? Summary answer This study has determined that there is a strong rationale for performing matching according to expanded carrier screening results, especially for gamete donor programs. What is known already Carrier screening (CS) identifies carriers of autosomal recessive (AR) and/or X-linked (XL) genetic conditions to establish reproductive risk. If both partners (egg and sperm providers) carry a pathogenic variant in the same gene (co-carriage), there is 25% risk that offspring will be affected. The same risk is present for egg providers who carry an XL disorder. In expanded carrier screening (ECS), many clinically relevant conditions are screened simultaneously using a single-panel approach. The implementation of ECS is becoming commonplace across gamete donor banks. Providing recipients with a matching panel is key in determining reproductive risk and suitable treatment options. Study design, size, duration In this retrospective review, data was collected for 104 gamete recipients and 31 gamete donors who underwent ECS between March 2021-January 2024. ECS was provided through a single genetic testing laboratory, using a whole exome sequencing (WES) platform. The panel used for the gamete donors/recipients consisted of approximately 500 AR genes; optional analysis of 66 X-Linked genes was available for biologically female donors/recipients. Participants/materials, setting, methods In total, 104 gamete recipients were screened against one or more donor(s) using the same ECS panel. All donors/recipients underwent testing in a clinical setting and received pre/post-test genetic counselling, where required. The testing laboratory provided the referring clinician with the results for each individual. Matching was overseen by My Surrogacy Journey and the relevant donor bank. Donor-recipient match reports were requested from the testing laboratory. Individual and matched reports were used for this review. Main results and the role of chance In total, 76.9% (80/104) of gamete recipients presented with a positive result in at least one clinically relevant gene that could have an impact on reproductive planning. Between the 80 positive gamete recipients, 177 gene variants were carried; variant classification was available for 132 variants (74.6%). The majority of gene variants carried were classified as pathogenic (59.9%), meaning that these variants are associated with causing disease. Most frequently, recipients were carriers of a variant in 1-3 genes (1 gene: 36.3%; 2 genes: 27.5%; 3 genes: 22.5%). In addition to this, 77.4% (24/31) of gamete donors were identified to carry a variant in at least one clinically relevant gene, which includes one egg donor (3.2%; 1/24) who was a carrier of an XL condition. This meant that despite the lack of co-carriage in the AR gene(s) of interest, the recipient could not proceed with this donor due to the associated risk (25%). Of the 43 recipients matched with a donor, 9.3% (4/43) showed a high reproductive risk (25%) due to their reciprocal matching results. This expanded carrier screening strategy demonstrates significant utility in identifying positive carrier status and supporting donor-recipient matching programmes by determining high risk reproductive pairs. Limitations, reasons for caution This study was retrospective in nature. The majority of recipients were Caucasian (∼80% of cases). Ethnic groups are not homogenous; there can be significant genetic, cultural, and environmental diversity between/within ethnic groups. Decision outcome data should be collected to improve this work. Wider implications of the findings The findings from this analysis suggest that there is a strong rationale for performing donor-recipient matching using an ECS approach. Increasing awareness and accessibility of ECS in this setting should be a global initiative, with the ultimate aim of reducing the burden of genetic disease in donor-conceived offspring. Trial registration number N/A

Diversity, equity and inclusiveness in healthcare: A primary care perspective.

Addressing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in health care is a multidimensional challenge. From a US perspective, the third-party payment system has disempowered and depersonalized health-care delivery. The net result is wasteful and inefficient use of human and financial resources, burnout among providers, as well as care inequities. Financial integration at the point of patient care is essential to aligning the needs of patients with advances in medical technology. Complexity theory offers valuable insights into the roles of government, intermediaries and patients. The government must focus on equity as a rule compiler and referee of the system. Patient and providers who are actively engaged in shared decision-making will naturally address the diverse needs of multitudinous communities. Intermediaries address inclusion by connecting resources with the point of care. In a dynamic, emerging health-care system that serves diverse communities, patient and community-based financing, vouchers and defined contributions are necessary first steps in addressing cultural diversity, inclusion and equity.

Current Trends of Cultural Diversity and Cultural Awareness: A Bibliometric Analysis

Current Trends of Cultural Diversity and Cultural Awareness: A Bibliometric Analysis

A scoping review of the research evidence of the developmental assets model in Europe.

Positive Youth Development (PYD) is a strength-based perspective that focuses on the resources to promote a successful transition to adulthood, derived from the Relational Developmental Systems theory. In this line, the Developmental Assets (DA) model focuses on describing the personal resources (Internal Assets) and contextual resources (External Assets) that help to reach PYD. Most research from this approach has been carried out in United States and, to a lesser extent, in the European continent. The aim of this scoping review was to examine the evidence collected for the DA model in Europe. Web of Science database was used to search for articles published between 2013 and February 2024. Initially, there were 55 possible articles to be included, but after applying the exclusion criteria, this number was reduced to 11. The findings suggested that the evidence for DA in Europe was in line with North American research, so that a higher presence of DA was related to higher well-being, better psychological adjustment, and lower risk behaviors. Internal Assets were the most influential assets, with the Positive Identity category being especially remarkable. Commitment to Learning and Social Competencies were also highlighted in the studies included in the review. Concerning External Assets, Positive Boundaries-expectations and Empowerment were emphasized as protective factors in youth development. These assets were found to present a protective effect against risk behaviors and were positively associated with PYD and socioemotional skills. Thus, these findings support the applicability of the DA framework in promoting PYD in European context, and some intervention strategies are discussed considering cultural diversity.

Pembelajaran Ilmu Pengetahuan Sosial pada Era Globalisasi

The development of technology, communication, and information continues to increase in line with the inevitable flow of globalization. Globalization has a great impact on various aspects, especially education, where educators are required to be creative, master a wide range of skills and knowledge. This study uses a qualitative method with literature studies to examine various relevant literature in answering social studies learning problems in the era of globalization and cultural diversity. The main source of data is articles published in various scientific journals and indexed in the database on Google Scholar. The research stages consist of collecting literature, reading carefully, coding data, classifying data, and drawing conclusions. The results of the analysis show that in education, globalization has a great impact with technological advances that support this field, demanding that educators master diverse knowledge and skills. Although social studies are often underestimated, globalization brings positive and negative influences. The positive is the acceleration of the development of science, technology, and information, while the negative is the emergence of consumptive behavior. Social studies learning plays a role in developing people's social skills in the midst of globalization, equipping students with knowledge related to global issues around them

Indigenous education and (re)existence through self-writing - for a pedagogy of sensibilities: dialogue between Paulo Freire and Maria Amélia Pinho Pereira

Based on decolonial thinking that originated in the late 20th century, we will discuss the importance of indigenous resistance practices promoted through “ taking the floor ,” a term coined by philosopher Michel de Certeau and appropriated in this research to refer to the development of research and literary productions carried out by indigenous researchers and writers in order to confront and resignify colonizing narratives about these peoples, indicating how these productions contribute to thinking about decolonial education, such as the school model proposed by pedagogue Maria AP Pereira and her Education of Sensitivity. Based on Catherine Walsh, Paulo Freire, Márcia Kambeba, Daniel Munduruku, and Albert Memmi, we understand that the colonizer finds in scientific-intellectual knowledge devices of knowledge-power that underpin oppressive Eurocentric structures to justify exploitation, violence, inequality, inferiority, and discrimination, bases that still exert a strong influence on the various sectors of contemporary society. It is identified in the contributions of the aforementioned researchers that an educational model critical of scientism and the hierarchy of knowledge is possible based on an educational praxis and that dialogues with the diversity of knowledge and cultures, where education is liberating, promoting the overcoming of the oppressor-oppressed dichotomy as proposed by Freire, and is applied in the Education of Sensitivity promoted by the pedagogue Maria AP Pereira.

WEST KALIMANTAN DAYAK TATTOO AS A CULTURAL IDENTITY IN INDONESIA

Indonesia, as a country with diverse ethnic groups and cultures, has certainly passed on many cultures to the next generation to preserve their existence. However, in modern times, many cultures have begun to shift or lose their meaning. One of them is the Dayak tattoo art, which was previously considered sacred by society, but is now only seen as ordinary art. This research was conducted to find out how to maintain Dayak's tattoo art in the modern era. Tattoos in the Dayak tribe of West Kalimantan are the object of this research. The research was conducted using qualitative methods through interviews, documentation, and direct observation in the Dayak community. Results of the research show that Dayak tattoos are not just art, but are an identity with high traditional values as seen through tattoo motifs and colors. This research aims to determine the forms of Dayak tattoos with their philosophical meaning and role in society. Research is useful for increasing insight into the traditional values contained in Dayak tattoo art so that it can help preserve this cultural heritage. Research can also be an additional literature reference for other researchers.

Geoarchaeology, preliminary study of relationship analysis between geological conditions and the Megalithic sites in the candidate of Ternate Geopark, North Maluku

Abstract Geopark is a concept of sustainable development with three main components: geological diversity, cultural diversity, and biodiversity, with the ultimate goal of protecting the Earth’s diversity, environmental preservation, and broader earth science education. Geological and cultural diversity in a geopark concept does not stand alone, but there is a relationship. Ternate Island is a volcanic island with Gamalama Mts as a Quaternary Volcano. The area around the volcano is comfortable because there is sufficient water despite the eruption disaster. Megalithic artefacts such as menhirs and pseudo dolmens are cultural products closely tied to the significant stone tradition. Megalithic remains on Ternate Island are represented by the presence of Jere, a local term to refer to the sacred places usually represented by menhirs and whole boulders in 56 locations. The regent government plans to develop it as an island geopark. Before being proposed, a study of geological, biological, and cultural diversity must be carried out to propose establishing a geoheritage and preparing a Geopark proposal document. This initial research uses the overlay method to identify geological conditions, determine the distribution of megalithic artefacts, and analyze their relationships.

The Cultural Aspect of the Mauritian Copyright Law: A Tool for Promoting Cultural Diversity?

Scholarly interest in the connection between cultural diversity and copyright law has grown. This article looks at the cultural implications of copyright laws in Mauritius and considers how they may be used to support cultural diversity. Mauritius has made great strides in its social and economic development, but little is known about the cultural implications of its copyright laws. By offering a thorough examination of the cultural provisions of Mauritius copyright law and evaluating its effects on the preservation and advancement of cultural variety in Mauritius, this paper seeks to address this gap. The results show that Mauritius’ copyright system needs to be more adaptable, transparent, easy to update, and sufficiently flexible to adjust to the evolving needs of its authors, users, and cultural environment.

Colombian Anthropology

Colombian anthropology is part of what Roberto Cardoso de Oliveira (1999) has called "peripheral anthropologies". These southern anthropologies have, since their emergence, forged close - and often conflicting - links with the "central anthropologies" of the classical schools in Europe, England and the USA. The characteristics of this discipline in Colombia cannot be detached from these relationships, nor from the wider context of Latin American anthropology and the country's historical, social and cultural particularities. The great social and cultural diversity is at the heart of the discipline's questions and practices. It is in the form of a "committed anthropology" that the discipline will be practiced in Colombia as soon as it enters the university system.

A Virtual Language Museum for Developing English Critical Listening and Creative Writing Skills of Postgraduate Students and their Attitudes towards Cultural Diversity

A Virtual Language Museum for Developing English Critical Listening and Creative Writing Skills of Postgraduate Students and their Attitudes towards Cultural Diversity

Analysis of the Impact of Modernization of Baduy Tribe Customary Law in the Modern Era

Modernization is the change or rather the process of changing traditional society into a modern society. Modernization has the main goal of improving the welfare of the general public, by improving several socio-cultural aspects that exist in society. Our country, Indonesia is an archipelago that has around 17 thousand islands and there are still islands that do not have their identity, with as many islands as Indonesia has a population of nearly 280 million people and has a variety of ethnic and cultural diversity. Moreover, the customs or habits of each community in Indonesia must be diverse and will certainly continue to develop as the times progress. But not all follow the times, there are still some areas in Indonesia that still hold tightly to their customs to this day. One of them is found in the inland area of Lebak Regency, Banten Province. Namely the Baduy tribe, from several videos that I saw, I tried to explain the Baduy customary law and culture in detail as the community changes there due to modernization. The Baduy tribe has a lot of uniqueness that we can learn and apply in our lives. The Baduy tribe is different from the tribes in Indonesia, the Baduy tribe is very difficult to accept modernization that has developed until now, therefore the Baduy tribe is divided into two settlement groups, namely Baduy Dalam and Baduy Baduy.

Penerapan Model Kooperatif Tipe Jigsaw dalam Pembelajaran IPAS untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas V SDI Bertingkat Kelapa Lima 3

Learning outcomes can provide an overview of the achievement of learning. The Jigsaw type cooperative model is one type that helps students collaborate with peers to explore material and become peer tutors for their group friends. This research aims to improve the learning outcomes of class V SDI Graded Kelapa Lima 3 students on material on ethnic and cultural diversity in Indonesia through the application of the Jigsaw type cooperative learning model. This classroom action research (PTK) uses the Kemmis and Tagart model. Research data was collected using tests and observations and analyzed quantitatively. The findings in this research prove that there is an increase in student learning outcomes after using the jigsaw type cooperative model with an increase of 26% in cycle I and an increase of 39% in cycle II. This increase cannot be separated from the implementation of the jigsaw type cooperative model which can make students actively discuss with their friends, increase learning motivation, a sense of responsibility and student confidence in learning.

Introduction

Introduction

A framework for leadership practices and communication in the context of the construction sector

An ongoing debate in the leadership domain underscores the prevalence of project failures globally, prompting project managers to refine leadership strategies and create innovative practices to navigate project complexities, emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, evolving stakeholder expectations, shifting construction landscape, and brittle, anxious, nonlinear and incompressible environment challenges in the construction industry. This study aims to provide insights into the relationship mechanisms between leadership practices, communication, and project success, introducing a framework for behavioral practices to address challenges in the Australian construction industry, such as project complexities, inefficiencies, cash flow disruptions, supply chain issues, communication barriers, cultural diversity, digitalization, and regulatory protocols compliance. Exploratory factors/multivariate regression analysis on collected responses on 66 projects have identified four critical success factors: relationship management, communication effectiveness, leading by example, and self-management that impact and improve project success significantly using relationship and conflict management as mediators, help formulate creative practices using stakeholder analysis, conflict resolution strategies, and promoting collaboration enhancing the decision-making process to overcome challenges. Researchers validated and confirmed results through in-depth interviews with independent practitioners, encouraging project managers to modify behavioral practices using an explicit model for enhancing project success.

Bunian People: Myths, Perceptions and Impressions of Behavior and Culture in Minangkabau

Minangkabau has a unique and diverse culture, starting from art, culture, songs, fairy tales, poetry, beliefs, characterizations and visual characters. One of the unique things about Minangkabau is that it is a belief that is widely known by the public and has been discussed from time to time until now. One of the interesting beliefs in Minangkabau is about the Urang Bunian mythology, however, the lack of understanding of the target audience and the lack of optimal media in conveying information about Urang Bunian visualizations are the main factors for the author to design the Urang Bunian character design in Minangkabau culture through the Art Book media. Urang Bunian was made in the form of an Art Book media which contains about creating character designs from the information obtained. Apart from the Art Book media, the delivery of this information is also supported by several other media which help the main media to introduce the subject to the target audience, namely posters, stickers, t-shirts, tote bags, holograms, x-banners, mini x-banners. The design method used is the 5w+1h approach, namely what, who, when, where, why and how. By using the 5w+1h theory, all aspects summarized in the character design design process can be created through Art Book media

Percepción y uso de la medicina herbaria en Hermosillo, Sonora (noroeste de México)

Using herbal resources for medicinal purposes has persisted across diverse cultures, harnessing potential bioactivities. Despite the availability of commercial drugs, populations, including those in Mexico, continue to integrate herbal medicine into their healthcare practices. This study on Hermosillo, city in Northwest Mexico, exploring the prevalence and patterns of herbal medicine use. A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2023, surveying 441 residents through a structured questionnaire. Demographic characteristics, awareness, and experiences with herbal medicine were assessed. Most participants were female (67.57 %), aged 30 years old or younger (67.57 %), and urban residents (90.70 %). The family was the primary source of knowledge for herbal medicine (73.92 %), emphasizing cultural continuity. Most participants (93.65 %) used herbal medicine when regarded as necessary, with 57.59 % reporting partial success. Despite reservations about safety (41.59 %), concurrent use with conventional treatments was common. The study underscores the persistent cultural connection to herbal medicine in Mexican families. Awareness campaigns emphasizing responsible herbal medicine use, especially in vulnerable groups, are crucial. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of herbal medicine trends and practices, emphasizing the importance of local perspectives.

Counteracting Islamophobia through Strategic Media Narratives: A Multi-Case Study Approach

In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, Islamophobia escalated rapidly in Western societies, challenging the integration and perception of Muslim communities. This rise in prejudice has often been reinforced by negative media portrayals, which have shaped public opinion and policy in profound ways. Contrary to this, certain media entities have endeavored to mitigate these negative perceptions through positive representation and constructive discourse. This study explores the role of media in combating Islamophobia, with a focus on how selected media outlets have leveraged their platforms to foster understanding and counteract prejudice against Muslims. Three distinct cases are examined: the documentaries and other programming by Qatar's Al Jazeera English network, the digital content of Islam Online, and the popular Turkish TV series "Resurrection Ertugrul." Al Jazeera English has been pivotal in providing a counter-narrative to Western media depictions of Islam and Muslims through in-depth documentaries that highlight the diversity and richness of Muslim cultures. Islam Online has used its digital presence to educate and bridge gaps between Muslim and non-Muslim communities by offering a platform for dialogue and understanding. Meanwhile, "Resurrection Ertugrul" serves not merely as entertainment but as a significant cultural and political tool that redefines and reshapes narratives around Islamic history and identity, presenting an antidote to stereotypical media portrayals. This study employs qualitative methodologies, including content analysis and literature reviews, to assess the impact of these media on Western perceptions of Islam. Expected results indicate that strategic media content can effectively counter Islamophobia by enlightening audiences, fostering cultural appreciation, and challenging ingrained stereotypes. This research underscores the media's power as a non-state actor in international relations and its capacity to influence social change and policy by reshaping narratives and improving intercultural relationships.

Разум, язык, культура: как сегодня прочитывать концепцию «арабского разума» ал-Джа̄бири

In his four-volume Critique of Arab Reason the late Moroccan philosopher Muḥammad ‘Ābid al-Jābirī (1935–2010) argues that human history witnessed “Greco-European” and “Arab” variants of reason, and not the single one. He challenges the confidence of philosophers in the universality of reason which disclosed itself in the course of European history. Reading al-Jābirī’s theory in Kantian optics will prove fruitful in view of significant number of observations accumulated in Arabic philosophical studies and directly related to the question of the type of rationality that grounds Arab-Muslim culture. The Arabic linguistic tradition bases itself not on the being of substance but on the flux of action. The indivisible segment of the Arabic speech is the flow of sound between the two “sides” (ḥ arf, pl. ḥ urūf). The copulative function ensures the gluing of the subject and predicate into a single statement due to the action of “leaning” (isnād) between them, which excludes the use of the “to be”-like copula and removes “being” from the list of the fundamental metaphysical categories. All Arabic words, with few exceptions, are “branches” growing from “roots” represented by names of actions. The “root – branches” (’aṣl – furū‘) model, developed by the representatives of the Arabic linguistic tradition and Islamic jurists, explains the diversity of Islamic culture which allows for direct contradictions, legitimizing them by tracing down to a single “root”, which contrasts with the law of contradiction fundamental to European rationality. Islamic ethics is concerned not with the moral perfection of a single substantial individual, but with maintaining a network of interactions between human being and God and between members of society, constituting society not as a hierarchy of strata and classes, but as multiple networks of interactions. The concept of the “Arab reason” by al-Jābirī, read in Kantian optics on the basis of the achievements of philosophical Arabic studies, allows to substantiate the hypothesis of the plurality of types of rationality developed through the history of humankind.