A Study on the Chess Culture of Ethnic Minority Groups in Gansu Province

As a region inhabited by large populations of ethnic minority groups, Gansu province boasts rich ethnic cultural resources which reflect traditional culture and intangible cultural heritage that had taken shape thousands of years ago. Among these are various ethnic folk chess games. They are time-honored with many types such as the “Fang” chess of the Hui ethnic group, the “Jiu” chess of the Tibetans, the “King and Ministers” chess, the Mongolian chess, the Mongolian military chess, etc. These games embody distinctive ethnic and regional characteristics, as well as the cultural elements of a particular ethnic minority group. It is of great significance, therefore, to study the ethnic chess by collecting, documenting and comparing different types of related chess. The paper explores ways to standardize, protect and promote them scientifically in joint efforts, and draws a conclusion that examining their significance in the present era and the ethnic characteristics is the key to understanding the profound culture behind the chess.

3D Morphological Study of the Indian Arthritic Knee: Comparison with Other Ethnic Groups and Conformity of Current TKA Implant

Background: Studies have shown that there are striking variations in knee morphology between Asian and Western population. However, most of the existing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) implants are designed to suit the anatomy of Western population. Our study investigated anthropometry of Indian arthritic knees and compared them to international ethnic groups. Methods: Computed tomography was used to create 3D knee models and obtain anthropometric data of distal femur and proximal tibia of Indian arthritic knees. Femoral measurements included mediolateral length, medial and lateral anteroposterior length, medial and lateral condylar width and aspect ratio. Tibial measurements included mediolateral length, medial, lateral and central anteroposterior length and aspect ratio. A preoperative virtual implantation using Western TKAimplants was carried out to visualize anatomical conformity. Results: Statistical analysis results showed that Indian males had significantly larger femoral and tibial mediolateral and anteroposterior width than Indian females;however, femoral and tibial aspect ratio was similar for both. In case of females, significant difference was observed between medial and lateral condylar widths. When compared to knee anthropometry of other ethnic groups, femoral and tibial aspect ratio of Indian knees was found to be similar to the Asian population and different from the Western population. The virtual implantation showed overhang of the femoral component in both lateral and medial regions. Conclusion: Morphological mismatch between Western and Indian knees established the fact that Western implants have drawbacks when implanted in Indian patients. The study also provided a basis for designing gender-specific TKA implants for the Indian population.

Iran-Turkmenistan Relations:Cross-Border Ethnic Groups and Comprehensive Governance Strategies

This study delves into the bilateral relations between Iran and Turkmenistan,focusing on the multidimensional impacts of cross-border ethnic groups,cultural diplomacy,and energy cooperation.The research reveals that despite challenges in security cooperation,such as regional political ideological differences and uneven power distribution,Iran has adopted diverse strategies to enhance cultural identity,social cohesion,and promote economic cooperation.Iran actively seeks to repair relations with Turkmenistan by emphasizing shared historical and cultural backgrounds,particularly the presence of cross-border Turkmen ethnic groups.Specific measures include developing cultural tourism,organizing cultural weeks,and establishing commemorative days.In the economic sphere,the two countries have signed significant natural gas supply agreements,strengthening energy cooperation.Iranian leaders often emphasize“blood ties”and deep cultural connections in diplomatic statements,combining cultural diplomacy with practical economic cooperation.The study’s findings indicate that Iran’s initiatives have led to the reorganization of national space and social reconstruction in border regions,promoting changes in public policy.By integrating cultural identity,historical connections,and economic interests,Iran has adopted a sophisticated diplomatic approach,laying the foundation for more stable and enduring bilateral relations while contributing to regional stability and sustainable development.

THE STUDY OF POPULATION GENETIC RELATION AMONG TEN ETHNIC GROUPS IN NORTHWEST CH INA

Objective To investigate the genetic relation am on g ten ethnic groups in northwest China. Methods Allele frequ encies of six STR(short tandem repeat ) loci in D13S1358, VWA, FGA, D5S818, D13S 317, and D7S820 were collected from Lasa Tibetan, Changdu Tibetan, Xi'an Han, G ansu Dongxiang, Gansu Yugu, Xinjiang Uygur, Ozbak, Kirgiz, Sibe, Ningxia Hui by the results of State Key laboratory, Forensic Science Department, school of medi cal, Xi'an Jiaotong University and internet biological information data bank, a nd compared with that of the Mongolian, Zhuang in China, and White and Negro in USA. The polymorphism index (H, DP, PPE, PIC) and genetic distance, then the phy logenetic tree of all population were reported. Results The res ulting tree topology exhibited strong geographic and racial partitioning consist ent with that obtained with HLA and classical genetic polymorphisms. Conclusion The results suggest that forensic STR loci may be particular ly powerful tools and provide the necessary fine resolution for the reconstructi on of recent human evolutionary history.

Relationship between the development of ethnic tourism and the protection for regional culture:a case study of Tuwa people

The innocent Tuwa people live in Kanas Lake, a world famous national reserve in northern Xinjiang. With therapid development of tourism today, Tuwa people are finally involved in tourism industry. The development of tourismis a two-edged sword. On the one hand, it boosts the revival of Tuwa culture, provides a large number of employmentopportunities and cross-cultural exchanges, and improves material welfare for Tuwa people. On the other hand, somedisadvantages have also resulted from tourism development, such as the unauthentic exhibition of Tuwa culture, limitedtourists, Tuwa group interaction, and limited material improvement for the Tuwa, etc. This paper takes Tuwa people asa case, illustrates the types, characteristics and the conditions for the development of Tuwa culture, explores the advan-tages and disadvantages resulting from the development of folk-custom tourism industry and then puts forwardsrecommendations on the protection for local cultures as follows: (1) attach great importance to Tuwa culture in thetourism development of Kanas Lake Visitor Attraction; (2) construct the aboriginal village with the consciousness ofprotection; (3) remove the Tuwa village; (4) consummate the management mode and let Tuwa people really benefit fromtourism; (5) restrict the grazing in the scenic spots and protect natural grassland; (6) promote Tuwa people’s ability ofself-supervision and self-management; (7) exhibit Tuwa culture authentically.

Endogamous marriage and the prevalence of hemoglobin E in ethnic groups of northern Thailand

Objective:To investigate the impact of the endogamous marriage culture on the prevalence of the hemoglobin E(HbE) recessive variant.Methods:The prevalence of the hemoglobin E(HbE)recessive variant was determined by dot-blot hybridization in 4 endogamous villages(1 Mlabri and 3 Htin ethnic groups) in comparison with 9 other nearby non-endogamous populations.Results:Although the overall HbE prevalence in the population studied(8.44%,33/391)was not significantly different from that of the general southeast Asian population,a high prevalence and individuals with homozygous HbE were observed in two villages,the Mlabri from Wiang Sa district and the Htin from Thung Chang district of Nan province(26.3%and26.9%,respectively).The low HbE allelic frequency noticed in some endogamous populations suggests that not only endogamy but also other evolutionary forces,such as founder effect and HbE/β-thalassemia negative selection may have an effect on the distribution of the HbE trait.Conclusion:Our study strongly documents that cultural impact has to be considered in the extensive prevalence studies for genetic disorders in the ethnic groups of northern Thailand.

Indigenous Knowledge on Soil Classification of Ethnic Groups in Luang Prabang Province of the Lao PDR

The objectives of this study were to demonstrate ethno-scientific elicitation techniques in retrieving indigenous knowledge at village-level, and to document the indigenous soil classification systems of different ethnic groups in Luang Prabang province in the Lao PDR. The study area comprised three villages – Nambo, Huaymaha and Thapo, in the Phonxay district of Luang Prabang province. Three ethnic groups were covered by the study – Hmong, Khmu and Lao Loum. All three ethnic groups used soil color as main criteria for soil classification. However, even within the same ethnic group, sometimes different villages have differences in the way they classify soils; this was apparent for the Hmong ethnic group in the villages of Huaymaha and Nambo. A significant difference of the Lao Loum ethnic group from the other two, was the emphasis used in classifying soil types according to their water holding capabilities. In contrast, the Khmu and Hmong classified many soil types in relation to their rock content (‘with rock’ or ‘pure rock’ sometimesbeing used). The results of the study suggest that the ethnic groups classify the soils in relation to their potential for different types of agricultural production.

“We” and “They”: On Gesar Culture and Ethnic Boundaries of Rebgong Khre-Tse Sde-Bzhi

The Gesar Epic is not only a literary work and cultural icon of the Tibetan people but a symbol of maintaining ethnic boundaries.In particular,in the community mixed with both Hor and Tibetan residents,the cultural memory of Gesar is considered as one of the greatest distinguishing factors to tell the Self Group from the Other-Group.Khre-Tse Sde-Bzhi(referring to the four villages),a marginal group in Tibetan-inhabited area of Rebgong,is called Hor or DorDo by local Tibetans.When it comes to ethnic identification,the ethnic group is commonly recognized as Tu ethnicity.In fact,in the community of Khre-Tse Sde-Bzhi,local residents are distinguished by whether they are Hor(a branch of Mongolian language family)or Bod(Tibetan);moreover,there remains a relatively obvious sense of ethnic identity.And yet,in addition to the dominant characteristics of local languages,it is the Gesar culture that has become one of the main features to differentiate between Bod and Hor.More importantly,people of Bod and Hor identify themselves by whether the others tell the complete version of the Gesar Epic or whether they have the authentic King Gesar enshrined,in order to determine their cultural identity.

Cultural interactions among diverse ethnic groups in a frontier region of a mainstream culture:A case study of Thai Korat,Laotian,and Tai Yuan vernacular houses in the central Lamtakong watershed,Nakhon Ratchasima

This study aims to study the conditions for the architectural form of vernacular houses of Thai Korat,Laotian,and Tai Yuan ethnic groups living in the central Lamtakong watershed.Nineteen stilt houses with the age of fifty-three to one hundred years were incorporated in the case study.Data were meticulously gathered through methods such as observation,photography,surveying,architectural drawing,three-dimensional modeling,and interviews.The analysis,conducted within the frameworks of ethnic identity and cultural diffusion,involved morphological and comparative assessments.The findings showed that the houses in the present case study could maintain their ethnic identities as can be clearly seen in the space planning and the shapes of the houses passed down from generation to generation.In addition,there was cultural acceptance among these ethnic groups through exchanging,adopting,and borrowing house construction techniques,in order to express the common traits in the larger social context in a friendly and smoother way.This phenomenon indicates that the co-existence in a multicultural society is the key that makes different ethnic groups be able to maintain their ethnic identity and live with the larger society in a friendly way.Hence,the cultural significance of stilt vernacular houses in the study area is embedded in the dynamic process of exchanging house construction techniques,fostering harmony within the broader social context.This preservation simultaneously safeguards the essential elements and key attributes of ethnic identity in architecture.

Diet Culture of the Lhoba Ethnic Group

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The Polymorphism of the HLA-DRB1 Locus of the Guangxi Zhuang People and Its Comparison with the Main Surrounding Ethnic Groups

To explore genetically the origin, migration and relationship of the Zhuang people in Guangxi province with the main surrounding Chinese and the ethnic groups in Southeast Asia, the distributions of the HLA-DRB1 locus among the populations in these regions were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction—sequence specific primer (PCR-SSP) technique among 265, healthy, randomly selected and unrelated Zhuang adults, aged 17-32, whose families had lived in Guangxi province for more than 3 generations. Every allelic frequency was comparatively analyzed with that of some main Chinese and Southeast Asia populations. It was found that 13 HLA-DRB1 alleles were detected among these 265 selected individuals, but other 13 alleles failed to be discovered by using the 23 pairs of primers designed in the present study. The most common alleles were HLA-DRB1*1501, HLA-DRB1*1601/2 and HLA-DRB1*1401/4 with the allele frequencies of 0.291, 0.198 and 0.106 respectively. Although alleles of HLA-DR1*0701/2, HLA-DRB1*08 and HLA-DRB1*1306/1406 could be detected also, but their frequencies were rather very low. The overall allele distribution profile on HLA-DRB1 of Zhuangs was much closed dramatically to those of Buyis, Northeast Thais, Dai Lues, Southern Hans and Singapore Chinese, but was more far away from that of northern Hans and Hanai Kinhs, as compared to the representative ethnic groups in Southeast Asia. In addition, the blank of HLA-DRB1*1502 was a characteristic allele for Zhuangs was commonly detected in Southeast Asia, especially in Thais. It is concluded that a very close genetic relationship exists between Zhuangs and Buyis on the basis of their extremely similar background on HLA-DRB1 locus.

The Influence of Familial Reference Groups on Consumer Decisions in Different Culture Context

This paper examines the influence of familial reference groups on individuals＇ product and brand decisions for products across two kinds of culture. The study is addressed through an examination of intergenerational influences across the two different cultures. The results of the study lend support to the original approach and also provide an insight look into how reference group influence may vary depending on different culture context. The paper also provides very useful advice for marketers when they apply western marketing concepts in China market.

The Study of the Language Functions in the Benzhu Worship of the Bai Ethnic Groups in Dali,Yunnan

The Benzhu worship is a traditional folk activity of the Bai ethnic group in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Prov?ince, which has long history with colourful culture. When the sacred ceremonies are held, Bai villagers always get together to celebrate. In the Benzhu worship, language plays significant functions, including the performative function, recreational function, emotive function and interpersonal function.

分析族群冲突问题的新模式——试评Ethnic Conflict:Commerce,Culture,and Contact Hypothesis

加拿大多伦多大学政治学系福布斯(H.D.Forbes)教授的著作《族群冲突:贸易、文化及接触理论》在分析、借鉴其它社会科学研究成果的基础上,向人们展示了一种理解和诠释族群冲突问题的新视角。该著作通过评析"接触理论"的利弊,提出了一个替代性的"语言模型"。以"语言模型"为基础的研究表明接触怎样能够同时改善和恶化族群关系:在个人层面上,接触能使族群关系更加和谐;但在群体层面上,接触可能会激发人们保留各自的群体认同,从而避免他们在同化中付出沉重代价。福布斯认为,接触是一个过程,而不是一个结果,它能打破社会分层,减少文化差异,但同化威胁到一个群体的存在,因此增加了彼此间的紧张关系。毋庸置疑,族群间的差异是冲突合理存在且不可避免的重要原因。

An epidemiology study of bronchial asthma in the Li ethnic group in China

Objective:To investigate the prevalence and risk factors of bronchial asthma in the Li ethnic group in Hainan,China.Methods:This study employed a stratified random sample design using custom-designed questionnaires.Subjects with asthma-like symptoms were first identified by two rounds of surveys and then confirmed by respiratory physicians using pulmonary function test,bronchial dilation test and challenge test.Demographic data,information on family history of asthma,history of allergies,smoking habits,domestic cooking fuel and other potential risk factors were collected.Logistic regression was performed to evaluate risk factors for asthma.Results: The prevalence of asthma in the Li ethnic group was 3.38%,much higher than the national average level in China.Aging,agriculture industry(the rubber industry in particular),rural residence,family history of asthma,history of allergies,cold air,inhalation of dust and irritant gases,smoking,domestic cooking fuel and living environment were associated with increased risk of asthma.Conclusions:The high prevalence of asthma in the Li ethnic group highlights the importance of asthma prevention and treatment in this population.Risk factors indentified in this study warrant special attention.Elevating public awareness about asthma in local communities will benefit the prevention of the disease.

Correlation between the Xba Ⅰ polymorphism of apoB gene and serum lipid profiles in Li ethnic group

Objective:To study correlation between the Xba I polymorphism of apoB gene and plasma lipid profiles in Li ethnic group.Methods:Total 1S1 cases of healthy Li people were recruited randomly by cluster sampling and 200 Han people were recruited as control;blood was drawn to analyze Xba I polymorphism distribution of apoB gene and serum lipid levels.Results:There were lower serum total cholesterol(TC)and low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C)levels in serum of Li people;while,high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),X^-/X^-genotype and X^+allele frequencies exhibited higher levels than Han people.Interestingly,HDL-C level was reduced,while LDL-C level was enhanced in subjects carrying heterozygous(X^-/X^-)genotype compared to homozygous(X^-/X^-)genotype.Additionally,there were no difference in serum level of triglyceride,TC,apoprotein A(apo A)and apoprotein B(apo B)between Li and Han people,the same results were showed between X^-/X^+and X^-/X^-genotype carriers.Conclusions:XbaⅠpolymorphism of apoB gene is correlated to the profiles of serum lipid level,X^-/X^+genotype carriers are phenotyped with higher LDL-C level and lower level of HDL-C in Li ethnic group.

Evaluation of a culturally adapted cognitive behavior therapy-based,third-wave therapy manual

BACKGROUND Recommendations for psychotherapy have evolved over the years,with cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT)taking precedence since its inception within clinical guidelines in the United Kingdom and United States.The use of CBT for severe mental illness is now more common globally.AIM To investigate the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted,CBT-based,third-wave therapy manual using the Comprehend,Cope,and Connect approach with individuals from a diverse population presenting to primary and secondary healthcare services.METHODS A pilot study was used to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the manualised intervention.Outcome measures were evaluated at baseline,post-intervention and 12 wk-follow up.32 participants with mental health conditions aged 20-53 years were recruited.Assessments were completed at three time points,using Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation(CORE),Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale(HADS),Bradford Somatic Inventory and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0(WHODAS).The Patient Experience Questionnaire was completed post-treatment.RESULTS Repeated measures of analysis of variance associated with HADS depression,F(2,36)=12.81,P<0.001,partialη^(2)=0.42 and HADS anxiety scores,F(2,26)=9.93,P<0.001,partialη^(2)=0.36;CORE total score and WHODAS both showed significant effect F(1.25,18.72)=14.98,P<0.001,partialη^(2)=0.5.and F(1.29,14.18)=6.73,P<0.001,partialη^(2)=0.38 respectively.CONCLUSION These results indicate the effectiveness and acceptability of the culturally adapted,CBT-based,third-wave therapy manual intervention among minoritized groups with moderate effect sizes.Satisfaction levels and acceptability were highly rated.The viability and cost-effectiveness of this approach should be explored further to support universal implementation across healthcare systems.

Culture, Beliefs, Attitude and Peer Group Influence on Female Genital Mutilation in Southeast Nigeria

Background: Female Genital Mutilation is still practiced in Ebonyi State in Southeast Nigeria, despite the complications that follows it and government legislation against the practice. Aim: To determine the impact of Culture, Beliefs, attitude and Peer Group Influence on the persistence Female Genital Mutilation practice in the State especially in the rural areas. Materials and Methods: Qualitative study that used Focused Group Discussion and In-depth interviews for data collection. Those willing and given consent were recruited into the group discussion according to age, marital status, educational level and their location in the state. In-depth interviews were used with the Stake Holders, Opinion Leaders, Traditional Rulers and the Clergy. Result: A total of 454 participants were recruited from the 13 local government areas of Ebonyi State but only 420 (92.5%) participated. The age ranges of participants were 25 to 35 years for single males and females while the married participants male and female were aged 35 to 70 years. One hundred single females (23.8%) and 94 single males (21.4%) participated while 97 (23.1%) married women and 95 (22.6%) married men participated. Out of the 26 health workers recruited only 22 (5.2%) participated. Four traditional rulers, 4 women leaders, 4 youth leaders and 2 clergy 12 (2.9%) in number had in-depth interviews. All the participants had knowledge of FGM and its practice. Rural health workers are getting more involved. ‘Female Genital Crushing’ is replacing actual cutting. The participants all agreed there is no benefit and the practice should stop. Conclusion: Female Genital Mutilation is secretly practiced and is getting replaced by “Female Genital Crushing” perpetrated by rural health workers as well as mothers, fathers, traditional birth attendants and the peer group playing a major role with low knowledge of the Law against Female genital mutilation.