Cultural Practices Research Articles

Domestication theory in action: Indonesian Twitter corpus analysis during distance learning

This research aims at analyzing how COVID-19 discourse in the world of education unfolds in the Indonesian Twittersphere by separating public discourse in transition periods, large-scale social restrictions (PSBB), and imposition of emergency restrictions toward community activities (PPKM) and PPKM level 1 to 4. This research used qualitative approach and employed the Domestication Theory to provide a deeper understanding of how individuals integrate technology into their everyday lives. The dataset consisting of 3,196,627 tweets from two keywords and two hashtags was collected and analyzed using corpus linguistics techniques. This study found the emergence of the five main theme groups suggests that users have tried to make sense of and adapt to this new digital learning environment, while also expressing their frustrations and concerns. This highlights the importance of understanding how users domesticate technology and incorporate it into their social and cultural practices. The practical implications of this research include the need to address not only the technical aspects of online learning but also the psychological and social well-being of students, as they navigate this new learning environment.

Integrated Management of Rhizome Rot and Wilt Disease Complex of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) – A Review

This review article focuses on integrated management options for ginger diseases, especially rhizome rot and wilt. We compiled the results of several strategies, including chemical treatments, cultural practices, soil solarization, organic additions, and biological management for rhizome rot and wilt disease complex of ginger. Effective approaches includes (i) raise the temperature by soil solarization, (ii) additions of soil amendments like wood sawdust, oil cakes, neem cakes that prevent soil pathogen and simultaneously improve soil health, (iii) cultural techniques such as soil selection, crop rotation and intercropping, (iv) biological control using Trichoderma species is another useful method to lower infestation and increase ginger yield, and (v) use of chemical control measures such as Ridomil MZ, Metalaxyl, and Streptomycin. The above-listed aspects can be integrated to develop integrated management strategies that aid in developing a treatment strategy for management for rhizome rot and wilt disease complex of ginger.

Barriers in cancer risk reduction in community in Indonesia: a qualitative study

Integrated development post of non-communicable diseases (Posbindu penyakit tidak menular/PTM) is one of the strategies implemented by the MOH of Indonesia for prevention, screening, and early detection through community empowerment and community involvement in reducing the number of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer. This study aimed to explore the barriers to reducing the risk of cancer. Twelve participants were involved in this study using in-depth interviews and participant observations. All the interviews and discussions were recorded using an audio tape recorder and also using field notes, and then a transcript was transcribed verbatim. Five themes emerged namely providing funding for the program, obtaining appropriate support from the government based on the community’s needs and a health workforce shortage, sharing and discussing the health information, and cultural practices of the community as barriers to reducing the risk of cancer in the community. The study results can be used as evidence to develop and sustain effective strategies to address the barriers to reducing the risk of cancer in communities in Indonesia.

English as a foreign language lecturers’ language power bases in the high context culture of Toraja

<span lang="EN-US">This study overviews the English as a foreign language (EFL) lecturers’ language power bases in the high-context culture of Toraja. The writer applied a qualitative study method with a case study design. The writer applied purposive sampling and the subjects of this study are three EFL lecturers. The writer got the data through video observation and interviews. The data analysis technique used is using transcription and coding. It is revealed that the characteristics of lecturers’ behaviors and communication strategies associated with the five bases of power-referent power, coercive power, reward power, legitimate power, and expert power-were observed in the high context culture of Toraja, a common cultural practice among the Toraja learners. Referent power was evident when the lecturer was able to establish a connection with the learners based on shared cultural norms. Coercive power was demonstrated when the lecturer used guilt to pressure learners who were unwilling to do a class presentation. Reward power was characterized by the lecturer providing incentives to learners who complied with requests. Legitimate power was observed when the lecturer maintained strict control over the classroom. Additionally, expert power was identified when the lecturer shared their knowledge and expertise in addressing gaps in the study area.</span>

Cultural factors contributing to gender-based violence in Zambian societies

Overview: This study examined the intricate cultural dynamics underlying the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) within Zambian societies. Despite legislative efforts and international campaigns to combat GBV, its persistence underscores the need for a deeper understanding of the cultural underpinnings that perpetuate such violence. Body of Knowledge: Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, this study sought to identify key cultural elements such as patriarchal structures, beliefs about masculinity and femininity, and the role of family and community dynamics in shaping attitudes and behaviors related to gender-based violence. Additionally, this study delves into the multifaceted ways in which cultural norms, beliefs, and practices intersect with gender dynamics to foster environments conducive to GBV. Methods: The population comprised of government officials at the district level who had some responsibility for GBV, police officers from VSU, and Members of the community. The total target population was 1000. The sample size involved a total of 100 respondents which is 10% of the target population. The study used purposive sampling to select government officials and police officers while simple random sampling was used to selected community members. This study used descriptive design to analyze the data. Interviews, ethnographic observation, and questionnaires were used to collect data. Qualitative and Quantitative techniques of data analysis was used, and data was presented on the analytical tools such as tables, figures and charts. Results: Initial findings revealed that traditional gender roles deeply entrenched in Zambian culture play a pivotal role in perpetuating GBV. The patriarchal structure of society often assigns men dominance and control over women, leading to power imbalances that facilitate violence. Furthermore, beliefs surrounding masculinity, including expectations of aggression and dominance, contribute to a culture of impunity surrounding GBV. Men are often socialized to perceive violence as a legitimate means of asserting authority, while women may internalize norms of submission and silence. Recommendation: This study underscores the urgent need for culturally sensitive interventions that address the root causes of GBV in Zambia. By engaging communities in dialogue and challenging harmful cultural norms, sustainable solutions can be developed to promote gender equality and create safer environments for all individuals.

Knowledge and perception of cereal farmers and extension agents on fungicide use in northern Ghana.

Agricultural pesticide use in sub-Saharan Africa has doubled over the past three decades, with a greater relative increase for fungicides. As pesticide inputs continue to rise, so does the potential for the development of resistance. Here, we report on a survey conducted to understand pesticide resistance awareness, pesticide-use knowledge and practices of growers and agricultural extension officers (AEOs) in the cereals growing-belt of northern Ghana, with emphasis on fungicides. The results may inform development of strategies for improving pesticide literacy including resistance awareness, extension services and crop protection outcomes. The survey revealed a low level of pesticide-use knowledge for AEOs and growers. This was more so for growers with low education, predominantly women. Education level (and indirectly gender) influenced perceived effectiveness of fungicides and levels of adoption of cultural and agrochemical best practices. Only 28% of growers and 11% of AEOs practiced crop and fungicide rotations, respectively. More than half (53%) of the respondents indicated that fungicides used in northern Ghana are not effective. Given the low level of pesticide literacy of AEOs and growers, training programs on best practice for the use of pesticides, with targeted initiatives for female growers, would improve crop protection outcomes and safety. The limited adoptions of crop rotation and repeated use of fungicides with the same active ingredients, along with >50% of respondents reporting 'fungicides not working' suggest the potential presence of fungicide resistance cases in growers' fields in the Northern region of Ghana. Further work is needed to determine the incidence of resistance in the region. It is recommended that a key policy priority should focus on understanding broader agrochemical-use practices, crop losses and household-level food security in the presence of resistance risks. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Evaluating Two Sampling Methods for Mycoplasma Bovis Diagnosis in American Bison (Bison Bison).

Mycoplasma bovis is a bacterial pathogen endemic to cattle. In the early 2000s, M. bovis emerged as a cause of respiratory disease in American bison (Bison bison), causing significant morbidity and mortality. Bison herds that experience an outbreak of M. bovis are at higher risk for subsequent outbreaks, suggesting that chronic, subclinical infections can be established. Antemortem testing is therefore crucial to disease management; however, the precise sampling method to maximize detection of M. bovis in bison is unknown. We evaluated two sample types-superficial nasal swabs and deep nasopharyngeal swabs-collected from apparently healthy or symptomatic bison from January 2021 through December 2022. We used real-time PCR to detect M. bovis in 76/938 bison (8.1%) from 11 herds. For bison testing positive on at least one swab type, M. bovis was detected in 63/76 (82.8%) deep nasopharyngeal swabs and 29/73 (38.1%) superficial nasal swabs. Agreement between swabs for positive bison was 21% (n=16, kappa coefficient 0.319). We conclude that deep nasopharyngeal swabbing is more sensitive than superficial nasal swabbing for detection of M. bovis in bison and that low agreement between methods may be related to stage of infection. We further tested pooled samples by PCR and found that pooling of up to five samples can be effective to increase throughput and minimize costs. Management of wild bison relies on the ability to relocate animals to maintain gene flow and healthy populations. Sensitive and specific diagnostic tests are needed to inform decisions and minimize risk of transmission, especially from subclinical carriers. This study provides valuable insight that will inform best practices for M. bovis testing, thereby supporting the conservation of bison as healthy wildlife, which in turn promotes ecological restoration, safeguards cultural practices of Tribal Nations, and upholds the bison as a unique American icon.

Distant dinosaurs and the aesthetics of remote art

Abstract Francis Sparshott introduced the term ‘remote art’ in his 1982 presidential address to the American Society for Aesthetics. The concept has not drawn much notice since—although individual remote arts, such as palaeolithic art and the artistic practices of subaltern cultures, have enjoyed their fair share of attention from aestheticians. This paper explores what unites some artistic practices under the banner of remote art, arguing that remoteness is primarily a matter of some audience’s epistemic distance from a work’s context of creation. I introduce palaeoart—the depiction of extinct prehistoric fauna and flora, especially from the Mesozoic—as a paradigmatic case of remote art, showing that its remoteness is secured both by the deceptively rich cognitive load required for its creation and appreciation, and by its existence at the margins of the institutional artworld, which ensures that this cognitive loading is largely obscured. Too often, remote art is not just inscrutable, it is invisible to us.

Studying children’s small science and early engineering learning process to help shape their cultural identity in culturally valued play-based experience

AbstractThere are no conflicts between intentional teaching and play-based learning. However, educators find it challenging to establish the pedagogical relationship between them as they struggle to conceptualise and enact their role in the play-based context. In particular, educators’ confidence level is not enough to teach science and engineering in a play-based context. However, there is an increasing demand to integrate teaching practice for STEM learning in early childhood settings. Play is a pleasure and a leading source for children’s learning and cultural maturation process as part of their social and cultural experiences, and adults’ support can enhance children’s STEM learning process in a play-based context. This paper investigates how educators’ intentional teaching plan can support children’s small science and engineering learning process in culturally valued play. A total of 50 h of video data, representing 64 children aged from 10 months to 5 years, were collected through digital video observation over a period of seven weeks in an early childhood centre in Australia. This paper uses the dialectical interactive approach to analyse a 95-min video clip of children’s (3 to 5 years of age) play in a cultural context. It is argued that educators progress their learning and confidence to teach science and engineering in play-based settings when they could choose the activity from their community culture or centre-based practice. The findings of the study provide a pedagogical model for educators, which provides a conceptual framework for STEM-based learning in a culturally valued play.

Conservation of Sacred Groves of Rajasthan through Folkloric Beliefs

Sacred groves or sacred woods are groves of trees, related to traditional, religious & cultural beliefs & these areas are dedicated to local deities & ancestor spirits. They can be found as a section of a forest. They are excellent illustrations of in-situ conservation. These groves, which are around the nation in villages & cities, plains, and mountain areas, represent a priceless genetic diversity that helps to preserve our environment in many ways. Many extinct species that could have perished otherwise have been saved because of these virgin forest regions. Besides protecting biological diversity, the entire ecosystem aids in water & soil conservation. In the case of Rajasthan, sacred woods can be considered as one of the preservers of priceless ancient religious practices & traditional beliefs. Therefore, sacred forests offer humanity certain crucial ecological functions. In recent times, drastic changes around the globe have also impacted both religious practices and biological integrity. The destruction of the historic heritage has several causes, some of which need to be investigated, including changes in social beliefs, modernity, and the eroding of cultural practices. It becomes important to spread awareness of the management and conservation of various ecosystem services as well as to suggest management and conservation as an alternative strategy for the sustainability of forestry around human settlements.

Patshitinikutau Natukunisha Tshishennuat Uitshuau (a place for Elders to spend their last days in life): a qualitative study about Innu perspectives on end-of-life care

BackgroundIndigenous palliative persons and their families often have different values, spiritual traditions, and practices from Western culture and Canadian health systems. Additionally, many healthcare policies and practices have been established without adequate consultation of the Indigenous populations they are meant to serve. This can result in barriers to Innu receiving culturally safe end-of-life care. Innu community leaders from Sheshatshiu, Labrador, have identified a need for further research in this area. The purpose of this study is to: (1) describe the cultural and spiritual practices related to death and dying of the Innu in Sheshatshiu; (2) identify aspects of current end-of-life care delivery that serve and/or fail to meet the cultural and spiritual needs of the Innu in Sheshatshiu; and (3) explore ways to integrate current end-of-life care delivery practices with Innu cultural and spiritual practices to achieve culturally safer care delivery for the Innu.MethodsThis qualitative patient-oriented research study was co-led by Innu investigators and an Innu advisory committee to conduct semi-structured interviews of 5 healthcare providers and 6 decision-makers serving the community of Sheshatshiu and a focus group of 5 Innu Elders in Sheshatshiu. Data was analyzed thematically from verbatim transcripts. The codebook, preliminary themes, and final themes were all reviewed by Innu community members, and any further input from them was then incorporated. Quotations in this article are attributed to Innu Elders by name at the Elders’ request.ResultsThe findings are described using eight themes, which describe the following: relationships and visitation support a “peaceful death”; traditional locations of death and dying; the important role of friends and community in providing care; flexibility and communication regarding cultural practices; adequate and appropriate supports and services; culturally-informed policies and leadership; and Innu care providers and patient navigators.ConclusionsThe Innu in Sheshatshiu have a rich culture that contributes to the health, care, and overall well-being of Innu people approaching end of life. Western medicine is often beneficial in the care that it provides; however, it becomes culturally unsafe when it fails to take Innu cultural and spiritual knowledge and traditions into account.

The Role of Traditional Knowledge Due to Climate Change Adaptation and Economic Wellbeing in Island Communities: A Case Study of Terengganu, Malaysia

Traditional knowledge pertaining to Islands is crucial in combating climate change. Many scholars have examined the usage of traditional knowledge amongst Island communities. However, studies regarding traditional knowledge from the stance of Island dwellers on monitoring and responding to climate change in Terengganu, Malaysia, are scarce. Therefore, this study assessed the mediating impact of adaptive capacity on the relationship between traditional knowledge use (i.e., cultural beliefs, cultural practises, and personality traits) and the economic wellbeing of Island residents in Terengganu in light of climate change. This cross-sectional study deployed the survey questionnaire method by involving 354 Redang and Perhentian Island communities selected via purposive sampling. The two Islands were selected due to their size and topographical features. The collected data were analysed via structural equation modelling–partial least square (SEM-PLS) by using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The findings revealed that two traditional knowledge dimensions (i.e., cultural belief and cultural practice) were correlated in a significantly positive manner with the economic wellbeing of the two Island communities due to climate change, while personality traits did not exert any impact. Next, adaptive capacity mediated the link between the personality traits and the economic wellbeing of the communities in the two Islands. In conclusion, this research work succeeded in examining the use of traditional knowledge and the mediating impact of adaptive capacity on the correlation between traditional knowledge and economic wellbeing of the communities dwelling in Redang and Perhentian Islands in view of climate change.

Farmer perceptions, knowledge, and management of fall armyworm in maize production in Uganda

Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), fall armyworm (FAW), a polyphagous Noctuid pest, was first reported in Uganda in 2016. Farmers were trained to identify and manage the pest, but there was a lack of information on farmer knowledge, perceptions and practices deployed to control it. Therefore, we conducted a survey to assess maize farmers’ knowledge, perceptions and management of the pest during the invasion. We interviewed 1,289 maize farmers from 10 maize-growing agro-ecological zones (AEZ) of Uganda using well-structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using R version 4.2.3. The respondents faced many constraints, including pests, drought, poor soils and labor constraints. Among the pests, FAW was ranked by most (85%) of the respondents as the number one pest problem in maize, and some farmers reported having noticed it way back in 2014. By 2018, more than 90% of the farmers had seen or heard about FAW, and about 80% saw FAW in their fields. The most common FAW symptoms reported by maize farmers were windowing, near tunnel damage, and holes on the cobs. The developmental stages of FAW identified by farmers included eggs (10%), young larvae (78.7%), mature larvae (73.5%) and adult moths (6.7%). Insecticides were the major control tactic, although some farmers used plant extracts, hand-picking, sand, and ash. Farmers sourced information on FAW from various sources, including fellow farmers, radio/TV, extension agents, input dealers, print media, research and NGO extension. There is a need to package clear and uniform information for the farmers and to develop and promote a sustainable solution for FAW management, including harnessing biological control and cultural practices.

Awareness and Knowledge Level of Puerperal Mothers on Neonatal Jaundice: A Qualitative Study in Northern Ghana

Background: Neonatal Jaundice is a major contributing cause of newborn hospitalizations and a major cause of newborn mortality. It should not be a major cause of mortality even in developing countries Inadequate knowledge of mothers about NNJ results in delayed decision-making to seek timely medical interventions. Methods: Using an exploratory design, a semi-structured interview guide was used to assess puerperal mothers' knowledge of NNJ. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 15 mothers Too small size attend health services at the Tamale West Hospital with newborns sick of NNJ. An interview guide through an in-depth interview process was used to gather data. Interviews were recorded and transcribed before analyzing thematically to organize the data into major and sub-themes. Results: Awareness of NNJ was above average, the majority of mothers had knowledge of NNJ. Reported signs and symptoms of NNJ include yellowish eyes, palms, and skin. Treatment of jaundice was cited to include the use of phototherapy, and frequent breastfeeding. Causes and risk factors associated were; infections, G6PD defects, and consumption of herbal concoctions. Conclusions: Health education should be intensified at the various units of the hospital to correct cultural and religious practices and improve caregivers' and mothers understanding of NNJ.

Issues and Challenges Concerning Mental Health in India: Time to Brood Over

Good mental health is obligatory for a high quality of life. One’s wellness is tested by the daily life-challenging situations relating to family, work and environment. Everyone experiences stress and strain throughout their life. Mental health issues continue to be a sombre issue that affects individuals of all age groups and communities throughout the orb. The fundamental cause of mental health issues is societal and cultural norms and practices that affect the individual as well as their relatives. This article highlights the factors contributing to mental illness and socio-economic, cultural, religious and legal challenges in dealing with mental health. The article also discusses all the significant provisions along with their real spirits with which they have been made under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. The Act not only makes the provisions in the light of nationwide scenario but also takes into account the global perspective concerning mental health. Also, this article provides some suggestions that will help deal with the issues of mental illness.

How East Asian Culture Influences the Personality Traits of Its Residents: An Exploration of Cultural Characteristics and the Emphasis on Interdependence

East Asia, a region that includes China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, is home to a diverse mosaic of cultural practices, traditions, and philosophies that have developed over millennia. This paper examines the profound impact of East Asian culture on the personality traits of its inhabitants, concentrating on the region's emphasis on interdependence. The research investigates how ancient philosophies such as Confucianism and cultural norms anchored in collectivism influence individual behaviors, cognitive processes, and interpersonal interactions. The paper explores the contrast between East Asian interdependence and Western individualism in greater detail, emphasizing the nuances of high-context communication, holistic thinking, and adaptability prevalent in East Asian societies. Through a comprehensive analysis, the study highlights the significance of understanding cultural complexities in our increasingly globalized world, highlighting the central role East Asian cultural traits play in molding individual personalities and behaviors. This exploration provides valuable insights for academicians, policymakers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between culture and personality in East Asia.

Effect of Varieties and Dates of Sowing on Seed Yield of Sunhemp

A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Stattion, Amadalavalasa to identify a suitable sunhemp variety and sowing window during Khariff or obtaining higher yields in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh. The soil of experimental site was sandy loam in texture, medium in alkaline reaction (pH: 8.24), non-saline (EC: 0.22 dS m-1), low in organic carbon (0.5%), low in available nitrogen (219.3 kg ha-1), low in available phosphorus (22.18 kg P2O5 ha-1) and medium in available potassium (268.3 kg K2O ha-1). The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with four main plot treatments, three subplot treatments and with three replications. The main treatments comprised of four dates of sowing viz., D1: 1st may,D2:15th may,D3:1st june and D4: 15th june. The sub plot treatments comprised of three varieties viz., V1: K12 yellow, V2: K12 black and V3: SH 4. All the cultural practices were adopted as per the recommendations of University. The results of the experiment indicated that growth and yield of sunhemp was significantly influenced by variety as well as date of sowing. It was evident that sowing of sunhemp in North Coastal AndhraPradesh on 15th June was optimum as it recorded shorter plant height (224.8 cm), early flowering i.e flower initiation at 80 days, 50% flowering in 91 days, higher plant population and significantly higher seed yield (2.35 q/ha) was recorded. Among the varieties tested SH 4 produced taller plants exhibited early flowering and finally recorded significantly higher seed yield (2.16 q/ha). However, plant population did not vary significantly among the varieties. Interaction between dates of sowing and varieties indicated that for seed crop K12 black and SH 4 of sunhemp can be sown between 1st june to 15th June in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh for getting higher seed yield of sunhemp as the seed yield of the above two varieties and dates of sowing were atpar.

Penile implants, a cultural practice in the carceral milieu of French West Indies region: A case report

Penile implants, a cultural practice in the carceral milieu of French West Indies region: A case report

The campaign for bodily autonomy and belonging in Grenoble, France: resisting epistemic violence, media discourse and othering

ABSTRACT Shared public spaces can be sites of struggle where cultural practices are positioned as ‘other’ in starkly different ways ranging from being celebrated to being stigmatised. This article presents a longitudinal case study of a campaign by a citizens' group (Alliance Citoyenne Grenoble) for changes to swimwear regulations within municipal pools in Grenoble, France. Ethnographic data reveals that the campaigners experienced forms of othering and epistemic violence through media and political discourse and lived experiences which directly impacted their sense of belonging. The study analyses those discourses and the strategies adopted by the group to resist forms of marginalisation.

A Systematic Review of Variability in the Reporting of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation -Associated Infections and Recommendations for Standardization.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) utilization has surged in recent years, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, yet standardization of ECMO-associated infection reporting remains lacking. This systematic review assessed 60 studies from 2018 to 2023 in PubMed which used key words related to ECMO-associated infections. Adherence to reporting data elements that may bias reporting including use of standardized rates of infections per 1000 patient days, describing use of antimicrobial prophylaxis, infection control, and culture practices, describing the definitions for infection by site, and listing pathogens by infection site were evaluated by study. Our review revealed considerable heterogeneity in data elements and infection definitions. While 51 (85%) studies reported definition by site, only 17 (28%) reported infection control practices, and only 6 (8%) studies adhered to all the identified essential reporting elements. Variation in infection rates was also evident across the definitions with studies using their own definition having the greatest variability in reported infection rates. Microbiological differences by geographic region further underscored the need for standardized reporting and challenges with generalizability in the ECMO-associated infection literature. Our findings underscore the imperative for consensus on ECMO infection definitions and transparent reporting practices to facilitate meaningful comparisons and advance patient care protocols.