Cultural Relevance Research Articles

Development of Educational Leaflet for Genetic Counseling and Premarital Screening of Thalassemia for Prospective Couples

Introduction: Thalassemia is a common hereditary blood disorder with a significant impact on public health, particularly in high-prevalence areas. Genetic counseling and premarital screening are critical for educating couples at risk, helping to reduce the incidence of thalassemia. However, there is often a lack of accessible and comprehensible information on this topic for prospective couples, especially at the community health level. Objective: This study aimed to develop an educational leaflet tailored for prospective couples, focusing on genetic counseling and premarital screening for thalassemia. The leaflet is designed to enhance awareness, provide clear information, and encourage informed decision-making among couples. Method: A descriptive research design was employed to create and validate the educational leaflet. The development process included a needs assessment through surveys and focus group discussions with nurse educators and couples in the target population. Content was adapted based on expert feedback from genetic counselors and nurses educators to ensure accuracy, readability, and cultural relevance. Result: The finalized leaflet contains essential information on thalassemia, genetic counseling, and the importance of premarital screening. It is structured in a user-friendly format, including illustrations and a simplified language level to facilitate understanding. Conclusion: The educational leaflet effectively provides prospective couples with critical information on thalassemia, genetic counseling, and premarital screening. This tool can serve as a valuable resource in public health centers to promote awareness and preventive measures for hereditary diseases. Further research is recommended to evaluate its long-term impact on reducing thalassemia incidence.

Does family culture hamper corporate deceptive green behavior decision-making?

Different categories of cultural traits have acknowledged that culture matters for a multiplicity of decisions made regarding economic outcomes. In response to the increasing awareness of cultural traits and their relationship to corporate sustainable behavior, this paper focused on one specific aspect of the relevance of culture: the association of family culture to green behaviors. This paper explored the nexus between family culture, the deceptive behavior of greenwashing, and firm performance in China, which provided original evidence that family culture firms have a significantly lower likelihood in participating in deceptive green behaviors as measured by greenwashing. By collecting the listed Chinese firms during 2011 to 2021, we estimated empirical models and drew a variety of conclusions accordingly. First, family culture firms have a negative and significant impact on greenwashing behaviors, leading to a decline in deceptive green production decision-making. Second, we further provided mechanisms which hamper family firms’ greenwashing behaviors into two perspectives: financial constraint and agency cost between shareholders and family managers. We recognized that financial constraints motivate family culture firms to greenwash, whereas the low agency cost related to family culture discourages family firms from greenwashing decision-making. Third, we provide very rich dimensions in discussion of heterogeneous effects. Specifically, within the internal family culture structure heterogeneities, family managers without overseas backgrounds, no generational or descendant involvement, and high family-controlled firms are even less involved in greenwashing decision-making. Moreover, with respect to external heterogeneities, family culture in pollution-intensive industries, highly regulated environmental firms, and Confucian social culture intensive regions, can significantly reduce greenwashing behaviors.

Cross-culture adaptation and validation of Indonesian language version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index

Hemodialysis (HD) patients have a high rate of poor sleep. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) is the most popular self-reported instrument to measure sleep quality. No study has tested the psychometric efficiency of the Bahasa (Indonesian language) PSQI in hemodialysis (HD) patients, and no cross-cultural adaptation has been done. The purpose of this research was to translate the PSQI into Bahasa and improve its psychometric properties for use in evaluating HD patients in Indonesia. This study used instrument translation, cultural adaptation, content validation, and equivalence to crossculturally validate and adapt an instrument. The hemodialysis center at a West Java medical facility served as a source of potential HD patients throughout the period of October 2022 to February 2023. A content validity index (CVI) was calculated for each item and the entire scale. The factor structure of the Bahasa PSQI has been evaluated by confirmatory factor analysis and internal consistency was calculated using Cronbach's alpha. The online survey received a response rate of 62.8% from a total of 220 patient with HD (about ten responders each item). The level of language clarity was 87.8%, and the level of cultural relevance was 84.5%. The CVI varied from 0.92 to 1.00. Each factor had factor loading ranging from 0.51 to 0.62. that Cronbach alpha for total score was 0.803, and the subscale ranged from 0.771 to 0.863. Our research provides preliminary evidence of the validity and reliability of the translated and adapted tool using data from HD patients in Indonesian hospitals.

Wolastoqiyik adaptation of the Aaniish Naa Gegii: the Children's Health and Well-Being Measure.

Indigenous children in Canada represent one of the fastest-growing pediatric populations and experience severe health inequities. There is an ongoing need for new research on relevant methods to measure the health and wellbeing of Indigenous children that considers the cultural differences between communities. The Aaniish Naa Gegii: the Children's Health and Well-Being Measure (ACHWM) is a self-reported questionnaire that was developed to meet this need and to include the voices of Indigenous children. The purpose of this study was to assess the cultural relevance of the ACHWM for Wolastoqiyik children and to determine what revisions may be needed to ensure that the questions are well understood and culturally appropriate. We recruited a community-based sample of nine Wolastoqiyik children (ages 8 to 16 years), two caregivers, and a community Elder within the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation community in New Brunswick. Through a process of cognitive debriefing, we probed children's comprehension of the 62 questions of the First Nation French version of the ACHWM. We analyzed the information reported to determine the participants' understandings relative to the other participants and to the original intent of the ACHWM content. Each of the nine children identified at least one item they recommended for revision during the interview. We observed similarities in the suggestions offered by several respondents. A total of 23 questions were considered, and 14 questions (22.6%) were modified, taking into consideration all participants' suggestions. While measures like the ACHWM offer useful information, relying solely on a 'one size fits all' Indigenous questionnaire is insufficient. Our findings underline the importance of having methods that are easily accessible, adaptable, and culturally appropriate for assessing and addressing Indigenous children's unique health and wellbeing. Such information allows clinicians to develop interventions that are culturally relevant, addressing children's individual needs within the context of their distinct cultural identity.

The impact of culturally-informed messages to reduce sugar-sweetened beverage consumption: An experiment among Black women in the United States.

Sugar-sweetened beverage (i.e., sugary drink) consumption is associated with chronic health issues that disproportionately affect Black women. Culturally-informed (CI) health campaigns may be more effective among Black women than campaigns designed for general audiences. This study assesses the effects of a CI campaign on consumption intentions, comparing these effects to general audience and control campaigns. We conducted an online between-persons randomized experiment with a national convenience sample of 502 Black women in February 2023. Participants were randomly assigned to view a CI, general audience, or control campaign. Outcomes were intentions to decrease sugary drink consumption (primary outcome; range 1-7), knowledge of (range 0-4) and perceived susceptibility to health harms (range 1-5) and sharing intentions (range 0-3). The CI campaign had significantly higher perceived cultural relevance (M = 4.61) than the general audience (M = 3.64) or control (M = 3.66; p's<0.05) campaigns. Consumption intentions did not differ by campaign condition (F = 0.03, p>0.05). There was no main effect of campaign condition on knowledge or perceived susceptibility (p's>0.05), though findings were moderated by body size. Based on body size, women reported less perceived susceptibility or knowledge when exposed to the CI campaign, compared to either the control or general audience campaign. Sharing intentions did not differ by campaign condition. Future research should continue to examine the role of refining message content over a longer duration to understand whether the anticipated impact of CI messages can be achieved in the context of sugary drink consumption among Black women.

Discourse Analysis: Language Issues in Indigenous Language Learning in Indonesia

This article examines the complexities of language issues in the context of Indigenous language learning in Indonesia, a nation with over 700 living languages. Indigenous languages are at risk of extinction due to socio-political and economic factors. The research examines the role of language policies, educational practices, and community engagement in preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages. It highlights the challenges Indigenous communities face in accessing quality language learning resources and the impact of globalization on language transmission. The discourse surrounding Indigenous language learning in Indonesia reveals the importance of these languages in cultural identity and heritage. In Indonesia, many Indigenous languages are classified as endangered, and there is an urgent need to address the barriers to effective language learning. The Indonesian government's language policy has historically prioritized the national language, Bahasa Indonesia, often marginalizing Indigenous languages. This policy environment creates significant challenges for Indigenous language learners, who may find themselves without adequate resources or support. Schools in many regions do not offer Indigenous language programs; when they do, the curriculum often lacks cultural relevance. Discourse analysis reveals that Indigenous communities often possess rich linguistic resources and knowledge that can contribute to language teaching. Collaborative efforts between educators, community leaders, and linguists can create a more inclusive language learning environment. Initiatives such as language nests, immersion programs, and local storytelling can enhance the learning experience by making it culturally relevant and engaging. By fostering a discourse that values and promotes linguistic diversity, Indonesia can work towards preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages.

Treatment experiences of women diagnosed with substance use disorder in eastern Turkey: A qualitative study.

The aim of this study was to determine the addiction treatment experiences of women with substance use disorders in eastern Turkey with qualitative approach. The study was conducted using the phenomenological method, one of the qualitative study methods. Purposive sampling was used to select the sample for the study. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with the selected sample group. Data saturation was reached with 12 participants and data collection was finalized. The data was collected using a personal information form and an open-ended structured interview form in which participants were asked about their views and experiences of the climate crisis. Voice recordings were transcribed, and categories, sub-themes and themes were formed. Based on the statements of women with substance use disorders, several major themes in experiences of treatment: the path to healing, barriers and advantages. Barriers to treatment included individual barriers, institutional barriers and social barriers. Individuals' barriers divided into several categories such as custody issue, internalized stigma, lack of knowledge, economic difficulties, lack of social security and barriers to accessing treatment. While treatment can lead to improved functionality and recovery for women with substance use disorders, various competing factors can complicate these outcomes. The impact of intimate partner violence, social support, stigma, and cultural relevance all play critical roles in shaping treatment experiences. Addressing these complexities through integrated, women-centered approaches is essential for enhancing treatment outcomes and supporting the recovery journeys of women with substance use disorders.

The Impact of Community-Based Health Education on Maternal Health Outcomes in Rural Southeast Asia

Community-based health education has emerged as an effective strategy to improve maternal health outcomes, particularly in underserved rural areas with limited access to health services. These programs address critical gaps in prenatal care, birth preparedness, and postnatal health practices, empowering women to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. This research aims to determine the impact of culturally tailored community-based health education programs on maternal health outcomes in rural areas of Southeast Asia, with a focus on improving access to prenatal care, birth readiness, and postnatal care practices. Methods A mixed methods approach was used, integrating quantitative health records analysis with qualitative insights from interviews with participants in targeted rural communities. This dual methodology provided a comprehensive understanding of the program's effectiveness and cultural relevance. Results showed that regular health education sessions significantly improved maternal health outcomes. Communities exposed to these programs reported higher rates of attendance at antenatal check-ups, increased skilled attendance during delivery, and better adherence to postpartum care recommendations. These improvements were instrumental in reducing maternal and newborn mortality and improving overall health in this population. This research implicates the important role of culturally sensitive health education in bridging maternal health disparities in rural areas of Southeast Asia. By integrating local customs and beliefs into health messages, these programs foster community trust and engagement, thereby increasing their acceptance and effectiveness.

Translation and Validation of the Greek Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire-Parental Form.

Background: The prevalence of food allergy is increasing, posing a significant health concern. Assessing health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in individuals with food allergies is crucial, and various questionnaires exist for this purpose. However, translation and validation of these tools are necessary to ensure cultural relevance. This study aimed to translate the FAQLQ-PF into Greek and perform a cross-sectional validation to assess its effectiveness in evaluating HRQOL among Greek children with food allergies. Methods: Parents of children aged 0 to 12 years diagnosed with food allergy completed the Greek version of the FAQLQ-PF, consisting of 30 items across three subscales. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected. Statistical analyses included nonparametric tests, correlation analysis for validity, and Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency. Results: Out of 85 participants, 81 were included. The FAQLQ-PF demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.94). Validity evaluation indicated its ability to measure HRQOL in younger children. HRQOL in the Greek pediatric population was significantly correlated with the number of food allergies, symptoms, parental and child concerns, anxiety levels, and activity restrictions. However, sex and general health status were not significantly correlated with HRQOL. Conclusions: The Greek translation and validation of FAQLQ-PF provides insights into HRQOL among Greek children with food allergies. Factors such as anaphylactic reactions, epinephrine autoinjector usage, number of food allergies, and symptoms influenced HRQOL in this population.

"It Has to Be Culturally Inclusive": Food Distribution Services for Diverse Communities in New York City.

The COVID-19 pandemic and its related economic challenges exacerbated food insecurity across New York State (NYS). Approximately one third of New York City residents reported use of emergency food services in the pandemic's first year and, in 2021, approximately 1 in 10 NYS residents was food insecure, with rates among Hispanic and Black New Yorkers more than double that of White residents. Although these numbers have decreased following the acute phase of the pandemic, disparities by race and ethnicity persist and use of emergency food services remain elevated for New Yorkers born outside of the United States. Despite this, few policies and interventions that aim to improve the charitable and emergency food systems focus on the cultural relevance and appropriateness of foods provided. In 2022, researchers conducted 12 interviews with key stakeholders from organizations and institutions providing food distribution services to culturally diverse New Yorkers to understand barriers and facilitators related to providing culturally appropriate foods and elicit lessons learned and recommendations to inform future programs and policies. Findings from this study indicate that organizations serving diverse communities recognize the importance of providing culturally appropriate food services and make efforts to tailor these services accordingly. However, they face challenges that limit their capacity to offer foods consistent with the dietary needs and preferences of their clients. Additional funding, policies, and support are needed to improve the availability of culturally inclusive food distribution services within the emergency and charitable food systems.

Enhancing Science and Climate Literacy in Latin America and the Caribbean

The Intercontinental meeting on Science Literacy 2024 brought together experts, educators, and policymakers to discuss the changing landscape of science and climate literacy in Latin America and the Caribbean. This document synthesizes the ideas shared at the conference and aims to serve as a resource to promote science literacy measures. Key topics include the impact of digital transformation on education, the integration of climate literacy into school curricula, the importance of cultural relevance, and the challenges of accessibility and misinformation. Opportunities to improve scientific literacy through collaborative networks, public engagement, and supportive policies are also highlighted. The white paper presents strategies to integrate digital tools, promote inclusion, and promote lifelong learning. These recommendations will be integrated into the ongoing development of the Declaration on Science and Climate Literacy, initially published in 2021 by the Andean Road Countries for Science and Technology and its collaborators.

Sustainable Craft Culture: Socio‐Cultural Drivers and Economic Impact on Sustainable Development

ABSTRACTThe craft culture of West Bengal, India, is deeply rooted in rich socio‐cultural traditions and plays a crucial role in advancing economic development and sustainability. This study explores the intricate socio‐cultural drivers that shape West Bengal's craft culture and examines their profound impact on sustainable development. The research delves into the historical, religious, and social dynamics that influence both the commercialization and preservation of traditional crafts. The qualitative study was performed using Grounded Theory and laddering technique, which highlighted the significance of cultural preservation, identity, and community engagement while illuminating the close relationship between craftspeople and their trade. The quantitative study highlights that the craft industry is influenced by eight major factors. It was further identified that the factors having the major impact were Perceived Cultural Preservation, Perceived Cultural Identity, Community Engagement, and Education and Awareness, highlighting the crucial role these areas play in maintaining and advancing West Bengal's craft culture. When considered collectively, the studies offer a thorough grasp of the cultural relevance influencing West Bengal's artisan traditions. By bridging the gap between cultural preservation and economic imperatives, this study provides a comprehensive framework for supporting the resilience and vitality of traditional crafts in the contemporary global landscape.

A Comparative Study of the Translated Arabic Versions of the Novel ‘To the Lighthouse’ under Feminist Translation Theory

This paper, A Comparative Study of the Translated Arabic Versions of the Novel to the Lighthouse under Feminist Translation Theory, examines the influence of feminist translation theory on the interpretation of Virginia Woolf’s iconic novel. It focuses on two Arabic translations, both completed by female translators, to investigate how gender, cultural context, and personal experiences shape the depiction of Woolf’s female characters and the feminist themes central to her work. The study delves into the translators’ individual backgrounds and feminist ideologies, exploring how their perspectives and the sociocultural dynamics of the Arab world influence translation decisions. By analyzing shifts in language, tone, and narrative emphasis, it reveals how these translations navigate the challenges of preserving Woolf’s feminist voice while resonating within the framework of Arabic literary traditions. The paper also investigates the interplay between power relations, societal norms, and translation strategies, highlighting the translators’ efforts to balance fidelity to the original text with cultural relevance. It emphasizes the complexities involved in translating feminist viewpoints into a linguistic and cultural context where gender discourse often intersects with deeply rooted societal structures. Through this lens, the study underscores the transformative potential of feminist translation theory in reinterpreting literature, challenging patriarchal narratives, and enriching cross-cultural dialogue. By bridging feminist theory and translation studies, this research contributes valuable insights into the evolving role of gender in literary interpretation and cross-cultural communication.

Exploring Consumer Understanding and Perceptions of Front-of-Pack Labelling of Foods and Non-Alcoholic Beverages in Kenya.

Background: Front-of-package labeling (FOPL) is shown to support healthier consumer choices. Many countries have adopted different FOPL systems. Objective: This study explored perceptions and understanding of three FOPLs and identified features that could enhance their effectiveness in Kenya. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted across four Kenyan counties-Nairobi, Mombasa, Garissa, and Kisumu. Data from 12 focus group discussions with 137 adults of diverse socio-demographic backgrounds were analysed. Participants evaluated three FOPLs: Red and Green (RG) Octagon, Red and Green Octagon with icons and text (RGI), and Black Octagon Warning Label (WL). The FGDs assessed visibility and memorability, comprehension, potential effectiveness, and cultural relevance of each label. NVivo version 14.0 was used for thematic analysis. Results: Kenyan consumers had mixed perceptions of the proposed FOPLs. The black Octagon WL was found to be the most visible and memorable due to its bright colours. Although the RG and RGI symbols were visually engaging, some participants reported confusion with the colour meanings. The WL was also more readily understood due to its text. Overall, WL was preferred for its potential to influence purchasing decisions, while all three FOPLs were considered culturally suitable. Conclusions: The Black Octagon Warning Label was the most visible and comprehensible of the three FOPLs and shows promise in influencing consumer behaviour in Kenya. While RG and RGI symbols are appealing, their colour scheme could reduce their effectiveness. Educating consumers on FOPLs could enhance their impact in reducing unhealthy food purchases.

Effectiveness and equity of mHealth apps for preeclampsia management in LMICs: A rapid review protocol.

Preeclampsia remains a formidable public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where it significantly contributes to the high rates of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The advent of mobile health (mHealth) applications presents a promising avenue for enhancing the management of preeclampsia. This review protocol is designed to systematically assess the effectiveness and equity of mHealth apps in managing preeclampsia within LMICs, with a focus on clinical outcomes and the broader implications for accessibility, affordability, and cultural relevance. To achieve the objectives of this review, a rapid review methodology will be employed, encompassing a structured search strategy to identify pertinent studies from databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, as well as grey literature. The inclusion criteria are set to encompass randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials (CCTs), observational studies, and qualitative studies that offer insights into the effectiveness and user experience of mHealth apps for preeclampsia management. Participants in these studies will include pregnant women at risk for or diagnosed with preeclampsia, healthcare providers, and app developers. The quality of the included studies will be critically appraised using standardized tools, and data extraction will focus on study characteristics, interventions, outcomes, and equity considerations. The implications of this review are far-reaching, offering the potential to inform stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare providers, and app developers about the deployment and development of mHealth solutions for preeclampsia management in LMICs. Ultimately, the anticipated findings of this review are expected to contribute significantly to the understanding of mHealth apps' role in improving preeclampsia management and addressing healthcare disparities, thereby guiding future strategies to enhance maternal and neonatal health outcomes in LMICs.

Developing Culturally Sensitive Suicide Prevention Programs for Medical Professionals in Indonesia

Introduction: Medical professionals in Indonesia experience high levels of stress, increasing their risk for mental health problems and suicidal behavior. Culturally appropriate suicide prevention programs are critical to address this issue. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted suicide prevention program for Indonesian medical professionals. Methods: This mixed-methods study had two phases. Phase 1 involved program development, adapting an existing evidence-based suicide prevention program using a Delphi method with Indonesian mental health experts (n=10) and cultural consultants (n=5). Phase 2 comprised a pilot implementation of the program with 30 medical professionals. Quantitative data on program feasibility (attendance, completion rates) and acceptability (satisfaction surveys, qualitative feedback) were collected and analyzed. Results: The Delphi method resulted in a culturally adapted program incorporating Indonesian values related to collectivism, family support, religious beliefs, and stigma associated with mental health. Pilot implementation showed high attendance (87%) and program completion rates (93%). Participants expressed high satisfaction with the program's content, cultural relevance, and delivery format. Qualitative feedback emphasized the importance of peer support, spiritual integration, and addressing workplace stressors. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence for the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally sensitive suicide prevention program for Indonesian medical professionals. Further research is needed to evaluate the program's effectiveness in reducing suicidal ideation and behavior.

HPB SO62 - Association of positive bile cultures and the incidence of pancreatic fistulas post pancreaticoduodenectomy[PD

Abstract Background Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains a significant complication post pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Recent publications show no increased incidence of POPF due to positive bile cultures. A literature search on PubMed did not show any review on the relevance of specific cultures and their exact incidence of POPF. POPF is defined as Drain Amylase greater than three times its serum level on or after postoperative day 3. A relatively benign clinical course is grade A, moderately unwell patients requiring medical/minimal intervention (grade B), and critically ill patients with sepsis, requiring invasive intervention (grade C). Grade B + C is defined as CR-POPF. Method A retrospective single-centre analysis of all patients with pancreaticoduodenectomy between 2017 and 2021 was reviewed. The clinical data that were reviewed were age, gender, length of stay[LOS], tumour staging, mortality rates, Pancreatic duct[PD], Pre-op stenting, the documented incidence of POPF/CR-POPF, Intra-Operative Bile Cultures[IOBC] and antibiotic sensitivity. The primary outcome was POPF. Secondary outcomes were 90-day mortality, LOS, return to theatre, Postoperative haemorrhage (POPH), and organ-specific relevance of POPF. All data was analysed using SPSS IBM version 29. P&amp;lt; 0.05 was taken as clinically significant. Results 100 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 68.8 (SD-9.5). The M: F ratio was 54:46. The mean postoperative length of hospital stay was 19.38 days. 48 patients (48%) were diagnosed with a POPF, among which, 22 patients (47.8%) developed a CR-POPF. 57 patients had a positive IOBC. The incidence of POPF in patients with Positive IOBC was 43/57(75.43%) and that was 5/43(11.62%) of the patients with Negative IOBC (P &amp;lt; .0001).10% of patients had postoperative haemorrhage (POPH). 9% had 90-day mortality. All 9% of patients who had a return to theatre had POPF. Conclusion Univariate analysis and logistic regression demonstrated that a positive IOBC had a higher associated incidence of POPF who underwent PD, with Klebsiella being the most common and statistically significant[P&amp;lt;.005]. The most common antibiotic found to be sensitive was Gentamicin, which is 25 per cent and, in combination with Co-amoxiclav, was found to be sensitive in 21.8% of cases. However, this is a single-centre retrospective study with variable operative techniques for different patient groups. Further studies would be warranted before correlating any results to all populations of patients developing POPF post pancreaticoduodenectomy.

The Orientation of Romanesque Marian Churches in Soria (Spain)

This work studies orientations of 150 parish churches with Marian dedications in the province of Soria, Spain, grouped into subsamples according to Romanesque chronology and dedication to the Marian advocation of the Assumption. The hypothesis of observing local sunrise for aligning churches versus solem orientem during a restricted Romanesque working calendar (i.e. excluding winter and harvest-time) is assessed via a large number of simulated probability densities of declinations, allowing for the application of the confidence envelope method. It was found that the hypothesis cannot be discarded for Romanesque churches with Marian dedications other than to the Assumption, alignments to sunrise on specific Marian feast days being absent in these churches. In contrast, the null hypothesis of the working calendar can be discarded for the Romanesque churches dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption. As shown in previous studies, about 50% of these churches show intended alignments, of which two thirds are toward the sol aequinoctialis and one third to sunrise on the feast day (15 August). This last alignment pattern is a singular feature of the advocation of the Assumption, and its use in Spain cannot be older than the mid-to-late twelfth century. The theological or theoretical foundations for this practice are unknown. The paper shows that the methods used by archaeoastronomy for the quantitative statistical assessment of null hypotheses are powerful tools for inferring alignment patterns of cultural relevance.

Cross-Cultural Biology Teaching Using Next-Generation Science Standards

This study explored Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in cross-cultural biology teaching through collaborative lesson studies involving educators from the USA and the Philippines. We employed grounded theory and examined iterative feedback processes during lesson development to refine learning exemplars. Learning exemplars validation affirmed their alignment with both NGSS and the Philippine science education frameworks, ensuring cultural relevance and educational rigor. Five key themes were identified as pivotal: retrieval of prior knowledge, fostering meaningful learning experiences, enhancing memory and retention, fostering active engagement, and cultivating critical thinking skills—integral for developing culturally responsive curricula. Moreover, students became independent learners, responsible for their learning, reflective and critical thinkers, problem solvers, inquiry-oriented, creative, collaborative communicators, modelers, data analysts, persistent, adaptable, and self-directed. Implications include enhancing educational policies to support cultural diversity and integrating cross-cultural learning exemplars to enhance global teaching practices. This study underscored the transformative potential of cross-cultural collaboration in advancing science education, fostering engaging learning environments, and preparing students for global citizenship.

Developing a Family Medicine Program in Jordan: appraisal of trainees and trainers and final assessment outcomes

Introduction Curriculum development in medical education, particularly in family medicine, is essential for preparing healthcare professionals to meet evolving patient needs. This article examines the development of a Family Medicine program in Jordan, focusing on challenges, methodologies, and outcomes. Methods The curriculum was developed through collaboration between Jordanian and European universities, emphasizing core family medicine principles, evidence-based practice, and local context. Two cohorts of trainees participated in the one-year program, which used a 'whole task learning model' covering communication, clinical knowledge, and community health. Feedback was gathered through focus group interviews with trainers and trainees, and pre- and post-test data were analyzed to assess effectiveness. Results Feedback indicated positive perceptions among trainers and trainees. Trainees valued the transition to Arabic-led lectures, improved primary care understanding, and trainer engagement. Strengths included evidence-based guidelines and patient interaction emphasis. Areas for improvement included more face-to-face training and practical opportunities. Trainers suggested enhancing practical skills training and increasing Arabic materials. Despite pretest score variations, both cohorts showed significant improvement. Challenges such as non-participation and cheating highlighted the need for regular attendance and academic integrity. Conclusion The research underscores the importance of feedback from trainees and trainers in curriculum development. Continuous improvement, comprehensive assessment, and prioritizing linguistic and cultural relevance are crucial for enhancing primary care delivery in Jordan.