Cultural Factors Research Articles

“If we could look at kids as a whole”: Teachers negotiating science of reading approaches with multilingual learners

ABSTRACT “Science of Reading” approaches are prevalent in U.S. schools, but have not adequately addressed cultural and contextual factors for teaching in bilingual programs. Using cases from three bilingual teachers, we explore how teachers negotiated their biliteracy instruction after their district implemented a Science of Reading approach based on the simple view of reading. Data included coursework and interviews and were analyzed iteratively. Findings from this study show how Science of Reading approaches developed teacher knowledge of English foundational skills. However, participants interrogated the direct application of a simple view of reading to Spanish literacy and questioned instructional practices designed from a monolingual view for application with multilinguals. Teachers leveraged supports in their contexts and their professional and personal expertise to adapt and enhance their instruction. Issues of equity and access were raised since not all teachers shared this prior knowledge or contextual supports. Study findings point to the need for fostering pedagogical clarity within cultural contexts, preparing educators for critical decision-making in literacy reform. We call for approaches that recognize the unique cultural and linguistic resources of multilingual learners and their teachers.

Cross-border affinities: Moroccan-Belgians’ negotiation of burial and identity in Soil

ABSTRACT The transnational belonging of diasporic communities has been addressed through several different lenses within pre-existing scholarship. Forms of attachment to the native country such as the perpetuation of traditions and conventions, the commemorations of rituals, and the exportation of objects speak to the significance of maintaining ties between the here and the there. This applies to the Moroccan diaspora. However, little research exists on the importance of native soil in the construction of identity and the burial of dead Moroccan subjects in transit. This article aims to contribute to closing this existing gap. Drawing on diaspora studies and their theorisations on the multilayered attachments and transnational ties of subjects in transit, this article argues that native soil is important to Moroccan-Belgians in the burial of their deceased relatives as it shapes their identity. Studying the Moroccan-Belgian TV series Soil (2021), this article argues that Moroccan soil constitutes an essential part of the hyphenated identity of Moroccan-Belgians. Regardless of being expensive and difficult, the repatriation of the dead to be buried in the native country’s soil, in which multitudinous axes such as religious, cultural, and social factors intersect, is a cultural imperative. The family business of ‘Omar Assurance’ in Soil repatriates the dead to Morocco. After many customers complain about the high expenses of repatriation, Ismael, one of the business owners, comes up with the idea of importing soil from Morocco and burying the dead with it. The diaspora studies informed textual analysis of the TV series corroborates that the attachments of Moroccan-Belgians to Morocco and the negotiations of their identities extend to how and where they bury their dead relatives.

Determinants of viral haemorrhagic fever risk in Africa’s tropical moist forests: A scoping review of spatial, socio-economic, and environmental factors

Background Viral haemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are identified by international health authorities as priorities for research and development, as they pose a threat to global health and economy. VHFs are zoonotic diseases whose acute forms in humans present a haemorrhagic syndrome and shock, with mortality rates of up to 90%. This work aims at synthetizing existing knowledge on spatial and spatially aggregable determinants that support the emergence and maintenance of VHFs in African countries covered by tropical moist forest, to better identify and map areas at risk. Methodology/principal findings Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, extension for scoping reviews, we searched the PubMed, Embase, CAB Abstracts, and Scopus databases. English and French peer-reviewed documents were retrieved using Boolean logic and keyword search terms. The analysis of 79 articles published between 1993 and 2023 offers a comprehensive overview of the complex interactions among abiotic, biotic, demographic, socio-economic, cultural, and political risk factors in driving the emergence and maintenance of VHFs in African countries covered by tropical moist forests. Human-to-human transmission is mainly driven by socio-economic, political, and demographic factors, whereas zoonotic spillover is determined by almost all groups of factors, especially those of an anthropogenic nature. Conclusions/significance Many questions remain unanswered regarding the epidemiology of VHFs in tropical forests. By elucidating spatially relevant determinants which have already been studied, this review seeks to advance VHFs hotspot predictions, risk mapping for disease surveillance and control systems improvement.

Bibliometric analysis and trends related to dental tourism: Qualitative, social, economic and ethical implications

This article delves into the multifaceted realm of dental tourism, scrutinizing patient incentives, economic ramifications, and ethical aspects. An in-depth 2023 analysis discerns research gaps, underscoring the necessity for a more exhaustive investigation to enrich the understanding of the global oral healthcare landscape. Utilizing bibliometric analysis method, the study examines the worldwide trajectory of scientific publications on dental tourism. Employing Scopus, it dissects document types, annual production, authorship, and international collaborations. The results spotlight microvariables derived from Saxena, Deheriya, Datla’s macrovariables, unveiling influencers on dental tourism, ranging from social and economic to cultural factors. The study advocates for defined bilateral agreements to ensure quality care and stresses ethical considerations, emphasizing shared standards and legal implications. Economic ramifications, both positive and negative, are discussed, with an expanding global focus on dental tourism evident. In conclusion, the study accentuates micro variables, signaling avenues for future research.

A qualitative systematic review of umbilical cord care practices in Nigeria

BackgroundUmbilical cord care is an important aspect of newborn health, and different practices exist around the world, often influenced by cultural, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors. The objective of this systematic review is to synthesize current literature on umbilical cord care practices in Nigeria, with an emphasis on the impact of cultural beliefs, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors.MethodsA comprehensive search for literature was performed across PubMED, MEDLINE and Google scholar for studies published between 2010 and 2023. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines was followed for the execution of this study. Eligibility criteria included only English studies investigating umbilical cord care practices in Nigeria, with outcomes connected to cultural, healthcare, or socioeconomic factors. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist was used to critically appraise the quality and rigor of selected studies. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies (qualitative and quantitative), qualitative narrative synthesis was used to synthesize the studies in a textual format for comprehensive understanding.ResultsA total of 11 included studies were found out of 1532 studies. The findings reveal a range of cord care practices, emphasizing the use of various methods such as methylated spirit, hot compresses, and indigenous substances. Cultural beliefs, a lack of healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic circumstances all have a big impact on cord care decisions. Disparities in knowledge and adherence to evidence-based procedures are noticeable, particularly in the use of chlorhexidine gel. Infections continue to be a problem, highlighting the significance of appropriate therapies.ConclusionThis systematic review offers a comprehensive perspective of Nigerian umbilical cord care practices, emphasizing the importance of culturally responsive educational interventions, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and targeted legislative measures. Despite its limitations, the study is an important resource for guiding future research, policy creation, and interventions to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes in Nigeria.

Fenomena Perluasan Makna dalam Interaksi Penutur Bahasa Indonesia di Media Sosial X (Januari—Juli 2024): Analisis Semantik

This study aims to see language change in the form of meaning expansion between Indonesian speakers on social media X in the period January to July 2024. This qualitative research uses the method of listening and recording to collect data from the interaction of Indonesian speakers. The results of this study show that there are 11 data found to have experienced changes in the meaning of language in the expansion of meaning. The most frequently found causal factors are social and cultural change factors, then previous meaning associations and differences in areas of use. The three causal factors for the expansion of meaning with each data are as follows: 1) association factors totaling 3 data, namely in the words "goreng", "sampah", and "binatang"; 2) factors of differences in areas of use totaling 3 data, namely in the words or lexemes "najis", "receh/recehan", and "matang"; 3) social and cultural changes totaling 5 data, namely in the words "sepuh", "aman", "garing", "jompo", and "drama".The most common causative factors found are social and cultural change factors, then previous meaning associations and differences in fields of use.

Modeling the Determinants of Out-of-School Children in Pakistan

ABSTRACT It is well known that different socioeconomic, household sizes, school levels, and cultural factors are highly related to the problem of out-of-school children. The main objective of this study is to quantify the determinants of out-of-school children in Pakistan. For this study, the data are used from the Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement (PSLM) survey, collected for the year 2015–16. The children aged 6–16 years who are in or out of school are considered as a unit of the analysis. Unlike the previous studies that generally provide a theoretical framework or empirical investigation based on simple econometric models, this work used fixed and random effect models capable of accounting for the hierarchical structure present in the data. To assess the results’ reliability, the models’ predictive ability has also been tested and found satisfactory. The results reveal many important aspects of the current problem regarding disparities between gender, provinces, regions, and other variables used in the analysis. For example, parental education is highly significant and has a negative impact on out-of-school children at the province and region level for both boys and girls. In addition, income levels, child labor, household size, and residency are highly influential on the problem of out-of-school children. Therefore, the government should prioritize female education, especially in rural areas. The provision of monetary incentives and enforcement of a strict ban on child labor can reduce the problem under study.

The Role of the Russian Language as a Means of Conveying Thoughts and Communication

The article explores the development of the Russian language as a complex and multifaceted process, encompassing not only the establishment of grammatical and lexical norms but also the crucial role of language in thinking and communication. Language is viewed as a tool for conveying thoughts and facilitating communication, contributing to the development of cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and logical thinking. The influence of cultural, social, and historical factors on speech development is emphasized, alongside the interaction of language with mass media, the internet, and modern culture. The article highlights the importance of education in developing speech skills and fostering critical thinking. Technology is seen as a complement to traditional teaching methods, enhancing the effectiveness of the educational process. Ultimately, the Russian language is presented as a dynamic system that plays a key role in social and cultural life.

The Influence of the Mountainous Environment on the Linguistic Conceptualization of “Intelligence”.

This article explores the influence of the mountainous environment on the linguistic conceptualization of "intelligence" in English and Kyrgyz language systems. A comparative analysis is conducted to identify specific cultural and geographical factors that shape the understanding of intelligence in these languages. The study reveals that the mountainous environment fosters unique metaphors and associations related to the concept of intelligence, reflecting adaptation to living conditions and the cultural values of mountainous regions. In English, the conceptualization of intelligence is more abstract and related to general notions of mental ability, while in Kyrgyz, there is a strong connection to natural elements and traditional perceptions. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the cultural and geographical influences on the linguistic conceptualization of key concepts.

THE ROLE OF ORGANISATION AND ITS CULTURE IN SHAPING JOB SATISFACTION IN THE IT INDUSTRY

The research, titled "The Impact of Organizational Culture on Job Satisfaction in the IT Industry," aims to quantitatively assess how various dimensions of organizational culture influence job satisfaction among employees in the Indian IT sector. The research adopts a descriptive and quantitative approach, employing structured methodologies to explore the relationships between demographic factors, organizational culture, and job satisfaction. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires, using a Likert scale to gauge employee perceptions on cultural aspects such as leadership style, communication practices, and work-life balance, alongside job satisfaction levels. Secondary data from literature reviews and industry reports provided additional context. A sample of 200 respondents, selected through stratified random sampling, ensures a broad representation of the IT workforce. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square analysis, and factor analysis were used to analyze the data, revealing significant relationships between organizational culture and key job satisfaction factors. The Pearson Chi- Square statistics for culture-related factors, such as encouragement (χ² = 68.959, p = 0.000) and career growth opportunities (χ² = 189.067, p = 0.000), indicated a strong influence on employee morale and satisfaction. The factor analysis further revealed key cultural dimensions that significantly shape job satisfaction. The findings suggest that fostering a positive organizational culture, through open communication, recognition programs, and career development opportunities, is critical for enhancing job satisfaction in the IT industry. By providing empirical evidence, this study contributes valuable insights into the role of organizational culture in shaping employee attitudes and offers practical recommendations for improving work environments in the IT sector.

Circular Industrialised Housing: Insights from Solar Decathlon Europe 2022

The latest policy and research recommendations focus on advancing transition of housing to the circular economy framework to tackle environmental and affordability challenges. A key strategy for this is industrialised construction, which combines controlled manufacturing methods with strategies that facilitate future disassembly, allowing for adaptations, maintenance, and material reuse. Despite its importance, long-term housing solutions that integrate both industrialised construction and disassembly remain rare. This study obtained insights into circular industrialised housing from the Solar Decathlon Europe competition through interviews and observations with fifteen participating teams in Wuppertal, Germany, in 2022. The competition’s build challenge provided a unique opportunity to examine the practical application of both industrialised and disassembly approaches, where teams developed highly energy-efficient, affordability-conscious, and scalable housing systems. On-site interviews with team members from diverse disciplines took place midway through the competition’s assembly phase. These were further informed by observing team Azalea’s housing disassembly in Spain, which took place shortly before reassembly in Germany. Thematic and content analyses were conducted using a predefined framework based on holistic factors and lifecycle processes. Our results reveal the critical impact of Cultural factors, particularly during the (re)design process and provide new data to aid our understanding of the (dis)assembly process. This study contributes towards the development of a circular industrialised housing framework.

Childhood Maltreatment and Somatic Symptoms in Adulthood: Establishing a New Research Pathway.

Somatic symptoms, such as chronic pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal disturbances, are commonly reported in individuals with a history of childhood maltreatment (CM), which includes various forms of abuse and neglect experienced before age 18. Although CM is strongly associated with somatic symptoms, the specific relationships between CM subtypes and these symptoms, as well as the mechanisms connecting them, remain insufficiently understood. This review examines the complex interaction between CM and somatic symptoms, which often coexist with mental disorders and significantly impact quality of life and healthcare systems. Somatic symptoms, frequently a mix of "explained" and "unexplained" conditions, are associated with personal distress and pose diagnostic challenges. CM has been linked to these symptoms through neurobiological mechanisms, such as HPA axis dysregulation and allostatic load, while theoretical models emphasize the roles of hyperawareness, cultural factors, and vulnerability in symptom development. However, existing research often fails to account for specific CM subtypes, the full range of somatic symptoms, and cultural and situational factors, leading to inconsistencies in findings. Bridging gaps in literature requires adopting the World Health Organization's CM subtype definitions and ICD-11 codes (MA00-MH2Y) to encompass a broader spectrum of somatic symptoms. Employing rigorous methodologies, such as systematic reviews and meta-analyses, is essential for advancing understanding. These approaches can enhance diagnostic accuracy, support tailored interventions, and promote a biopsychosocial framework for CM research, ultimately improving patient outcomes and alleviating societal burdens.

Factors influencing IFRS 13 adoption in enhancing financial report accuracy

This study aims to identify the factors affecting the adoption of IFRS 13 and its significance in improving financial report accuracy among employees at various financial institutions in Erbil, Iraq. The research unveils various findings that require further exploration, such as the roles of regulatory factors, organizational dynamics, market pressures, technical expertise and knowledge, economic conditions, and external influences on educational or professional development incorporated with institutionalism in IFRS 13 adoption. This finding of the current study illustrates clearly that the adoption of IFRS 13 does significantly improve accuracy, clarity, and reliability in financial reporting thereby giving a clearer picture to stakeholders for making informed decisions. Second, the research highlights that educational and professional development, organizational practices, or technical expertise are fundamental for enhancing IFRS 13 adoption success as well as financial reports accuracy that can be driven by IFRS 13. The findings have some practical implications for financial institutions, regulators, and policymakers. Continuous education and training programs and internal controls should be strengthened and increased support from the regulatory bodies may help in faster membership achievement of IFRS 13 compliance requirements. This research could be extended to study the long-term implications of IFRS 13 adoption, how technology can support and promote this implementation process, and cultural factors in different industries and across geographical areas that may affect an agent’s willingness to use such measurements.

Peripartum Cardiomiopathy

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare form of heart failure that occurs between the last month of pregnancy and up to five months postpartum. It is categorized as dilated cardiomyopathy, which impairs the systolic function of the left ventricle. Its incidence varies from 1:300 to 1:4000 pregnancies, influenced by genetic and cultural factors. The exact cause remains unknown, but it is believed to involve viral infections, autoimmune disorders, toxins, and micronutrient deficiencies. Key risk factors include advanced age, multiparity, multiple pregnancies, obesity, malnutrition, and substance abuse (alcohol and drugs). PPCM is more common in women over 30 years of age and those with a history of multiple pregnancies. Further research is needed to better understand the causes and mechanisms underlying this condition.

Gender inequality and cultural values in explaining gender differences in positive and negative emotions: A comparison of 24 countries during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract The coronavirus pandemic posed a major challenge to mental health. Existing evidence shows that COVID-19 is related to poor emotional well-being, particularly among women. However, most work on the subject uses single-country samples, limiting the ability to generalize the disparity or explain it as a function of societal variables. The present study investigates the expression of positive and negative emotions during the pandemic as a function of gender and across 24 countries (N = 49,637). Strong gender differences emerged across countries, with women reporting more negative emotions (anxious, depressed, nervous, exhausted) and less positive emotions (calm, content, relaxed, energetic) than men. The gender gap in positive emotions was significantly wider in countries higher in individualism and narrower in countries higher in power distance. For instance, differences in emotions were larger in Western countries high in individualism, such as the USA, the UK, Italy, and France, and smaller in countries with higher collectivism and power distance, such as China, Malaysia, and South Korea, with a few exceptions like Japan and Brazil. These gender differences across countries were not explained by country-level gender inequalities indicators (GGGI and GII). Interestingly, the national severity of the pandemic, an epidemiological factor, reduced gender differences in positive emotions. These results underscore the importance of considering cultural and national factors when assessing gender differences in well-being.

A Sociological Perspective on Computer Science in Enhancing Workplace Efficiency: Implications for the Digital Economy and Nation Building

This paper investigates the intersection of sociological perspectives and computer science in the workplace, emphasizing how technology adoption can enhance efficiency and contribute to the digital economy. Through a qualitative analysis of contemporary case studies, the paper highlights the social dynamics affecting technology integration and argues for a holistic approach considering cultural, organizational, and socioeconomic factors in national development strategies.

Toward a more general theory of marketing ethics

Purpose Ethical issues surround and permanently reside in the discipline of marketing and have been examined within multiple schools of thought. However, despite the prevalence of the topic and significant scholarly attention and theoretical development since the 1980s, the Hunt–Vitell general model has not been subject to a substantial revision in decades. This paper aims to undertake the significant task of augmenting and advancing the general theoretical framework of marketing ethics through a number of revisions. Design/methodology/approach This paper synthesizes the conceptual and empirical work on marketing ethics to date to extend the seminal Hunt and Vitell (1986, 2006) model of marketing ethics. Findings The revised model expands upon the Hunt–Vitell model by incorporating additional factors that influence ethical decision-making in marketing. Key additions include cultural orientation, socialization, individual characteristics (relativism, demographics, goals, position), means, contracts, consumer sovereignty, self-respect, respect from others and context. These additions create a more comprehensive framework for understanding ethical behavior in marketing, enhancing the model’s validity and applicability. Research limitations/implications The paper offers numerous research avenues, including: 1. Examining how marketers and entrepreneurs make decisions, focusing on the alignment of their processes with ethical principles. 2. Revisiting research on gender and ethics, exploring the interplay of various social identities in ethical decision-making. 3. Developing new measures for personality traits like idealism and relativism within marketing and entrepreneurship contexts. 4. Investigating the impact of information availability and different types of information on consumer perceptions and ethical behavior. 5. Exploring the disconnect between ethical orientations of marketing managers and consumers. 6. Examining the influence of socialization processes on ethical orientations. 7. Incorporating psychological constructs like self-respect and desire for respect into models of ethical decision-making. 8. Conducting context-specific research to understand the relationship between ethical judgment and action. 9. Empirical testing using both vignettes and structural equation modeling to validate the model and explore its implications for both marketers and consumers, especially in the context of brand activism and public relations crises. Practical implications Practitioners should be mindful of how their actions and intentions influence ethical judgments. They should integrate ethical considerations into all aspects of business, including CSR initiatives and training. Promoting diversity and transparency fosters ethical decision-making and builds trust with consumers. Entrepreneurs should model ethical behavior, create an ethical culture and provide clear information about their practices. Social implications The revised model highlights the significant social implications of ethical decision-making in marketing and entrepreneurship. By considering not only the outcomes but also the means used to achieve them, businesses can avoid negative impacts on society. This includes prioritizing transparency, fairness and responsible practices. Understanding the influence of cultural, individual and contextual factors on ethical behavior can lead to more ethical business practices, ultimately contributing to a more just and sustainable society. Originality/value The revised model constitutes a meaningful improvement to the seminal Hunt–Vitell general model of marketing ethics. Seven new research propositions, a simplified measurement model, research and practitioner implications and an Appendix that offers an overview of four decades of marketing ethics research are also provided.

Emotion recognition deficits in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: a comprehensive meta-analysis of accuracy and response time

BackgroundAutism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Emotion recognition deficits are a core feature of ASD, impairing social functioning and quality of life. This meta-analysis evaluates emotion recognition accuracy and response time in individuals with autism spectrum disorder compared to neurotypical individuals and those with other neurodevelopmental disorders.MethodsThis systematic review with a meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science identified 13 studies published between 2006 and 2024. Data on emotion recognition accuracy and response times were synthesized using standardized mean differences in random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, and sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure robustness.ResultsIndividuals with ASD exhibited significantly lower overall emotion recognition accuracy compared to TD individuals (SMD = −1.29, 95% CI: −2.20 to −0.39, p < 0.01) and NDDs (SMD = −0.89, 95% CI: −1.23 to −0.55, p = 0.02). Response times were significantly prolonged in ASD compared to TD individuals (SMD = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.36–0.63, p < 0.01) but not when compared to NDDs. Emotion-specific analyses did not consistently reveal significant differences across emotions (fear, anger, happiness, sadness, disgust, surprise), with substantial heterogeneity observed across studies (I2 > 50%).ConclusionsThis systematic review with a meta-analysis highlights significant impairments in emotion recognition accuracy and processing speed among individuals with autism spectrum disorder, particularly compared to neurotypical individuals. These findings underscore the importance of developing targeted interventions to address these deficits, which are foundational to improving social cognition and quality of life in autism spectrum disorder. Future research should prioritize standardized methodologies and explore cultural and contextual factors influencing emotion recognition abilities.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=627339, PROSPERO (CRD42024627339).

Exploring Public Health Agencies’ Communication on Social Media in the Early Stages of the Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic created a significant challenge for public health agencies worldwide. Many have turned to social media as a tool for pandemic-related information dissemination. However, research on the effectiveness of social media for pandemic communication is still limited. This study explores social media communication by health agencies during the early stages of the pandemic in four countries which differ in their pandemic dynamics, cultural and geopolitical factors: the Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, and the United States. We focus on Twitter and identify themes present in the health agencies’ communication, as well as their relationship with the publics’ engagement. We find that the health agencies’ communication was mostly neutral and focused on providing sources for more information about the virus and basic information about the virus, however, there are differences between the countries.

Corporate Governance Framed by Local Culture: Ownership’s Power, Less-Independency Monitoring of Commissioners Board and Audit Committee

This study aims to discuss the involvement of local cultural factors in corporate governance. The involvement of local cultural factors results in two phenomena: (1) controlling the power of owners and (2) reduced independence of the board of commissioners and audit committee in monitoring CEO and board performance. Design/methodology/approach – This qualitative study employs in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with respondents from five private and state-owned enterprises. Interviews and discussions were conducted with CEOs, commissioners, audit committee members, and owners. Findings – The study reveals (1) owners exert significant controlling power over CEOs and boards, influencing strategic decisions and distorting professional performance. (2) Non-interventionist owners utilize the board of commissioners and audit committee for indirect control, reducing independence. (3) Controlling power of ownership is more dominant in private enterprises than state-owned enterprises, reflecting Indonesia’s local culture, where CEOs and boards are perceived as “staff” accountable to owners. (4) Lack of independence among commissioners and audit committees is more prevalent in private enterprises due to cultural influences.