Social Gatherings Research Articles

Starch Granule Yields from Open-Air Metates Unaffected by Environmental Contamination

Abstract The morphological characteristics of starch granules preserved on ancient ground stone tools can reveal which plant species were processed and consumed and even infer tool function. Bedrock metates are commonly associated with the processing of localized seasonal resources, providing potential evidence for past human lifeways, including foods collected and processed, social gatherings, settlement patterns, land investment, and territorial behavior. In contrast to ground stone artifacts preserved in a buried context that have been studied extensively, limited starch research has been conducted on the potential for environmental contamination of open-air bedrock mortars and metates exposed to natural erosional elements. This project examines the residue samples of bedrock metates from three archaeological sites in southern Oregon in the United States to compare the starch yields of extraneous material cleaned from the grinding surface to those extracted from interstitial matrices deeper within the bedrock. Significantly greater number of starch granules were recovered from deep within the cracks and crevices than from the surface. Our study suggests that environmental contamination can be managed if separate surface and control samples are collected and analyzed in conjunction with the interstitial samples. Examining the potential for environmental contamination on exposed grinding surfaces is crucial for confidence in starch granule results and improving our understanding of human dietary behavior.

Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Self-Reported Voice Problems in Tibetan Monks

BackgroundIt is observed that Tibetan monks pray for a long duration with inappropriate pitch and loudness. Hence, they may be prone to developing voice problems (VPs). However, the monks are not stressed and do not miss praying in the monastery (which is quite different from many other professional voice users in Western countries). Moreover, no studies have investigated the nature of VPs among Tibetan monks. Such a study may provide insight into the prevalence of and risk factors for VPs and may help enhance our knowledge of the VPs in Tibetan monks. Study DesignCross-sectional survey MethodA self-reporting questionnaire was distributed among 300 Tibetan monks residing in Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery, Karnataka, India, from February 2023 to June 2023. Results39% of Tibetan monks experienced voice problems in their careers; hoarseness, momentary voice loss/sudden voice changes, and dryness were the most frequently reported symptoms. Monks reporting the presence of VPs also exhibited significantly higher frequencies of different phonotraumatic behaviors like speaking with a loud voice, constantly altering the voice, frequent throat clearing, speaking/chanting during throat infections, or voice problems than those who did not report VPs. The results of bivariate regression analysis identified factors such as more than eight hours of prayer duration per day, praying in the presence of musical instruments, not sipping water in between prayers, less than three litres of water intake, and the presence of acid reflux and dry throat, as significant risk factors responsible for VPs in Tibetan monks. ConclusionsCurrent results suggest that monks are at a high risk of developing VPs, and several factors (vocational, environmental, lifestyle, and health-related) contribute to the development of VPs. Further, VPs in monks also affect them in terms of missing prayers, interacting less with family/friends, and avoiding social gatherings. Overall, there is a great need to educate the monks about vocal health and preventing VPs.

Acculturation of Javanese Islam and Mapalus Culture in The Development of Islamic Economic Tradition in Tondano

Diversity allows the emergence of merging existing cultures into a new culture that does not take away the essence of the previous culture. The success of Tondano Javanese Village in maintaining the existence of economic traditions, especially in the agricultural sector, also plays a role in balancing the economy in the Tondano region. Mapalus is synonymous with the life cycle of the Minahasa community which is closely related to religious values. Development of Javanese Islam in Tondano began to occur after the group of Kiai Mojo and his followers consisting of approximately 60 men, established an association place for them to settle and live there, namely "Kampung Java". In addition, the development is also getting stronger after they are in a relationship assimilation through marriage with indigenous Minahasa women who at that time the majority adhered to Christianity. The Muslim community living in Minahasa influenced the development of the existing mapalus uyang culture. Mapalus is a form of local wisdom of the indigenous people of Tondano adapted by the Muslim community from Java. Then from Joanne et al (in Senduk, 2016) Added one other form of mapalus, namely arisan. This Arisan is one of the prominent forms of social interaction between members of the North Minahasa community. Its function is to help each other in the economic field based on family values. In general, this social gathering is one of the associations in terms of distributing funds. This concept is in great demand by the lower middle class because it is considered easy to fulfill one's direct desires, so it is considered to be able to pay in installments (Muhaisin & Syarbaini, n.d.). In practice, the forms of the collection also vary, such as money, groceries, jewelry, building materials, etc. Unlike the arisan practice implemented in Tondano Java Village, the form is an association to be able to divide work into agricultural and plantation activities. So in each activity, the agricultural and plantation production process will be divided based on its working group

COVID-19 AND FLOWER TRADE AT THE FLOWER CAPITAL OF BANGLADESH

Flower industry in Bangladesh is emerging as a new and profitable sector of having potential economic growth and employment opportunities with minimum investment. The study was conducted at Jhikargaccha - the flower capital of Bangladesh - to investigate the effect of COVID-19 on flower trade. Data were collected from 60 respondents on 11 selected characteristics through an interview schedule during 5 January to 7 March 2021. Though the majority of the respondents (41% - 75%) was young having secondary education, small-family and farm, they were inexperienced and untrained regarding flower cultivation and trade. However, more than three-fifths of them perceived the effect COVID-19 on flower cultivation and trade clearly. The celebration of national days in a limited scale or in online affected the flower trade to a high extent (95%) followed by less social gatherings (94.33%), and less marriage ceremonies (94%). Average price of rose, tuberose, gerbera, gladiolus, marigold, and gypsy decreased significantly due to COVID-19 in 2020 compared to 2019. Flower sales dropped by up to 100% in the Independence Day (26 March), Bengali New Year Day (14 April) and National Mourn Day (15 August) in 2020 due to complete lockdown. Ensuring transport, marketing and storage facilities of flowers may minimize the devastating effect of such a disaster. The family size of the respondents showed a positive and annual income had a negative significant relation with their perception regarding effect of COVID-19 on flower trade. Overall, COVID-19 collapsed the flower trade at the flower capital in Bangladesh. Development of future policies and setting up of strategies are required to mitigate the upcoming disasters in future.

The Javanese Cultural Beliefs and Practices Among Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease Undergoing Hemodialysis.

Introduction: Poor prognosis and higher mortality of chronic kidney disease are linked with cultural beliefs and practices. This study explored cultural beliefs and practices of Javanese people with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis for ≥5 years. Methods: A qualitative narrative inquiry was applied in this study. Data were collected through in-depth narrative interviews, followed by text messages, calls, and audio-visual calls for 6 weeks. Results: There were 14 participants; their mean age was 51.15 years and hemodialysis duration was 5 years and 2 months up to 10 years and 9 months. Four themes emerged: life-and-death acceptance, expectation of end-of-life care, contemplation of withdrawal from hemodialysis, and wishing for a good death. Discussion: Life values guided the ability to survive for the individual. Adherence to renal disease management regimen clashed with cultural values on occasions, such as social gatherings. Therefore, the unmet needs of patients should be addressed with a transcultural approach to modify personal health behaviors.

Medical education during the COVID-19 pandemic: a reflection on the JHUSOM experience

BackgroundWe sought to understand the relative risk of COVID-19 infection and identify risk factors for infection to identify targets for mitigation among medical students.MethodsAn observational cohort study of Johns Hopkins School of Medicine students was conducted from June 2020 to July 2021. Blood samples were collected and tested at three visits to assess for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, a questionnaire was administered at each visit to collect demographic information and assess potential social and behavioral risk factors.Results264 students enrolled in the study, and 38 participants completed all study requirements by study end. Roughly 6% of the first- and second-year classes had a reported positive COVID-19 test compared to 5% of third- and fourth-year students. By visit 3, 92% of medical students had detectable antibodies against COVID-19 compared to 4% during the study enrollment period. From study enrollment to visit 3, there was a 10-fold increase in the percentage of students reporting attending large social gatherings and dining in restaurants.ConclusionsOverall, few COVID-19 cases were found among medical students, even those on clinical rotations. As the study progressed, students reported engaging in higher-risk social behaviors in conjunction with increasing vaccination rates among students.

Factors influencing outdoor thermal comfort in a coastal park during the transition seasons in cold regions of China

Coastal outdoor spaces serve as public venues where individuals engage in water-related activities, admire scenic views, embark on tourist excursions, and partake in social gatherings. Enhancing thermal comfort is a crucial prerequisite for increasing the attractiveness of these spaces. This study investigated the outdoor thermal comfort (OTC) in a coastal park called Xinghai Park located in a cold region of China over a period of five days during the spring and autumn seasons. The universal thermal climate index (UTCI) was employed to establish the thermal benchmark. Through on-site measurements and questionnaire surveys, both single-factor and multi-factor analyses were conducted to assess the microclimate and thermal perception in four representative coastal spaces, thereby identifying the thermal benchmark and factors influencing thermal perception in the Coastal Park. The findings indicated that: (1) during the transition seasons, the neutral UTCI (NUTCI) of the Coastal Park was 15.3 °C, with neutral UTCI range (NUTCIR) ranging from 9.3 °C to 21.4 °C, and there were significant variations in the thermal benchmarks among different types of spaces; (2) the primary factors influencing thermal perception during the transition seasons in the Coastal Park were physical factors (Ta, Tg, RH, Va, G), while individual, social, and psychological factors also exerted varying degrees of influence on respondents' thermal perception; (3) there were substantial spatial differences in the factors influencing respondents' thermal perception. The findings of this study provide valuable references for determining thermal environmental design strategies for transitional season coastal outdoor recreational spaces and enhancing the quality of urban life.

ANALISIS TRANSAKSI JUAL BELI PRODUK SMART HAFIZ PRESPEKTIF FIQIH MUAMALAH (STUDI KASUS PADA PT. TIGARAKSA SATRIA BLOKAGUNG BANYUWANGI)

The objectives of this research are: 1) To analyze buying and selling transactions for Smart Hafiz products at PT. Tigaraksa Satria Blokagung Banyuwangi. 2) To analyze buying and selling transactions for smart Hafiz products from the perspective of muamalah fiqh at PT. Tigaraksa Satria Blokagung Banyuwangi muamalah fiqh perspective. This research uses a qualitative research method with a case study approach. The results of this research are 1) practice of buying and selling transactions for smart Hafiz products at PT. Tigaraksa Satria uses the following system: First, cash by direct payment and filling in the buyer data form clearly and validly. Second, installments with payment within a period of 5 months provided that the buyer is someone who is known and can be trusted. Third, social gathering, namely buyers are allowed to choose to participate in social gathering according to their wishes for 3, 5 or 10 months. 2) The system used in buying and selling transactions for Smart Hafiz products at PT. Tigaraksa Satria falls under the criteria of a bai’ or sale and purchase contract, a muajjal/Bai’ Bitsaman Ajil contract, a qardh (debt) contract according to the perspective of muamalah fiqh.

The Importance Of The Role Of Parents In The Formation Of Children's Character Amidst The Rise Of Cases Of Violation By Minors

Parents play a very important role in the process of child personality development. The role of parents is to be aware of the child's condition and focus on understanding good examples of his character. Especially with the current rise in bullying cases, the role of parents is very important in shaping children's character so that they do not become victims or perpetrators. The reason for carrying out this investigation is the prevalence of bullying among minors, which is a serious problem and requires follow-up action. The aim of this research is to clarify the role of parents in developing children's character in responding to bullying. The method used in this research is qualitative method. Research shows that parents have a very important role in the development of a child's personality. Because, the first people who model their behavior are their parents. Parents can instill character in their children by setting an example, doing good deeds, communicating, and involving children in activities at home. Therefore, the character that parents instill in their children from an early age will make them more confident, strong and able to appear assertive in their environment. To combat bullying, parents must educate and strengthen their children to be fearless and self-confident, empowering them to choose friends at social gatherings and even to protect themselves and even seek revenge.

Alcohol Exclusion Laws and Its Drawbacks

Alcohol Exclusion Laws and Its Drawbacks

Reimagining Urban Spaces: Green Spaces, Obesity, and Health Resilience in an Era of Extreme Heat.

Record-breaking heat waves intensified by climate change pose both environmental and health threats, necessitating a balance between urban sustainability and well-being. Extreme heat and limited green space access are drivers of obesity prevalence, with decreased proximity to green spaces correlating with higher rates of obesity in nearby communities. In contrast, access to such green spaces fosters physical activity, well-being, and community cohesion, especially crucial in marginalized communities facing health disparities due to historical policies like redlining and underinvestment in social gathering spaces. Despite challenges, green space investment offers healthcare savings and environmental gains, necessitating a shift in perception towards viewing green spaces as essential for urban living. As heat waves persist, integrating health and sustainability in urban planning is paramount. Health and medical communities must play an active role in advocating for equitable access to urban green spaces, as they possess influential positions to address climate-related health disparities through localized advocacy.

Pancultural nostalgia in action: Prevalence, triggers, and psychological functions of nostalgia across cultures.

Nostalgia is a social, self-relevant, and bittersweet (although mostly positive) emotion that arises when reflecting on fond past memories and serves key psychological functions. The majority of evidence concerning the prevalence, triggers, and functions of nostalgia has been amassed in samples from a handful of largely Western cultures. If nostalgia is a fundamental psychological resource, it should perform similar functions across cultures, although its operational dynamics may be shaped by culture. This study (N = 2,606) examined dispositional nostalgia, self-reported triggers of nostalgia, and functions of experimentally induced nostalgia in young adults across 28 countries and a special administrative region of China (i.e., Hong Kong). Results indicated that nostalgia is frequently experienced across cultures, albeit better valued in more-developed countries (i.e., higher national wealth and life-expectancy). Nostalgia is triggered by psychological threats (especially in warmer countries), sensory stimuli (especially in more-developed countries), and social gatherings (especially in less-developed countries). The positive or negative affect prompted by experimentally induced nostalgia varied by country, but was mild overall. More importantly, recalling a nostalgic (vs. ordinary) memory increased social connectedness, self-continuity, and meaning in life across cultures. In less-developed countries, recalling an ordinary memory also conferred some of these functions, reducing the effect size of nostalgia. Finally, recalling a nostalgic (vs. ordinary) memory augmented state satisfaction with life in countries with lower quality of living (i.e., lower life-expectancy and life-satisfaction). Overall, findings confirm the relevance of nostalgia across a wide range of cultures and indicate cultural nuances in its functioning. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Building Community for Those Living With HIV: Co-Empowerment and Participatory Action Research

The Calgary HIV Social Society (CHSS) self-determined and organized several social-recreational monthly events to reduce and understand the effects of social isolation and stigma that people living with HIV face every day. It has been found that COVID-19 had impacted the lives of people living with HIV by creating significant isolation for those already stigmatized because of living with HIV. Using a Participatory Action Research (PAR) methodology and focus group at the end of the events, the research showed how COVID 19, and the related concurring isolation has impacted the lives of people living with HIV. The research included three in-person social gatherings with a total of 60 participants living with HIV attending and a focus group with 10 participants. The social gatherings around the city of Calgary, Alberta showed how the possibility of having a safe space and being supported by people who live with similar systematic barriers, buffers the detrimental, social stigmatization of living with HIV and its secrecy. The research brought forth a better understanding on how social connection (including on-line support) during COVID-19 for persons living with HIV increased their general sense of belonging, reduced stigma and was a protective factor for their overall mental health.

Applying the third-place concept for transitional spaces in the Korean university using the design charrette approach

PurposeThis research investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of transitional spaces in a Korean academic setting, to assess the impact of the pandemic on users' utilization of transitional spaces and evaluate any changes in their usage patterns. The research explores whether transitional spaces can function as social interactive spaces, aligning with Ray Oldenburg's “third-place” theory. The focus is on South Korean academic settings, aiming to create neutral and safe zones for users.Design/methodology/approachThe adopted methodology involves reviewing the literature and employing design charrette as a major data collection tool. The design charrette provided a platform for users to share insights on current transitional spaces during the pandemic and envision these spaces as future social and interactive spaces.FindingsThe design charrette participants advocated for modifying the current transitional space design to transform these spaces into shared spaces for both visitors and regular users in the future. Restricting access for external users to the main building area until necessary. The significance of site amenities in determining transitional spaces as “third-places” was emphasized. While the nature of the building, its location and transitional space amenities are crucial aspects to consider, designers may prioritize user opinions and preferences, as the success or failure of the design ultimately centers on user behaviors.Research limitations/implicationsThe research focused on a specific university, hindered by limited access to other institutions during the pandemic. Restrictions on external users discouraged entry without proper permission, which was challenging to obtain. The conventional design charrette outlined in the research method was impossible due to pandemic-related limitations on gathering participants in one location. Therefore, the researcher modified the design charrette method to align with strict social distancing measures.Social implicationsThe results of the research are not limited to academic settings, but they can be implied in other environments where social interaction spaces are required and where there is a constant flow of visitors and regular users. The design charrette can be used as a methodology for interior spaces along with large-scale projects of urban planning.Originality/valueThe research analyzed transitional spaces during the pandemic, suggesting redesign to serve and act as buffer zones between private and public areas and become a common social gathering place for visitors and regular users within the built environment.

Working-Class Masculinity and Status Maneuvering: Relational Construction of Migrants’ Masculinity

This study focuses on the relational construction of masculinity, specifically on intra-group interactions, relational resources, and interactional accountability among co-ethnic migrant men with shared class backgrounds. Through participant observation and interviews with 72 migrant men, the research uncovers how these men engage in status maneuvering. This process involves the strategic adaption of diverse and fluid forms of masculinity supported by co-ethnic relationships established in various settings like workplaces, dormitories, and social gatherings. Status maneuvering aims to optimize earnings while navigating hypermasculine and feminized low-status workplaces, all while preserving men’s respectability outside of work. This reconceptualization of status maneuvering enriches our comprehension of gender interactional accountability, focusing attention on the sharing of co-ethnic knowledge. It also highlights the role of men with similar class backgrounds holding each other accountable for strategically performing fluid and dynamic masculinities through interactional resources such as humor, sarcasm, and humiliation.

Public and commercial more of the same? The characteristics of the opening monologues of public and commercial channels during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The novel coronavirus, COVID-19, first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, rapidly spread across the globe and resulted in significant public concern. In response, numerous countries have implemented guidelines aimed at promoting social distancing, limiting movement and gatherings, instituting lockdowns and curfews, and closing institutions. As a result, the media, including news releases, has become a primary source of information for many individuals (Laor & Lissitsa, 2022). The present study seeks to investigate differences between major television programs featured on public and commercial channels in Israel, utilizing the lens of framing theory. Specifically, twelve monologues broadcast simultaneously on both channels were analyzed to compare differences in content, topics, format, and accompanying visuals. The study's results indicate that both commercial and public channels exhibited similar behavior in shaping public opinion during the crisis period. Specifically, both channels displayed criticism of the government's conduct and utilized negative framing techniques while neglecting to provide space for popular voices. Nevertheless, certain distinctions between the commercial and public broadcasting spheres still persist, particularly in the realm of visual presentation, as some long-standing elements that typify each channel have endured over time.

Peran Guru PAI dalam Pencegahan Pergaulan Bebas di SMPN 1 Biru-Biru Kabupaten Deli Serdang

The aim of this research is to prevent promiscuity through the role of Islamic Religious Education teachers by forming the character of Muslim students who are devout and have noble morals. This study uses a qualitative approach using observation data triangulation, interviews and documentation. The method used in this study is a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. The research location was carried out at SMP N 1 Biru-Biru, Deli Serdang Regency. The process was carried out for 3 months starting from 10 April – 10 June 2023. There were two data sources used, namely primary and secondary sources. The condition of promiscuity is caused by many influencing factors including internal and external factors. The promiscuity that exists at SMP N 1 Biru-biru includes dating between students and also the rise of pornographic and romantic displays at school. The PAI teacher's role as a teacher in teaching promiscuity and adultery material is good, in the sense that he has prepared a) planning in the form of preparing lesson plans for theme 8 (avoiding promiscuity and adultery) b) choosing methods and media for promiscuity and adultery material in learning; c) demonstrating teaching materials; d) prepare learning evaluations and conduct material assessments of promiscuity and adultery. Then, as an educator, namely a) instilling the values of Islamic sex education in Qur'an recital activities and youth recitations, and getting used to implementing Islamic sex education (separating seats during social gatherings or school events, dressing to cover one's private parts, and asking for permission); b) Activate religious culture in schools with supervision and monitoring; c) Assistance in Spiritual activities; d) Conducting guidance to students with problems; e) Become a role model in avoiding promiscuity and adultery by maintaining Islamic social ethics. As for the obstacles of PAI teachers in preventing promiscuity, there is a lack of cooperation between teachers and people.

Effect of Technological Innovations on Restaurant Sustainability in Nairobi County, Kenya

The hospitality industry, which is defined by social interaction and gathering, was seriously threatened by the coronavirus disease 2019. The pandemic exacerbated risk in several ways, putting sustainability as a critical objective at a crossroads. The management of restaurants needed to reorganise and innovate to survive and thrive during and after the pandemic. Technological innovations created opportunities to lower health hazards for guests and staff while maintaining operations in an unpredictable business environment. A review of the literature revealed a paucity of technological innovations and sustainability in restaurants in Nairobi County. The study sought to evaluate the effects of technological innovations and the sustainability of restaurants in Nairobi County, Kenya. Schumpeter’s theory of innovation served as the study's theoretical foundation. To explain the relationships between technological innovation and sustainability, the study employed a descriptive research design with Likert scale ratings. A census of restaurant managers from the 81 full-service restaurants housed in 54 classified hotels in Nairobi County was the unit of observation. Using self-administered questionnaires, the studies obtained a 70 per cent response rate (57 responses). SPSS version 25 was used to analyse the data and findings presented using descriptive and inferential statistics. Restaurants used innovations in technology to mitigate dangers as well as to improve cleanliness and sanitation. The relationship between technological innovations and sustainability was positive, moderate, and significant at the p = 0.05 level of significance; the Pearson correlation value was r = 0.473. Furthermore, the adjusted correlation coefficient (R2) indicated that technological innovations predict 21% of the variance in sustainability. Restaurant sustainability increased moderately due to technological innovations. As a result, the study recommends that the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife prioritise hospitality technologies to increase restaurant sustainability. Restaurant management should promote technological innovation, acquisition, and training. Finally, academia should lead the discourse about the implementation and spread of technological innovation

The Lawn as a Social and Cultural Phenomenon in Perth, Western Australia

Lawns, introduced in Australia through English colonial heritage, dominate public spaces in cities, serving various ecosystem functions. Australian lawns consist of non-native grasses that differ from native original vegetation and require intensive management and maintenance. This study explores public perspectives on urban lawns in Perth, Western Australia, an area largely overlooked in ecological and social research in the context of Australia compared to Europe and North America. This paper presents empirical research on public perceptions of urban lawns and alternatives in Perth, Western Australia. The study explores social values and preferences regarding traditional lawns and new options, considering visual appearance, uses, and maintenance. Findings from an online questionnaire, involving 171 respondents, identified seven categories based on a content analysis of lawn definitions: flat area; ground covered by grass; maintained; non-native vegetation; open space; recreational space; and turf grass. The results revealed that respondents most value lawns for aesthetics, cooling and recreation (exercises, walking pets, as a transit area, passive recreation, and social gatherings). At the same time, participants demonstrated an environmental awareness of lawns and the necessity of revisiting the existing planning and maintenance routine based on irrigation and intensive mowing by considering several alternative solutions. While valuing new solutions such as Scaevola patches in dedicated areas and “weedy lawns”, participants still preferred alternatives closest in appearance to a conventional lawn (e.g., lawn grass with Dichondra and lawn grass with clover). The study emphasizes the need for a ‘blended model’ of urban lawns, combining durability with heat-resistant, biodiverse vegetation to address social values and environmental concerns.

What COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Disparity Reveals About Solidarity

What COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Disparity Reveals About Solidarity