Multicultural Research Articles

‘It sort of goes hand in hand the academic and the social’: teachers’ experiences working with the inclusion of immigrant students in mainstream lower secondary school classes in Norway

ABSTRACT Schools today are multicultural organisations that are expected to promote equitable education for all students, and where teachers play a significant role in promoting inclusion. Students from immigrant backgrounds must negotiate new cultures and languages in addition to striving for inclusion. Teachers’ experiences may contribute valuable new knowledge regarding inclusion in education, especially during adolescence, which is a vulnerable time. This study investigated Norwegian lower secondary school teachers’ (N = 7) experiences of inclusion when working with immigrant students who had been transferred from introductory classes into mainstream classrooms. Results of the qualitative content analysis indicated that teachers use strategies such as facilitation of academic participation to create social attractiveness to promote academic and social inclusion. Further research is required to determine how immigrant students’ social and emotional functioning might best be supported in addition to language acquisition, and teachers require enhanced approaches to actively promoting inclusion in lower secondary school.

Continuous Professional Teacher Development Model in Yunnan Provincial Universities

This study investigates the Continuous Professional Teacher Development (CPTD) model within Yunnan Provincial Universities, addressing the challenges and identifying the factors that promote sustainable teacher development. Through a mixed-methods approach, 588 valid responses from a sample of 638 teachers and administrators were analyzed, complemented by semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal key dimensions impacting CPTD, including instructional leadership, school climate, professional collaboration, teacher autonomy, and administrative support. These dimensions align closely with the unique socio-educational landscape of Yunnan, characterized by ethnic diversity, geographic disparities, and institutional variations.The results highlight that instructional leadership and a positive school climate significantly enhance teacher engagement in professional development. Teachers emphasized the importance of autonomy in designing curricula and assessments, as well as collaboration within professional learning communities. The lack of tailored professional development programs and inadequate administrative support were identified as significant barriers. Recommendations include leveraging digital platforms, promoting inclusive professional learning communities, and aligning institutional goals with professional development initiatives. This research contributes to the existing literature by proposing a localized CPTD model that addresses the unique challenges of Yunnan Provincial Universities. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and educational leaders, emphasizing the role of collaborative practices and leadership in fostering sustainable teacher development.

Gender and ethnic diversity and wage gaps in the Canadian chiropractic workforce

BackgroundAs health systems worldwide continue to face health workforce challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, chiropractors can play an important role in meeting increasing needs for rehabilitation services. However, limited evidence from some countries suggests the chiropractic workforce does not reflect the diversity of the population it serves. This observational study quantifies the chiropractor workforce in Canada in gender and ethnocultural composition and earnings, as tracers of equity and inclusion within this healthcare profession.MethodsWe used 2021 population census data with integrated administrative income tax records to identify and characterize chiropractic practitioners aged 25–54. Following a descriptive analysis, multivariate regression and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition methods were applied to assess gender and ethnic earnings differences, adjusting for a range of professional and personal factors.ResultsThe chiropractic workforce was underrepresented regarding women (44.5% versus 50.6% of the total population) and visible minorities (20.0% versus 26.5%). Despite similar levels of education, women’s (unadjusted) earnings averaged 77.1 cents for every dollar earned by men in pandemic-affected 2020, narrowing slightly from 76.7 cents in 2019. Regression results showed significant earnings differences by gender and by ethnocultural identity, adjusting for other factors. An unexplainable gender wage gap persisted in the decomposition analysis, with women earning 6% less than men due to factors that could not be explained by differences in age structure or part-time work, pointing to additional contributing but unmeasured structural dynamics.ConclusionSignificant earnings disparities by gender and ethnicity among chiropractors emphasize the need for equity-oriented initiatives in leadership opportunities and compensation structures, to help influence the attractiveness of the profession to new talent.

Supporting Transition Resilience Among Newcomer Groups (STRONG): Examining effectiveness and acceptability in urban public schools.

The Supporting Transition Resilience Of Newcomer Groups (STRONG; Hoover et al., 2019) program was developed to support mental health among newcomer refugee and immigrant students by (1) promoting positive adjustment during resettlement through a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, contextualized to meet the needs of refugee and immigrant youth; and (2) improving access to services through school-based programming. The purpose of this study was to examine the acceptability and effectiveness of STRONG on the mental health and resilience of refugee and immigrant students using a group randomized waitlist control design. A sample of 64 newcomer students (Mage = 13.9, SD = 3.11; 41% female) was recruited to participate in the STRONG program, representing 19 different countries of origin and diverse ethnicities (44% Latiné; 34% Asian; 13% Middle Eastern/North African; 8% African/Black). Additionally, teachers or administrators from each participating STRONG school completed interviews, while group facilitators (e.g., clinicians and bilingual teachers) were invited to participate in focus groups. This study provides preliminary evidence that STRONG supports newcomer mental health, with students in the immediate treatment group showing reductions in anxiety/depression and externalizing symptoms compared to the waitlist. Qualitative findings provide additional support for the acceptability and benefits of this intervention. However, coping efficacy unexpectedly decreased, and several interactions with school type (e.g., high school vs. elementary) emerged. Additional research is warranted to further evaluate this promising intervention for newcomer youth.

Photoreceptor metabolic window unveils eye–body interactions

Photoreceptors are specialized neurons at the core of the retina’s functionality, with optical accessibility and exceptional sensitivity to systemic metabolic stresses. Here we show the ability of risk-free, in vivo photoreceptor assessment as a window into systemic health and identify shared metabolic underpinnings of photoreceptor degeneration and multisystem health outcomes. A thinner photoreceptor layer thickness is significantly associated with an increased risk of future mortality and 13 multisystem diseases, while systematic analyses of circulating metabolomics enable the identification of 109 photoreceptor-related metabolites, which in turn elevate or reduce the risk of these health outcomes. To translate these insights into a practical tool, we developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven photoreceptor metabolic window framework and an accompanying interpreter that comprehensively captures the metabolic landscape of photoreceptor–systemic health linkages and simultaneously predicts 16 multisystem health outcomes beyond established approaches while retaining interpretability. Our work, replicated across cohorts of diverse ethnicities, reveals the potential of photoreceptors to inform systemic health and advance a multisystem perspective on human health by revealing eye–body connections and shared metabolic influences.

Representation and Quality of Acne-Related Content on Social Media

Acne is a common dermatological condition affecting individuals of all races and ethnicities, with most cases occurring in teenagers and young adults. Patients in these age groups frequently turn to online platforms for guidance, relying on videos on social media platforms like TikTok. This study evaluated the top TikTok videos' content quality (DISCERN score) about perceived racial/ ethnic diversity. Findings demonstrate that videos showcasing the skin of individuals of color tend to have lower scientific content and potentially feature the application of agents that would promote dyspigmentation and scarring. There is a need to improve acne-related social media posts to provide higher-quality content targeted at patients of color, focusing on safer therapeutics.

Unmasking Racial, Ethnic, and Socioeconomic Disparities in United States Chordoma Clinical Trials: Systematic Review.

Chordoma is a rare bone cancer with limited treatment options. Clinical trials are crucial for developing effective therapies, but their success depends on including diverse patient populations. The objective of this study was to systematically evaluate the reporting of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic diversity in United States clinical trials exploring treatment for chordoma. A literature search was conducted through PubMed/Medline, Cochrane, Epistemonikos, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases for published US chordoma trials up until 19 August 2024. The data collected included trial characteristics and racial and ethnic data, as well as socioeconomic indicators when available. Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) and Revised Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool for Randomized Trials (RoB2) analyses were adopted to assess the methodological quality. The N-1 Chi-squared (χ2) test was implemented to compare the reported racial and ethnic data with the most recent US Census Bureau data. Five trials involving 111 patients (median age: 63 years; 34% female) were included. Four studies (80%) were single-arm non-randomized studies with one study (25%) having a high methodological quality and three (75%) having a moderate quality based on the MINORS analysis. Most patients (91%, n = 82) were White/Caucasian, representing a proportion which was significantly higher than the reported 75% in the US population (p = 0.0005). Black/African American patients (2%, n = 2) were significantly underrepresented compared to the 14% in the US population (p = 0.0015). Regarding ethnicity, Hispanic/Latino patients (7%, n = 6) were significantly underrepresented compared to the 20% in the US population (p = 0.0021). No measures of socioeconomic status were reported. This systematic review highlighted the need for improved racial and ethnic diversity in chordoma trials and the better reporting of socioeconomic data. The underrepresentation of minority groups may obscure potential disparities in disease incidence, treatment access, and clinical outcomes.

Spatial variability of cultural landscape vulnerability and influential factors in ethnic villages of Southeast Guizhou

In Southeast Guizhou, a region of China rich in ethnic diversity, the cultural landscapes of ethnic villages are increasingly vulnerable under the pressures of urbanization and tourism development. This study assesses the vulnerability of 43 ethnic villages in Leishan County using the Vulnerability Scoring Diagram (VSD) model, which evaluates exposure, sensitivity, and coping ability. Analyses using spatial autocorrelation and geographic weighted regression reveal distinct spatial patterns of vulnerability, with the northern region exhibiting higher vulnerability indices than the southern region. The study identifies tourism development, protection policies, and financial investments as primary influencing factors of vulnerability, with varying degrees of impact across different geographical areas. The findings provide a robust framework for assessing and visualizing the vulnerability of cultural landscapes in ethnic villages, guiding the development of tailored protection strategies to mitigate risks and preserve cultural heritage.

The Intensity of Ethnic Chinese Political Communication on Active Political Participation in DKI Jakarta

Exploring the complexity of the political landscape in Jakarta influenced by ethnic diversity, with a focus on the significant role of the Chinese ethnic group in political dynamics. Starting from the foundation of ethnic diversity, the aim is to investigate the intensity of political communication within the Chinese ethnic group and its impact on public perception and political participation in Jakarta. Understanding the dynamics of political communication becomes increasingly crucial, especially in the context of the potential for the government and politicians to leverage these opportunities through appropriate approaches, creating a multicultural political contestation. This approach requires an understanding of various aspects, including intercultural communication, communication psychology, and the media's impact on policies.This research specifically explores public perception of political communication within the Chinese ethnic group, uncovering how political messages are understood by Jakarta's diverse society across different social and ethnic layers. The analysis encompasses levels of political participation, including participation in general elections and contributions to political organizations. To address the complexity, this research analyzes factors influencing political communication within the Chinese ethnic group, including social, cultural, economic, and political aspects, to understand the context shaping their political messages.Despite facing challenges in obtaining credible data, this research is expected to provide practical insights for the Chinese ethnic group, the government, and the general public in designing inclusive communication strategies and strengthening social harmony in Jakarta

Indirect Consequences of Locally Observed Corruption on Taxpayers' Motivation to Cheat on Taxes

ABSTRACTCorruption undermines the fiscal agreement between governments and taxpayers, thereby reducing the motivation to fulfill tax obligations and leading to a rise in dishonest behavior among citizens. To examine the effects of corruption, this study utilizes the locally observed corruption question, which provides a new measure of corruption at the local level, in contrast to corruption measures offered by the typical national corruption perception question. Employing a multilevel hierarchical mixed‐effect modeling approach, the analysis reveals that locally observed corruption substantially diminishes tax morale, a metric that assesses individuals' willingness not to cheat on taxes. Additionally, this paper identifies various factors that mediate the effects of corruption, including fairness in the tax system, ethnic diversity, and public policies. Furthermore, the study conducts several hypothesis tests to eliminate potential alternative explanations, such as the influence of peers and reduced expected costs of cheating resulting from exposed corruption.

The theory and practice of nonterritorial autonomy in Europe—A historical perspective

AbstractThe concept of nonterritorial autonomy (NTA), which aims at separating the notions of the nation and territory, has received many practical implementations—in different forms and guises and in a variety of political settings—since the beginning of the 20th century. It has also become increasingly important for the theoretical debates surrounding issues of ethnic diversity and minority accommodation in a world of nation‐states. But as far as the link between NTA theory and the actual case studies exists, it has been primarily connecting theoretical and normative debates with contemporary, post‐1991 case studies. Our proposed themed section bridges the existing gap between the theory of NTA and its historical applications in Central and Eastern Europe, providing a fresh perspective on associational, political and legal aspects of nation‐building prior to World War II and beyond in the process. Bringing together seven scholars with a long‐standing interest in NTA for an energetic multidisciplinary revision of the history of the concept and its practical applications, our themed section aims at shedding new light on broader topics such as nation‐building, ethnic relations, minority activism and contemporary normative debates on individual and group rights.

A Plasma Proteomics-Based Model for Identifying the Risk of Postpartum Depression Using Machine Learning.

Postpartum depression (PPD) poses significant risks to maternal and infant health, yet proteomic analyses of PPD-risk women remain limited. This study analyzed plasma samples from 30 healthy postpartum women and 30 PPD-risk women using mass spectrometry, identifying 98 differentially expressed proteins (29 upregulated and 69 downregulated). Principal component analysis revealed distinct protein expression profiles between the groups. Functional enrichment and PPI analyses further explored the biological functions of these proteins. Machine learning models (XGBoost and LASSO regression) identified 17 key proteins, with the optimal logistic regression model comprising P13797 (PLS3), P56750 (CLDN17), O43173 (ST8SIA3), P01593 (IGKV1D-33), and P43243 (MATR3). The model demonstrated excellent predictive performance through ROC curves, calibration, and decision curves. These findings suggest potential biomarkers for early PPD risk assessment, paving the way for personalized prediction. However, limitations include the lack of diagnostic interviews, such as the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-V (SCID), to confirm PPD diagnosis, a small sample size, and limited ethnic diversity, affecting generalizability. Future studies should expand sample diversity, confirm diagnoses with SCID, and validate biomarkers in larger cohorts to ensure their clinical applicability.

Trend in Language, Ethnic and Learning: Bibliometric Litterature Review

The aim of this research is to conduct a thorough bibliometric literature review of the complex and multifaceted relationships between language, ethnicity, and learning, using sophisticated computational techniques to map and analyze academic scholarship across diverse interdisciplinary domains. Using modern data mining and network analysis approaches, the researchers deconstructed established educational research paradigms by carefully examining publication trends, citation networks, and topic clusters. The complete investigation indicated that linguistic and ethnic variety are not educational impediments, but rather rich reservoirs of cultural information and cognitive flexibility, calling into question traditional deficit-oriented theories of academic comprehension. The findings revealed that bilingual and multilingual learners had significantly improved cognitive capacities, such as superior executive functioning, metacognitive skills, and cross-cultural problem-solving abilities, which go beyond typical monolingual learning frameworks. The study revealed significant regional discrepancies in knowledge production, with academic work mostly centered in North American and European institutional environments, emphasizing systemic imbalances in global knowledge formation. By repositioning linguistic and cultural diversity as fundamental intellectual strengths rather than limitations, the study offers transformative insights into developing more inclusive, equitable, and dynamic educational strategies capable of effectively responding to the complexities of an increasingly interconnected global academic and technological landscape. The findings not only challenge existing educational paradigms, but also offer a nuanced, comprehensive framework for understanding cognitive potential across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, eventually advocating for a more holistic, culturally responsive approach to learning and academic

Peran Hukum Adat Melayu dalam Penataan Masyarakat Multikultural di Kota Medan

This research aims to analyze the role of Malay customary law in structuring multicultural society in Medan City. As a city with high ethnic and cultural diversity, Medan City is a concrete example of how customary law can function as a unifying instrument within the framework of multiculturalism. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method to explore various aspects of Malay customary law as applied in people's daily lives, as well as their impact on harmonizing relations between ethnic groups. The research results show that Malay customary law has an important role in creating social balance through principles that prioritize deliberation, mutual respect and justice. However, there are challenges in implementing customary law in line with the influence of developments in state law and globalization which is increasingly strengthening. The conclusion of this research is that Malay customary law remains relevant in supporting the structuring of a multicultural society, but there needs to be adaptation and collaboration with the formal legal system to achieve better social integration.

Asian minds and bodies: a fresh lens on Asian student engagement in physical education

ABSTRACT Despite over two decades of research highlighting the presence and impact of Asian stereotypes in physical education (PE) and sport in Western nations, remarkably little research explores Asian students’ needs, experiences and perceptions of school PE. This article responds to calls for more sustained research on race, ethnicity and cultural diversity [Pang, B. (2018). Conducting research with young Chinese-Australian students in health and physical education and physical activity: epistemology, positionality and methodologies. Sport, Education and Society, 23(6), 607–618. https://doi.org/10.1080/135733. by investigating Asian secondary school students’ experiences of PE in Aotearoa New Zealand. The study emerged from the lead author's desire to understand the factors that influenced her own conflicted sense of identity in PE spaces as a sporty and physically active immigrant Chinese youth. Information about barriers and enablers to Asian students’ PE participation was collected via an exploratory mixed methods design [Wisdom, J., & Creswell, J. W. (2013, February). Mixed methods: Integrating quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis while studying patient-centred medical home models. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ Publication No. 13-00] involving an anonymous online survey (n = 97) and two focus groups (n = 10). Reflexive thematic analysis informed by Pierre Bourdieu's concepts of capital, habitus and field, identified four important factors: (1) social connections, (2) reframing skill and ability, (3) teacher pedagogical choices and (4) family attitudes and values. We conclude that a shift away from an historical focus on physical capital towards a greater focus on participation and relationships – which underpin the New Zealand Health and Physical Education (HPE) curriculum – has resulted in more positive experiences for the study participants. As Asian populations grow in countries such as Aotearoa New Zealand, new trans-local spaces characterised by increasing international diversity afford the possibility of changes within the field of PE. Education researchers must listen to the voices of Asian students and work with schools to ensure they respond to their needs and support their wellbeing.

What Makes the Movie More "Colourful"? A Discussion on Diversity and Social Psychological Theories

Movies are one of the most widely accepted and loved forms of art, and their extremely high level of acceptance and circulation has made them a vehicle for many political and artistic ideas. The accessibility of movies also makes the narratives they convey more deeply rooted in peoples minds. This is reflected not only in the educational and pedagogical functions of schools, but also in the daily impact on peoples values and worldviews. One noticeable trend about movies is that there is an increasing level of ethnic diversity in them. That is, colourful as the title suggests. This paper addresses this phenomenon by briefly discussing the reasons for and possible implications of this trend from a social psychological perspective based on social identity theory along with race and media studies. With reference to previous research, it may be concluded that the increased level of racial diversity among actors may be due to the fact that the profit-oriented characteristics of the movie industry compels practitioners to take into account the socially and politically influential factors of minority groups. However, as the dominant narrative is still white-dominated, the roles played by minorities in films are often influenced by stereotypes or made for specific audience groups. On top of this, some minorities, such as Asians, are subject to wider prejudice. This is reflected not only in the films themselves and casting, but also in audience preferences.

Genome sequencing reveals novel variants in a diverse population with congenital anterior segment anomalies

Congenital anterior segment anomalies are disorders that affect the development of the eye and cause severe visual impairment. The molecular basis of congenital anterior segment anomalies is not well known. In this study, genome sequencing was performed on 27 families from diverse ethnicities with congenital anterior segment anomalies and 11 variants were identified, most of which were novel and family specific. These variants included single nucleotide variants CPAMD8:c.4825 C > T, c.534 G > A, CRYBB1:c.683 C > A, NHS:c.1180 C > T, GJA3:c.176 C > T, CRYGC:c.470 G > A, COL2A1:c.2819 G > A, c.1693 C > T, EPHA2:c.2864 A > C, a splice donor variant in COL11A1:c.933 + 1del, and a copy number variant in FBN1. The observed inheritance patterns were predominantly dominant, with a few recessive cases and a single instance of X-linked inheritance. Genome sequencing identified variants in 40.74% of diverse cases, offering valuable insights for enhancing the diagnosis and management of this disorder.

Ethnic diversity and conflict in sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from refugee-hosting areas

Ethnic diversity and conflict in sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from refugee-hosting areas

Gender and Racial Disparities in Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Fellows: A Decade-Long Analysis.

Despite increasing diversity among medical students, pediatric orthopaedic surgery remains underrepresented regarding gender and ethnic diversity. Previous studies highlight notable underrepresentation of women and minorities in orthopaedic subspecialty fellowships. This study analyzed data from 2013 to 2023 on pediatric orthopaedic surgery fellows, collected through the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and Graduate Medical Education Consensus. Self-identified race and gender data were used to assess trends over the decade. The analysis included 380 fellows, of whom 62.4% were male and 37.1% were female. Racial distribution showed 62.9% White, 9.2% Asian, 4.5% Hispanic/Latino/Spanish, 4.5% Black/African American, 0% American Indian/Alaskan Native, 0% Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, 0.53% multiple race/ethnicity, and 8.4% other. Notably, 37.1% of fellows were non-White. The study reveals persistent gender and racial disparities in pediatric orthopaedic surgery fellowships. Targeted recruitment and support for underrepresented groups, along with systemic changes to address barriers, are crucial for fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. Enhanced diversity is essential for providing culturally competent care to the diverse patient population.

Understanding Public Diplomacy Strategies of Small States: A Case Study of Singapore

In an international system that is highly influenced by the actions of major powers, small states find their niche by employing methods through which they can highlight their areas of expertise and build a positive image amongst the foreign public. Public diplomacy increases the visibility of these small states on the international platform and helps in attracting foreign investments and support. Small states engage with the public of other States using various features such as culture, food, diversity, tourism, health, etc. Despite the smaller geographical size and lack of natural resources, a small state like Singapore has a good standing in international affairs because of its ability to reach a wider foreign public and build the image of an economically sound and business-friendly country. Even without a natural tourist spot of attraction, the country has been successful in establishing itself as a major tourist spot through manmade tourist sites, and extravagant infrastructure. Singapore uses ethnic diversity, city diplomacy, sustainable development models, innovation, efficient biomedical research, etc as strategies through which it can communicate with and influence the foreign public. The paper aims to explore how small states practice public diplomacy and the strategies employed, analyse the public diplomacy strategies of Singapore, and assess the impact of these strategies on Singapore’s image-building.