Search Results (2,943)

Background: Vaccine hesitancy is a major threat to public health. As part of efforts to increase vaccine uptake, the focus is on optimizing the quality of communication among healthcare workers. Physician shortages and workloads create time constraints, making communication interventions in primary care challenging. This study aimed to propose strategies to improve communication between general practitioners and vaccine-hesitant individuals. This narrative review addresses the specific needs of general practitioners for effective communication and proposes strategies to combat vaccine hesitancy in culturally and linguistically diverse regions. Methods: Systematic searches of EMBASE and PubMed were performed using terms related to vaccine hesitancy, communication strategies, primary care, and cultural diversity. Additionally, the websites of major health organizations were searched for relevant reports and guidelines. Selection criteria were based on the relevance and quality of the selected studies. Results: The findings highlight the importance of empathy, transparency, and personalized information in communication strategies. The need for communication training and addressing policy and workload barriers for healthcare providers is significant. The proposed strategy includes regular communication skills and cultural competency workshops, language training, the development of multilingual resources, implementation of telemedicine services, and active community engagement. Conclusions: Policy recommendations advocate for increased primary care resources, support from general practitioner unions, and the integration of digital tools. These strategies are essential to improve vaccine uptake and public health outcomes by enhancing the capacity of general practitioners to effectively engage with vaccine-hesitant patients. Full article

This study investigates the influence of Trait Emotional Intelligence (TEI) on affective dimensions of English language learning among 515 Pakistani EFL learners, addressing a key gap in Global South research. Using bootstrapped multiple regression and culturally adapted instruments (Cronbach’s α = 0.724–0.857), findings reveal that in Pakistan’s exam-driven, teacher-centered classrooms, well-being significantly enhances attitudes (β = 0.172, p < 0.001), motivation (β = 0.219, p = 0.002), and engagement (β = 0.179, p < 0.001). Emotionality, however, increases anxiety (β = 0.192, p < 0.001) and lowers engagement (β = −0.092, p = 0.025), contradicting global models due to punitive error correction. Sociability shows no significant effect (attitudes: β = 0.038, p = 0.366; engagement: β = 0.019, p = 0.613), reflecting limited peer interaction in hierarchical classrooms. Notably, an emergent auxiliary facet—contextual adaptability—strongly predicts motivation (β = 0.269, p < 0.001) and anxiety (β = 0.109, p = 0.020), highlighting the role of competencies like Urdu–English code-switching. These results call for a Contextually Stratified TEI Framework, emphasizing that while well-being is universal, other TEI dimensions are context-dependent. Implications urge educators to foster well-being, reframe emotionality as a risk-detection skill, and promote adaptability to local linguistic realities. Full article

As an essential medium for the cultural narrative of architectural space, studying the cognitive transformation mechanisms of traditional ethnic decorative patterns is critical for their effective preservation and innovative application. This research focuses on typical decorative motifs found in She ethnic architectural heritage, systematically classifying them into five categories—animal, plant, human figure, totem, and geometric—based on symbolic themes, formal structure, and cultural function. Correspondingly, 20 sets of standardized black-and-white line drawing stimuli were developed for experimental use. Methodologically, this study utilized the EyeLink 1000 eye-tracking system to acquire real-time gaze metrics, including fixation duration and saccadic amplitude, as well as pupil dilation responses from participants engaged in a controlled pattern observation task. Immediately after observation, participants completed a semantic differential assessment using a five-point Likert scale. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal–Wallis tests, and Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc comparisons (α = 0.05). Attention allocation was further examined through heatmaps and gaze trajectory visualizations to provide comprehensive insight into visual engagement. Two principal findings were identified: first, male participants showed a predominant focus on holistic structural composition and cultural symbol representation, whereas female participants exhibited a processing bias towards fine details; second, concrete symbols imbued with historical significance elicited more pronounced emotional responses, while abstract geometric patterns necessitated formal reconstruction to enhance cognitive accessibility. These findings offer empirical support for gender-inclusive architectural design strategies and inform practical approaches for safeguarding cultural heritage within contemporary architectural environments. Consequently, modern reinterpretation of traditional decorative patterns should balance cultural narrative fidelity with functional adaptation, achieving inclusive expression through contextual reconstruction and interactive design strategies. Future research directions include expanding participant demographics to encompass cross-cultural cohorts and incorporating multimodal neuroimaging techniques to elucidate the underlying cognitive and affective mechanisms, thereby advancing the sustainable transmission and innovation of ethnic cultural heritage. Full article

This article examines the interactions between Wang Yangming’s School of Mind and Daoist traditions, focusing on specific instances of contact, adaptation, and reinterpretation. Drawing on both historically attested events and later hagiographical narratives—treated here as cultural representations rather than literal biographies—the study traces how Wang encountered Daoist religious sites, imagery, and technical vocabulary over the course of his life. Particular attention is given to parallels between Wang’s use of concepts such as liangzhi (innate moral knowledge) and Daoist terms from inner alchemy, as well as his adaptation of practices like stillness-sitting (jingzuo) and the metaphor of “forming the sacred embryo” (jie shengtai). The analysis shows that these elements were selectively reframed within his own intellectual framework, often shifting their emphasis from physical cultivation or longevity to moral and practical self-cultivation. Such a reorientation may have something to do with the Jingming Sect 淨明道. By situating Wang’s reinterpretations within the broader religious and philosophical environment of early sixteenth-century China, the article contributes to a more nuanced understanding of cross-tradition engagement and the circulation of ideas between Confucianism and Daoism. Full article

Background: One in seven youth experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 13% of the global disease burden. The family environment is a modifiable factor for the prevention of mental disorders. While evidence-based online parenting programs exist, engagement by immigrant families, such as Indian-origin families in Australia, remains low. Objective: To explore perceived barriers of Indian-origin parents and co-create strategies to build cross-cultural bridging interventions to increase their engagement in parenting programs. Method: A qualitative co-design method was used, and participants were selected using a set of inclusion criteria through a criterion-based sampling approach. Eight videoconference workshops were conducted with 23 Indian-origin parents living across Australia, incorporating scenarios, roleplay, and vignettes. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s inductive coding approach. Results: One central theme and six design principles were developed. The central theme, low engagement with parenting programs, encompassed five factors that contribute to low engagement: ‘parenting programs’ is not a concept in India; limited awareness of parenting programs available in Australia; lack of time to engage in parenting programs; misalignment between parenting program content and real-world parenting challenges; and an ‘I know how to parent’ mindset. The six design principles were: acknowledge culture shock and acculturation; use a collaborative approach; include content specific to immigrant parents and children; adopt cross-cultural perspectives; use short and interactive bilingual pedagogic tools; and use focused dissemination and marketing. Conclusions: This study’s findings formed the foundation for developing a cross-cultural bridging intervention to connect Indian-origin parents with existing online parenting programs. Full article

Urban-to-rural migration is reshaping vernacular villages through transformations in both architectural form and everyday life. This study focuses on three villages in Zhejiang Province, China, and their migrants from urban areas, investigating—through field surveys and interviews—how urban-to-rural migrants’ spatial and lifestyle interventions influence the preservation and transformation of traditional architecture and local cultural practices. Findings indicate that urban-to-rural migrants exhibit diverse spatial preferences and lifestyle patterns, leading to varied modes of building adaptation. Some prioritize modern styles and commercial functions, while others emphasize cultural continuity, community engagement, or individual expression. Most buildings undergo incremental modifications rather than complete reconstruction, reflecting a balance among regulatory constraints, financial considerations, and personal aspirations. Furthermore, some migrants retain traditional spatial hierarchies and layout logic in their architectural designs, thereby sustaining vernacular lifestyles such as intergenerational cohabitation and neighborhood interaction. These building practices also have demonstrative effects within the village, encouraging others to value local culture and spatial traditions. In contrast, other migrants, driven by modern aesthetics or commercial objectives, restructure or even disrupt traditional spatial models, resulting in the fragmentation and weakening of established value systems. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of how urban-to-rural migration reshapes the spatial organization of traditional villages and can inform more flexible and context-sensitive rural planning practices. Full article

In Tehuacán, Puebla, Mexico, the agricultural sector is primarily dedicated to corn cultivation, which is reflected in the region’s economy, culture, and diet. This sector follows an agro-industrial production model dependent on pesticides and chemical fertilizers, which impacts both soil health and the population’s well-being. The objective of this study was to assess cytotoxic damage using the Buccal Micronucleus Cytome Assay (BMCA) in a population engaged in agricultural activities in San Diego Chalma, Tehuacán, Puebla, Mexico. Sociodemographic parameters were analyzed, along with the buccal micronucleus cytome assay, in a sample of 35 individuals composed of an agricultural group (18) and a control group (17). The agricultural group showed a significantly higher number of total micronucleated cells (Median = 714), which was 19.8 times greater than the non-agricultural group. Age, sex, basic education level, time of residence, and involvement in agricultural activities were key factors contributing to the development of buccal cell micronuclei, in addition to the use of pesticides as lambda-cyhalothrin, spinetoram, ethoprophos, carbofuran, methomyl, and chlorpyrifos ethyl without safety measures. There was an increased risk of developing micronucleated cells in males from the control group (OR = 2.386, 95% CI = 2.123–2.681) and in individuals aged 30–59 years (OR = 16.464, 95% CI = 14.315–18.935). The agricultural population for the 0–29 years presented a risk probability developing micronucleated cells of 99.8% in men and 99.9% in women, with a higher risk observed in women and in individuals who had lived their entire lives in San Diego Chalma, where they are continuously exposed to pesticides. Therefore, it is crucial to provide guidance, training, and improved public policies in the region of Puebla, Mexico. Full article

Significant time, money, and energy are invested in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) across Further Education (FE) colleges in England, with the aim of enhancing teaching strategies, sharing “best” practices, and improving educational quality. Despite these intentions, practitioner perceptions of CPD’s value remain mixed, highlighting concerns about the effectiveness of current approaches. CPD managers often face competing financial and operational demands, alongside pressure to comply with external requirements, resulting in CPD that is frequently instrumental, mandatory, and delivered through one-off events. These practices reflect a data-driven, prescriptive management culture that prioritizes measurable outcomes over meaningful educational experiences. Consequently, teachers are compelled to demonstrate compliance within a system where accountability is unevenly distributed. This medium-scale, multi-method practitioner research study investigates how such compliance-driven CPD practices divert attention and resources from genuine educational improvement. This study explores an alternative model of CPD rooted in teacher agency and enriched through engagement with the arts and aesthetic experiences. Drawing on surveys, semi-structured interviews, critical incidents, and narrative accounts, the findings suggest that this approach fosters more democratic, creative, and impactful professional development. In promoting teacher agency and challenging dominant power structures, this study offers a vision of CPD that supports meaningful educational transformation, with practical examples and recommendations for broader implementation. Full article

Islands and island communities are often perceived as homogenous in mainstream discourse. While many islands share characteristics, such as smallness or isolation, these are experienced differently across and within island contexts and intersect with spatial, socio-cultural, political, and economic landscapes. The concept of islandness is developed to both understand shared island characteristics and their differences across places, communities, and situations. This makes islandness highly relevant to discussions of green transitions as it highlights the need to examine the diverse, intersecting, and local realities that might interfere with green citizenship. However, analytical approaches to islandness are limited, with few spatial, scalable, and transferable frameworks available. This paper argues that spatial microsimulation offers a productive way to engage with islandness using the case of climate change and environmental attitudes across Iceland. We present the SimIceland model, developed within the EU-funded project PHOENIX: The Rise of Citizens’ Voices for a Greener Europe. The model is developed to better understand how Iceland’s citizens’ feel about climate change by taking socio-cultural, environmental, and different geographical administrative regions into account. Through a simple example of an analytical demonstration, we show how this model can support a deeper understanding of islandness in the specific context of climate attitudes in Iceland. Furthermore, we discuss how the model can contribute to public participation initiatives. The model and data are open access, and we conclude by inviting further developments and the use of spatial microsimulation to explore islandness, green citizenship, and participatory approaches to sustainability in island contexts. Full article

Background: Cultural sensitivity during intrapartum care is a critical determinant of maternal satisfaction and quality of care, particularly in multicultural settings. In Saudi Arabia, the diversity of birthing women underscores the need for midwives to provide culturally competent, respectful, and individualized care. Objective: To assess women’s perceptions of midwives’ cultural sensitivity during intrapartum care in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and identify demographic factors influencing these perceptions. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated cultural sensitivity questionnaire. Data were collected online through purposive sampling from women who had given birth in the past 12 months. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics and perception scores, while inferential tests examined associations between perceptions and demographic variables. Results: women reported moderate to high perceptions of cultural sensitivity. Age and nationality significantly influenced perception scores (p < 0.05). While communication and respect for religious practices scored highest, areas such as shared decision making and language-concordant support were identified as needing improvement. Conclusions: Women in Riyadh often perceive midwives as culturally sensitive; however, gaps remain in communication and involvement in decision making. Training programs that strengthen midwives’ cultural competence—especially in language services and patient engagement—could enhance the intrapartum experience. Full article

This paper explores the complexities of measuring impact from placemaking in the context of public and community housing (sometimes known as social or subsidised housing) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Placemaking refers to a range of practices and interventions—including the provision or facilitation of access to community infrastructure—that seek to cultivate a positive sense of place through everyday experiences, spaces, relationships, and rituals. Drawing on interviews with four community housing providers (CHPs), analysis of their documentation, and tenant survey and interview data from two of those CHPs, this research examines providers’ change theories about placemaking in relation to tenants’ experiences of safety, belonging and connectedness, including access to local amenities, ease of getting around, and a sense of neighbourhood and community affiliation. Based on the importance of these variables to wellbeing outcomes, the study highlights the potential of placemaking to support tenant wellbeing, while also recognising that providers must navigate trade-offs and co-benefits, limited resources, and varying levels of tenant engagement. While placemaking can help to foster feelings of connection, belonging and safety, its impact depends on providers’ capacity to initiate and sustain such efforts amidst competing demands and constraints. The study offers indicative findings and recommendations for future research. Although the impacts of placemaking and community infrastructure provision are difficult to quantify, research findings are synthesised into a prototype framework to support housing providers in their decision-making and housing development processes. The framework, which should be adapted and evaluated in situ, potentially also informs other actors in the built environment—including architects, landscape architects, urban designers, planners, developers and government agencies. In Aotearoa New Zealand, where housing provision occurs within a colonial context, government agencies have obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi to actively protect Māori rights and to work in partnership with Māori in housing policy and delivery. This underscores the importance of placemaking practices and interventions that are culturally and contextually responsive. Full article

This pilot study combines memetic analysis with a gamified virtual reality (VR) platform to explore the digital transmission of Mo Jia Quan, a traditional Chinese martial art. By identifying core cultural elements (memes) with strong transmissibility, the research developed a VR-based learning environment incorporating levels, challenges, and motion-captured martial routines to promote user engagement. Ten participants underwent a pre- and post-test evaluation, with preliminary statistical results suggesting improved cultural understanding after the VR experience. While these initial findings are promising, the study is positioned as an exploratory effort due to its limited sample size and scope. The contribution lies in proposing a theoretically grounded workflow—from memetic identification to immersive digital implementation—that can inform future research on intangible heritage preservation. The study also acknowledges the need for further validation and scalability assessment and aligns with open science principles to ensure the transparency and accessibility of its digital cultural outputs. Full article

This paper introduces and defines ‘Living Cultural Infrastructure’ as dynamic social-ecological systems where plant heritage and community knowledge are co-produced to reclaim degraded urban landscapes. Addressing the dual challenges of ecological degradation and cultural erosion, we demonstrate this concept through a case study on the Maekha Canal in Chiang Mai, Thailand, employing Participatory Landscape Architecture integrated with urban ethnobotany. Through co-design workshops, biocultural spatial analysis, and ethnobotanical surveys involving 20 key community members, the project engaged residents to reclaim the canal as a functional biocultural corridor. The research documented 149 culturally significant plant species and resulted in a co-created trail system that embodies the principles of a living infrastructure, fostering intergenerational knowledge exchange and strengthening community stewardship. This study demonstrates how a participatory, ethnobotany-informed process can regenerate degraded urban waterways into Living Cultural Infrastructure. The research advances a new paradigm for landscape architecture by providing replicable governance and design tools. Full article

This theoretical article explores the contrasting ontologies, axiologies, and political economies of transhumanism and posthumanism. Transhumanism envisions the human as an enhanced, autonomous agent shaped by neoliberal and Enlightenment ideals. Posthumanism challenges this by emphasizing relationality, ecological entanglement, and critiques of commodification. Both engage with technology’s role in reshaping humanity. Drawing on Braidotti’s posthumanism, Haraway’s cyborg figuration, Ahmed’s politics of emotion, Berlant’s cruel optimism, Massumi’s affective modulation, Seigworth and Gregg’s affective intensities, Zuboff’s surveillance capitalism, Fisher’s capitalist realism, Cooper’s surplus life, Sadowski’s digital capitalism, Lupton’s quantified self, Schafheitle et al.’s datafied subject, Pasquale’s black box society, Terranova’s network culture, Bratton’s platform sovereignty, Dean’s communicative capitalism, and Morozov’s technological solutionism, the article elucidates how subjectivity, data, and infrastructure are reorganized by corporate systems. Introducing technogensis as the co-creation of human and technological subjectivities, it links corporate-platform practices to future trajectories governed by Apple, Meta, and Google. These branded technologies function not only as enhancements but as infrastructures of governance that commodify subjectivity, regulate affect and behavior, and reproduce socio-economic stratification. A future is extrapolated where humans are not liberated by technology but incubated, intubated, and ventilated by techno-conglomerate governments. These attention-monopolizing, affective-capturing, behavior-modulating, and profit-extracting platforms do more than enhance; they brand subjectivity, rendering existence subscription-based under the guise of personal optimization and freedom. This reframes transhumanism as a cybernetic intensification of liberal subjectivity, offering tools to interrogate governance, equity, agency, and democratic participation, and resist techno-utopian narratives. Building on this, a posthumanist alternative emphasizes relational, multispecies subjectivities, collective agency, and ecological accountability, outlining pathways for ethical design and participatory governance to resist neoliberal commodification and foster emergent, open-ended techno-social futures. Full article

This study explored how dance style preferences among recreational dancers in Greece reflect intersections of cultural identity, demographic background, and lifelong engagement. A total of 912 participants were analyzed using chi-square and Kruskal–Wallis tests, Spearman correlation, and k-means cluster analysis. Significant associations were found between gender and stylistic preferences, with women favoring ballet and contemporary styles, while men preferred traditional and partner-based forms such as tango. Kruskal–Wallis tests indicated that age influenced stylistic preferences, though it did not significantly differentiate participant clusters. A weak but statistically significant positive correlation was observed between age and years of dancing experience. k-means clustering revealed four distinct participant profiles based on gender, residence, experience, and stylistic engagement, highlighting culturally shaped participation patterns. Urban dancers exhibited broader stylistic diversity, whereas rural dancers showed stronger preferences for traditional genres, emphasizing the influence of cultural heritage. These findings demonstrate how identity, environment, and experiential factors could shape recreational dance paths across the lifespan. The study highlights the need for culturally responsive, inclusive, and participant-centered dance education and culturally informed tourism programming that accommodates diverse pathways of engagement. Future research is recommended to investigate motivational factors and cross-cultural patterns to further deepen understanding and inform recreational dance communities. Full article