bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PREVALENCE OF ANEMIA IN CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE PATIENTS
Authors: Alismail Asma Ismail
Published: February 2021

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD), defined as renal damage with persistent and usually progressive deterioration of ultrafiltration, is a worldwide public health problem. Is considered as a significant risk factor for end-stage renal disease, anemia, cardiovascular disease, and premature death. The aging of the population and the generally increasing rates of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes worldwide suggest that the incidence and prevalence of CKD will rise over the next decades.

Materials and Method: The data will consider all patients visiting outpatient’s department at the primary health center attached to King Faisal University in Al-Ahsa 

between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2011. From the patients` files, we was record the age, gender, GFR, stages of CKD and state of anemia.

Results: In this study, 49.3% of participants were male, and 50.7% was female—only 2.6% of participants on hemodialysis. The prevalence of anemia among the participants in our study was 55.5%. According to the results of the participants in this research, the mean age was 57.82, with a standard deviation of 17.067. The mean Hemoglobin of the participants was 11.775, with a standard deviation of 2.5334. The mean results of the participants by using CKD-EPI formula, to calculate GFR was 74.496 with a standard a deviation of 36.6787, which was the lowest mean of GFR. In Quadratic EGFR formula that was used to calculate GFR, the mean was 84.47 with a standard deviation of 35.677, which was the highest mean of GFR. DMRD formula was also used in this research to calculate the GFR, with a mean of 78.84 with a standard deviation of 50.371. Conclusions: In our data analysis, 100% of patients in the end stage of CKD had anemia although we used three different formulas to calculate GFR; however, the result was the same regarding patients in the end-stage. A surprising fact was found looking to other stages of CKD, and it is a correlation with anemia, the analysis of the data in this study did not show an increasing number of anemic patients to the stage of CKD in a stepwise manner.

Keyword: Anemia, CKD, Al-Ahsa
A STUDY ON CLINICAL PATTERN OF ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS TO THE DRUGS USED FOR HYPERTENSION AND ASSESMENT OF MEDICATION KNOWLEDGE IN SUCH PATIENTS.
Authors: Sharma Vandana , Solanki Hetal , Kumar Narendra , Kumari Bhairvi
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present study was to monitor adverse drug reactions associated with antihypertensive drugs. due to its high prevalence, Hypertension is a major health problem throughout the world and very less studies has been aimed at assessing the patient’s knowledge and awareness about hypertension and adherence to antihypertensive medication among hypertensive patients .Hypertension is a major health problem and risk factor for stroke, coronary heart diseases and antihypertensive treatment is used to reduce renal and cardiovascular diseases by lowering blood pressure. Occurrence of adverse reactions among hypertensive patients could prevent or delay patients from achieving desired therapeutic goals. The study was conducted by one to one patient interview using a questionnaire-based medication knowledge form, Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Form drafted according to the World Health Organisation Monitoring Guidelines. A total of 86 adverse drug reactions were observed in 127 hypertensive patients during the 6 month study. In this study the ADRs were found probable (51.16%), possible (32.56%), unclassifiable (11.63%) and unlikely (4.65%) by using WHO causality assessment scale. By using Naranjo algorithm scale it was found that ADRs were possible in 77.91% and probable in 22.09% of cases. This study also found that amlodipine was responsible for most of the ADRs and among the entire ADRs reported headache was the commonest followed by dizziness, pedal oedema, fatigue, abdominal pain, dry cough, breathlessness, bradycardia, muscle cramps, sedation, diarrhoea and irritation all over thebody. After counseling by clinical pharmacist medication knowledge was found to be increased.

Keywords: Adverse drug reaction, medication knowledge, hypertension
In-Vitro Anti-inflammatory Activity of Methanolic Extract of Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy
Authors: Singh Puneet , Sharma Yogesh , Sharma Ashutosh
Published: February 2021

Aim: In-Vitro Anti-inflammatory Activity of Methanolic Extract of Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy.

Material & Methods- The whole plant parts of Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy were purchased from the local market. Whole plant materials were dried under shade and subjected to coarse powder for extraction process. Accurately weighed quantity of whole plant material was extracted using 95 % methanol by soxhlet apparatus for 72 h. Qualitative chemical tests of methanolic extracts were subjected to various chemical tests to detect various phytoconstituents. Solvent systems ethyl acetate: methanol: water (77:13:10) were found to be most satisfactory solvent system. After development of plates, they were air-dried and number of spots, color and Rf values were recorded. The % heamolysis was calculated by assuming the heamolysis produced by the control group as 100 %.

Results: The preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed that different active constituent present in different extracts such as carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, fat, oils, steroids, terpenoids, glycosides, alkaloids, tannins and other phenolics compounds. At a concentration of 500 µg/ml, the extract produced 71.59% protection of RBC haemolysis as compared with 72.73% produced by prednisolone.  The methanolic extract of selected plant showed 39.70% inhibition. The Diclofenac sodium showed 55.88 % inhibition against denaturation of protein.

Conclusion: In conclusion, it can be stated that the methanolic extract has beneficial effects in long lasting in membrane stabilizing method, inhibition of protein denaturation method and proteinase model.

Keywords: In-Vitro, Anti-inflammatory Activity, Methanolic Extract, Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy, Protein Denaturation Method
Antibacterial Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Herbal Plants Against Some Hospital-Acquired Infections
Authors:   Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture and natural resource, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, Iran., Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, Iran., Habibi Hassan , Saajedi Noorsaadat ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Ghahtan Najmeh ,   Department of Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture and natural resource, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, Iran, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, Iran., Habibi Saajedeh ,   Medical Student, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
Published: February 2021

Background: Due to increased bacterial resistance to common antibiotics, the tendency towards using herbal extracts is increasing. Plantago major L, Plantago ovata, Lallemantia iberica L, Sinapis arvensis L, and Ficus carica  are widely used as herbal plants in traditional medicine. They were known to have a variety of therapeutic effects. The current study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of hydroalcoholic extract of these herbs against some hospital-acquired infections. Materials and Methods: Disk-diffusion antibiotic sensitivity testing, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration of hydroalcoholic extracts were applied to assess the antibacterial activity compared with tetracycline, as a control antibiotic. Results: The results of this experiment showed that the L. iberica and S. arvensis extract had the greatest effect on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus vulgaris. All the tested medicinal plants had a high antibacterial effect on P. vulgaris, except P. ovata. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the replacement of chemical drugs with herbal extract could be effective in the elimination of bacterial growth.
An Efficient In Vitro Culture System To Amplify Spermatogonia Stem Cell Markers
Authors:   Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran., Narimanpour Zeinab , Nazm Bojnordi Maryam ,   Immunogenic Research Center, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran., Ghasemi Hatef ,   Immunogenic Research Center, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) can be a treatment for infertile men. Here, we design an efficient method based on culturing in the presence of Sertoli cells to improve the expression level of some specific spermatogonia stem cell genes during two weeks post culture. Materials and Methods: Cells were derived from neonatal (2-6 days old) mice testes and were cultured in DMEM medium with FBS. The colonization of cultured SSCs in days 4, 7, and 14 of culture was counted via phase-contrast microscope and Image J software. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) test was performed to evaluate the viability of cultured SSCs in days 3, 7, and 14 of culture. The expression level and the alteration pattern of specific spermatogonial markers, i.e., Stra8, DAZL, and Piwill2 was examined via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) during two weeks post culture. Results: The number and the diameters of colonies showed a significant increase in cultured cells. MTT results proved the higher viability of testicular cells during the culture period. The results of ALP staining detected a positive reaction in spermatogonia colonies. Real-time PCR data showed that culturing SSCs in the presence of interstitial cells of the testis, amplified the level and alteration pattern of specific spermatogonia stem cells genes beneficial in the enrichment of SSCs propagation. Conclusion: Providing a similar culture environment to testicular niche increases viability, forms SSCs colonies, and regulates the level and alteration pattern of spermatogonia stem cell genes.
Transcription Factor Assay of Peripheral Blood T cells in Different Groups of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors:   Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, Taghiloo Saeid , Ajami Abolghasem ,   Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, Tehrani Mohsen ,   Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, Abbasi Arezou ,   Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, Alizadeh-Navaei Reza ,   Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, Akhiani Mohsen ,   Department of Rheumatology, Alborz Hospital, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran, Salami Alireza ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Published: February 2021

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints and other tissues and organs of the body. Previous reports have demonstrated the imbalance of T helper (Th) subsets and Treg activity in the development, progression, and remission of RA. Here, we investigated the mRNA expression of four major transcription factors T-bet (Th1), GATA (Th2), RORc (Th17), and Foxp3 (Treg) in peripheral blood of different groups of RA patients. Materials and methods: In this case-control study, 60 patients with RA, including 20 newly diagnosed, 20 under treatment, and 20 in remission, as well as 20 patients with osteoarthritis, and 20 age- and the sex-matched healthy individual were enrolled. Diagnosis and classification of patients were done according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria. The relative mRNA expression of transcription factors, including T-bet, GATA, RORc, and Foxp3, was measured using qRT-PCR. Results: The relative expression of T-bet in RA patients was significantly increased in healthy controls (P = 0.002), while the relative expression of Foxp3 in RA patients was significantly decreased in healthy controls (P < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in the expression of GATA3 or RORc among RA patients, healthy controls, and osteoarthritis group. Conclusions: The results indicate the importance of Th1 and Treg cells in RA; however, the role of Th17 cells appear to be of little importance in these patients. It seems that Th2 cells do not interfere with RA development.
Characterization and Optimization of L-Malic Acid Production by Some Clinical Isolates of Aureobasidium pullulans
Authors:   Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, Jafarian-Haris Taha , Tavakkoli Alireza ,   Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, Najafzadeh Mohammad Javad ,   Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, Danesh Abolghasem ,   Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Published: February 2021

Background: Poly-L-malic acid (PLMA) comprises aliphatic polyester polymers with broad applications in pharmaceutical industries. The fungal microorganisms are among the best natural sources recruited to supply L-malic acid (MA) as a precursor of PLMA. In this study, we investigated MA production ability of 7 clinical isolated of the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. Materials and Methods: Seven clinical isolates of A. pullulans acquired from Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute were studied, and the isolate with the highest total MA production was selected for the optimization process. We tried to optimize the output by applying different concentrations of CaCO3 in fungus medium (1.5%, 3%, and 6%) and various incubation temperatures (27°C, 32°C, and 37°C) during 3, 7, and 14 days. Results: Intra-strains variation was significantly strong (P<0.0001), and the highest production of MA was carried out by the isolate A. pullulans var. melanigenum dH 21931, UTHSC 06-456. The amount of MA produced by this strain was significantly higher in medium with 3% CaCO3 compared with other concentrations of CaCO3 and after 7 days incubation than the other fermentation times (P<0.05). Although MA production was higher at 27°C, the differences between the investigated various temperatures were not significant (P>0.05). Conclusion: Overall, we obtained the highest MA production in Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA)medium with 3% CaCO3 at 27°C after 7 days of incubation. Our study indicated that the fermentation period and CaCO3 concentration significantly alter MA production in A. pullulans var. melanigenum.
Supplementation of Freezing Media with Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate Analog and Isobutylmethylxanthine on Sperm Quality
Authors:   Department of Reproductive Biology, the Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Qom branch, Iran, Culture and Research, Qom branch, Iran., Jannatifar Rahil , Piroozmanesh Hamid ,   Department of Reproductive Biology, the Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Qom branch, Iran, Culture and Research, Qom branch, Iran., Naserpoor Leila ,   Department of Reproductive Biology, the Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Qom branch, Iran, Culture and Research, Qom branch, Iran.
Published: February 2021

Background: This study aimed to explore whether the addition of a cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) analog and isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX) in freezing media improved sperm quality and what role cAMP has in this recovery. Materials and methods: ach semen sample was cryopreserved into four groups: fresh semen sample, as a control group, freezing medium + 2.5 mM cAMP analog and 0.2 mM IBMX, freezing medium + 12.5 mM cAMP analog and 0.2 mM IBMX, and freezing medium + 25 mM cAMP analog and 0.2 mM IBMX. Sperm parameters after post-thaw were analyzed according to WHO instruction (2010). Viability, acrosome reaction, and DNA damage levels of the samples were evaluated. Results: Our results indicated that the effective concentrations of 12.5 and 25 mM cAMP analog and 0.2 mM IBMX significantly improved the total motility, progressive motility, and viability of the frozen-thawed (P<0.05). However, non-progressive motility and immotile were significantly reduced in the 12.5 and 25 mM cAMP analogs and 0.2 mM IBMX groups after thawing (P<0.05). During freezing the spermatozoa, the high concentration of the cAMP analog increased acrosome reaction after thawing in the 25 mM and 0.2 mM IBMX treated samples (P<0.05). DNA fragmentation in 25 mM cAMP analog and 0.2 mM (IBMX) supplementation was significantly lower compared to the other groups (P<0.05). Conclusions: Our findings revealed that in vitro cAMP analog and IBMX supplementation in freezing media play an important role in preventing cryodamage by maintaining the sperm functional parameters.
Влияние глокальный в движении поклонения
Authors: Dendasck Carla Viana , Ferraro Danielle
Published: February 2021

Эта статья призвана принести размышления о неразрешимости глокальный во всех сферах повседневной жизни, в том числе религиозного контекста. Для этого мы использовали движение Поклонение, которое набирает все больше и больше приверженцев в Бразилии за счет маркетингового использования опыта потребления. Отражение было осуществлено путем создания глокал-контекста и неолиберальных факторов, которые повлияли на формирование и рост евангельской культуры. Таким образом, это исследование предопределено влияние глокальный в строительстве современного бразильского рынка неопендицированных Евангелия.
Paddling Together for Culturally Safe Emergency Care for Elders
Authors: Hasan Leena , Johnson Janice
Published: February 2021

This paper describes a wise practice for collaborative change through the Trauma- Informed and Culturally Safe Emergency Care for Nuu-chah-nulth Elders project. For decades, Nuu-chah-nulth Elders have been avoiding emergency care due to colonial trauma and a lack of culturally safe care. To begin addressing this community priority, the First Nations Health Authority, in partnership with Island Health and university partners, organized a two-day workshop in September 2017 with Nuu-chah-nulth Elders, community members, and health partners. Key to ensuring the process was culturally sensitive was following the guidance of the West Coast General Hospital Cultural Safety Committee, a partnership between Nuu-chah-nulth people and health providers. Respect and trust were developed by centring the voices of Elders and giving them a safe space for discussion before developing recommendations with health partners. Feedback from participants was gathered from notes and audio recordings and thematically analyzed into eight major recommendations (i.e., increase engagement and relationship building; develop action plans; increase education and awareness; increase advocacy and support; incorporate First Nations medicine, healing, and foods; provide culturally safe spaces; develop policy and protocol; and link to comprehensive community support), with attention to preserving Elder voices. The recommendations were validated by returning and new participants at a gathering in June 2019. Elders noted that while experiences of unsafe care continue, noticeable improvements in cultural safety are being made and they feel heard.
Intimate Partner Violence Against Indigenous Men in Heterosexual Relationships: Toward a Culturally Safe Response in Primary Health Care Settings
Authors: Rizkalla Kristin , Maar Marion , McGregor Lorrilee , Pilon Roger , Reade Maurianne
Published: February 2021

Most Indigenous intimate partner violence (IPV) research and interventions are geared toward women, while the experiences of Indigenous men as survivors of IPV are not well investigated or understood. Indigenous men are typically portrayed as perpetrators of violence yet very seldom as survivors of violence, although they experience disproportionately high rates of violence, including IPV, when compared to non-Indigenous men. Our community-based participatory research, conducted in partnership with First Nations communities in Northern Ontario, Canada, completed in 2019, identified this bias as a major barrier for Indigenous men to disclose IPV in a health service setting, where a safe space and support should be available. The primary health care providers involved in this study reported awareness of serious abuse perpetrated against First Nations men in heterosexual relationships. However, they also cited insufficient preparedness within the primary care system to respond to the needs of these men, including significant gaps in culturally safe services. These findings warrant attention and action. We offer recommendations for health and social services and community organizations to help address, in culturally safe ways, IPV experienced by Indigenous men and its effects on families and communities.
Educating Medical Students’ “Hearts and Minds”: A Humanities-Informed Cultural Immersion Program in Indigenous Experiential Community Learning
Authors: De Leeuw Sarah , Larstone Roseann , Fell Bryndel , Cross Nicole , Greenwood Margo , Auerbach Katriona , Sutherland Julie
Published: February 2021

Well-documented disparities in health status persist between Indigenous and non- Indigenous people in Canada. Medical schools have a responsibility to address underlying causes of these inequities, in part by developing future physicians’ cultural humility and their capacities in cultural safety by increasing critical anti- racism knowledge and understandings about First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Undergraduate medical education relies heavily on, among other pedagogies, experiential learning. Moreover, a growing body of research is evidencing the value of applying humanities-informed approaches to medical education in order to produce “better doctors” (i.e., physicians who are more empathetic, compassionate, and attuned to wholistic orientations to patient wellness). The combined impact of these two approaches (experiential learning and humanities-informed pedagogies) on medical students’ development of cultural humility and capacities in cultural safety with Indigenous Peoples is unknown. This paper describes how the First Nations Community Education Program—an innovative humanities-informed Indigenous cultural immersion program—was developed and implemented as a collaborative project of the Northern Medical Program (itself the result of a partnership between the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Medicine and the University of Northern British Columbia), the First Nations Health Authority, and Northern Health. The paper also documents impacts of the program and provides a resource for other medical education programs considering similar initiatives focused on cultural humility or the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
Findings Associated With a Novel Program Designed to Support Indigenous Faculty Members of U.S. Health Professions Schools
Authors: Carney Patricia A. , Taylor Cynthia , Empey Allison , Spector Dove , Bruegl Amanda , Brodt Erik
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Recent studies on programs designed to support Indigenous faculty are lacking. Expanding numbers of successful Indigenous health faculty could help to improve delivery of culturally appropriate/responsive health care for Indigenous people. Methods: We enrolled nine American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) faculty participants in 2017 and 53 in 2018 in an Indigenous Faculty Forum (IFF). We provided instruction on academic advancement, addressed unique cultural considerations, and fostered networking and ongoing career support for AIAN faculty. We used a post-session survey, including the 22-item Diversity and Engagement Survey (DES) and focus groups, to assess initial reactions to the program and a follow-up survey to assess change at 1 year. Findings: Participants in both IFF sessions were predominantly female, most often aged 35–44 and from primary care disciplines. Two faculty members rose to a higher rank during the 1-year follow-up period. Findings from the DES illustrated that Common Purpose, Equitable Reward and Recognition, Cultural Competence, Trust, a Sense of Belonging, and Appreciation of Individual Attributes increased slightly from post-session to 1 year. The greatest change was for Respect, which increased from a mean of 3.42 (SD = 0.77) to 3.76 (SD = 0.67), p = .05. Focus group findings revealed that mentoring that includes the cultural perspectives of AIAN is lacking, as is respect for these faculty from the academic community, though survey findings showed respect improved over time. Conclusions: More tailored work is needed to support AIAN in U.S. academic settings if they are to achieve academic success and become role models for others entering academic settings.
Strengthening Indigenous Australian Perspectives in Allied Health Education: A Critical Reflection
Authors: Manton Danielle , Williams Megan
Published: February 2021

While professional education in medicine and nursing in Australia has been implementing strategies to increase accessibility for Indigenous Australians, allied health professions remain underdeveloped in this area. Failure to improve the engagement of allied health professions with Indigenous Australians, and failure to increase the numbers of Indigenous staff and students risks perpetuating health inequities, intergenerational disadvantage, and threatens the integrity of professions who have publically committed to achieving cultural safety and health equity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Knowing this, leaders in the allied health professions are asking “What needs to change?” This paper presents a critical reflection on experiences of a university-based Indigenous Health Unit leading the embedding of Indigenous perspectives in allied health curriculum, informed by Indigenous community connections, literature reviews, and research in the context of an emerging community of practice on Indigenous health education. Key themes from reflections are presented in this paper, identifying barriers as well as enablers for change, which include Indigenous community relationship building, education of staff and students, and collaborative research and teaching on Indigenous Peoples’ allied health needs and models of care. These enablers are inherently anti-racism strategies that redress negative stereotypes perpetuated about Indigenous Australians and encourage the promotion of valuable Indigenous knowledges, principles, and practices as strategies that may also help meet the health needs of the general community.
Improving Dementia Care for Gitxsan First Nations People
Authors: Gaspard Gina , McAtackney David , Sullivan Debbie , Sebastian Mavis
Published: February 2021

This project originated from nursing staff’s learning need for knowledge, approach, attitude, and skills in dementia care that was identified by the Gitxsan Health Society. In collaboration with the First Nations Health Authority, the Gitxsan Health Society sought to educate nurses on how to provide culturally appropriate care to older Gitxsan persons living with dementia, and also to increase the understanding of nurses, family caregivers, and the wider community about dementia as a chronic condition. This project involved a mixed-methods approach (multiple qualitative approaches, as well as a quantitative component). The team was guided at each stage by a Cultural Advisory Council of four Elders recognized as Knowledge Holder from the community. The project involved a strong element of reciprocal co-learning and knowledge exchange. From discussions and exchange with community members, three large interlinking themes emerged to guide the researchers: (a) loss and grief; (b) relationality; and (c) access and connection. These themes gave voice to the gaps and needs in care, but also highlighted the potential areas of strength that can be built on to improve care for the older Gitxsan person living with dementia. Family and other community members identified the need for more information regarding dementia, the need to access in-community and external supports, and the need to inform nurses about what considerations are required when caring for Gitxsan people living with dementia. A better understanding of the Gitxsan ways of knowing about dementia can help nurses incorporate more culturally safe practices into the care of persons living with dementia.
Addressing Institutional Racism Against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders of Australia in Mainstream Health Services: Insights From Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services
Authors: Socha Anna
Published: February 2021

With long colonial histories, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in Australia experience lower life expectancy and a higher burden of illness. To this day, Indigenous Peoples experience interpersonal, systemic, and institutional racism in the mainstream public health system of Australia, leading to the under- use of mainstream health services and resulting in many Indigenous Australians living in a state of persistent crisis. Extreme and unacceptable levels of institutional racism have been identified in the hospitals and health services of Queensland, Australia, using the Marrie Institutional Racism Matrix (MIRM), an evidence-based assessment tool for identifying, measuring, and monitoring racism in institutional settings. This paper aims to identify ways to address institutional racism against Indigenous Peoples in the health care sector. Specifically, using publicly available documents, a case study analysis of the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH), a network of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, is conducted using the MIRM as a guide. The conclusion is that the IUIH actively works to address institutional racism by (a) including Indigenous people in key decision-making processes and structures; (b) undertaking numerous community engagement strategies; (c) building partnerships within and outside the health sector to address the social determinants of health; and (d) working in ways that align with Indigenous ways of being and doing. It is argued that mainstream health services need to be aware of institutional racism and learn from the approaches of Indigenous-led organizations to create institutions that are inclusive of Indigenous members of society.
Findings From a Process Evaluation of an Indigenous Holistic Housing Support and Mental Health Case Management Program in Downtown Toronto
Authors: Firestone Michelle , Syrette Jessica , Brant Teyohá:te , Laing Marie , Teekens Steve
Published: February 2021

While urban Indigenous populations in Canada are increasing and represent many diverse and culturally vibrant communities, disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people’s experiences of the social determinants of health are significant. The Mino Kaanjigoowin (MK) program at Na-Me-Res (Native Men’s Residence) in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, supports Indigenous men who are experiencing homelessness or are precariously housed and who have complex health and social needs. Using a community-partnered approach that aligns with wise practices for conducting Indigenous health research, a mixed-methods process evaluation of the MK program was conducted in 2017‒2018 by the Well Living House in partnership with Na-Me-Res. Thematic analysis of qualitative data gathered through two focus groups with community members who access the MK program (n = 9) and key informant interviews with staff (n = 11) was carried out using a decolonizing lens. Results indicate that the MK program provides a unique healing model that is grounded in trust, honour, and respect. Strengths of the program include a harm reduction framework, meeting basic needs, and person-centred care. The program could be enhanced through increased human resource capacity and improved infrastructure, including a separate space for MK staff and activities. The evaluation findings demonstrate how the MK program provides specialized and culturally safe services as a best- practice model to meet the complex health and social needs of urban Indigenous people.
Indigenous Women’s Stress and Postpartum Depression: Discussions from the Canadian Maternity Experiences Survey and Indigenous Maternity Narratives
Authors: Leason Jennifer
Published: February 2021

This doctoral research highlights Indigenous women’s experiences of stress and postpartum depression (PPD) through secondary quantitative analysis of the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Canadian Maternity Experiences Survey (2009) and qualitative Indigenous maternity narratives. Indigenous women’s responses to the survey demonstrate that Indigenous women experience 1.9 times higher odds of PPD and are 1.5 times as likely to be diagnosed with depression prior to pregnancy, compared to Canadian women. Indigenous women are also 1.3 times as likely to experience higher levels of stress and 3.3 times as likely to experience three or more stressful life events. While the survey demonstrates higher rates of stress and PPD, it is not culturally or contextually relevant. Therefore, Indigenous maternity narratives from 10 Indigenous mothers in 2015 further contextualize experiences of stress and PPD to include narratives related to adverse social determinants of health and impacts of colonialism. The research includes a discussion on the limitations of previous maternity research and the limits of clinical-medical assessments and diagnosis of stress and PPD in Indigenous populations. The research concludes with recommendations for additional maternity experiences research and ways to support Indigenous women, infants and children, birth partners, families, and communities.
Reflexive Reflection Co-created with Kehte-ayak (Old Ones) as an Indigenous Qualitative Methodological Data Contemplation Tool
Authors: LaVallie Carrie , Sasakamoose JoLee
Published: February 2021

The aim of this paper is to propose a new way of understanding data contemplation for Indigenous methodologies. There is a need for Indigenous methods that allow us to explore and organize findings that are steeped in the contextualized story and grounded in the research relationship. A study that asked Cree Kehte-ayak (Old Ones) about the relevance in harmonizing Indigenous and Western ways of knowing in healing from addiction shows that Reflexive Reflection (RR) offers a respectful way for discovery. RR offers epistemological underpinnings for data consideration when engaging Indigenous methodologies. Culturally rooted addictions research can contribute to Indigenous wellness and cultural renewal by bringing awareness to the link between colonialism and addiction and by actively re-centring an Indigenous worldview and governance in the research process (Hall et al., 2015). While challenging colonialism is vital, the strength of Indigenous culture must be central to the overall project, with relational accountability that implies all parts of the research process are related, and that the researcher is responsible for nurturing and maintaining this relationship with the research process and with “all relations.” Indigenous research inquiry involves moments of contemplation that explore dreams, intuition, teachings, and connection to land. It also involves spending intimate hours listening to stories of the “old ones” that are rooted in a sense of kinshipresponsibility that relay culture, identity, and a sense of belonging that are essential to the life of the researcher. Reframing the language around aftercare services for Indigenous Peoples can take place through reflexive investigation and knowledge creation.
Restoring Our Roots: Land-Based Community by and for Indigenous Youth
Authors: Fast Elizabeth , Lefebvre Melanie , Reid Christopher , Deer Wahsontiiostha Brooke , Swiftwolfe Dakota , Clark Maureen , Boldo Vicky , Mackie Juliet , Mackie Rupert
Published: February 2021

Knowledge gathered about the impacts of land-based teachings on Indigenous youth is limited. Many Indigenous people and government commissions have pointed to targeted assimilation and land theft as central to historical and ongoing collective dissociation of Indigenous Peoples from their ways of being in relation with the land. It is thus paramount that Indigenous youth be given the opportunities to (re)connect with their cultures in safe, accessible spaces/places. Demonstrating the many ways learning from the land is beneficial for Indigenous youth, the Restoring Our Roots participatory action research project contributes to the knowledge base in this area to centre Indigeneity and reclaim our cultures by enacting Indigenous methodologies and pedagogies. An Indigenous youth advisory committee developed a four-day land-based retreat, held in July 2018, that focused on (re)connecting Indigenous youth to land-based teachings and ceremony. In interviews following the retreat, youth participants spoke about positive changes related to identity, belonging, well-being, and feeling free from violence in this space that engaged land-based teachings led by Elders, Knowledge Holders, and youth themselves. Some Indigenous youth who identify as Two-Spirit, non-binary, and/or LGBTQIA+ attended the retreat and shared how important it is to have safe spaces that are inclusive of diverse gender roles and identities. Restoring Our Roots created an inclusive community of support, sharing, and learning for Indigenous youth, extending into participants’ everyday lives in the city. This project has since grown into Land As Our Teacher, a five- year research project funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, that explores benefits of land-based pedagogies for Indigenous youth.
EXAMINATION OF POSTGRADUATE THESIS CARRIED OUT WITH ERRORLESS TEACHING METHODS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
Authors: Ertekin Fevziye , Bağlama Başak
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study is to examine current research trends in postgraduate thesis carried out with using errorless teaching methods in the education of individuals with autism spectrum disorder in Turkey. Document analysis as one of the qualitative research methods was used in the research. A total number of 9 open-access postgraduate thesis obtained from Higher Education Research Council of Turkey (YOK) as a result of comprehensive survey from the archives and published in the years 2011 and 2019 were included open access within 9 graduate thesis.Thesis included in the study were analyzed using the thesis analysis form prepared by the researchers in advance. In the prepared form, thesis were examined according to the year, level of thesis, university, institute, department, thesis supervisor title, research model, participants and number of participants, data collection tool and data analysis method. The results obtained within the framework of the review conducted were interpreted according to the descriptive analysis technique and recommendations were made for future research and practices in this area.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder, errorless teaching methods, postgraduate thesis.
THE NEW NORMAL: POST COVID-19 IS ABOUT CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY
Authors: Ossiannilsson Ebba
Published: February 2021

During the Covid-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, educational organizations around the world were closed suddenly, while education continued. In a time of digitalization and information technology, such emergencies are no excuse for halting continuous learning. It has become evident that the digital revolution concerns people and their habits, behaviors, and attitudes in using the new technology. This conceptual article is based on the current discourse on the “new normal” after Covid-19, which will be about change, reorientation, and sustainability. A sustainable society requires access to successful strategies, agile and flexible leadership, digital platforms, partnerships, and the ability to respond to rapid change, promote flexibility in learning, and support our students. Based on these aims, we can prepare for the UNESCO initiative, Futures of Education – Learning to Become.

 

Keywords: Covid-19, ecosystem, futures of education, OER Recommendation, new normal
EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF DISTANCE EDUCATION ON CHILDREN IN PRESCHOOL PERIOD: TEACHERS’ OPINIONS
Authors: Kuset Sermin , Özgem Kezban , Şaşmacıoğlu Emine , Kan Şebnem Güldal
Published: February 2021

In this study; It is aimed to examine the effects of distance education on preschool children. In this study, a case study based on qualitative data made with semi-structured interview technique was conducted by the preschool teachers of children who went to the preschool institution to examine the effect of distance education on children, and analyzed by content analysis method. In the study conducted in the COVID-19 epidemic period in the 2019-2020 spring period, the teachers of the students going to public and private schools were interviewed from afar. When other results obtained from the study are analyzed, 35 pre-school teachers participated in the study and the majority of the study consists of women between the ages of 30 and 35. The majority of the participants are undergraduate graduates, and it is stated that they work in a private school and are also teachers for 6 years or more. In addition, while it was stated that distance education is inefficient compared to face to face education, it was determined that the biggest problem in the distance education process was communication. It has been found that the greatest contribution of distance education in the pandemic process is that it ensures that children do not leave education.

Keywords: Education, preschool period, child, child development, technology, distance education, preschool teacher.
REFLECTIONS OF CREATIVITY IN THE 21ST CENTURY CLASSROOM
Authors: Soykurt Mutlu
Published: February 2021

Creativity has long been on the agenda of those innovative and inspirational teachers who have devoted themselves to doing their jobs more effectively. 21st century teachers are required to fit their skills, abilities and thinking skills into the latest improvements and changes in effective learning pedagogies and look for ways not only to make necessary adaptations in their curriculum, but also go beyond to stimulate learners to develop certain thinking skills to learn. This study mainly puts emphasis on innovative teaching strategies and some out-of-the-box ideas about the way teachers should convert their ideas to be effective in class to shed a new light on effective teaching.

Keywords: creativity, EFL classes, creative activities, 21st century skills
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Authors: Akcil Umut
Published: February 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SCIENCE EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS AND AT TERTIARY LEVEL: STATUS QUO OR EMBRACING CHANGE?
Authors: du Plessis André
Published: February 2021

Society is changing as the influence of technologies and the implementation of innovative practices are driving change. Change and innovation are not simple processes for all (Rogers, 2003). Yet, companies, corporates and small business are managed and lead to ensure not only efficiency, but also to yield the best possible financial gain. When one analises change in the world of commerce, one does not have to be a rocket scientist to come to the conclusion that there have been tremendous changes. Not only has the ergonomics of buildings and factories changed, there has also been change pertaining to the number of people employed, as technologies afford opportunities to make certain positions that people occupied, redundant. Robotic tools are used more and more in the manufacturing chain to increase productivity and to ensure greater quality, or so we are informed.
STEM APPLICATIONS IN MATHEMATICS EDUCATION: THE EFFECT OF STEM APPLICATIONS ON DIFFERENT DEPENDENT VARIABLES
Authors: Yıldırım Bekir , Sidekli Sabri
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the research is to analyze the effect of STEM applications on mathematics pre-service teachers' mathematical literacy self-efficacy, technological pedagogical knowledge and mathematical thinking skills and their views on STEM education. This research has been carried out by 29 mathematics pre-service teachers who are schoolers at the educational faculties of Mus Alparslan University. The research was completed in 10 weeks (3 hours per week) in spring semester of 2016-2017 academic year. Mixed research approach was used in the study. "Mathematical Literacy Self-Sufficiency Scale", "Mathematical Thinking Scale", "Technological Pedagogical Area Information Scale" and "STEM Interview Form for Mathematics Pre-service Teachers" were used as data collection instruments. The collected data were analyzed, and it was certain that the STEM applications positively affected the pre-service teachers' mathematics literacy self-efficacy and technological pedagogical content knowledge. However, STEM applications were not seemed to have a positive effect on mathematical thinking. Moreover, when the opinions of the pre-service teachers were examined, it was identified that the STEM applications changed positively the opinions of the pre-service teachers about the mathematical literacy, and that they lacked many subjects such as field knowledge and pedagogy knowledge about STEM education. Suggestions were made in the direction of the findings obtained.
Key words: science, technology, engineering, mathematics education, mathematics pre-service teacher.
ANALYSIS AND COMPARISON OF SCIENTIFIC INQUIRY ACTIVITIES IN EIGHT-GRADE PHYSICS TEXTBOOKS IN CHINA
Authors: Li Xiying , Wang Liusu , Shen Jiliang , Wang Jingying , Hu Weiping , Chen Yinghe , Tian Renhe
Published: February 2021

In order to analyse whether or not the characteristic of scientific inquiry activities of textbooks in China satisfy the requirements of China’s new curriculum reforms, content analysis method was adopted to analyze scientific inquiry activities in junior middle school physical textbooks (grade 8) of five editions authorized by the Chinese Ministry of Education. The results show that the inquiry activities in the five versions of textbooks in China cannot meet the requirements of authentic scientific inquiry regardless of the degree of openness or operationality of cognitive processes and are not conducive to develop students’ scientific inquiry skills and scientific reasoning skills. The authors of science textbooks should take note of the latest insights from the world of academia and develop some new authentic scientific inquiry tasks to update textbooks in a prompt manner in order to improve the students’ abilities of scientific inquiry. For the textbook reviewers, the present research not only provides them with specific findings, but also provides them with a method to evaluate textbooks. Keywords: physics textbook, textbook evaluation, scientific inquiry activity, content analysis