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Purpose: To assess self-reported impairment of work productivity and activities of daily living and the indirect costs of absenteeism in a sample of working patients with uveitis and to examine their association with sociodemographic, occupational, and clinical variables. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, cross-association study. Participants completed the self-administered Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire uveitis 2.0 to assess absenteeism, presenteeism, overall work impairment, and impairment in activities of daily living. Clinical data were collected from the patients' medical records or instruments used to evaluate clinical parameters in practice. Indirect costs of absenteeism were assessed by the "lost wages method." Two clinical groups were established for this study. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the associations between variables. Results: The final sample comprised 60 participants. Factors significantly associated with increased overall work impairment in the multivariate linear regression analysis were active uveitis (coefficient, 31.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 16.1 to 46.9; p < 0.001) and presence of ocular comorbidities (coefficient for absence, −16.4; 95% CI, −31.1 to −1.8; p = 0.03). Factors significantly associated with increased impairment in activities of daily living were active uveitis (coefficient, 32.1; 95% CI, 18.2 to 46.0; p < 0.001), presence of ocular comorbidities (coefficient for absence, −23.5; 95% CI, −36.1 to −11.0; p < 0.001), and absence of nonocular comorbidities (coefficient 16.1; 95% CI, 3.9 to 28.3; p = 0.01). Conclusions: Active uveitis and ocular comorbidities are significantly associated with increased overall work impairment and impairment in activities of daily living in working patients with uveitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human–wildlife conflict (HWC) is a critical challenge to human development and well‐being and threatens biodiversity conservation. Ideally, HWC mitigation should benefit both wildlife and communities and limit the costs associated with living alongside wildlife. However, place‐ and context‐dependent realizations of conflict are often overlooked in HWC mitigation. Social and systemic dimensions of human–wildlife relationships often receive limited consideration in HWC as a concept and in mitigation strategies implemented globally. In recognizing our collective symmetries as a diverse group of researchers, we pose the idea of constellations of coexistence, based on Atallah et al.'s "constellation of co‐resistance." Building on literature and our interdisciplinary and cross‐sectoral experiences of working with diverse species inhabiting different sociocultural, sociopolitical, and socioeconomic landscapes, we considered evidence of cultural nuances (e.g., sociocultural dimensions of human–elephant and human–lion interactions in East Africa and India) in HWC mitigation and argue that failing to incorporate them in mainstream practices poses a myriad of ethical and practical consequences. Locally situated but globally relevant, participation of local and Indigenous communities in HWC mitigation activities produces better conservation outcomes. Centering communities in the ideation, implementation, and evaluation of HWC mitigation promotes more equitable and sustainable management strategies for long‐term human–wildlife coexistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UK has been experiencing an extended cost-of-living crisis since 2021 and students attending universities have struggled with the impacts of rising prices. This article reports on findings from a study to explore local recruitment and retention issues in adult social care from the perspective of different populations of interest in the South of England. A mixed methods approach was undertaken. One group of participants were students enrolled in social work undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. They completed an online questionnaire (n = 20), with a subsample (n = 11) being interviewed. Comments relating to the wide-ranging effects of cost-of-living issues discussed by the participants were themed together and are described. The findings offer suggestions to evaluate student support mechanisms and reduce the potential impacts of ongoing financial difficulties caused by the need to juggle course, placement and financial demands across this and other applicable undergraduate sectors and their programmes. They also reflect risks to future workforce recruitment alongside the potential of 'earn and learn' programmes, such as apprenticeship routes – which may offer a viable alternative to qualification for those at particular risk of financial hardship whilst studying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change‐driven extreme heat events pose a major threat to urban expansion globally. This study evaluates the relationship between extreme heat and housing prices utilizing panel data from Chinese cities between 2009 and 2019. Our findings indicate a significant negative correlation between housing prices and extreme temperatures. Specifically, we observe a 0.1% reduction in housing prices for each additional day per year with temperatures surpassing 35°C. This research evaluates two primary mechanisms underpinning this finding. Firstly, our analysis demonstrates a decline in labor inflows to cities experiencing extreme heat, with a particularly significant effect on the influx of high‐skilled workers. In addition, existing residents in these hotter urban environments exhibit reduced home‐buying intentions and reduced proclivity for long‐term residency, coupled with higher living costs. Secondly, our findings indicate that extreme heat acts as a deterrent to firm entry, thereby further suppressing housing demand. This study contributes valuable empirical insights into the capitalization of climate risk in housing markets, with a specific emphasis on the effect of extreme heat. Moreover, it highlights the urgent necessity for the development and implementation of sustainable adaptation strategies to reduce the negative effects of evolving climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the role of algorithmic control in the deportation process of international students working in Australia's gig economy. Under strict visa conditions, international students are limited to 24 h of work per week, yet many turn to gig platforms like Uber and DoorDash to sustain themselves. These platforms, governed by performance-driven algorithms, impose financial and operational pressures on students, pushing them to exceed their legal work limits to meet basic living expenses. Drawing on zemiology and Wood's stratigraphy of harm, this study conceptualises deportation as a form of social harm caused by the interaction between technology and discriminatory migration policies. The research reveals that while these algorithms are designed to optimise labour efficiency, they inadvertently exploit international students’ precarity, contributing to systemic breaches of visa conditions. By examining how algorithms drive task allocation and worker deactivation, the article highlights the power asymmetry between gig workers and platforms, where deportation becomes an unintended but real consequence. This interdisciplinary approach offers new insights into the intersection of technology, migration, and labour exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety of ready-to-eat food sold in urban informal markets in low and middle-income countries is a pressing public health challenge, that needs to be addressed if we are to establish healthy food systems. Guided by the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation model for Behavior change (COM-B), this qualitative study aimed to explore perceptions of street vendors on their participation in a food safety capacity building intervention, consisting of training and provision of food safety equipment. The intervention aimed to improve food safety behavior of vendors of ready-to-eat chicken in informal markets in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. A total of 24 vendors selling ready-to-eat chicken at street restaurants participated in semi-structured interviews after training, which focused on vendors' stories of change related to food safety capabilities, opportunities, motivation, and behaviors. Data were thematically analyzed following COM-B components. Vendors noted improvements in psychological (i.e., knowledge, awareness, self-efficacy, perceptions) and physical capabilities (i.e., equipment useability and applicability), and motivations (perceived responsibility, reputation, client satisfaction, profits, consumer demand). Moreover, training and provision of equipment, spill-over effects to employees or neighboring outlets, and social support were perceived as key social and physical opportunities, while structural challenges such as market infrastructure, regulations, financial resources, cost of living, and outlet culture were physical barriers to implement lessons learnt. This study provides insights into the impact of engaging vendors in improving food safety behavior through training and equipment provision. Improvements in vendors' perceived capabilities and motivation contributed to improved food safety behavior, while contextual barriers hindered the perceived adoption of food safety behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and methodsResultsConclusion\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONHealth-related low back pain costs can be direct monetary, indirect monetary, or intangible, non-monetary. The purpose of this review was to identify the intangible, non-monetary costs of low back pain from the perspective of the individual.A scoping review of literature was undertaken. Four databases were searched up to 6th August 2024. Data were charted and coded using deductively derived categories in line with our purpose; additional categories were developed for text that did not fit these categories. Data were analysed using directed content analysis.Forty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. Six categories were derived from the data, which express the experience of the person with low back pain: Perceptions of pain, Experience of healthcare, Becoming defined by low back pain, Life on hold, My social self, and Disrupted work life. Each category explored an aspect of life affected by low back pain.This review highlights that low back pain profoundly affects many areas, with implications for peoples’ personal, social, and work lives. Our findings suggest that suffering can be reduced when healthcare practitioners show empathy and legitimise the lived experience of low back pain, acknowledging the restrictions it imposes on peoples’ lives.Intangible costs of low back pain are less frequently reported than direct or indirect monetary costs, so may be under-recognised in service planning.There needs to be recognition of, and empathy for, the impact low back pain has on all areas of life.The search for a definitive diagnosis from a person with low back pain is frequently caused by a need for legitimisation.Healthcare practitioners need to identify people with low back pain at risk of a poor outcome early in treatment to minimise the risk of chronicity and the concomitant intangible costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is something particularly depressing about the current moment—when the possibility of thriving as a geography academic in British academia seems incompatible with anything else, be that a life outside work, a family, activism, or even sleep. What connects these multiple intensifications of demands on academics, and many of the external crises we are living through (the climate emergency, wage deflation, cost of living, the COVID pandemic etc.) is how we value, use and understand time. The non‐linearity of time is a useful way to understand how we work in academia. In this paper, I explore how can we change how we use our time. I propose three responses, which each play with time as non‐linear, multiple rhythms, and as having a lack of balance or stability. First, the possibility of working with the delight of shifting pace in helping us to enjoy our working time more. Second, in acting in collaboration, solidarity, and being alongside each other in ways where shared time is more expansive than individual time. Finally, in how we can collectively and structurally re‐order our time together. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a multidimensional framework for monitoring progress on disability inclusion over time and among countries where reliable, disability disaggregated data is available. However, the SDGs alone do not provide insights into the causes of the social and economic disparities that people with disabilities face or offer specific policy solutions to alleviate them. This paper highlights the extra costs of living with disability in Indonesia to advance the country's commitment to further the rights of people with disabilities. It utilizes three primary estimation methods, combining an analyses of national survey data with primary data from interviews and focus group discussions. Findings reveal significant and varying costs based on disability type, severity and life cycle stages. It also highlights the unaffordability of these costs for most individuals with disabilities and their families. Leveraging these estimates, the paper proposes 'disability concessions' aligned with Indonesia's legal framework on disability inclusion, aiming to alleviate financial burdens through discounts across health, education, utilities and transportation. By contributing to methodological approaches in understanding extra costs of living with disability inclusion in emerging country context and promoting discussions on leveraging the results for disability inclusive policymaking, this paper supplements the SDG framework to foster disability inclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promotion policies for minoritized languages are usually criticized on the grounds of a pro-mono-lingual presumption; in Spanish public debate, this presumption usually relies on considering that the status of Spanish language as the «common language» of Spanish citizens is a «brute fact» that should not be modified through public policies. This article argues: (1) that such «fact» is actually the result of a set of public policies, past and present; (2) that such public policies put speakers of minoritized languages in a position of unjust subalternity; and (3) that, therefore, the effects of those public policies can and should be corrected through other policies based upon a pro-multilingual presumption, thus ensuring a fair distribution of the costs and benefits of living together among speakers of the dominant language and those of minoritized languages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is an uncommon but serious and potentially fatal condition that can result in reduced life expectancy and a broad spectrum of sequelae, many of which may be lifelong and devastating for those who survive the acute disease period. In the United States of America (USA), vaccination is available against the five meningococcal serogroups (A, B, C, W, and Y), but meningococcal vaccination rates among healthy USA adolescents and individuals at high risk because of medical conditions are low, rendering them vulnerable to IMD and its sequelae. Despite the severity of the disease, the clinical impact and rates of IMD sequelae in the USA are poorly understood, as USA-specific data are limited, and the methodology of existing research is heterogenous. This commentary presents clinical experts' perspectives on IMD sequelae based on the available published evidence and direct clinical experience. Among sequelae previously identified in a global systematic literature review, 16 conditions were considered as related to IMD by the present authors. These sequelae include short- and long-term physical, neurological, and emotional consequences that impose a substantial humanistic burden on survivors and their caregivers and result in considerable healthcare and societal costs. This commentary highlights existing knowledge gaps concerning IMD sequelae, including the unclear relationship between IMD and mental health disorders, the contribution of sequelae to the disease burden, prevalence of late-onset sequelae among survivors, and timing of the development of sequelae in different age groups. Addressing these knowledge gaps can inform decisions regarding clinical management in the post-acute period and help quantify the impact of prevention through meningococcal vaccination. Plain Language Summary: Invasive meningococcal disease is uncommon but life-threatening. Those who survive may have lasting conditions, also known as sequelae, that negatively impact their health. In this commentary, expert physicians used previous publications to identify 16 sequelae of invasive meningococcal disease, many of which, including loss of limbs, blindness, and intellectual disabilities, can severely affect the lives of survivors and their caregivers. It is important to better understand how sequelae affect patients and the cost of living with these conditions for the healthcare system and society. This information would help policymakers make decisions on preventing invasive meningococcal disease with vaccination and managing its sequelae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Portable ex vivo lung perfusion during lung transplantation is a resource‐intensive technology. In light of its increasing use, we evaluated the cost‐effectiveness of ex vivo lung perfusion at a low‐volume lung transplant center in the USA. Methods: Patients listed for lung transplantation (2015–2021) in the United Network for Organ Sharing database were included. Quality‐of‐life was approximated by Karnofsky Performance Status scores 1‐year post‐transplant. Total transplantation encounter and 1‐year follow‐up costs accrued by our academic center for patients listed from 2018 to 2021 were obtained. Cost‐effectiveness was calculated by evaluating the number of patients attaining various Karnofsky scores relative to cost. Results: Of the 13 930 adult patients who underwent lung transplant in the United Network for Organ Sharing database, 13 477 (96.7%) used static cold storage and 453 (3.3%) used ex vivo lung perfusion, compared to 30/58 (51.7%) and 28/58 (48.3%), respectively, at our center. Compared to static cold storage, median total costs at 1 year were higher for ex vivo lung perfusion ($918 000 vs. $516 000; p = 0.007) along with the cost of living 1 year with a Karnofsky functional status of 100 after transplant ($1 290 000 vs. $841 000). In simulated scenarios, each Karnofsky‐adjusted life year gained by ex vivo lung perfusion was 1.00–1.72 times more expensive. Conclusions: Portable ex vivo lung perfusion is not currently cost‐effective at a low‐volume transplant centers in the USA, being 1.53 times more expensive per Karnofsky‐adjusted life year. Improving donor lung and/or recipient biology during ex vivo lung perfusion may improve its utility for routine transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cost of living is rising in the UK. Bursaries are a source of financial support for low-income students which do not add to their final debt. There is a possibility that there will be rising pressure on university bursary budgets in the coming years. Universities set their own thresholds and amounts for bursaries, but they haven't changed in recent years. This research takes the findings from previous research on the impact of bursaries and uses a realist methodology to test with students if the findings still apply post-pandemic and within a period of higher costs. Based on surveys and interviews with students at two UK universities, this research indicates that some low-income students are struggling to heat their homes, balance studying with paid work and integrate socially. Bursaries may not really help with meeting core costs, as they've become too high, but can help meet unexpected costs and are still valued by eligible students. Recommendations coming from this research are to provide additional financial support for socialising, reassurance that bursary payments will continue, and that current amounts should not be cut, as bursary students are already struggling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Live streaming has significantly transformed the landscape of both offline and online retail operations. This article explores the optimal timing and circumstances under which a firm with a specific product should launch a live streaming channel, and if so, whether it should use third-party streaming, self-run streaming, or a combination of both. We demonstrate that no single channel structure is universally superior to the others: the firm's optimal channel strategy depends on the third-party streamer's popularity and bargaining power, the investment and broadcasting effort cost for the live streaming channel, consumer's channel preference and extra cost for watching live streaming, cross-channel spillover, as well as the price sensitivity of a product. In general, live streaming is most beneficial for firms selling products that aren't highly price sensitive, where traditional pricing tool is less important for attracting consumers. Start-ups should collaborate with either highly popular streamers or those with a small but dedicated following, avoiding those with intermediate popularity. In contrast, established firms should partner with streamers who have a moderate level of popularity. An established firm considering leveraging two or more channels concurrently should additionally take into consideration the cross-channel spillover, channel encroachment cost, and channel competition. Our research reveals that, contrary to expectation, price in live streaming channels may not always be lower than those in traditional channels. Furthermore, highly popular streamers do not always demand higher revenue-sharing ratios and slotting fees. This research sheds light on the key decisions for firms considering live streaming commerce: whether to adopt it, when to integrate it into their strategy, and how to effectively implement it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing studies on the migration of older adults in China have tended to treat older migration as a one‐off activity and have failed to investigate the multiple processes involved. Based on the microdata samples of the 1% national population sample surveys in 2005 and 2015, this study examines the effect of regional and personal attributes on older adults' two‐phase migration decisions. In the first phase, older adults decide whether to leave the province of household registration, while in the second phase, they decide to stay in the same province, return to the province of household registration, or move onward to a new province. In the first phase of migration, older adults' decisions were affected by several regional amenities, including medical services, public green areas, air pollution, and temperature differences. In the second phase of migration, older adults who had decided to remain in the first phase tended to leave provinces with a lower cost of living, fewer public green areas, and more extreme temperature differences. Older adults who, in the first phase, had moved to a new province with fewer medical services, more severe air pollution, and larger temperature differences were more likely to return to their province of household registration in the second phase in 2000‐2005, while those residing in provinces with more extreme temperature differences tended to move onward to a new province in 2010‐2015. This study enhances our understanding of the heterogeneity of older migration in China by disentangling the complexity of multiple migration processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Policy Recommendations for Rebuilding the International Order" discusses the current state of confusion in the international order, particularly following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022. It highlights the shift from a rule-based international order to one dominated by military power, especially nuclear power. The article also addresses the retreat of advanced countries, the inward-looking trend in US foreign policy, China's growing threat, and the emergence of the Global South as a significant player in global governance. The text provides policy recommendations for restructuring the rule of law, promoting free trade, avoiding contingencies like the Taiwan issue, continuing dialogue with China, and supporting the Global South. Japan is urged to play a significant role in these efforts by contributing to the restructuring of the rule of law, promoting free trade, strengthening deterrence, engaging in dialogue with China, and collaborating with the Global South. The article emphasizes the importance of Japan's leadership in addressing global crises and making creative contributions to the international order. [Extracted from the article]

Understanding the role of personal remittances in economic development is crucial, particularly for countries like Lebanon, where these inflows play a significant role in economic stability. This study investigates the impact of personal remittances on Lebanon's economic development over the period from 2002 to 2022, employing a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative regression analyses and qualitative data from surveys. The research finds that personal remittances have a more substantial effect on Lebanon's GDP compared to foreign direct investment (FDI), with positive correlations observed between remittances and key economic indicators such as GDP, public debt, and unemployment rates. Additionally, qualitative findings reveal that remittances are vital for addressing basic living expenses, education, and healthcare needs, illustrating their multifaceted influence on household well-being. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a nuanced understanding of how remittances impact economic development in Lebanon and highlights the need for policy interventions aimed at enhancing financial literacy and promoting productive investments. The findings offer valuable implications for policymakers and stakeholders, suggesting that improving the management and utilization of remittances could significantly bolster Lebanon's economic resilience and growth prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity in peri-urban areas is exacerbated by high living costs, limited access to healthy food, and economic inequality. Despite its growing prevalence due to factors like land loss from urban expansion, food insecurity has received limited attention. In Ethiopia, drastic urbanization creates competition for land between agriculture and urban development, which is becoming extreme in peri-urban areas., This study aims to assess the impact of urban expansion on food security among expropriated peri-urban households in Ethiopia. Using a calorie intake-based food security line, we categorize respondents as food-secure or -insecure. The research analyzed data from 350 expropriated peri-urban households through a structured questionnaire, employing descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. About 67% of the respondents were classified as food-insecure. The binary logit model identified several significant determinants of food security, including compensation amount and type, household head demographics, agricultural land rent participation, irrigation and credit access, off-farm income, and organic fertilizer use. To address food insecurity among expropriated households, policymakers must prioritize these factors. Government attention and policy consideration are crucial to ensure the well-being of these vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using retailer scanner data, we investigate how a sharp and abrupt depreciation of the exchange rate affects consumers' cost of living. We find that the marginal cost of imported goods increased, whereas their retail markups decreased compared to domestic products. There was also a surge in the entry and exit of both foreign and local product varieties post‐depreciation. Wealthier consumers, who spend more on imports, are hit harder by higher marginal costs but benefit from reduced markups and increased product diversity, unlike their less affluent counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Aim Design Methods Results Conclusion Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care Patient or Public Contribution The aim of this study was to explore experiences of internationally educated nurses' first 2 years working and living in England in an age of contemporary migration.Exploratory mixed method design.An online survey collected responses from August 2022 to October 2022. A mixed‐methods approach was applied to gain a breadth of understanding through quantitative outcomes integrated with depth of qualitative analysis.Data findings from 773 international nurses identified the recognition of prior professional skills and experiences, induction processes, career development systems and the role of line managers are integral to professional integration and could be improved. Communication barriers were frequently transient and time limited, and participants often had incomplete insight of human resource policies. Personal factors affecting life outside of work revealed compromise and sacrifice with accommodation choices, and participants were often not satisfied with their economic status, housing, cost of living in England, and social support. Mental well‐being scores varied by country of origin and participants happier with decision to migrate to England had significantly higher mental well‐being scores.International nurses have divergent professional and personal motivations for migration unique to individual circumstances. Recognition for transferable skills and experience, receipt of a comprehensive and warm welcome from organisations, safe and well‐maintained suitable accommodation and living conveniently located to shops, work and transportation, improve experience. International nurses must have sufficient financial gains from salaries and opportunity to unite with children and families.Progressing migration experience of international nurses can improve retention and augment improving patient care and outcomes.No patient or members of public contributed to this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Real-world data were employed to determine clinical characteristics of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) with differing degrees of muscle weakness, as defined using the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) classification system. Methods: Data were drawn from the Adelphi MG Disease Specific Programme (DSP)™, a multinational (United States, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom) survey completed by physicians and their patients with MG in 2020. The association between MGFA class and impairment in activities of daily living (ADL) was tested using linear regression adjusting for sex and Charlson Comorbidity Index. Bivariate comparisons were performed for each individual item. A range of other clinical characteristics were also explored according to MGFA class. Results: Among 1232 patients, those in MGFA class I had significantly lower ADL impairment versus class II or III/IV (adjusted for sex and Charlson Comorbidity Index) (p < 0.01). However, heterogeneity occurred within each MGFA class. Bulbar symptoms (impaired speech, difficulty swallowing, and/or difficulty chewing/choking on food) were reported in some class I patients (mild in 1.1–1.9% and moderate in 0.3–1.1% of patients) and class II patients (mild in 8.5–16.4%, moderate in 4.7–7.4%, and severe in 0.3–0.9% of patients), and shortness of breath was reported in some class I (mild in 0.5% of patients) and class II patients (mild in 9.8%, moderate in 4.8%, and severe in 0.3% of patients). Conversely, in 11.2–19.2% of class III/IV patients, bulbar symptoms and shortness of breath reported were only mild in severity. In line with this finding, despite significant correlations between MGFA class and several clinical characteristics, patients across every class were at risk of experiencing myasthenic crisis or hospitalization, experiencing comorbidities including anxiety and depression, and not being in remission. Conclusions: Although MGFA class correlates with greater ADL impairment and presence of other clinical characteristics, there is variability between patients in each class in terms of symptoms experienced, overall disease burden, and the precise nature of ADL impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to explore the lived experiences of food insecurity amongst Bronx residents. Applying a community-based participatory research approach, we conducted a qualitative study, entailing 38 interviews with food pantry recipients, 4 key informant interviews with social service administrators, and two focus groups with 12 food pantry staff and social service providers in New York City (NYC). Applying a precarity framework, we identified three themes: (1) unaffordability of living expenses in NYC; (2) financial hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (3) institutional and technological barriers to food access. We identified the following subthemes under theme one: rising food costs and high cost of living. Under theme two, we identified four subthemes: (a) large household size driving poverty for Bronx families; (b) vulnerabilities to food insecurity among older adults; (c) budgeting for reduced incomes during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (d) managing unstable employment. Under the third theme, we identified three subthemes: (a) lack of access to healthy, culturally appropriate foods; (b) need for wider service availability; (c) and not having smartphones for telehealth. Study findings demonstrate how precarity impacts the lived experiences of food insecurity and financial hardship for residents of the South Bronx during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Loss of the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) leads to negative health outcomes such as reduced quality of life, institutionalization, and mortality. In Korea, the proportion of older adults with disabilities is increasing along with rapid population aging. Therefore, providing a comprehensive approach to the prevention and management of ADL limitations in people with disabilities is necessary. This can be accomplished by understanding the trends and factors affecting these limitations over time. Purpose: This study was developed to examine the longitudinal trend and factors affecting ADL limitations over time among people with disabilities in Korea. Methods: Data from 346 people with disabilities in the 2008–2020 Korean Welfare Panel Study were used. Bivariate analysis and a Kendall trend test were performed to determine the longitudinal trends for ADL limitations, and multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate whether relevant variables could predict these limitations. Results: The prevalence of ADL limitations among people with disabilities increased by 16.5% over the 12 years of the study. The highest rate of increase in these limitations over time was found in people with mental disorders (27.8%), those over 65 years of age (27.3%), and those with depression (25.6%). In multiple logistic regression, the odds ratios of the variables were slightly different at each survey wave. However, severe disability and low educational level were consistently found to be associated with ADL limitations over time. Conclusions: The findings provide evidence of a significant relationship between level of disability and/or educational status and ADL limitations in people with disabilities in Korea. To prevent the development of ADL limitations in people with disabilities, comprehensive identification of longitudinal trends and factors affecting ADL limitations is necessary. Early intervention, including integrated services such as home rehabilitation services to prevent ADL limitations, especially for disabled people with severe disabilities and low educational levels, has the potential to delay ADL limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After 20 years of stagnation, federal scholarships have finally been increased within the new budget of the Canadian government. Tuition fees, inflation, and costs of living kept rising, which has resulted a rising number of graduate students in the life sciences living below poverty line, despite working far more than 40 h a week on science research in Canada. This does not only negatively affect the students research projects and thus science and innovation in Canada, but also their downstream decisions on whether to continue a research career in Canada and what jobs and economic endeavors to pursue. Graduate students are not just a line item in the budgets of universities, but integral for science and innovation, as well as the future high-quality personnel of the country. This importance should be reflected in all stipends and salaries of graduate students, not just the ones with a government scholarship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article develops ideas contained in a previous paper on conflict inflation (Rowthorn [1977]. 'Conflict, Inflation and Money.' Cambridge Journal of Economics 1 (3): 215–239). It begins with a summary of that paper, stressing the importance of staggered markets, conflicting aspirations and unanticipated inflation. It then examines three recent articles that share a similar perspective. In the light of this discussion, it makes some general observations about the nature of conflict inflation. Finally It concludes with an application of conflict theory to the recent cost of living crisis in the UK. It argues that private companies have used their market power to defend their profit margins and ensure that the entire burden of higher world prices is borne by consumers, in particular wage and salary earners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food allergies are an increasing global problem and societal issue. In addition to the potential for severe allergic reactions from accidental ingestion, food allergies impose a significant burden on the quality of life, nutrition, cost of living, and social activities of both those afflicted and their caregivers. Strict avoidance of allergens and use of emergency medications to treat allergic reactions are the traditional management and treatment strategies; however, significant progress has been made in recent years toward better treatment of food allergies. Many clinical trials on food allergen immunotherapy (oral, epicutaneous, and sublingual) have revealed its efficacy in increasing reaction thresholds and desensitization. These positive results led to the first FDA approval of peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT). However, safer and more effective approaches are required, and adjunct treatments and allergen modifications are being considered. More than 100 facilities in Japan conduct OIT, and numerous studies on it have been reported. Unlike in Europe and the US, stepwise oral food challenges with dietary guidance are conducted separately from the OIT. This review describes the current perspectives on allergen immunotherapy for the treatment of food allergies, focusing on evidence from Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents empirical research on the livelihood resources of Ukrainian households that fled to Poland due to the Russian invasion and reside there long term. Using a nationwide sample of these households and an accurate econometric framework, we investigate the factors influencing the role of income from work, other private resources and public assistance in covering their living costs in exile. Our findings confirm the importance of public assistance addressed to professional activation and childcare for households' self‐reliance. Assistance from employers, housing conditions, intentions to settle permanently in Poland and financial responsibility for relatives in Ukraine are also among the decisive factors. However, sufficient monetary aid hinders households' self‐reliance, along with health problems, language barriers and a lack of professional qualifications. Household composition is also significant, as those with children face the most adverse outcomes. Based on our results, we provide recommendations for public authorities responsible for migration policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is a global phenomenon impacting ecosystems, economies, and livelihoods. This research carried out in Bol in the Lake Province of Chad, a region heavily affected by climate change, aims to analyze the gender-differentiated impacts of this phenomenon. It was carried out using the rapid analysis and participatory planning (RAPP) method and structural analysis for social systems (SAS2). Meteorological and socioeconomic data were collected through interviews, household surveys, and focus groups. The results indicate variability in rainfall, with a slight downward trend and an increase in temperature. The women identified an increase in the cost of living, human and material losses, warmer housing, and health problems as socioeconomic socioeconomic consequences of climate change. Their coping strategies include community self-help, humanitarian aid, and welfare activities. Obstacles to full participation in the search for solutions include access to education, low decision-making power, and political representation. This research enriches our understanding of the interactions between gender, climate change, adaptation, and inclusive policy importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the rapid urbanisation of China in recent decades, a vast proportion of the labour force left rural hometowns to find employment in cities. In the context of rural revitalisation and tourism development in China, rural tourism is booming, bringing many tourism‐related jobs to the countryside. As a result, some young urban adults have moved to work in rural areas. Based on in‐depth interviews in Su village in Nanjing, China, this study seeks to investigate the motivations of those who choose to work in the countryside and the connections between this and stages in the life course of urbanites in the 90s generation, a cohort that is quite distinct from older cohorts. This study finds that the motivations of these younger workers range from career development and cost reduction to a preference for a rural lifestyle. Engaging in tourism‐related work in rural areas is associated with two life courses (work career and individual/family pathway). This study also finds that the cohort working rural tourism in rural areas is differentiated: while some pursue career development, others aim to escape certain pressures and obligations by 'lying flat' in the more congenial rural setting where living costs are lower than in cities. Pro‐tourism rural areas, with an acceptable distance from cities, become valuable places for these youth to resist or balance their life in front of increasingly competitive urban life during their adult transitional period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What are the unequal effects of changes in consumer prices on the cost of living? In the context of changes in import prices (driven by, e.g. changes in trade costs or exchange rates), most analyses focus on variation across households in initial expenditure shares on imported goods. However, the unequal welfare effects of non-marginal foreign price changes also depend on differences in how consumers substitute between imported and domestic goods, on which there is scant evidence. Using data from Switzerland surrounding the 2015 appreciation of the Swiss franc, we provide evidence that lower-income households have higher price elasticities. We quantify the contribution of heterogeneous elasticities for the unequal welfare effects of observed price changes between 2014 and 2015 and for counterfactual shocks to the mean and dispersion of import price changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few decades, there has been explosive growth in the luxury large-scale over 55 community sector. The state of Florida has been one of the largest recipients of the influx in residents to the state seeking such a retirement lifestyle. While many tout the benefits of living in such luxury settings, these communities are not immune to the particular social and managerial challenges that result from rapid growth. In this research, we focus on a specific luxury large-scale over 55 community in Florida, the Villages, to explore the various positive and negative aspects that accompany this lifestyle. Through semi-structured interviews with residents and observational netnography, we find several major challenges. These challenges surround the management of political signage, growth, and the equal application of community rules, to be at the center of residents' critiques of the community. We offer implications and recommendations on how management can handle these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of villages into urban centers has led to an increase in the number of rurbans across the country, which often face many problems. Babamonir village in Mamasani county (Fars province) is an example of this, which has been converted into a city in recent years. Therefore, the aim of this study is to ascertain the mental patterns of the local community regarding the repercussions and implications of transforming Babamonir village into a city. The research methodology is a hybrid approach that employs the Q methodology. The discourse space has been compiled through library studies and a systematic review of previous research. A sample of 60 participants was intentionally chosen to assess the Qcharts. In the quantitative data analysis section, exploratory factor analysis was employed to synthesize the statements and identify the mental patterns of the participants. The research results indicate that the positive effects and consequences of transforming Babamonir village into a city can be classified into four mental patterns: the development of physical infrastructure and the organization of the physical fabric, the development of services and facilities, and development of the physical fabric. Additionally, the adverse consequences and repercussions of transforming Babamonir village into a city were categorized into five mental patterns, which include: Failure to enhance the economic situation, Increase in costs and living expenses, A decrease in social trust and cohesion, an increase in physical-environmental challenges, Loss of traditions and indigenous housing patterns. The results of the research indicate that from the perspective of the local community, the conversion of Babamonir village into a city has had both positive and negative effects and consequences. from the local community's perspective. The development of physical infrastructure and services has enhanced living conditions in terms of physical structure. However, in terms of social and economic aspects, there has been little or no success, and conditions have even worsened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driven by population growth, rising living costs, and the urgent need to address climate change, sustainable food production and circular economy principles are becoming increasingly important. Conventional agriculture faces significant challenges, including land scarcity, water shortages, and disrupted supply chains. As a solution, cities are adopting vertical farming to enhance urban food security and promote circularity. This research introduces FLOAT (Farming Lab on a Trough), an innovative vertical farming system made from bio-polymers and recycled polyethylene terephthalate glyco (rPETG) pellets from plastic bottles. FLOAT's design emphasizes sustainability and closed-loop material usage. The study showcases the versatility of additive manufacturing (AM) in creating complex geometries with fully functional 1:1 prototypes. These prototypes highlight FLOAT's potential as a scalable and adaptable solution for sustainable food production in urban settings, contributing to improved food security and environmental sustainability. By integrating FLOAT with conventional practices, we aim to exceed Singapore's 2030 food security targets and achieve lasting urban food resilience. FLOAT aims to scale sustainable food production, fostering community ties with food, and nurturing future responsibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background Income-related food insecurity is an important determinant of health. This study aimed to provide an update on the food security status of Canadian households using the most recent available data from a health-oriented national-level survey. This study also examined trends in food insecurity since 2017, and how these have tracked with changes in price inflation. Data and methods Data on household food security status in the 10 Canadian provinces came from five annual cycles of the population-representative cross-sectional Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS): 2017, 2018, 2020 (September to December), 2021, and 2022. The Household Food Security Survey Module was used to categorize household food security status during the previous 12 months as food secure or marginally, moderately, or severely insecure. Results Before 2019, approximately 1 in 10 households had experienced some level of food insecurity in the previous 12 months (9.6% in 2017 and 11.6% in 2018). Household food insecurity prevalence was slightly lower and stable during the COVID-19 pandemic years (8.5% in fall 2020 and 9.1% in 2021) and increased to 15.6% in 2022. Levels of household food insecurity generally tracked with changes in consumer price inflation. Compared with 2021, there were notable increases in levels of moderate and severe food insecurity in 2022 among one-parent households with children, renters, and those reliant on government financial assistance. Interpretation The prevalence of household food insecurity in the CCHS was relatively stable from 2017 to 2021, increased in 2022, and generally tracked with changes in price inflation. Monitoring levels of household food insecurity will continue to be important as price inflation eases but the cost of living remains high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Librarians can choose between the career strategy of staying put in one library or moving around to different libraries. Money may be the most important factor; but fringe benefits, cost of living, the librarian's financial needs, and moving expenses also matter. Professional considerations include: current job satisfaction, relationships with colleagues and administration, ultimate career goals, and job security. Lifestyle preferences can play a big part. Finally, moving may impact the librarian's personal relationships. School librarians lack promotion possibilities; the libraries are small and state certification is often needed. Moving between public libraries is easiest because job duties, status of librarians, and organizational structure are similar. The wide differences in special libraries create obstacles. Academic libraries present a complex challenge with differences in status, multiple promotion paths, and more varying responsibilities. The final decision is often less rationally based than most believe. The good news is that staying put or moving around are important in the short run, but both strategies can lead to successful library careers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine triggered the immediate outmigration of its citizens, hundreds of thousands of whom fled to the Caucasus and Central Asia. Yet, extant theories of conflict-based migration offer limited insight into why so many Russians left suddenly in response to the war. Nor can they account for the reversal of flows of skilled labor migration, which had previously gone to the metropole. Drawing on in-depth interviews and focus groups with first-wave Russian emigres, we find that the domestic support for the invasion intensified opposition-minded Russians' sense of political alienation, while legal repression motivated their immediate exit. However, the globalization of white-collar labor shaped who left. Finally, migration policy and a lower cost of living, in conjunction with other colonial legacies, shaped legal and economic mobility in ways that drew Russians to Central Asia and the Caucasus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]