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The given text provides a summary of the AHURI Final Report titled "Measuring housing affordability: Scoping the real cost of housing." It explores the relationship between housing, energy, and transportation in relation to affordability and discusses various policies and programs across different jurisdictions in Australia. The report highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to assessing housing affordability, considering factors such as housing standards, energy efficiency, spatial characteristics, and transportation accessibility. It also emphasizes the need to address energy hardship and transportation disadvantage in relation to housing affordability. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives Methods Results Discussion The number of older adults struggling to maintain adequate housing is growing. Prior studies have used various criteria to measure housing insecurity; however, no standardized definition exists to date. Using a multidimensional approach, our study sought to calculate population‐based estimates of various forms of housing insecurity among community‐living older Americans and determine how these estimates differ across key characteristics.This study utilized data from the 2011 round of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a prospective longitudinal study of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years or older. Three key forms of housing insecurity were operationalized: poor housing affordability (PHA), poor housing quality (PHQ), and poor neighborhood quality (PNQ). Population‐based estimates of these forms of housing insecurity were calculated using analytic sampling weights and stratified by age, gender, race and ethnicity, frailty status, and dementia status.Totally 6466 participants were included in the analysis, representing 29,848,119 community‐living older Americans. The mean (standard deviation) age was 77.3 (7.7) years; by weighted percentages, 56.0% identified as female, 81.3% as White, 8.2% Black, and 7.1% Hispanic. At least one form of housing insecurity was identified in 38.5% of older Americans. Individually, the prevalence of PHA was 14.8%, PHQ 24%, and PNQ 12.5%. The prevalence of at least one form of housing insecurity was higher among persons of color (62.9% Black and 66% Hispanic vs White; p < 0.001), those with frailty (40.9% pre‐frail and 49.4% frail vs robust; p < 0.001), and those with cognitive impairment (48.1% possible and 51% probable dementia vs no dementia; p < 0.001).Nearly one in three community‐living older Americans experience at least one form of housing insecurity. This was most common among vulnerable subgroups. Our multidimensional approach to defining various forms of housing insecurity can be used for future studies focused on improving social determinants of health among high‐risk older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dalits lack the bare necessities, such as living in substandard houses with constrained space and rooms devoid of the kitchen, bathroom, and sanitation facilities; with a minuscule living area and limited access to safe drinking water. These aspects of civic amenities are empirically examined with qualitative and quantitative approach in east Uttar Pradesh using significant variables such as housing conditions, access to safe drinking water and toilet availability in households. The article also discuss the dimension and level of civic amenities in Dalit households. Based on research-based field data and ethnography, poverty and a lack of civic amenities are the convoluted pathways and fundamental causes of Dalit families living in poor health, unhygienic conditions and without sanitation. The explanation justifies how Dalits' lack of public amenities, particularly in micro-settlements, intentionally manifests organized caste identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article assesses the housing conditions in European countries, and classifies those countries according to the state of their housing. Its main contribution is the use of a synthetic meter that uses the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to classify housing conditions. The article utilises a wide set of variables that go beyond the scope of housing deprivation and take account of the impact of micro-district on housing quality. This paper fills a research gap in that it describes and compares housing conditions in European countries. Microdata from the European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC) were used for this study. The conducted research shows that housing conditions in the vast majority of European countries are far from ideal. They are also considerably varied, both between and within countries, with respect to the assessment criteria.

Introduction. The intestinal microbiocenosis is the most complex and important bio-tope of the body formed in the process of individual development. Material and methods. The study was conducted on groups of 20-25-day-old chicks. The first group was housed under standard vivarium conditions with artificially maintained optimal climatic parameters. The second group was raised in a rural homestead in the Kyiv region, on pasture with access to water, and fed twice daily with a blend of grains supplemented with kitchen wastes. Samples of chicken droppings (10 per group) were analyzed according to current international ISO standards using certified nutrient media and equipment. Results. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterococcus spp. were isolated from 100% of samples from chickens kept in simulated conditions of an industrial poultry house, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated from 70% of samples. E. coli and Enterococcus spp. were isolated from free-range chickens in 100% of cases. The analysis revealed that in pasture-raised chickens, Klebsiella spp. and P. aeruginosa were absent from the litter, with significantly higher levels of normal microflora (Enterococcus spp.). Conclusions. Backyard-raised chickens showed no pathogenic zoonotic bacteria, in contrast to those raised under controlled conditions with optimal climate and standard diets.

A nutritious diet is one of the most important factors in the successful management of captive animals. Basic methods for selecting diets for marine mammals have been described in the literature, yet methods developed for certain marine mammal species kept under specific conditions are quite rare. The diets of three male and two female spotted seals, Phoca largha Pallas, 1811, kept in sea pens at the Primorsky Aquarium, Branch of the National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences (Vladivostok, Russia), are discussed in the article. The diets were formulated based on the natural biological processes of this species in the wild. Information on them has been obtained from our own observations and from literature sources. Based on individual needs, adjustments have been made to the diets of the spotted seals, including pregnant and lactating females. The main food items of the spotted seals were Pacific herring, Clupea pallasii, Atka mackerel, Pleurogrammus monopterygius, commander squid, Berryteuthis magister, pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, chum salmon, Oncorhynchus keta, char, Salvelinus sp., capelin, Mallotus villosus, and shrimp, Pandalus sp. It has been found that the physiological status of the animals (molting, reproductive status, sex, and age) directly influences the qualitative and quantitative parameters of food intake. The diet and body weight of the spotted seals were significantly influenced by seasonal changes (water and air temperature and natural biological rhythms). These data can be used for selection of optimal feeding of P. largha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, intensive pig husbandry has been subject to increasing public criticism, including a clear demand for more animal-friendly housing systems in many countries. However, such systems are associated with trade-offs at the expense of other sustainability domains, which challenges implementation and makes prioritization necessary. Overall, research is scarce that systematically analyses citizens' evaluation of different pig housing systems and associated trade-offs. Given the ongoing transformation process of future livestock systems that meet social demands, it is crucial to include public attitudes. We therefore assessed how citizens evaluate different pig housing systems and whether they are willing to compromise animal welfare in trade-off situations. We conducted an online survey with 1,038 German citizens using quota and split sampling in a picture-based survey design. Participants were asked to evaluate several housing systems with different animal welfare levels and associated trade-offs based on an either positive ('free-range' in split 1) or negative ('indoor housing with fully slatted floors' in split 2) reference system. Initial acceptability was highest for the 'free-range' system, followed by 'indoor housing with straw bedding and outdoor access', 'indoor housing with straw bedding', and 'indoor housing with fully slatted floors', with only the latter being clearly not acceptable for many. Overall acceptability was lower with a positive rather than a negative reference system. When confronted with several tradeoff situations, participants became uncertain and temporarily adjusted their evaluations. Thereby participants were most likely to trade off housing conditions against animal or human health rather than against climate protection or a lower product price. Nevertheless, a final evaluation demonstrated that participants did not fundamentally change their initial attitudes. Our findings provide evidence that citizens' desire for good housing conditions is relatively stable, but they are willing to compromise at the expense of animal welfare up to a moderate level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apart from improving husbandry conditions and animal welfare, there is a clear public demand to increase transparency in agricultural activities. Personal farm tours have shown to be appreciated by citizens but are limited in their impact because of hygiene requirements and accessibility. Virtual farm tours are a promising approach to overcome these limitations but evidence on their perceptions is missing. This study analyzes how a virtual farm tour is perceived by showing participants (n = 17) a 360- degree video of a conventional pig fattening pen on a tablet and via virtual reality (VR) glasses. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted to analyze perceptions and level of immersion and to elicit differences between media devices. Participants' perception of the pig fattening pen was rather poor and depended on the recording perspective as well as on the media device. However, housing conditions were perceived more positively compared to the image participants had in mind prior to the study, and thus the stable was considered as a rather positive example. Participants described virtual farm tours as suitable tool to improve transparency and information transfer and to gain insights into husbandry conditions. They appreciated the comfortable and entertaining character of both media devices and named various possibilities for implementation. However, VR glasses were favored regarding the higher realistic and entertaining value, while the tablet was considered beneficial in terms of usability. The presentation of video sequences without additional explanations about the farm or the housing conditions were claimed insufficient to give an adequate understanding of the seen content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors such as the commodification of housing and higher education or the decreasing welfare support offered to students make housing and, thus, higher education less affordable. Growing difficulties can result in social dissatisfaction, manifested through protests calling for more excellent institutional support. Employing a case study method, we use phenomenological style in-depth individual interviews to explore housing experiences and perspectives of students, a group strongly affected by the growing housing issues. Thirty interviews were conducted with participants of a student occupation strike in Poznań (Poland) "Jowita" student dormitory in December 2023. Findings revealed that students struggle with alienation, rental power imbalance, or unmet housing needs. To finance housing during education, they have to work to sacrifice their health or growth. Findings indicate growing housing problems, students' experiences, and various costs associated with continuing their education. Although the study was affected by the sudden nature of the interviews and the specificity of respondents, it shows the importance of exploring the students' perspective of housing experiences to understand their needs better when discussing institutional support. This research contributes to further understanding of the student housing market, presenting various costs students face when managing their accommodation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID‐19 lockdowns have resulted in significant societal disruptions, intensifying family stress and escalating instances of intimate partner violence (IPV). Lockdowns necessitated prolonged proximity to abusers, magnifying home's significance as a space of victimization. The current study conducted in Korea (n = 813) examined the impact of housing density and room count on COVID‐19‐related IPV. Analyzing data from Seongnam City, Korea, the study examined a couple of pre‐/postpandemic, factors covariates like gender, age, employment, education, and income. Using STATA 13.0, the study conducted multiple logistic regression to examine the association between housing conditions and IPV during and prior to COVID‐19, with all covariates included. Housing density was associated with emotional IPV victimization before COVID‐19, while the number of rooms was associated with physical and sexual IPV victimization before COVID‐19 and sexual IPV victimization after COVID‐19. Time spent with partners was significantly associated with emotional IPV victimization, and the association between the number of rooms and sexual IPV victimization remained significant after adjusting for COVID‐19‐related variables. Practical implications and recommendations are discussed to address this issue and protect vulnerable populations from harm. Although poor housing conditions have been linked to increased stress levels and comprised mental health, scant attention has been paid to those relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the assessment of pig welfare quality has gained significant importance, prompting the exploration of novel biomarkers for this purpose. Traditionally, these biomarkers have been monitored in the blood; however, blood sampling is considered an invasive procedure. Currently, non-invasive methods for collecting samples are emerging as viable alternatives for assessing these biomarkers. This article aims to present the current knowledge regarding the use of non-invasive methods for analysing pig welfare biomarkers, specifically focusing on the saliva, hair, faeces, and urine as matrices to determine these biomarkers. The saliva analysis encompasses various biomarkers, such as cortisol, alpha-amylase, chromogranin A, the total esterase, oxytocin, acute phase proteins, adenosine deaminase, immunoglobulins and parameters of redox homeostasis. Cortisol, a specific biomarker, can be determined in the hair, urine and faeces, while urine samples allow for the analysis of catecholamines as non-invasive markers of pig welfare.

The population in the Russian Arctic is dwindling, primarily due to migration outflows linked to significant disparities in living standards across the nation. This underscores the importance and objective of this article, which aims to evaluate the standard of living in strategically important regions of the country and propose a comprehensive set of measures for improvement. The scientific novelty of this work lies in the authors’ introduction and validation of a methodology for standard-of-living assessment distinct from the official approach. To attain the study’s goal, a broader array of indicators was employed, encompassing material conditions, employment rates, housing conditions, and the development of infrastructure for education, health, culture, and sports. Findings reveal that inhabitants of Arctic regions generally experience a lower standard of living compared to residents of other Russian territories. Noteworthy disparities include a substantial deviation from the average Russian level in the ratio of income per capita and its principal components to the subsistence level, higher poverty rates, higher unemployment rates, a significant number of families requiring improved housing conditions, and limited access to quality higher education and cultural services. The Chukotka Autonomous District, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District, and Murmansk Region exhibit more favorable living conditions, while the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Nenets Autonomous District, and Krasnoyarsk Territory face greater challenges, as per Rosstat data for 2021. This study advocates for the exclusion of average monthly income as an indicator in the Strategy for the Development of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation, focusing instead on three key indicators: the ratio of income per capita to the subsistence level, the proportion of the population with income below the subsistence level, and the proportion of families in need of improved housing conditions. Target levels for these indicators are proposed, accompanied by measures to improve the standard of living in Arctic regions. The proposed approach can be used to assess the standard of living in other Russian regions.

At present, the assessment of pig welfare quality has gained significant importance, prompting the exploration of novel biomarkers for this purpose. Traditionally, these biomarkers have been monitored in the blood; however, blood sampling is considered an invasive procedure. Currently, non-invasive methods for collecting samples are emerging as viable alternatives for assessing these biomarkers. This article aims to present the current knowledge regarding the use of non-invasive methods for analysing pig welfare biomarkers, specifically focusing on the saliva, hair, faeces, and urine as matrices to determine these biomarkers. The saliva analysis encompasses various biomarkers, such as cortisol, alpha-amylase, chromogranin A, the total esterase, oxytocin, acute phase proteins, adenosine deaminase, immunoglobulins and parameters of redox homeostasis. Cortisol, a specific biomarker, can be determined in the hair, urine and faeces, while urine samples allow for the analysis of catecholamines as non-invasive markers of pig welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of the study was to analyse the impact of housing system and castration on the behaviour of domestic rabbits kept as companion animals. The work is a based on a survey in which 388 respondents (rabbit caretakers) took part. The survey questions included basic information about the rabbit, i.e. age, sex, breed, castration or not, and housing conditions (cage-free, cage with opportunity to leave the cage, or closed cage). Another group of questions related to the behaviour and general environment of rabbits (sex and age of the caregiver, place of residence, the presence of children around the rabbit and their age, and the presence of other animals). Statistical analysis of the survey results was performed by calculating the correlations between housing conditions and castration and the rabbit’s behaviour. Housing conditions were found to influence the occurrence of aggression and the appearance of stereotypical behaviour in rabbits, while castration was shown to significantly affect the relationship between the animal and the caregiver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India is the second largest home for tribal communities, and they are distributed all over the country. One of the main public health concerns in our nation, which has a vast forest belt and numerous tribes living there, is tribal health and the problems encountered by tribal people. Objective: 1. To determine the Socio - Demographic profile of the tribal population. 2. To estimate the health problems of the tribal population. Materials and Methods: The present study was a community based, cross-sectional, multicentric study carried out among tribal populations residing in Iswal, Gogunda, and Losing village from 1st November 2022 to 1st January 2023. House-to-house visits were done to collect socio-demographic data and health check-ups of all family members were done to identify the health problems among them. Results: A total of 906 tribal people (160 families) were interviewed. Age ranged between 1 month to 95 years with a mean age of 30.05 ± 19.22 years, the majority were in the age group of 11-30 years. About 51.32% were males and 48.68% were females, and literacy rates were low. About 60.63% of family’s socioeconomic status was class IV and V, Hindu religion (82.45%) was most followed among them, and nuclear family types (45.63%) were more common. Overall housing conditions were good. Most of them had pucca houses (64.3%), consumed purified drinking water (73.1%), had separate kitchens (78.7%), used LPG as the major fuel for cooking (63.1%). While some practiced open-air defecation, and most of them dumped the house-generated waste (garbage) indiscriminately or on the streets 54.3). out of 906 individuals 714 individuals were apparently healthy whereas 192 individuals had certain health problems. Among them respiratory illness was the major problem affecting 52 (28.08 %) individuals followed by sexually transmitted infections 46 (19.86 %). Whereas injuries by wild animals / RTA were the least common health problem encountered among tribals 2(1.04%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyzes the degree of (dis)satisfaction of residents, with their homes and their neighborhood facilities, during the lockdown imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The research, centered on the Lisbon and Porto metropolitan areas (Portugal), methodologically crosses a qualitative analysis (based on a survey carried out among the residents of the two metropolitan areas) with a quantitative analysis (carried out based on official statistical information on housing and on the territorial context). The investigation starts from the hypothesis that dissatisfaction with housing and neighborhood conditions during lockdown was greater for families living in uncomfortable homes, located in territories with poor amenities. The evidence confirms that housing and neighborhood conditions shape the way families lived the lockdown. The article identifies areas with the most problematic conditions and recommends policies that can help to address shocks like this in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal health outcomes are profoundly influenced by socioeconomic determinants, posing significant challenges to achieving equitable care for pregnant women worldwide. This research examines the impact of socioeconomic factors on maternal health, aiming to assess the extent of inequality among expectant mothers. Employing diverse research methodologies and data analysis techniques, this study investigates the multifaceted relationship between socioeconomic status and maternal health outcomes. Findings reveal distinct disparities in access to healthcare, influenced by income, education, employment, and housing conditions. These disparities contribute to varying maternal health outcomes, emphasizing the critical need for targeted interventions. The study recommends tailored strategies, encompassing improved healthcare access, educational initiatives, workplace support, and policy enhancements to address socioeconomic inequalities in maternal health effectively. This research underscores the urgency of comprehensive interventions to ensure equitable maternal healthcare for all pregnant women, irrespective of their socioeconomic backgrounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluate a non-governmental housing microfinance intervention that attempts to improve housing conditions for low-income populations by simultaneously offering them a labelled loan and non-financial technical support. Using household survey data from Kenya and Uganda, we first show evidence for the successful targeting of our labelled loans because 95% of clients used the loan for the intended housing improvement. Second, our results suggest that access to small, short-term loans enables households to invest in housing upgrades that can significantly improve both the characteristics of their dwelling and their satisfaction with their dwelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are a significant public health concern in India, accounting for 15–30% of all fatalities among children younger than 5 years. Aims and Objectives: This study estimated the prevalence of ARI and its association with sociodemographic variables and housing conditions in under-five children in rural Jhansi, Bundelkhand region. Materials and Methods: This community-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the selected Anganwadi Centers in Badagaon Block, Jhansi. Data for sociodemographic factors and housing conditions were collected by interviewing parents or caretakers of under-five children using a semi-structured predesigned and pretested pro forma during a house-to-house visit. The sociodemographic factors considered were the educational status of the parents, occupation of the father, religion of the child, socioeconomic class of the family, age of the child, type of family, and sex of the child. The parameters of housing conditions evaluated were overcrowding, ventilation type of chulha, and type of house. Results: The overall prevalence of ARI was found to be 48.88%. Significant sociodemographic factors for ARIs have been the educational level of the mother (χ2=18.69, P

he aim of the research was to conduct a multidimensional assessment of the quality of housing conditions in rural households of different voivodeships (provinces) in comparison to households in Poland overall. The research involved separate evaluations of the quality of internal and external housing conditions. Internal housing conditions pertained to the dwellings themselves and included the standards of their use and the presence of sanitary and technical installations. External housing conditions characterized the housing environment, including nuisances related to noise, crime, and deficiencies in technical and service infrastructure. The overall assessment of the quality of housing conditions encompassed both internal and external indicators. These assessments were based on the values of synthetic indicators determined using the TOPSIS method. The analyses were conducted using individual non-identifiable data from the “Household Budget Survey” carried out by the Central Statistical Office in 2021. For half of the voivodeships, the quality of internal housing conditions in rural households was assessed as average, while in the Łódzkie Voivodeship, it was assessed as low. A very high rating was obtained for seven voivodeships: Śląskie, Opolskie, Podkarpackie, Małopolskie, Lubuskie, Wielkopolskie, and Pomorskie. On the other hand, the quality of external conditions was assessed as high only in the Małopolskie and Podkarpackie Voivodeships, while in the Łódzkie Voivodeship, it was also assessed as low.

Objective: To investigate the impacts of improving housing conditions and transitioning to clean cooking fuels on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among middle-aged and elderly populations in rural China. Methods: Using a 10-year longitudinal follow-up study, we examined changes in housing conditions, cooking fuel use, and HRQOL among 690 Chinese adults aged 45 above in rural areas. HRQOL was assessed using the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions 3 Levels (EQ-5D-3L) questionnaire. Generalized estimating equations were utilized to analyze correlations between variables. Results: Using four-period balanced panel data of 10 years, there were significant differences in the self-reporting of mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain / discomfort and anxiety / depression in rural middle-aged and elderly people (p

Background: Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are a significant public health concern in India, accounting for 15–30% of all fatalities among children younger than 5 years. Aims and Objectives: This study estimated the prevalence of ARI and its association with sociodemographic variables and housing conditions in under-five children in rural Jhansi, Bundelkhand region. Materials and Methods: This community-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the selected Anganwadi Centers in Badagaon Block, Jhansi. Data for sociodemographic factors and housing conditions were collected by interviewing parents or caretakers of under-five children using a semi-structured predesigned and pretested pro forma during a house-to-house visit. The sociodemographic factors considered were the educational status of the parents, occupation of the father, religion of the child, socioeconomic class of the family, age of the child, type of family, and sex of the child. The parameters of housing conditions evaluated were overcrowding, ventilation type of chulha, and type of house. Results: The overall prevalence of ARI was found to be 48.88%. Significant sociodemographic factors for ARIs have been the educational level of the mother (χ²=18.69, P<0.001) and father (χ²=12.02, P<0.001), the working status of the fathers (χ²=17.95, P=0.001), the type of family (χ²=23.88, P<0.001), and the gender (χ²=16.57, P<0.001) of the studied children and the significant environmental housing factors associated with ARIs were overcrowding (χ²=13.61, P≤0.001), ill-ventilated houses (χ²=54.63, P<0.001), type of chulha (χ²=164.31, P≤0.001), and type of house (χ²=4.69, P=0.030). Conclusion: The prevalence of ARI as observed in this study is noteworthy. The study’s findings underscore the significance of enhancing sociodemographic indicators and housing conditions as effective measures for preventing ARI in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examine the significant role of housing in experiences of poverty in Australia. It highlights how housing costs can increase the effects of poverty, impact access to basic necessities, and make it challenging to address the root causes of poverty. It emphasizes the unequal distribution of these housing-related challenges, with groups at the highest risk of poverty also facing homelessness and relying on Specialist Homelessness Services (SHS).

The results of a study focused on identifying differences between the city and the countryside in terms of human potential and the conditions for its development and implementation are presented. For the purpose of this study, the authors' human development index (HDI) is used, which includes the original measurement of its three components (longevity, educational potential, and standard of living). In the "educational potential" component, instead of the traditional index "share of students in the total population 7 to 24 years old," the index "share of the population 25 years old or older with vocational education" is substantiated and applied. This makes it possible to consider the accumulated educational potential of Russian citizens, which can be realized both in the field of work and in other areas of their lives and more accurately reflects the educational opportunities of the population. In the "standard of living" component, instead of the particular index "GDP per capita according to PPP," the use of the index "purchasing power of household disposable resources" is justified. It considers more accurately the purchasing power of resources actually spent on consumption by urban and rural households with account for their size and structure. It has been revealed that villagers lag behind townspeople in terms of the HDI and all its components. Having considered the living conditions of both groups of the population, the authors show that the most pressing problem is the lack of opportunities for most urban and rural residents to realize their needs for improving the quality of housing conditions that are below average standards. The results of this study are of practical importance and can be used in the preparation and updating of the most important state documents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to explore the process of disaster adaptive housing upgrading in informal settlements from social vulnerability perspective. It examines the mode and extent of disaster adaptive upgrading in two South Asian cities—Khulna, Bangladesh and Kathmandu, Nepal. With an exploratory qualitative research approach, it focuses on built-environmental adaptation at household and community levels. Empirical findings reveal that, the apparently vulnerable communities have intrinsic adaptive capacities of upgrading their housing conditions with minimal cost and maximum efficiency. These capacities are shaped by the community's collectivism and mutual help that enable them to survive despite the lack of development induced climatic and non-climatic urban problems. In the process of self-help upgrading, the status of tenure security and scope of alternative livelihood and finance are found to be the most crucial factors shaping the households' perception of vulnerability and the extent of their involvement in adaptation practices. The research outcomes shed light on the issues surrounding vulnerability and adaptive capacity of the informal settlements and recommend policy implications towards strengthening community-led upgrading in an informed manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, dietary supplements are increasingly used in livestock feeding, which are a valuable source of biologically active substances necessary for their full growth and development, maintaining the body’s resistance and preventing numerous diseases. The most common components are proteins, vitamins and carotenoids. Thus, the relevance of scientific research is to experimentally determine the effectiveness of the newly developed product with a multicomponent composition on the functional state of the animal body. The purpose of the research was to determine the effect of the new product, the dietary supplement “Wheat germ meal” on the behaviour, growth rate, and morphological and biochemical parameters of the blood of white mice. The material of the study was nonlinear white mice in the amount of 60 heads. The supplement was fed to mice for 60 days. A set of methods was used, including: an assessment of the microclimate of the laboratory animal housing, the condition of tap water for drinking mice, an assessment of their general behaviour, and a determination of haematological parameters. It was proved that during the experiment, the microclimate of the room in which the laboratory animals were kept and the indicators of tap water for their drinking corresponded to the requirements of current regulations. It is substantiated that the examined additive increases the body weight of white mice and their average daily weight gain. Therewith, the weight of the internal organs of the experimental group (thymus, thyroid gland, kidneys, liver, lacrimal gland) remained unchanged. It has been established that the component composition of the supplement affects the morphological parameters of the blood of white mice, namely, it increases the haemoglobin content, the number of red blood cells and the value of haematocrit. No changes were observed in the blood leukogram of mice. An increase in the content of total protein and globulins in the blood serum of white mice was established. A decrease in the albumin content and an increase in the activity of the enzymes alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase occurred within the reference values for white mice. The materials of the research are of practical value for the possibility of using the examined dietary supplement in domestic animals to increase muscle strength, improve growth and development, and strengthen the immune system

An outbreak of acute mastitis was investigated in a dairy sheep farm in Central Greece with a prevalence of 8.2%. Two animals were examined with symptoms of hyperacute inflammation in one of the two mammary glands. Affected glands presented swollen to grossly enlarged, warm and painful. In both animals, haematological examination revealed mild anaemia, increased leucocyte counts with mature neutropaenia and left shift, and marked thrombocytosis. Bacteriological examinations of mammary gland secretion yielded heavy growth of Streptococcus dysgalactiae and Escherichia coli from each of the two animals, respectively. Serological examination revealed a high percentage of positive samples for small ruminant lentivirus infection in both animals. The somatic cell count in the bulk-tank milk was 0.65 × 106 cells/mL. The housing conditions were inadequate with high levels of ammonia, intense stocking and muddy bedding. This pathological condition in nulliparous ewes was attributed to the extensive oedema of mammary gland and teat, the relaxation of immunity during the peri-parturient period and the heavily contaminated environment. These findings are in general agreement with corresponding incidents in heifers. Following our instructions for improving housing conditions, no other similar incidents were recorded.

Scholars consistently find that renters have poorer health outcomes when compared with homeowners. Health disparities between renters and homeowners likely widen over the life course, yet few studies have examined this link among older adults, and the connection is not fully understood. Homeowners' relative socio-economic advantage may explain their better health; renters also more commonly experience adverse housing conditions and financial challenges, both of which can harm health. In this paper, we analyse the extent to which socio-economic advantage, housing conditions, and financial strain explain the relationship between homeownership and health among adults over age 50, using Health and Retirement Study 2010/2012 data to assess cardiometabolic risk (CMR) levels using biomarkers for inflammation, cardiovascular health, and metabolic function. We find that people living with poor housing conditions and financial strain have higher CMR levels, even taking socio-economic advantage into account. This analysis sheds light on the housing-related health challenges of older adults, especially older renters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of housing conditions is a crucial aspect of determining the well-being of residents and the sustainable development of settlements. Assessing housing conditions at a macro-level is imperative to understand the differences in well-being and livability among residents in various regions within a country. Unfortunately, the spatial variation characteristics of housing conditions in China have not been extensively studied at the county scale. Thus, this study examines the housing conditions in China by using 2846 counties as the basic research unit. A housing condition evaluation index system, comprising seven indicators, is constructed based on three aspects: housing spaciousness, internal facilities, and elevator configuration. The entropy value method is used to determine the weights of the indicators, and the spatial difference patterns and spatial autocorrelation characteristics of the housing conditions and types of housing conditions in China are analyzed. The correlation analysis method is used to analyze the correlation between the subtypes of housing conditions and county fundamentals (population density, urbanization, foreign population, and rental housing). The results show that: (1) the configuration of elevators is the most important indicator of the differences in housing conditions in China; (2) the better housing conditions in China are distributed on the southeast side of the "Hu Line", while the worse areas are distributed on the northwest side of the "Hu Line", showing significant spatial clustering characteristics, while the distribution of the different subtypes of housing conditions and their distribution in the H–H and L–L zones also have significant variability; (3) housing conditions in China's urban areas are generally better than those in non-urban areas, and the internal infrastructure conditions of urban housing and the degree of elevator configuration are better than those in non-urban areas; and (4) the correlation between housing conditions and county fundamentals varies depending on the regional level. At the national and urban levels, a negative correlation exists between county fundamentals and housing spaciousness, although a positive correlation exists with internal infrastructure and elevator configuration. Urbanization has the greatest impact on housing conditions in these areas. In non-urban areas, there is significant variability in the correlation between county fundamentals and housing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While housing can facilitate many of the freedoms associated with a 'well-lived' life, the Capabilities Approach (CA) is yet to have transformed housing research and evaluation. This paper explores the relationship between housing conditions and well-being, using Nussbaum's version of the CA as the basis for analysis. It draws on data from a UK-based qualitative study of the experiences of individuals residing in privately-run hostels in the North of England. The analysis reveals much diversity in terms of the ways in which the residents perceived their housing conditions and the impacts of these on their exercise of key functions, despite all living in similar environmental conditions. This highlights the highly subjective and complex nature of the relationship between housing conditions and well-being. It is argued that a more robust understanding of the key factors that mediate the relationship being investigated is needed if the potential of the CA to advance housing research and evaluation is to be further realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rozwój Regionalny & Polityka Regionalna is the property of Uniwersytetu im. Adama Mickiewicza (IH UAM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Optimal holding conditions are key to animal welfare. How stressful husbandry is perceived by the animal can be determined via an assessment of an animal's mental state – where it is positioned on the continuum between optimistic and pessimistic states – and can be measured using the judgement bias paradigm. In this test, individuals are trained to distinguish a rewarded from an unrewarded cue before being presented an ambiguous, intermediate cue. The response time to the ambiguous cue is then indicative of mental state. A shorter latency suggests a more positive (optimistic) mental state and a longer latency a more negative (pessimistic) mental state. Here, the authors used the judgement bias paradigm to assess the impact of standard laboratory housing conditions on the mental states of female guppies (Poecilia reticulata). As it is debated which holding conditions confer optimal welfare, they tested the impact of husbandry on mental state by keeping animals for 3 weeks in small or large social groups in either small or large tanks. They found that the different standard housing conditions used did not lead to differences in mental state. As an unexpected side result, they found that female guppies seem lateral. Their findings of comparable mental state across housing conditions suggest either that guppies perceive the tested conditions as equally stressful or, alternatively, that guppies are relatively resilient to the combination of group and tank sizes tested in this study. The authors conclude that the judgement bias paradigm can be a useful tool to assess fish welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An outbreak of acute mastitis was investigated in a dairy sheep farm in Central Greece with a prevalence of 8.2%. Two animals were examined with symptoms of hyperacute inflammation in one of the two mammary glands. Affected glands presented swollen to grossly enlarged, warm and painful. In both animals, haematological examination revealed mild anaemia, increased leucocyte counts with mature neutropaenia and left shift, and marked thrombocytosis. Bacteriological examinations of mammary gland secretion yielded heavy growth of Streptococcus dysgalactiae and Escherichia coli from each of the two animals, respectively. Serological examination revealed a high percentage of positive samples for small ruminant lentivirus infection in both animals. The somatic cell count in the bulk-tank milk was 0.65 × 106 cells/mL. The housing conditions were inadequate with high levels of ammonia, intense stocking and muddy bedding. This pathological condition in nulliparous ewes was attributed to the extensive oedema of mammary gland and teat, the relaxation of immunity during the peri-parturient period and the heavily contaminated environment. These findings are in general agreement with corresponding incidents in heifers. Following our instructions for improving housing conditions, no other similar incidents were recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor home sanitation can increase the risk of stunting in children. The study aims to analyze the risk factors for stunting based on house conditions, sanitation facilities, and occupant behavior. Observational research using a case-control study design was carried out in September–December 2020. The sample size was 60 toddlers (30 cases and 30 controls) taken randomly by simple arithmetic. Case samples are stunted toddlers based on e-PPGBM data. The control sample is a typical toddler who is the closest neighbor to the case with age equivalence. Respondents were mothers of toddlers. Data on the physical condition of the house and sanitation facilities were obtained through direct observation, while data on the behavior of the house occupants were obtained through interviews. Data processing was carried out by cleaning and editing, coding for categorical variables, entry and data processing. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and odds ratio at 95% CI. The house's physical condition (p= 0,058; OR= 8,83) and the behavior of the householder in managing sanitation are risk factors for stunting (p= 0,002; OR= 6,91). In conclusion, toddlers who live in houses with physical conditions that do not meet health requirements are at risk of experiencing stunting 8,83 times. Residents of houses whose behavior does not meet sanitation requirements risk 6,91 times experiencing stunting in toddlers.

Background: Over the past decade, implementation of multiple malaria control strategies in most countries has largely contributed to advance the global malaria elimination agenda. Nevertheless, in some regions, seasonal epidemics may adversely affect the health of local populations. In South Africa, Plasmodium falciparum malaria is still present, with the Vhembe District experiencing an incidence rate of 3.79 cases/1000 person-years in 2018, particularly in the Limpopo River Valley, bordering Zimbabwe. To elucidate the complexity of the mechanisms involved in local regular malaria outbreaks, a community-based survey was implemented in 2020 that focused on the relationship between housing conditions and malaria risky behaviours. Methods: The community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among the population of three study sites in the Vhembe District, which were selected based on malaria incidence rate, social and health characteristics of inhabitants. The household survey used a random sampling strategy, where data were collected through face-to-face questionnaires and field notes; to described the housing conditions (housing questionnaire), and focus on individual behaviours of household members. Statistical analyses were performed combining hierarchical classifications and logistic regressions. Results: In this study, 398 households were described, covering a population of 1681 inhabitants of all ages, and 439 adults who participated in community-based survey. The analysis of situations at risk of malaria showed that the influence of contextual factors, particularly those defined by the type of habitat, was significant. Housing conditions and poor living environments were factors of malaria exposure and history, regardless of site of investigation, individual preventive behaviours and personal characteristics of inhabitants. Multivariate models showed that, considering all personal characteristics or behaviours of inhabitants, housing conditions such as overcrowding pressures were significantly associated with individual malaria risk. Conclusions: The results showed the overwhelming weight of social and contextual factors on risk situations. Considering the Fundamental Causes Theory, malaria control policies based on health behaviour prevention, should reinforce access to care or promoting health education actions. Overarching economic development interventions in targeted geographical areas and populations have to be implemented, so that malaria control and elimination strategies can be efficiently and effectively managed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates housing conditions of single mothers in the context of housing policies. We study single mothers' probability to experience housing deprivation, overcrowded housing, overburdening costs of housing, and neighbourhood problems across European countries. We consider the structural consequences of home ownership rates, and policies related to regulation of rental markets, housing benefits and housing prices. We apply a multi-level framework to EU-SILC data on 21,937 single mothers, from 195 country-years and covering 21 European countries from 2008 to 2017. First, we find a trade-off in the provision of free housing or housing at reduced rents, that helps to reduce housing cost overburden for single mothers, but is also associated with higher rates of housing deprivation, overcrowding and neighbourhood problems. Next, in contexts with stricter rental market regulation, single mothers' housing deprivation is lower. Higher housing benefits reduce the risk of housing deprivation as well as overcrowding, but in contexts where home ownership is common, single mothers tend to experience more overcrowding. Single mothers are more likely to report neighbourhood problems in societies where housing prices are high. Our findings suggest that factors within the control of policy makers can be beneficial to the housing conditions of single mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palestinian refugee camps were established as a "temporary solution" following the 1948 and 1967 wars displacing more than 700,000 Palestinians, a status that has been ongoing for seventy years and three generations. These conditions led to a transformation of temporary camps into an urban sprawl of informal settlements embedded within the city context. The housing conditions of these camps face physical, environmental, social, and health-related challenges. The study analyzes the camp-built environment based on multidimensional indicators and explores the possible rehabilitation strategies. The paper adopts a case-study method to assess the physical conditions of these settlements through an analysis of two of the oldest and biggest camps located in the centre of Amman; Jabal Al-Hussein camp and Al-Wehdat (Amman new camp). The study establishes an assessment model to evaluate the current situation and explores urban strategies that can be implemented to upgrade these settlements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Veterinarska Stanica is the property of Croatian Veterinary Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Policy PointsToday's housing disparities are rooted in the increasing commodification of housing that has taken precedence over the need for shelter, a basic human right.With rising housing costs across the country, more residents are finding their monthly income going to rent, mortgage payments, property taxes, and utilities, leaving little for food and medication.Housing is a determinant of health, and with increasing housing disparities, action must be taken to ensure no individual is displaced, communities remain intact, and cities continue to thrive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, dietary supplements are increasingly used in livestock feeding, which are a valuable source of biologically active substances necessary for their full growth and development, maintaining the body's resistance and preventing numerous diseases. The most common components are proteins, vitamins and carotenoids. Thus, the relevance of scientific research is to experimentally determine the effectiveness of the newly developed product with a multicomponent composition on the functional state of the animal body. The purpose of the research was to determine the effect of the new product, the dietary supplement "Wheat germ meal" on the behaviour, growth rate, and morphological and biochemical parameters of the blood of white mice. The material of the study was nonlinear white mice in the amount of 60 heads. The supplement was fed to mice for 60 days. A set of methods was used, including: an assessment of the microclimate of the laboratory animal housing, the condition of tap water for drinking mice, an assessment of their general behaviour, and a determination of haematological parameters. It was proved that during the experiment, the microclimate of the room in which the laboratory animals were kept and the indicators of tap water for their drinking corresponded to the requirements of current regulations. It is substantiated that the examined additive increases the body weight of white mice and their average daily weight gain. Therewith, the weight of the internal organs of the experimental group (thymus, thyroid gland, kidneys, liver, lacrimal gland) remained unchanged. It has been established that the component composition of the supplement affects the morphological parameters of the blood of white mice, namely, it increases the haemoglobin content, the number of red blood cells and the value of haematocrit. No changes were observed in the blood leukogram of mice. An increase in the content of total protein and globulins in the blood serum of white mice was established. A decrease in the albumin content and an increase in the activity of the enzymes alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase occurred within the reference values for white mice. The materials of the research are of practical value for the possibility of using the examined dietary supplement in domestic animals to increase muscle strength, improve growth and development, and strengthen the immune system [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Annals of the Polish Association of Agricultural & Agribusiness Economists is the property of Polish Association of Agricultural & Agribusiness Economists and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Housing has been identified as one of the most important areas related to individual well-being in emerging adults attending a tertiary educational institution. Thus, the purpose of this systematic review is to explore the relationship between students' housing conditions and students' psychical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Outcomes were categorised into 10 categories: 1. homesickness and adaptation to college life; 2. overall health and distress; 3. sleep; 4. depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions; 5. alcohol abuse; 6. substance abuse; 7. tobacco use; 8. internet addiction; 9. eating disorders; and 10. sexual behaviours. Student housing conditions play an important role in a variety of health and health-related problems. These findings underscore the relationship between housing conditions and different facets of students' mental and physical wellbeing, emphasising the importance of addressing housing conditions in mental health prevention and intervention programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to enhance the existing body of knowledge by examining the intricate relationship between housing conditions and patterns of outward migration. By drawing on relevant literature and empirical evidence, the research explores the diverse ways in which housing conditions impact the decision-making process of individuals and communities regarding migration to foreign countries. The analysis encompasses a comprehensive investigation into the influence of housing affordability, quality, availability, and stability on the dynamics of external migration. Methodologically, a mixed approach is employed, combining quantitative analysis of demographic and housing data with qualitative correlation analysis to capture the multifaceted nature of the phenomenon under investigation. The study aims to examine the effects of external migration on key indicators of the housing stock, particularly the commissioning of housing and the provision of living space for the population. A thorough understanding of the complex relationship between housing conditions and outward migration dynamics can inform the development of targeted interventions and policies to address migration-related challenges and improve housing conditions, thus reducing population outflows. Moreover, the research outcomes contribute to broader discussions on sustainable urban development, equitable housing, and social cohesion in the context of contemporary migration trends.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the housing conditions of farmers’ households against the background of all households in Poland and their changes after Poland’s accession to the European Union. The assessment was based on one-dimensional objective indicators of the standard of housing use, equipment with technical and sanitary facilities and basic consumer goods, as well as a multidimensional synthetic assessment using the TOPSIS method. Individual unidentifiable data from the Household Budget Survey of the Central Statistical Office from 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 served as a data source. It turned out that, at the beginning of the study period, the housing situation of farmer households was favourable only in terms of such indicators of the standard of housing used as housing area per person and burden on household budgets from the cost of housing maintenance and energy sources. On the other hand, the saturation with selected durable goods and the equipment of dwellings with technical and sanitary facilities was relatively low. This contributed to the low synthetic rating of housing conditions in 2005. However, during 2005-2020, a rapid improvement in the scores of these indicators was observed the fastest among all socioeconomic groups. These dynamic changes resulted in a high score for the housing conditions of agricultural households in 2020.

Simple Summary: Good exploration and navigational skills are important for subterranean mammals because they inhabit an energetically costly environment. Damaraland mole-rats are social animals, but in captivity, they can be housed in colonies or individually. Social isolation may have effects on their exploratory behaviour and memory performance. Overall, colony-housed and individually housed mole-rats explored readily, but single queens and non-breeding females were more active, possibly related to increased anxiety-like behaviour when housed individually. All groups, except single-housed non-breeding females, also showed improvements in solving a Y-maze, while both colony and single males made fewer errors in the maze over time. Thus, learning is probable but may have been underestimated in this experiment. In general, social isolation has a limited effect on Damaraland mole-rat exploration and spatial learning. Exploratory behaviour, spatial learning and memory affect the survival of animals and appear to be dependent on the specific habitat that a species occupies. Good spatial navigation and memory are particularly important for subterranean animals, as it is energetically expensive to inhabit this niche. Damaraland mole-rats are subterranean mammals that live in colonies with organised social structures. Damaraland mole-rats have been maintained in the laboratory for many years and can be housed in groups or individually. We evaluated the effect of social isolation on the exploratory behaviour and spatial memory of single-housed and colony-housed animals and also considered potential differences in animals with different social statuses. We predicted that solitary housing would increase anxiety-like behaviour and result in higher activity and more errors when solving a maze. Exploration by colony- and single-housed mole-rats was tested in an open-field test, where all individuals explored readily. Single-housed queens and non-breeding females showed increased activity and spent more time in tunnels, which can be explained by increased anxiety. In the Y-maze, improvements in solving the maze were observed in all experimental groups, except in single-housed non-breeding females. In addition, all males showed a decrease in the number of errors in the maze. Spatial learning is thus apparent but could not be conclusively proven. It was possibly underestimated, as magnetic cues that may be used by mole-rats as stimuli for navigation were removed in the experimental setup. Overall, it appears that social isolation has a limited effect on the exploratory behaviour and spatial learning of Damaraland mole-rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This chapter reconstructs the extent and the structure of women's gainful employment in Vienna from the early nineteenth century to the 1930s. The very focus, however, is on the tension between work performed for wages and housework and how it was negotiated in working-class families. The basic assumption is that during the hundred years under investigation, the relationship between women's housework and wage labour changed according to the different phases of the industrialisation process: centralised manufacture and domestic industry particularly in textile production; a specific form of the Industrial Revolution defined by the expansion of artisanal small-scale production; the breakthrough of capitalist labour relations in the era of "high industrialisation"; and, finally, advanced industrial capitalism from the turn of the twentieth century to the 1930s. Each of these phases was characterised by distinct labour markets for women, specific family patterns and housing conditions, and by specific ideas about gender roles and family life. An investigation into these various factors makes use of a range of different sources including population and occupational statistics, contemporary social surveys, and autobiographical writings. The combination of these sources reveals several ambivalent trends. Specifically, the last period of industrialisation is characterised by women's increasing participation in modern factory work; the increased withdrawal of married women from gainful employment together with a growing appreciation for housewives in working-class families; a stricter assignation of household chores to women; but also a strong inclination towards vocational training and career in the future plans of girls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]