Affordability Issues Research Articles

Integrating environmental sustainability within national food-based dietary guidelines: a qualitative analysis from five case study countries

Abstract Background The incorporation of environmental sustainability principles into national food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) has gained prominence as a strategy to address both human health and environmental concerns. This study aims to identify and explore the processes and considerations to integrate environmental sustainability in food-based dietary guidelines. Methods Countries that have integrated environmental sustainability in FBDGs since 2016 were identified from the UN FAO website. Background documents and interviews with key stakeholders involved in the development of FBDGs from case study countries (The Netherlands, Denmark, Chile, France and Belgium (Flanders)) were thematically analysed using the Framework Method. A coding framework explored the rationale for integration, data sources and analysis methods, stakeholder and expert engagement, synergies and trade-offs, translation into public messaging, and key learnings. Results Eight background documents and six interviews were analysed. Approaches to integrating environmental sustainability varied, from inclusion in dietary modelling optimisation to changes to consumer messaging. Nearly all countries adjusted guidelines to reduce red and processed meat and emphasise the role of plants in diets. However, issues of cultural significance, affordability, and access limited ambitions to reduce overall meat intake. Novel plant-based alternatives remain contentious due to concerns about their ultra-processed nature and potential nutrient inadequacies as substitution foods. Key barriers to integrating environmental sustainability into FBDGs include consumer acceptance, data quality and availability, stakeholder involvement and conflict, timelines, and resource constraints. Conclusions Several countries have successfully integrated environmental sustainability into their dietary guidelines, but there is still variation in the integration and acceptance of FBDGs including environmental sustainability.

The cost of not getting care: income disparities in the affordability of health services across high-income countries

Abstract This presentation will present findings from the Commonwealth Fund 2023 International Health Policy Survey of the General Population, focusing on financial barriers in accessing healthcare among adults across 10 countries. It highlights significant income-related disparities in healthcare affordability, particularly in the United States, where nearly a quarter of the population lacks affordable access to care. While disparities exist in other countries, Germany and the Netherlands demonstrate lower rates of affordability issues and income disparities, possibly due to their universal health coverage models and cost-sharing caps based on income levels. These countries also prioritize mental health and dental care within their public health plans. The analysis emphasizes the critical need for affordable and comprehensive healthcare coverage to ensure equitable health outcomes. It suggests that policies such as cost-sharing caps and income-based subsidies could mitigate financial barriers to care, drawing insights from successful models in Germany and the Netherlands. Ultimately, addressing affordability is vital for achieving health equity and improving overall population health.

Quantitative Analysis of the Future of the Sharing Economy, Housing, White-Collar Labor Markets, and Problems in Big Cities

This research project explores the future of the sharing economy and its profound effects on housing markets, white-collar labor dynamics, and socio-economic challenges in large metropolitan areas. Using quantitative economics and econometric techniques, the study evaluates how platforms such as Airbnb, Uber, and coworking spaces are reshaping urban life, exacerbating housing affordability issues, and altering labor market structures. By analyzing housing market data, labor statistics, and platform economy data from major cities like New York, London, and Istanbul, this research provides empirical insights into how the sharing economy influences urban economic landscapes. The study employs difference-in-differences (DiD) and multivariate regression models to assess causal relationships, particularly in terms of housing market disruptions caused by short-term rental platforms and labor market fragmentation driven by the rise of gig and remote work. Spatial econometric techniques are also used to explore geographic disparities in housing and employment impacts across urban districts. Preliminary findings indicate that the proliferation of sharing economy platforms has contributed to housing shortages and increased prices in central urban areas, while labor markets experience growing polarization, with high-skilled workers benefiting from remote work opportunities and low-skilled gig workers facing economic precarity. This research offers valuable policy insights into the regulation of short-term rentals and the protection of gig economy workers, highlighting the need for regulatory frameworks that address urban inequality and labor market shifts. By integrating data from multiple sources, this study contributes to the academic discourse on urban economics and provides a framework for understanding the long-term socio-economic implications of the sharing economy in big cities.

A REVIEW OF ECONOMIC PROBLEMS FACING THE UAE

This review explores the major economic challenges currently facing the UAE. Monopoly power in key sectors like telecommunications and energy restricts competition, leading to higher consumer prices and less innovation. Economic inequality is rising, driven by stark contrasts between high-earning expatriates and low-wage migrant workers. Migrant labor, essential to the UAE’s economic growth, presents social and economic challenges, including wage disparities and limited labor rights. Housing prices, especially in Dubai, remain a concern due to fluctuations and issues of affordability. Despite efforts to diversify its economy, the UAE’s heavy dependence on oil leaves it vulnerable to global market shifts. Additionally, rapid urbanization has raised significant environmental concerns, including pollution and resource depletion, prompting the need for sustainable development. Together, these interconnected issues present long-term challenges for economic stability and social development in the UAE. KEYWORDS: Vision 2021 - A national agenda to position the UAE as a top global nation by its 50th anniversary in 2021 Vision 2030 - Abu Dhabi’s plan for economic diversification and sustainable urban growth by 2030 COP28 - The UAE-hosted 2023 UN climate summit to discuss global actions for limiting climate change Etisalat (e& UAE) - The UAE’s largest telecom provider, rebranded as e& in 2022 for digital transformation ADNOC - Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, one of the world’s leading energy producers and oil exporters DEWA - Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, responsible for energy and water infrastructure in Dubai Kafala System - A labor sponsorship system that governed foreign workers’ employment and residency in the UAE

Awareness of chronic hepatitis b and its barriers to treatment in patient with HBV infection.

Objective: To determine knowledge of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and barrier to treatment among patients with HBV infection. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Department of Outpatient Clinics, Gastroenterology, Liaquat National Hospital. Period: March 2024 to June 2024. Methods: Patients of age 18 years and above of either gender and Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive more than six months were included in this study. self-structured questionnaire was developed after performing a detailed literature search. The criteria of adequate knowledge was to answer at least 50% of correct responses. Results: Total 247 patients were approached for this study, out of which 230 gave consent to the part of study and completed this survey. Hence data was analyzed for these 230 patients. Mean age of patients was 43.4 ± 12 years. More than half of them were males (57.4%). Around three-fourth of participants were diagnosed with HBV upon symptoms manifestation (72.6%). Nearly half had knowledge that HBV is a viral infection (55.2%). Using threshold of 4 and above, adequate knowledge was seen in 68.7% patients. Around quarter were vaccinated according to EPI schedule (23.5%). Half of patients said they did not get vaccination because of affordability issues (50.9%). Few also said that they were afraid of vaccine (13.2%). Conclusion: The present study analyzed that our HBV patients were not knowledgeable about the chronic HBV virus and patients were not willing for vaccination. Steps should be taken by policy makers and healthcare providers to address this gap.

Exploring the Potential of Immersive Technologies to Enhance Online Learning Experiences and Engagement: A Systematic Literature Review

The purpose of this research is to find out how immersive technology can improve online learning and student engagement. The study investigates how immersive technologies, for example augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) can be incorporated into online learning environment using a case study methodology. The paper explores how immersive technologies affect online course satisfaction among learners generally through learning results, and student involvement. By conducting a comprehensive literature review, the paper synthesizes existing knowledge and identifies gaps in the literature. In the systematic review in which exclusion and inclusion criteria was used to identify the suitable articles to be analyzed based on the study questions. The outcome of the study revealed that immersive technologies significantly boost learner engagement, improving the student learning outcomes thereby increasing their overall course satisfaction with online courses. However, it also identifies challenges and gaps in current research, emphasizing the need for further exploration. Recommendations for educators and policymakers include investing in immersive technologies learning tools, providing adequate training, fostering collaboration, and addressing issues of access and affordability. This paper sough to enhance the comprehension of how immersive technologies can be strategically leveraged to revolutionize online learning environments. By exploring the integration of advanced digital tools and techniques, the study uncovered various ways in which virtual and augmented reality can significantly improve the effectiveness and engagement of online learning. Ultimately, the findings provide valuable insights that can guide educators, institutions, and educational technology developers in optimizing online learning environments through the thoughtful application of immersive technology.

Eco-Friendliness and Cost-Effectiveness of Reusable Sanitary Pads for Rural Women: A Model for Menstrual Hygiene Management in Low Resource Settings

Background Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) is fundamental to women’s health, well-being, and gender equality. The study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness and acceptability of reusable sanitary pads among rural women in Pakistan, proposing a scalable model for improving MHM practices in low-income countries. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using Multi- Stage Cluster sampling to accomplish a sample size of 340 childbearing-age women from the rural areas of Sindh, Pakistan. The data was collected using a standard questionnaire regarding the affordability and accessibility of reusable versus disposable sanitary pads; further information was also gathered from Market surveys for MHM products. The biodegradability of the pads was assessed using a soil burial test. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 27. Results Our research found a significant preference for reusable sanitary pads. The biodegradability tests demonstrated that reusable pads had a superior degradation rate (1.88%) to disposable pads (1.59%) over four months. Economic assessments showed a low utilization of commercial pads (12.5%) due to affordability issues, with 87.5% using reusable cloths. Despite 70% awareness of menstrual hygiene, 48% of women showed interest in creating sanitary solutions, underscoring the feasibility of implementing locally sourced, cost-effective products across similar socio-economic landscapes. Conclusion The present study underscores the universal applicability of affordable, sustainable MHM solutions in rural communities of low-income countries, advocating for broader implementation of such models to address global menstrual hygiene challenges. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 23 No. 04 October’24 Page : 1030-1037

Access to healthcare services and factors associated with unmet needs among migrants in Phuket Province, Thailand, 2023: a cross-sectional mixed-method study

BackgroundPhuket Province is a major tourist destination with a migrant workforce accounting for 10% of its population. Despite governmental efforts to adjust health insurance policies, migrants face healthcare access challenges. This study examines the current healthcare access situation and factors associated with unmet needs among migrants in Phuket Province.MethodsWe used a cross-sectional mixed-methods approach, recruiting participants through snowball sampling from the Migrant Health Volunteer Network. Quantitative data were gathered using self-administered questionnaires, with unmet need defined as desired outpatient or recommended inpatient services not received at government hospitals. Multivariable logistic regression identified unmet need predictors, and we assessed the mediating effect of health insurance status. Qualitative data from three focus groups on healthcare access provided context and enriched the quantitative findings.ResultsThis study includes 296 migrants mainly from Myanmar. The overall unmet need prevalence was 14.86%, mainly attributed to having undocumented status (34.09%), affordability issues (20.45%), and language barriers (18.18%). Working in the fishery industry significantly increased unmet needs risk (aOR 2.68, 95% CI 1.08–6.62). Undocumented status contributed a marginal total effect of 4.86 (95% CI 1.62–14.54), with a natural indirect effect through uninsured status of only 1.16 (95% CI 0.88–1.52). Focus group participants used various medical resources, with insured individuals preferring hospital care, but faced obstacles due to undocumented status and language barriers.ConclusionValid legal documents, including work permits and visas, are crucial for healthcare access. Attention to fishery industry practices is needed. We recommend stakeholder discussions to streamline the process of obtaining and maintaining these documents for migrant workers. These improvements could enhance health insurance acquisition and ultimately improve healthcare affordability for this population. These insights could be applied to migrant workers in other urban and suburban area of Thailand regarding access to government healthcare facilities.

CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF PRIMARY PERCUTANEOUS CORONARY INTERVENTION USING DES VS BMS In ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME PATIENTS WITH LEFT ANTERIOR DESCENDING ARTERY INVOLVEMENT: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) with left anterior descending (LAD) artery involvement often leads to more extensive myocardial infarction. Choosing between drug-eluting stents (DES) and bare-metal stents (BMS) for revascularisation in these patients is a topic of clinical relevance. While drug-eluting stents are the gold standard, bare-metal stents remain an essential option for patients with specific considerations such as an inability to complete the recommended duration of DAPT, advanced age, concomitant oral anticoagulation, cancer, affordability issues, increased bleeding risk, and planned noncardiac surgery within the next year. Objective: This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of ACS patients with LAD involvement treated with either DES or BMS during primary PCI.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2023, at a tertiary care center. A total of 200 ACS patients with LAD involvement who underwent primary PCI were included. Patients were grouped based on the type of stent used (DES or BMS). Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, procedural details, and outcomes were collected. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), and target lesion revascularisation (TLR), were assessed. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyse outcomes. Results: MACE occurred in 48 patients (24%) during the one-year follow-up. Patients treated with DES experienced significantly fewer events (p < 0.001) compared to those receiving BMS. Diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease were independent predictors of adverse outcomes (p = 0.006 and p < 0.001, respectively).Conclusion: Primary PCI using DES in ACS patients with LAD involvement is associated with better clinical outcomes compared to BMS, particularly in high-risk populations. These findings suggest that DES should be the preferred stent type for this patient group to reduce adverse events and improve long-term survival.

Barriers to Clean and Safe Water Access in Juba: AA-QQ-RD Framework on SDG 6 in South Sudan

Juba, the capital city of South Sudan while, presenting a unique case as a rapidly growing city in a post-conflict country, its water infrastructure has been severely affected by decades of conflict, leaving it inadequate and underdeveloped. This study was conducted with the main objective of establishing factors causing the inadequacy of clean and safe water among households in Juba City. This study employed a proposed AA-QQ-RD (Availability, Affordability, Quality, Quantity, Reliability, and Distance) framework. The research employed a qualitative methodology, gathering data through in-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with household heads, government officials, and community leaders. The findings reveal significant challenges across all components of the AA-QQ-RD model. Availability of water is severely impacted by poor infrastructure which collectively disrupt water distribution while affordability issues arise from the high cost of water. In addition, water quality is compromised at multiple stages posing serious health risks while quantity of water is insufficient, particularly in larger households and densely populated areas. Further, reliability is undermined by irregular water supply and frequent service interruptions whereas distance to the nearest water points is a significant barrier with many residents traveling long distances to fetch water. These findings underscore the need for comprehensive infrastructural improvements, effective regulatory frameworks, and community-driven initiatives to address these barriers. The study's implications for Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) highlight the critical need for coordinated efforts to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Assessing Key Factors Influencing Rental Housing Choices and Affordability for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS): A Neighborhood Study in Delhi

The Economically Weaker Section (EWS) is constrained to live in slums and unauthorized colonies due to the lack of suitable housing options and affordability issues. Various factors such as building characteristics, financial constraints, and social considerations influence individuals' decisions regarding accommodation. A neighborhood in Delhi was chosen for a study to assess the importance of these factors for the EWS in rental housing. A total of 383 sample surveys were carried out to examine the socioeconomic variables and key factors influencing their choice of location, supplemented by 10 in-depth interviews to uncover hidden factors not typically found in existing literature. Principal Component Analysis was employed to identify the most crucial factors influencing accommodation choices. The study findings indicate that while the physical, locational, and economic aspects of rental housing are crucial, social factors also play a significant role. This research will offer invaluable insights to urban planners and policymakers to facilitate the provision of rental housing based on individual preferences in formulating housing policies.

Sulat Pasa: Its Implications to Local Divorce Practice among the Sama of Tawi-Tawi, Philippines

This study investigates Tawi-Tawi’s sulat pasa (traditional divorce paper), particularly as it relates to Sama divorcees, and if it provides a workable way to end their marriage. Through qualitative-descriptive research, it reviews the characteristics of local divorce documents, the processes involved in getting them, and their effects and implications on local divorce practice. With the institutionalization of the Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines, Muslim Filipinos should follow the divorce procedures laid in it. However, this legal hybridity is seen as inadequate because it looks insensitive to the long-standing customs and beliefs of the Muslims, jeopardizing their autonomy and self-instituting cultural traditions about divorce. Furthermore, because divorce conflicts and their resolution have been entirely integrated into the Philippine judicial system, the existing system does not provide speedy resolution to the satisfaction of the Muslim divorcee/s. Despite the implementation of the Muslim Code, the study found that Sama in Tawi-Tawi continued to present and bring their divorce cases to the traditional authority for enforcement. Given the Code’s lax implementation, local divorce cases outside Shari’ah court proceedings remain critical. The study proposes a measure through direct parliament action, such as adding a provision to the existing Bangsamoro Organic Law once the Muslim Code is upgraded, and, in the interim, this can be done through collaboration with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, local religious and elective officials, and women’s organizations to institutionalize the traditional divorce paper as also legal, and binding taking into account issues of accessibility, affordability, practicability, and feasibility.

Affordability, Accessibility, and Quality of Maternal Health Care Services and Level of Satisfaction of Mothers in Rural Areas in China

Objective: This study aimed to understand the affordability, accessibility, and quality of maternal and child health services for postpartum mothers, and their impact on satisfaction. Methods: The study utilized the Anderson model and revised the Maternal Pregnancy and Perinatal Health Service Questionnaire. A survey was conducted among 289 mothers aged 20–49 in Feicheng City. Results: Regarding accessibility, most respondents (133) reported that travel time to healthcare services exceeded 60 minutes, while 99 respondents indicated a travel time of 16–30 minutes. The issue of affordability was highlighted, with 86.85% of participants perceiving maternal healthcare services as costly, indicating a significant financial burden. More than 50% of respondents were satisfied with two specific dimensions (P < 0.05) regarding the quality of maternal healthcare services. Conclusion: The study found that accessibility, affordability, and quality significantly affect mothers’ satisfaction with maternal health services. Future research should focus on developing more suitable service pathways for rural mothers.

Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Service Use among Undocumented Migrants in the EU: A Systematic Literature Review.

Most EU member states fail to provide essential sexual and reproductive health services to undocumented migrants, a vulnerable population facing limited access, utilization, and worse health-related outcomes. This study systematically reviewed the literature on access to and use of these services, as well as related health, economic, and migratory outcomes for undocumented migrants in the EU-EFTA region. The systematic review is reported based on the PRISMA 2020 checklist and includes 37 studies published between 2017 and 2024. Included studies were based upon original quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods data; conducted in one or more European countries; and published in one or more of the following languages: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, or Romanian. A quality assessment was conducted using the CASP checklist for qualitative studies and the NHLBI Study Quality Assessment Tools for quantitative studies. The findings revealed numerous access barriers, including refusal of care, lack of knowledge about national healthcare schemes, bureaucratic hurdles, and affordability issues. Even when care was available, stigma, fear of deportation, socio-economic precarity, and abuse further hindered utilization. These barriers contributed to generally worse reproductive health outcomes for undocumented migrants in Europe, though the findings may not generalize to all EU-EFTA countries.

Health care needs and barriers to care among the transgender population: a study from western Rajasthan

BackgroundTransgender people comprise an estimated 0.3–0.5% (25 million) of the global population. The public health agenda focuses on understanding and improving the health and well-being of gender minorities. Transgender (TG) persons often have complex healthcare needs and suffer significant health disparities in multiple arenas. The international literature suggests that this community is at a higher risk of depression, and other mental health problems, including HIV. Many transgender people experience gender dysphoria and seek specific medical needs such as sex reassignment surgeries, implants, hormonal therapies, etc., but are unable to access these services due to financial or social reasons. The objective of this study was to assess the healthcare needs and associated barriers experienced by transgender people in Western Rajasthan. Methodology: A qualitative study was carried out in which multilevel stakeholder interviews were conducted using interview and focus group discussion guides. Data was analyzed using the qualitative thematic analysis technique. Results: Findings reveal that transgender people have expressed their need to access health services for general health needs, including but not limited to mental health, non-communicable diseases, and infectious diseases. Barriers to healthcare services were identified on 3 levels: health system, social and personal. Health system barriers include policy, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability issues. Social factors such as inadequate housing, education, and job opportunities also play an important role in affecting the individual’s health-seeking behavior. The knowledge of healthcare providers in this context was also limited in context of health insurance schemes, package of services available for transgenders and the importance of gender sensitive healthcare. Conclusion: Transgender people expressed the need for mental health services, programs targeting nutritional improvement, gender-affirmation procedures besides regular screening of non-communicable diseases as operational for males and females. Levels of barriers have been identified at various levels ranging from absence of targeted policies to individual behavior.

Improving the Expansion of Electricity Services Considering Affordability Issues: A Case Study in Brazilian Low-Income Households

The assurance of universal access to electricity refers to not only physical access to electricity, heating, and/or cooling services but also making them affordable to families. This is the case in Brazil, where physical electricity access reaches more than 99% of the urban population, but a high proportion of households are disconnected due to lack of payment. Affordability is a key factor in planning the expansion and maintenance of the electricity grid. In this paper, therefore, we propose the development of a strategy, called the Payment Capability Indicator (PCI), that provides new information about the relationship between energy cost and family income. The classic indicator, the Ten Percent Rule (TPR), was the base, and empirical research was conducted in two low-income neighborhoods in Paraná state, southern Brazil. The results consider variables that add new information to guide local public policies, combining interventions to improve affordability, energy efficiency, alternatives to energy services and consumer behavioral changes.

EXPLORING PARENTAL PERSPECTIVES: THE IMPACT OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES ON INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

This study investigates parental attitudes towards the efficacy of assistive technologies in facilitating inclusive education for children with disabilities within mainstream educational settings. The research aims to address the pressing need for insights into parental perceptions regarding the utilization of assistive technologies to support their children's learning experiences in inclusive classrooms. A questionnaire-based methodology was employed to gather comprehensive data from parents of children with disabilities enrolled in mainstream schools. The survey encompassed inquiries about parents' familiarity with assistive technologies, their perceived effectiveness, challenges encountered, and overall satisfaction with their child's educational journey within inclusive settings. The results of the research reveal multifaceted insights into parental attitudes towards assistive technologies. Findings indicate a generally positive outlook among parents, acknowledging the potential of these technologies to enhance their child's educational outcomes and promote inclusion. However, notable challenges such as accessibility, affordability, and adequate training emerge as significant barriers hindering the optimal utilization of assistive technologies. The discussion delves into the implications of the findings for policymakers, educators, and practitioners, emphasizing the necessity for targeted interventions to address existing barriers and enhance the accessibility and efficacy of assistive technologies in inclusive education. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of fostering partnerships between parents and educational institutions to ensure the holistic support and empowerment of children with disabilities within mainstream educational settings. This collaborative approach is essential for creating an inclusive educational environment that meets the diverse needs of all students. The study concludes that while parents recognize the benefits of assistive technologies, overcoming the existing challenges requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders involved. By addressing issues of accessibility, affordability, and training, the potential of assistive technologies can be fully realized, thereby improving educational outcomes for children with disabilities.

Multi-Stage Engineered Co-Free Li[Ni1-X-Y Ti x Al y ]O2 Cathode for High-Energy Li-Ion Batteries

Since the global blueprint for carbon net zero emissions has been drawn, a part of the internal combustion engine (ICE) market share of vehicles has been continually shifting toward electric powered public and personal transportation. However, the serious remaining challenges regarding the price and performance issues of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), which are the primary power source for electric vehicles (EVs), have impeded the large-scale adoption of EVs. Solving the affordability issue of current layered cathodes requires reducing the reliance on Co, which is extremely expensive with supply uncertainty. The aim of developing Co-poor or Co-free cathodes has led to an interest in LiNiO2 (LNO).1 LNO is one of the most promising cost-effective Co-free cathodes for LIBs because the cathode can achieve a high specific capacity of over 250 mAh g-1 with a typical upper voltage of 4.3 V versus Li/Li+. However, its poor cycling durability and thermal instability make its practical use difficult.2 In this study, we propose a highly stable Co-free Ni-enriched layered cathode based on LNO through a new doping strategy that incorporates heteroelements at different doping stages, i.e., the introduction of Ti during Ni(OH)2 synthesis and doping excess amounts of Al during the lithiation step. In combination with cathode surface protection, i.e., electrolyte modification or cathode surface coating, the proposed cathode retains 72.0% of its initial capacity after 3,500 cycles, which is the state-of-the-art for Co-free layered cathodes. Reference s : [1] M. Bianchini, M. Roca-Ayats, P. Hartmann, T. Brezesinski, J. Janek, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 58 (2019) 10434-10458.[2] H.-J. Noh, S. Youn, C.S. Yoon, Y.-K. Sun, J. Power Sources, 233 (2013) 121-130.

Informality, affordability, and mortgage stress during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods study of urban low-income households in Mumbai’s periphery

ABSTRACT The preexisting global urban housing affordability crisis worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Within nations, households belonging to various socioeconomic strata differentially experienced housing affordability issues, with the low-income households disproportionately bearing the affordability stress compared to the higher-income households. We use a mixed-methods approach to investigate the consequences of COVID-19-induced mortgage stress in 154 low-income homebuyers living in the periphery of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region in India. We draw upon the Conservation of Resources theory to study the stress outcomes due to affordability issues and understand its linkages with household financial wellbeing. A quantitative survey of 154 study participants revealed a significant relationship between mortgage stress and financial well-being mediated by financial stress. Further, qualitative analysis of in-depth interviews of 16 study participants using a comparative lens suggested that the pandemic-induced affordability issues disproportionately affected households with informal employment. Overall, the findings highlight a dynamic nature of affordability and its peculiar interplay with informality, emphasizing the urgency to reorient housing policies toward affordability and informality issues.

Assessment of treatment needs, barriers, and self-perception regarding oral health among female university students: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe study aimed to compare the self-perceived oral health status measured through a self-administered questionnaire with clinically determined oral health status measured by decayed-missing-filled teeth (DMFT) and community periodontal index of treatment need (CPITN) indices in university going females. In addition, access barriers to treatment related to oral healthcare were also determined.MethodsA 3-month analytical cross-sectional study was designed for consenting university going females (aged 18–22 years) in Islamabad, Pakistan. The self-perceived oral health was recorded through a questionnaire requesting information regarding socio-demographics, self-perception of oral health, frequency of dental visits and barriers to seeking oral health. Seven independent examiners performed intraoral clinical examination and assessed the oral health status using globally standardized oral health assessment indices (DMFT and CPITN).ResultsA total of 400 students were included in the final sample. The study revealed a significant disparity between self-perceived oral health and clinical assessment. Although perceived oral health was considered “good” by 80.0% of the respondents, clinical examination revealed moderate DMFT scores (mean 2.95 ± 1.41) and periodontal disease requiring treatment in 89.5% of the individuals. The most common barriers in seeking dental care were lack of knowledge, dental phobia, affordability issue and false self-perception.ConclusionThe present study demonstrated a notable discrepancy between self-perception of oral health and clinically assessed oral health. These results emphasize the importance of focused educational programs and community outreach programs, especially directed towards this demographic. Prioritizing such initiatives will help individuals to recognize their actual oral health condition thus encouraging positive oral health behaviors and outcomes.