Period Of Socio-economic Transition Research Articles

Evaluation of Maine Resident Perceptions on Community Resilience, Conservation, and Natural Resource Industries

Maine faces a period of socio-economic transition as it contends with a shift in natural resource utilization. From the declining contribution of natural resource industries to the rise of conservation lands, the state’s relationship with its natural capital is increasingly influenced by a multitude of factors. Meanwhile, Maine’s rural communities may struggle to adapt. In order to gain better insight, a statewide web-based survey was used to collect data on perceptions of community resilience, natural resource industries, and conservation. Analysis revealed divergences largely based on demographic characteristics. Politically conservative respondents expressed a belief that their communities are resilient but are concerned that conservation lands reduce economic productivity. Rural residents tend to believe natural resource industries remain important but do not perceive their communities to be economically diverse. Respondents in urban areas instead perceive a lack of social cohesion and trustworthiness of local elected leadership. Communities across the state contend with a diverse array of vulnerabilities for which no single resilience building solution will suffice.

Changes in the Growth and Development of Adolescents in a Country in Socio-Economic Transition 1993-2013.

IntroductionChanges in human growth and development depend on genetic and environmental factors. In the case of Slovenia, the environmental factors changed as a result of the period of socio-economic transition that the country underwent between 1991 and 2013. The authors used anthropometric techniques to evaluate differences in body height, proportions and sexual maturity in 1,221 adolescents aged 14 in 1993, 2003 and 2013.MethodsData was collected as a part of the ACDSi study, which has monitored children’s somatic growth and motor development every decade over the last 40 years.ResultsBetween 1993 and 2013, a trend (p=0.08) towards increased body height was observed in males. The comparison of age at peak height velocity (PHV) between generations demonstrated a trend (p=0.07) of earlier entry into puberty in adolescents in 2013 compared to those in 1993. The leg-to-body height ratio increased (p<0.05) with every decade in males, while in females it decreased (p<0.05) in 2013. Similar trends were observed in the leg-to-trunk ratio. Contemporary generations experienced PHV at a younger age (p<0.05), which is true for both genders even in adolescents born no more than two decades (1993 (2013) apart. In both generations, females experienced PHV sooner than their male peers.ConclusionThe authors assume that females of the 2013 generation reached puberty earlier than females of older generations. It is most likely that, unlike females from older generations and unlike males, they were already at the stage of trunk growth at the time of the measurements, which explains the observed changes in their trunk length, leg-to-body height and leg-to-trunk ratios in comparison to earlier generations.

Decision-Making and Risk Sources: Key to Source Governance for Social Stability

Conflict-sensitive social impact assessment (CSSIA) is to predict and analyze social risks triggered by public decision-making to realize source governance. Based on decision-making theories, this paper aims to explore the relationship between decision-making and risk source. Based on the field research of the policy-making process in contemporary China, this paper elaborates on the relationship between decision-making and risk accumulation in five aspects: the bounded rationality of decision makers, the deformation of decision structure, the fragmentation of decision-making process, the unduly frequency of policy change, and the excessively big size of policy gap. Promoting the transformation of the decision-making process is the key to dealing with the large-scale and high-risk social instability in the socioeconomic transition period. In the framework of developing countries, further research is needed to delve into the institutional arrangement of public decision-making to guarantee a well-ordered society. In the practices of CSSIA, the focus should not be simply put on the prediction and assessment of risks and emergency response, but more importantly on the analysis of contributing factors of risk evolution. This paper reveals that social instability occurs when the balance of social interests is broken and its root lies in the institutional arrangement of public decision-making. Therefore, promoting the transformation of decision-making system is the gist of CSSIA in the Chinese context and it can help make the source governance come true.

Stagnating CO2 emissions with in-depth socioeconomic transition in Beijing

Curbing the growth of global CO2 emissions and limiting global average temperature rise to well below 2 °C are important targets for the international society after the Paris Climate Change Conference. Given the continuously increasing emission trends in most of the developing world, peaking emissions as soon as possible during the developing and transition process is a key challenge in realizing the target globally. In this study, we established a comprehensive analysis framework for peaking stage analysis, based on three scopes accounting, and estimating the impact of in-depth socioeconomic transitions on peaking stages. We further applied it to Beijing, which reversed its growth trend in CO2 emissions and acted as a pioneer in fulfilling the peaking target of emissions during in-depth socioeconomic transition period, in recent years. We found that the turning point for production-based CO2 emissions in Beijing appeared around 2007, which stopped growing and has since been fluctuating around 100 Mt. During the in-depth industrialization process, accelerating the elimination of energy and carbon intensive industries, such as resource-related heavy manufacturing, promoting the transition from industries to services, and upgrading the internal structure of industries, were key factors determining the CO2 emissions peak in Beijing. Meanwhile, the optimization of the internal production structure of consumer and producer services also led to a declining trend of services with the in-depth industrial transition. During the in-depth urbanization process, the reduced CO2 intensity and optimized production structure of shelter and household equipment, and upgraded services dominated consumption structure were the main reasons for urban household CO2 mitigation. Clarifying the mechanism of the CO2 emissions peak during the in-depth socioeconomic transition period in Beijing will help us understand the challenges of peak better and provide valuable references for other countries and regions in the developing world that are facing peaking emissions challenges in the processes of their development.

Quantifying the rural residential energy transition in China from 1992 to 2012 through a representative national survey

Rural household energy use for cooking and heating is an important source of air pollutants in China, as it affects both human health and climate change. However, the magnitude of rural household energy use, especially during the recent rapid socioeconomic transition period, has not been well quantified. Here, we present first-hand nationwide data from a 34,489-household energy-mix survey and a 1,670-household fuel-weighing campaign. We found that the consumption of wood and crop residues in rural China decreased by 63% and 51%, respectively, from 1992 to 2012, and these decreases were much greater than the 15% and 8%, respectively, reported by the International Energy Agency and Food and Agriculture Organization. The rapid residential energy transition over these two decades was primarily driven by the rapid socioeconomic development. One important implication of this transition is the significant reduction in the emissions of major air pollutants, especially incomplete combustion products leading to significant impacts on health and climate. Use of wood and crop residue for cooking and heating in rural China is a significant source of carbon emissions and air pollution. Using a survey of more than 34,000 households, researchers show that between 1992 and 2012 usage of these fuels decreased by much more than previous estimates, due primarily to rising incomes.

Zastosowanie wybranych metod grupowania danych w badaniu przestrzennego zróżnicowania zjawisk społeczno-ekonomicznych na przykładzie mobilności zewnętrznej w Polsce w latach 1989-2002

The aim of the paper is to demonstrate the usefulness of some methods of grouping data in a spatial analysis of socio-economic phenomena on the example of the analysis of temporary emigration from Poland in the years 1989-2002. The study aimed at assessing spatial differentiation at a high level of detail, i.e. accounting for local differences. For temporary emigration, this kind of assessment was made possible by the results gathered by the National Census of Population in 2002.The paper shows examples of analyses of mobility territorial differentiation, where selected optimization-iterative and hierarchical methods of grouping were applied. The elements in the grouping space were units of territorial division covering the following breakdowns: gmina (municipality), poviat (district) and sub-region.During the socio-economic transition period following the year 1989 temporary emigration in Poland was a phenomenon which varied considerably in regional and local dimension, as has been confirmed by the findings of the studies conducted. A pronounced spatial dispersion was found not only in terms of its level and intensity, but also in terms of diversification of the demographic and social structure of the phenomenon. The application of the adopted methods of data classification made it possible to assess in detail the spatial differentiation of temporary emigration in Poland according to the breakdowns covering the minor, yet numerous, territorial units, as well as to visualize the results using map charts.The temporal scope of the study was limited to the years 1989-2002 because of the nature of the source material used and a lack of comparable statistical data on the post-accession and contemporary emigration.

Demography and market impacts on dental practices’ development in Bulgaria during the period of transition 1990-2010

The purpose of this study was to present the impact of demography and market dynamics on the organizational and technological development of dental practices in Bulgaria during the period of socio-economic transition from 1990 to 2010. Relevant data were gathered from the official registers of the Bulgarian Dental Association, National Health Insurance Fund, National Health Information Institute and research studies, published during the period 1990-2010. They were analysed and are discussed in this paper. During the period there was a decrease in population of Bulgaria, from 8,149,468 in 2000 to 7,563,000 in 2010 and a movement from rural areas to cities. There was an aging population with an increase in oral health care needs at a time of decrease in the size of the national labour force and economic growth. Paradoxically, over the last 20 years, the number of dentists in Bulgaria increased by more than 50% from 1997 to 2008. The average age of dentists changed from 39.7 years in 1997 to 41.7 years in 2008. The number of group dental practices increased and the number of individual practices and group practices for specialized dental care and dental centres decreased. The utilization of dental services is currently "about half" that of the mean for all European Union Member States, which is over 80% per year. The growing number of elderly people who have retained their teeth suggests an increase in treatment needs. However, the decline in their purchasing power limits the demand for oral health care services. In order to meet this and other challenges Bulgarian dentists have started changing their traditional solo-practice to group-practice.

Diet and serum lipids: changes over socio-economic transition period in Lithuanian rural population

BackgroundSince regaining of independence in 1990, Lithuania has been undergoing substantial political, economic, and social changes that affected the nutrition habits of population. Dietary changes might have impact on the trends of dietary related risk factors of chronic diseases. The aim of the study was to compare trends in diet and lipid profile of Lithuanian rural population aged 25-64 during two decades of transition period (1987-2007).MethodsFour cross-sectional surveys were conducted within the framework of the Countrywide Integrated Noncommunicable Diseases Intervention Programme in five regions of Lithuania in 1987, 1993, 1999, and 2007. For each survey, a stratified independent random sample was drawn from the lists of the inhabitants aged 25-64 years registered at the primary health care centres. Altogether 3127 men and 3857 women participated in the surveys. 24-hour recall was used for evaluation of dietary habits. Serum lipids were determined using enzymatic methods. Predicted changes of serum cholesterol were calculated by Keys equation.ResultsThe percentage of energy from saturated fatty acids has decreased from 18.0 to 15.1 among men and from 17.6 to 14.8 among women over the period of 20 years. The average share of polyunsaturated fatty acids in total energy intake increased from 5.3% to 7.1% among men and from 4.9% to 7.3% among women. The mean intake of cholesterol declined among women. Favourable trends in fatty acids composition were caused by increased use of vegetable oil for cooking and replacement of butter spread with margarine. Since 1987, the mean value of total cholesterol has decreased by 0.6 mmol/l. Total dietary effect accounts for a 0.26 mmol/l (43.3%) decline in serum cholesterol among men and 0.31 mmol/l (50.8%) decline among women.ConclusionsImprovement in the quality of fat intake was observed in Lithuanian rural population over two decades of transition period. Positive changes in diet, mainly reduction in saturated fatty acids intake, contributed to decline in serum cholesterol level. Strengthening of favourable trends in nutrition habits in Lithuanian population should be one of the most important strategies of cardiovascular diseases prevention.

Determinants of self-rated health in women: a population-based study in Armavir Marz, Armenia, 2001 & 2004.

BackgroundThe former soviet Republic of Armenia entered a turbulent and long-lasting economic transition when it declared its independence in 1991. This analysis sought to identify the determinants of poor self-rated health as an indirect measure of health status and mortality prognosis in an adult female population during a period of socio-economic transition in Armenia.MethodsDifferences in self-rated health in women respondents were analyzed along three main dimensions: social, behavioral/attitudinal, and psychological. The data used were generated from cross-sectional household health surveys conducted in Armavir marz in 2001 and 2004. The surveys utilized the same instruments and study design (probability proportional to size, multistage cluster sampling with a combination of interviewer-administered and self-administered surveys) and generated two independent samples of households representative of Armavir marz. Binary logistic regression models with self-rated health as the outcome were fitted to the 2001 and 2004 datasets and a combined 2001/2004 dataset.ResultsOverall, 2 038 women aged 18 and over participated in the two surveys (1 019 in each). The rate of perceived "poor" health was relatively high in both surveys: 38.1% in 2001 and 27.0% in 2004. The sets of independent predictors of poor self-rated health were similar in all three models and included severe and moderate material deprivation, probable and possible depression, low level of education, and having ever smoked. These predictors mediated the effect of women's economic activity (including unemployment), ethnicity, low access to/utilization of healthcare services, and living alone on self-rated health.ConclusionMaterial deprivation was the most influential predictor of self-rated health. Thus, social reforms to decrease the gap between the rich and poor are recommended as a powerful tool for reducing health inequalities and improving the health status of the population.

Inequalities in mortality by marital status during socio-economic transition in Lithuania

To analyse the changes in mortality inequalities by marital status over the period of socio-economic transition in Lithuania and to estimate the contribution of major causes of death to marital-status differences in overall mortality. A survey based on routine mortality statistics and census data for 1989 and 2001 for the entire country. The proportion of married population has declined over the past decade. Widowed men and never married women were found to be at highest risk of mortality throughout the period under investigation. Although inequalities have not grown considerably, mortality rates have increased significantly for divorced populations and for never married men, widening the mortality gap. Cardiovascular diseases contributed most to excess mortality of never married and divorced men, as well as all unmarried groups of women. The excess mortality of widowed men from external causes was greatest in 2001. Marriage can be considered as a health protecting factor, particularly in relation to mortality from cardiovascular diseases and external causes. Local and national policies aimed at health promotion must focus primarily on improving the position of unmarried groups and providing psychological support.

Social dimensions of mortality from external causes in Lithuania: do education and place of residence matter?

To assess inequalities in mortality from external causes by the level of education and the place of residence during the period of socio-economic transition in Lithuania. Information on deaths, place of residence, and the level of education of persons aged 25 and older was derived from the National Database of Lithuania and censuses for 1989 (n=3537) and 2001 (n=4790). Mortality from external causes of Lithuanian urban and rural populations was strongly associated with the level of education. Educational inequalities increased throughout the period of socio-economic transition. In urban areas, mortality among the least educated population was 3.20 times higher in 1989 and 3.37 times higher in 2001, compared to those with university-level education. In rural areas the educational mortality rate ratios reached 3.47 and 4.33, respectively. The greatest educational inequalities were observed in suicide mortality, especially among males. The results of this study disclosed increasing inequalities in mortality from external causes. Less educated populations, especially in rural areas, should receive particular attention in the development of strategies for the prevention of mortality from external causes.

Seasonal patterns of suicides over the period of socio-economic transition in Lithuania.

BackgroundIn Lithuania, suicides are a grave public health problem, requiring more extensive investigation. The aim of the study was to assess the seasonal variations of suicides in Lithuania throughout the years 1993–2002, describing patterns by gender, age and method of suicide.MethodsThe study material consisted of all registered suicides (n = 16,147) committed throughout 1993–2002 in Lithuania. Smoothed trends were inspected. The seasonal effect was explored using monthly ratio statistics and spectral analysis.ResultsSuicides in Lithuania have a distinct annual rhythm with peaks in summer and troughs in December. The December frequencies fell by more than 23% in men and 30% in women, while June peak reached nearly 23% in men and July peak exceeded 29% in women, compare with the average levels, (p < 0.05). Hanging was the most common method of suicide both in men and women comprising up to 90% among all suicides in 1998–2002. Among different methods, only hanging suicides showed significant seasonal variations, especially in men. The seasonal amplitude has decreased over time.ConclusionSubstantial seasonal variations in suicides were associated with a high proportion of hanging. Extremely high suicide rates in Lithuania require further extensive studies and urgent preventive programs, taking into account the suggestions of this survey.

Occupational Diseases in the Period of Socioeconomic Transition in Poland

Current situation in the epidemiology of occupational diseases is a resultant of many contributing factors, such as occupational exposures of the working population, social and economic conditions, medical measures, legislation, and ongoing changes in the national economy. This work is based on the information compiled from reporting forms on occupational diseases gathered in the Central Register of Occupational Diseases run by the Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lódź, Poland. A systematic downward trend in the number of occupational diseases has already been observed over several years. In 1998, as many as 12 017 cases were recorded (117.3 per 100,000 workers), while in 2005, this number was reduced to 3249 (34.8 per 100 000). In 2005, the highest incidence rates were noted for chronic voice disorders, pneumoconioses, infectious and parasitic diseases, hearing loss, and skin diseases. The observed decrease in occupational pathology is associated with continued transformations in the national economy. Changes in the nature and level of occupational exposures have influenced the profile of occupational pathologies. Medical preventive measures, such as vaccinations covering high-risk groups have contributed to the reduced incidence of occupational diseases. For example, the number of cases of occupation-related viral hepatitis was seven times lower in 2005 than in 1993. The 2005 data show that over 50% of occupational diseases were diagnosed in workers employed outside industry. Changes taking place on the labor market, new technologies and most of all transfer of the workforce from industry to the service and administration sectors, will certainly affect the profile of occupational and work-related pathologies. In the present-day environment, the work-related stress has become a dominant factor.

Inequalities in mortality by education and socio-economic transition in Lithuania: equal opportunities?

The aim of this study was to examine the changes in mortality differentials by level of education during the period of socio-economic transition in Lithuania. This analysis was based on routine mortality statistics and census data for 1989 and 2001 for the entire country. Despite a general improvement in the level of education in the Lithuanian population, some negative educational patterns were observed amongst its young members. Increasing inequalities in mortality by education have occurred due to a declining mortality rate in people with higher educational achievements and, conversely, an increasing mortality rate in people with a low level of education. Mortality inequalities by education amongst females exceeded those amongst males in 2001, particularly in middle-aged groups and due to external causes. The results of this survey predict an unfavourable forecast of increasing health inequalities in Lithuania in the near future. General policies for health promotion and disease prevention should be based on the realities faced by lower educated groups, rather than on experiences that are general for the total population or the class of society that has at least achieved an average education. Inequalities in health by the level of education should plateau as the society-at-large enters into a more stable stage of social and economic development.

Mortality from external causes in Lithuania: looking for critical points in time and place

A study was undertaken to analyse trends in mortality from major external causes of death, and to detect urban/rural differences by cut points over the period of socioeconomic transition. Information on deaths from major external causes (traffic accidents, suicides, and homicides) for the 1990-2000 period was obtained from Lithuanian Department of Statistics. Mortality rates were age standardized, using the European standard, and analysed, according to (urban/rural) residence and sex. The Jointpoint analysis was used to identify the best-fitting points, wherever a statistically significant change in mortality occurred. The most critical point for external causes of mortality during the period of transition was the year 1994, when an increasing mortality trend reversed to a decreasing one. Mortality from suicides primarily caused these positive changes. Changes in mortality from traffic accidents were not significantly associated with the period under analysis. Numerous less favourable trends in rural areas, including suicide rates, traffic accidents, and homicides, are likely to stratify urban/rural health outcomes in the future. Despite a recent decline, mortality from external causes remains at an extremely high level in Lithuania. Future progress requires sustained improvements in prevention, and serious attention to external causes of death in health policy development.

Socio-economic transition, inequality, and mortality in Lithuania

The study assessed inequalities in mortality of Lithuanian urban and rural populations throughout the period of socio-economic transition (1990–2000). Mortality from major causes of death, except cancers in females, was higher among the rural population. Inequality in mortality increased during the period of transition, especially among males, mainly due to more rapidly improving health of the urban population. Cardiovascular diseases and external causes made the largest contribution to the inequality. Differences in mortality of urban and rural populations point to greater social and psychological stress affecting the rural population, unhealthy life styles, inequities in accessibility of health care and lack of preventive programs in rural areas.

Rural restructuring in Hungary in the period of socio-economic transition

Rural settlements in Hungary account for 93% of all settlements and 37% of the country's population. Since 1989 they are scenes of spectacular changes. Based on some case studies of less developed villages this paper considers the most important characteristics of the post-socialist rural transformation by examining the local economy and living conditions. The main issues are how local actors (for example, economic corporations, households and individuals) have been affected by the interaction of supralocal and local factors and how they responded to them. Such responses can be considered to be manifestations of survival strategy.