Marginalized Groups Research Articles

A perceived community typology in older Korean Americans: implications for mental health.

The aims of this study were to identify a community typology in older Korean Americans and to examine how the typology is associated with feelings of loneliness and mental distress. We hypothesized that distinct community groups would be identified and that they would be differentially associated with mental health and background characteristics. Data were drawn from a survey with older Korean Americans aged 60 and older, collected during 2017-2018 in diverse locations (n = 2138). To identify a community typology, a series of latent profile analyses (LPA) were conducted using 15 community-related variables in three domains (neighbourhood characteristics, social cohesion, ethnic attachment). Based on model evaluation criteria, an LPA model with five community groups was identified as the best fit. The five groups were identified as "safe/integrated" (10%), "safe/distant" (10%), "moderate integration" (38%), "marginal" (31%), and "vulnerable" (11%). After examining descriptive characteristics of the identified groups, regression models of loneliness and mental distress were estimated. Using the safe/integrated group as reference, the marginal and vulnerable groups were consistently associated with elevated feelings of loneliness and mental distress. The results suggest the need to understand community profiles and their relationships with health/well-being among older immigrants.

Nuclear ribosomal transcription units in Asian Paragonimus species (Paragonimidae: Platyhelminthes): genetic characteristics, polymorphism, and implications for intersuperfamilial phylogeny.

The entire transcribed sequences (from the 5' terminus of 18S to the 3' terminus of 28S rRNA genes) of the ribosomal transcription units (rTU*) of five Asian Paragonimus species were obtained and characterized. The rTU* length was 7661bp for P. heterotremus (LC strain, Vietnam), 7422bp for P. iloktsuenensis (Amami strain, Japan), 6932bp for P. skrjabini miyazakii (OkuST1 strain, Japan), 7422bp for P. ohirai (Kino strain, Japan), and three strains of P. westermani: 8616bp (Megha strain, India), 7292bp (Bogil strain, South Korea), and 7052bp (QT2 strain, Vietnam) without intergenic spacer region (IGS). All seven Asian Paragonimus strains' genetic characteristics were described, including the length of individual genes/regions, repeat polymorphism, base composition, and skewness. To investigate the superfamilial relationships in the Xiphidiata, with a focus on the Troglotrematoidea and its associated superfamilies, we used the PhyML software package to create three comprehensive maximum-likelihood phylogenies. The datasets used were 83 concatenated 28S + 18S, 83 single complete 18S, and 157 single, partial 28S rDNA sequences, respectively, from entire rTUs and/or accessible ribosomal sequences of the same species from the suborders Xiphidiata, Echinostomata, and Haplosplanchnata, with a Schistosoma sequence as an outgroup. Three phylogenetic trees revealed that Echinostomata and Haplosplanchnata are monophyletic, while Xiphidiata is polyphyletic and contains the monophyletic Troglotrematoidea. The concatenated 18S + 28S and single 18S phylogenies revealed well-bootstrap supported seven superfamilies (Troglotrematoidea, Haploporoidea, Gorgoderoidea, Brachycladioidea, Microphalloidea, Plagiorchioidea, and Opecoeloidea) that are monophyletic in the Xiphidiata. The Haploporoidea was a basal superfamily nested close to the Gorgoderoidea and Troglotrematoidea and was not supported as a distinct suborder Haploporata. Six of seven xiphidiatan superfamilies were monophyletic in the partial 28S phylogeny, with the exception of Opecoeloidea, which was separated into two different subclades: Opecoelidae and Stenakridae/Zdzitowieckitrematidae. The monophyletic Haploporoidea/Haploporata was separated from the Gorgoderoidea associates and placed in a marginal group in Xiphidiata. There were two notable clusters in the Paragonimidae: mixed-Paragonimus, which included a fairly compact group of P. heterotremus strains, and P. westermani/siamensis, which was divided into geographical/country strain groups. In conclusion, combined ribosomal rDNA sequences were more effective than single rDNA markers in resolving interfamilial and familial relationships. The ribosomal datasets presented here will be useful for taxonomic reassessment, as well as evolutionary and population genetics research in the Troglotrematoidea and other superfamilies in the Xiphidiata and the class Trematoda.

Increased monetary equity and health wellbeing benefits for marginal urban socioeconomic groups from access to green space

Increased monetary equity and health wellbeing benefits for marginal urban socioeconomic groups from access to green space

Resource Use Efficiency and Constraints Faced by Potato Growers in Kannauj District of Uttar Pradesh, India

In the present paper, an attempt has been made to examine Potato cultivation in different categories of farmers in Kannauj district of Uttar Pradesh. Primary data was collect through personal interview by pre-structured and pre-tested schedule; the data was collect for the agricultural year 2022-23. A sample size of 100 farmers, marginal (61) Small (29) Medium (10) were interviewed form 5 village of Kannauj block in Kannauj district select the farmers by using the proportionate allocation method, with the data analysis, the result found that average holding size 0.84, 1.84 and 3.91 ha. in respect of marginal small and medium farm, respectively. In the case of potato, returns to scale of marginal, small and medium size group of farms were 0.8989, 0.8525 and 0.8280, respectively. Returns to scale in all three categories of the farms were found less than unity. It indicates the production of potato is characterized by decreasing returns to scale on each farm situation. Another factor of production i.e. manure and fertilizer was found significantly associated with dependent variable at 1% level probability in all farm situation. The problem related with hired human labour and technical knowledge was notice at I and II rank by the sample farmers (i.e. Unavailability of machines and tractor and Lack of improved varieties).

Social Networks within the City: Remaking the City through Movement and Collecting Materials in Johannesburg, South Africa

This study examines the dynamics of networks among informal recyclers in Fietas, Johannesburg, South Africa, focussing on how these networks embody their struggle for the "Right to the City." By observing informal recycling activities across various Johannesburg suburbs, the study highlights how recycling not only provides livelihoods for the unemployed but also allows marginalised groups to assert their presence and rights within the cityscape. Building upon Adama's (2012) analysis of urban livelihoods and social networks, this research explores the interactions and spatial practices of informal recyclers in Johannesburg. Informal recyclers develop connections with city stakeholders that demonstrate interdependencies crucial for their survival and claiming space within the city. These networks are vital for accessing resources such as recyclable waste, which provides essential needs like food and shelter. These everyday practices underscore the importance of social connections in building networks that sustain livelihoods and assert a right to belong in the city. The nature of these networks varies by location, policies, and social relations. Some are shaped by power dynamics and monopolies, while others reflect interdependence and mutual support. This paper argues that recognising these diverse networks is key to understanding how informal recyclers navigate the urban landscape. In line with Harvey's (2003) "Right to the City," these networks reflect efforts to reshape urban spaces to meet recyclers' needs, despite structural challenges. As Sung (2021) shows, hierarchies and power dynamics influence access to resources, highlighting the contested nature of urban life for informal recyclers.

Unemployed and then? The role of non‐standard employment in labour market trajectories after unemployment

AbstractNon‐standard employment (NSE) might offer employment opportunities for unemployed workers, who would not find a job otherwise and can improve their human capital while working in NSE instead of being unemployed. NSE thus could serve as a bridge to regular, permanent employment. However, these stepping stone effects might not occur in a segmented labour market, when the accumulated human capital is not useful for regular jobs or NSE is not a positive signal to potential employers. Using German administrative data and sequence and cluster analysis, this article examined the labour market trajectories of initially unemployed individuals between 2012 and 2015 over a 4‐year period with a focus on four common forms of NSE. The results indicate that NSE is not limited to marginal groups but 62% of the initially unemployed belong to a cluster with a substantial share of NSE. Furthermore, while most individuals stay in NSE, some regular full‐time employment occurs after NSE.

Experiences of rural poverty in Stratford district, Aotearoa New Zealand: A qualitative study with implications for rural social work

INTRODUCTION: People experiencing poverty who live in rural communities may have complex needs as rurality exacerbates their issues. Isolation, stigma, transport difficulties and a lack of services contribute to the challenges experienced by people living in rural communities who experience poverty. For social workers, responses need to be creative and flexible to counter the lack of services or people being unable to access services due to distance and/or a lack of transport. METHODS: I conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 28 participants. Participants self-identified as experiencing poverty and ranged in age from teenagers to over 65s. Transcripts were analysed using applied thematic analysis. FINDINGS: Four themes were identified: stigma, isolation, transportation and access to services. Issues in these areas exacerbated participants’ experience of poverty. CONCLUSION: The findings of the study suggest that there is a significant advocacy role for social workers in rural communities regarding access to services and service development, transportation and challenging stigma to improve the lives of people living in rural communities who experience poverty. Further investigation is suggested to explore specific groups experiencing poverty in rural communities, particularly Māori, and to consider other marginalised identity groups and different geographical areas.

Nomads of the 21st century

This paper describes the selected food-getting strategies by one of the marginal indigenous groups in the Philippines, the Ati people in Guimaras province. As a nomadic group in transition, it is of interest to identify their traditional way of collecting food in order to find ways how to offer meaningful intervention to them as people rightful to their own cultural identity. By assessing the viability of their basic support mechanisms to their food-getting activity, it becomes apparent the importance of land, access to rivers and streams, along the necessary legal recognitions and provisions to their lifeways.

The Synergistic Health Threats of State Laws Targeting Marginalized Groups in the United States.

Discriminatory state laws have deleterious effects on the health of socially marginalized groups. Health care clinicians, institutions, researchers, and research funders have tended to view different discriminatory laws in isolation, focusing on particular issues or groups. In contrast, intersectionality calls attention to the overlapping and synergistic systems of oppression that discriminatory legislation promotes or upholds, warranting an integrated analysis of these laws. In this analytic essay, we assess discriminatory state laws simultaneously and discuss their implications for health care clinicians, institutions, and researchers. We present a multifunctional model of law and population health that describes how discriminatory law affects health outcomes among marginalized groups. We then draw on publicly available legislation trackers to identify 30 states that have enacted legislation since 2020 that targets Black people and other people of color; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer people; transgender and nonbinary people; and women and other birthing people. Finally, we call for a coordinated, multilateral, and forceful effort by health care professionals, institutions, researchers, and research funders to counter these laws and address their predictable health consequences. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(12):1335-1343. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307830).

Poverty‐Armed Conflict Nexus: Can Multidimensional Poverty Data Forecast Intrastate Armed Conflicts?

Poverty is widely acknowledged as a significant factor in the outbreak of armed conflicts, particularly fueling armed conflict within national borders. There is a compelling argument positing that poverty is a primary catalyst for intrastate armed conflicts; reciprocally, these conflicts exacerbate poverty. This article introduces a statistical model to forecast the likelihood of armed conflict within a country by scrutinizing the intricate relationship between intrastate armed conflicts and various facets of poverty. Poverty, arising from factors such as gender inequality and limited access to education and public services, profoundly affects social cohesion. Armed conflicts, a significant cause of poverty, result in migration, economic devastation, and adverse effects on social unity, particularly affecting disadvantaged and marginal groups. Forecasting and receiving early warnings for intrastate armed conflicts are crucial for international policymakers to take precautionary measures. Anticipating and proactively addressing potential conflicts can mitigate adverse consequences and prevent escalation. Hence, forecasting intrastate armed conflicts is vital, prompting policymakers to prioritize the development of effective strategies to mitigate their impact. While not guaranteeing absolute certainty in forecasting future armed conflicts, the model shows a high degree of accuracy in assessing security risks related to intrastate conflicts. It utilizes a machine‐learning algorithm and annually published fragility data to forecast future intrastate armed conflicts. Despite the widespread use of machine‐learning algorithms in engineering, their application in social sciences still needs to be improved. This article introduces an innovative approach to examining the correlation between various dimensions of poverty and armed conflict using machine‐learning algorithms.

Book Review: The Marginalised Majority in Higher Education: Marginalised Groups and the Barriers They Face

Book Review: The Marginalised Majority in Higher Education: Marginalised Groups and the Barriers They Face

Work Fatigue among Women Fish Processors on the South Coast of Jember District, Indonesia

Introduction: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) problems need to be addressed because the cause of the high number of work accidents is work fatigue. One of the factors that causes work fatigue is workload. Coastal women, who are identified as a marginal group with a low level of education, have a large role in fishing households and have a high workload. This research aims to analyze work fatigue based on workload. Methods: This research is an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design. The respondents involved were fishermen's wives who lived in the research locus (Puger District). The number of respondents in this study was 75 people using proportional stratified random sampling techniques. The quantitative data collected include sociodemographic factors, namely demographic factors (age and body mass index) and work factors (work period, workload, and work climate), as well as work fatigue factors. Data collection was carried out using questionnaires and measurements. The data in this study were analyzed univariately and bivariately using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient test which was presented in table form accompanied by narrative. Results: The results show that 44.0% have a level of heavy work fatigue. The risk factors of age, working time, and workload have a significant relationship with work fatigue at work. Body mass index (BMI) and work climate were not significantly related to work fatigue. Conclusion: The high workload of women fish processors causes a lot of work fatigue, so it requires attention from industry owners to manage working time.

Joining late, leaving early? Immigrant-native disparities in labor market exit

The retirement behavior of immigrants has received limited attention, despite many countries seeing rising immigrant shares in their aging populations. Population-wide data for Sweden reveals that the retirement hazard rate is higher among immigrants as early as age 50. Approaching age 65, marginal migrant groups are instead more likely to remain in the labor force rather than conform to retirement age norms. While education and family circumstances explain little of these retirement gaps, labor market history, health, and occupation are important determinants. Immigrant-native differences are more pronounced among men than women. Findings suggest that economic necessity or opportunity, rather than varying preferences, are the driving factors behind the observed retirement disparities.

Economic Dynamics and Constraints of Chickpea Production in Rajasthan

The study examined the economics of chickpea production and identified constraints faced by farmers in Jaipur district. The study evaluated the cost of cultivation across different farm sizes using various cost concepts, including operational costs, fixed costs, and net income for 2020-21. The results revealed that the total cost of cultivation increased as the farm size increased. The share of operational costs towards total costs also increased with increases in farm size. The total fixed cost was maximum for medium-sized groups and minimum for marginal farm sizes. The cost of production was maximum for marginal farm sizes (Rs. 2900.97 per ha) and minimum for medium farm sizes (Rs. 2766.26 per ha). Gross return was maximum for medium farm size (Rs.65745 per ha) and minimum for marginal farm size group (Rs. 54491 per ha). The output-input ratio was 183.59 per cent in cases of medium farm size and 175.80 per cent in the case of marginal farm size. However, constraints such as labour shortages during peak cultivation periods and timely non-availability of irrigation and inputs posed challenges to chickpea production. Therefore, interventions such as improved labour management, ensuring irrigation availability, and adopting disease-resistant seeds may enhance chickpea production in the study area.

The rise of the penguins: analysing the trajectory of a peripheral elite in Argentina (1991–2003)

ABSTRACT In recent years, there has been an increasing amount of research on subnational policies and multilevel studies. Nevertheless, much remains to be understood about how peripheral elites enter central institutions and succeed in exerting an influence in national politics. The present article illustrates these dynamics through the case of the so-called ‘penguins’ – that is, the group of leaders from the coalition called ‘Front for Victory’ (Frente para la Victoria [FPV]) from Patagonia that has been ruling Argentina since 2003. After analysing the profile of this marginal group led by Néstor Kirchner, we reflect on the reasons for its success. The present study makes three contributions to the literature. First, it shows how Argentina’s territorial reconfiguration of power facilitated a renewal of political elites. Second, it illustrates the fact that political paths in territorial tiers of government can be analysed collectively. And lastly, it highlights the role of social crises in stimulating changes that affect the very nature of political elites.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of electrons donated by pollutants in electron transfer-based oxidation system: Electrochemical measurement and theoretical calculations

In order to gain a profound understanding of the fate of pollutants in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), this study analyzed the electron contribution of pollutants qualitatively and quantitatively which rarely reported before. The rich electron transfer system was constructed by mesoporous carbon nitride (MCN) coupling with persulfate (PS) driven by visible light and the sulfanilamide antibiotics (SULs) were used as target contaminants. Firstly, the qualitative analysis of electron transfer in the system was confirmed systematically. The electron flow direction tested by i-t curves indicated that PS absorbed electrons, while SULs released electrons. The flow rate of electrons was also accelerated after the addition of SULs. The fitting curve between the kinetics and the peak potential difference tested by CV curve showed that the larger potential difference, the slower rate of oxidative degradation. Secondly, the quantification of electron transfer was achieved through theoretical calculations to simulate the interactions of the ‘catalyst-oxidant-antibiotic’ system. After the addition of SULs, the adsorption energy of the ‘catalyst-oxidant-antibiotic’ system was enhanced and the bond length of the peroxide bond was stretched. Notably, the electron transfer analysis results showed that the charge of SULs was around 0.032–0.056e, indicating that SULs pollutants played the role of electron contributors in the system. The oxidative degradation pathway included the direct cracking of S-N bond, shedding of marginal groups, ring-opening and hydroxyl addition reaction. This study clarified the electronic contribution of SULs in the oxidation system, providing necessary theoretical supplement for the analysis of the transformation of pollutants in AOPs.

Investigating the multifaceted role of warm experts in enhancing and hindering older adults’ digital skills in Finland

ABSTRACT Despite widespread digitalization, certain marginal and societal groups can still encounter challenges in the digital world. Promoting digital inclusion and digital support aims to reduce these disparities and enable equal participation. In this article, we examine the quality and dynamics of informal learning and digital support provided by warm experts from the perspective of older adults’ subjective experiences. Specifically, we ask (1) what are the key elements of informal learning in the context of older adults’ acquisition of digital skills? Based on the first question, we further examine (2) how do the identified key elements of informal learning influence older adults’ subjective learning experiences and independent use of digital technologies? Our inductive thematic analysis is based on participant-induced elicitation (PIE) interviews (n = 21), conducted with older adults (aged 65+) in Finland in 2018. Our findings suggest that older adults are a heterogeneous group with different support needs and diverse prior experiences with digital technologies. Even when digital support from friends and family is available, it does not always facilitate independent use or meaningful learning experiences. The results show how informal digital support provided by warm experts can not only enhance, but also hinder digital inclusion and independent aging.

Religious sects as a threat to social security in the Republic of Armenia

The article presents the contemporary religious situation in Armenia. It explains why the Armenian society perceives members of minority churches and various religious associations as enemies of their country and national unity. It contributes to research on internal security, especially on social and cultural security. The internal security of the Republic of Armenia rests on two central pillars: national culture and related Christian religion, tradition and spiritual inheritance – all of which are equated with the Holy Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC). Therefore, AAC is the primary entity fighting cultural threats and opposing secularisation. The text will show what threats to the Republic of Armenia are posed by the quick growth of religious “sects”. One thing that should be clarified at the very beginning is that AAC uses the term “sect” with reference to other churches and religious associations. Particular emphasis will be placed on investigating the relationships between religious “sects” and the world of politics and business. The author will also outline the involvement of religious “sects” in the political events in Armenia and attempt to present their perception by the society and state authorities. The author wants to demonstrate how religious “sects” and AAC – which fights against them using nationalistic slogans – may contribute to social unrest. Although the Armenian Apostolic Church exposes the problem caused by the presence of religious sects and the threat they pose to Armenian culture and nation, the author was unable to find a sufficient number of respondents to conduct a questionnaire survey on the presence of religious sects in the life of the Armenian society. Usually, respondents claim that these are marginal groups that we should not worry about. That is why the activity of religious “sects” was analysed based on the materials provided by the Armenian media (including independent media) and the information service of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Mental Health First Aid™ for Deaf communities: responses to a lack of national Deaf mental health service provision

PurposeFor over 15 years, Mental Health First Aid™ (MHFA) has successfully been delivered in Wales, United Kingdom, with growing interest in the MHFA programme and increasing course attendees. Trainers, aware of the need for support, know the importance of MHFA being accessible for different communities and learner groups. MHFA has always focused on increasing mental health literacy. One marginalised group, with lower mental health literacy than the general population, is Deaf people, a group with increased risk of mental health problems. This paper aims to provide insights about why Deaf people are twice as likely as hearing people to experience mental health problems.Design/methodology/approachDuring this paper, the authors have used four focal points i) exploring situational contexts for Deaf people; ii) reasons why Deaf individuals are at greater risk of mental health problems; iii) the authors explore a project, “Hear Deaf”, and implementation of MHFA Wales by Deaf MHFA trainers; and iv) initiatives to influence and impact on policymakers.FindingsDuring the project, nine MHFA courses were delivered to Deaf communities across different locations in Wales, often with information and advertisements circulated directly to Deaf communities through Deaf clubs, resulting in 120 Deaf people trained. The authors conclude with their own reflections as a researcher and an MHFA who work predominantly with Deaf communities.Originality/valueThis paper provides a discussion on the specific risks for Deaf people around mental health and the importance of mental health promotion programmes for Deaf communities. Further research is needed regarding the impact of MHFA on Deaf populations.

The Correction Strategy of Artificial Intelligence Embedding into the Negative Social Mentality of the Marginal Group of College Students in the New Era

Artificial intelligence is a rapidly developing technology that is gradually changing the pace of modern people's lives and ways of working. As AI enters the field of higher education, it is generating increasingly significant functions and effects. Artificial intelligence is having a certain impact on the growth of college students, and as a marginalized group of college students in the new era, it also presents unique social attitudes and patterns. Strengthening the correction of negative social attitudes towards marginalized groups of college students is of great practical significance for promoting social progress and development. This article takes the marginalized group of college students in a certain university in China as the research basis and concludes that: 1.there are significant differences in the scores of social emotions among marginalized groups of college students of different genders; 2.There are significant differences in the scores of social needs, social cognition, and social emotions among marginalized groups of college students from different disciplines; 3.There are significant differences in the scores of social needs, social cognition, social emotions, social values, and social behavioral tendencies among marginalized groups of college students of different grades. Research has found that artificial intelligence can have a positive impact on academic achievement, career planning, social responsibility, and creativity of marginalized groups of college students. It is suggested that universities should take artificial intelligence as their starting point and think from four dimensions: family factors, school factors, social factors, and personal factors, striving to guide marginalized groups of college students to establish a healthy and positive social mentality